When it comes to planning a vacation, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is where to stay. And if you’re heading to Lake Michigan, you’re in luck! With its stunning shoreline, picturesque towns, and endless outdoor activities, Lake Michigan offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to stay around Lake Michigan, from cozy beachside resorts to vibrant city centers and secluded natural retreats.
Get ultimate traveler plannerWhy Choose Lake Michigan?
Lake Michigan is a treasure trove of natural beauty, with its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and scenic hiking trails. But it’s not just the lake itself that makes it an attractive destination – the surrounding towns and cities offer a unique blend of Midwestern charm, rich history, and modern amenities. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, Lake Michigan has something for everyone.
A Brief Overview
In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey around the lake, highlighting the best places to stay in popular destinations like Chicago, Michigan City, St. Joseph, and Sleeping Bear Dunes. We’ll also explore some of the lesser-known gems, such as charming small towns and secluded state parks. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels, vacation rentals, and camping sites, we’ll cover it all. So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover the best places to stay around Lake Michigan!
Best Places to Stay Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan, one of the Great Lakes, offers a diverse range of accommodations for visitors to enjoy its scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and vibrant cities. From luxurious resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts, there’s a perfect place to stay for every kind of traveler. Here are some of the best places to stay around Lake Michigan:
Michigan Shore
The Michigan shore of Lake Michigan offers a variety of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels. Here are some of the top picks:
- Silver Beach Hotel in St. Joseph, Michigan – This beachfront hotel offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and features an outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant.
- The Inn at Harbor Shores in St. Joseph, Michigan – This luxurious resort features a private beach, outdoor pool, and golf course, making it an ideal stay for couples and families.
- Hilton Garden Inn Benton Harbor in Benton Harbor, Michigan – This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center, making it a great option for business travelers and families.
Wisconsin Shore
The Wisconsin shore of Lake Michigan is known for its natural beauty, with scenic parks and beaches. Here are some top picks for accommodations: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Bangalore)
- The Osthoff Resort in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin – This luxurious resort features a private beach, outdoor pool, and a spa, making it an ideal stay for couples and families.
- Blue Harbor Resort in Sheboygan, Wisconsin – This beachfront resort offers stunning views of Lake Michigan, an outdoor pool, and a water park, making it a great option for families.
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson in Kenosha, Wisconsin – This budget-friendly hotel features comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center, making it a great option for travelers on a budget.
Indiana Shore
The Indiana shore of Lake Michigan is known for its vibrant cities and scenic parks. Here are some top picks for accommodations:
- The Alexander in Indianapolis, Indiana – This luxurious hotel features modern rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center, making it an ideal stay for business travelers and couples.
- Hyatt Regency Indianapolis in Indianapolis, Indiana – This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center, making it a great option for families and business travelers.
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson in Michigan City, Indiana – This budget-friendly hotel features comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center, making it a great option for travelers on a budget.
Illinois Shore
The Illinois shore of Lake Michigan is known for its vibrant cities, scenic parks, and beaches. Here are some top picks for accommodations:
- The Langham Chicago in Chicago, Illinois – This luxurious hotel features modern rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center, making it an ideal stay for couples and business travelers.
- The Wit Hotel in Chicago, Illinois – This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center, making it a great option for families and business travelers.
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson in Waukegan, Illinois – This budget-friendly hotel features comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center, making it a great option for travelers on a budget.
Things to Do Around Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some top picks:
- Beach activities: Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports on Lake Michigan’s beautiful beaches.
- Hiking and biking: Explore Lake Michigan’s scenic parks and trails on foot or by bike.
- Fishing: Try your luck at catching fish such as salmon, trout, and bass in Lake Michigan.
- Wineries and breweries: Visit local wineries and breweries around Lake Michigan to taste some of the region’s best wines and beers.
- Cities and towns: Explore Lake Michigan’s vibrant cities and towns, such as Chicago, Indianapolis, and St. Joseph, to experience their unique culture and attractions.
Best Time to Visit Lake Michigan
The best time to visit Lake Michigan depends on your preferences and the activities you have planned. Here are some factors to consider:
- Summer: The summer months (June to August) are ideal for swimming, water sports, and outdoor activities.
- Fall: The fall months (September to November) are great for hiking, biking, and enjoying the scenic beauty of Lake Michigan.
- Winter: The winter months (December to February) are ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing.
- Spring: The spring months (March to May) are great for fishing, boating, and enjoying the blooming flowers and greenery around Lake Michigan.
Getting Around Lake Michigan
Getting around Lake Michigan is relatively easy, with several transportation options available:
- Car: Rent a car or drive your own to explore Lake Michigan’s scenic routes and attractions.
- Public transportation: Use buses and trains to travel between cities and towns around Lake Michigan.
- Bike: Rent a bike to explore Lake Michigan’s scenic parks and trails.
- Boat: Take a ferry or rent a boat to explore Lake Michigan’s waters and enjoy water activities.
Conclusion
Lake Michigan offers a diverse range of accommodations and activities for visitors to enjoy. from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels, there’s a perfect place to stay for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing getaway, Lake Michigan has something for everyone. making it an ideal destination for any type of traveler. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Charlottesville Va)
Recap of Best Places to Stay Lake Michigan
This article has highlighted some of the best places to stay around Lake Michigan, including luxurious resorts, budget-friendly hotels, and cozy bed and breakfasts. The Michigan shore offers a variety of accommodations, including the Silver Beach Hotel and The Inn at Harbor Shores. The Wisconsin shore features The Osthoff Resort and Blue Harbor Resort. The Indiana shore offers Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, while the Illinois shore features The Langham Chicago and The Wit Hotel.
In conclusion, Lake Michigan isp a perfect destination for any type of traveler, offering a range of accommodations, activities, and attractions to suit every taste and preference.
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Stay Lake Michigan
What are the top cities to stay near Lake Michigan?
Some of the top cities to stay near Lake Michigan include Chicago, Illinois; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Grand Haven, Michigan; St. Joseph, Michigan; and Michigan City, Indiana. These cities offer a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, and provide easy access to the lake’s beautiful beaches and attractions.
Are there any pet-friendly hotels near Lake Michigan?
Yes, there are many pet-friendly hotels and resorts near Lake Michigan. Some popular options include the Hotel Indigo in Chicago, the Hyatt Regency Milwaukee, and the Grand Beach Resort in Grand Haven. Be sure to check the hotel’s pet policy and fees before booking your stay.
What are some budget-friendly options for staying near Lake Michigan?
If you’re on a budget, consider staying at a campground or renting a vacation home or condo. Many state parks along Lake Michigan offer affordable campsites, and websites like VRBO and Airbnb offer a range of vacation rentals at various price points. You can also look for budget-friendly hotels or motels, such as the Hampton Inn in Michigan City or the Baymont by Wyndham in St. Joseph. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Jamaica For Families)
Are there any lakefront hotels with private beaches?
Yes, there are several lakefront hotels with private beaches along Lake Michigan. The Grand Beach Resort in Grand Haven, Michigan, has a private beach and offers luxurious rooms and suites. The Marina Grand Resort in Michigan City, Indiana, also has a private beach and offers upscale accommodations. Be sure to book your stay well in advance, as these hotels can fill up quickly during peak season.
What are some family-friendly activities to do near Lake Michigan?
There are many family-friendly activities to do near Lake Michigan, including swimming, hiking, and visiting local attractions like the Navy Pier in Chicago or the Indiana Dunes National Park. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the lake, or take a scenic drive along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Many hotels and resorts also offer kid-friendly amenities, such as game rooms, water parks, and kids’ clubs.
