Top Michigan Vacation Spots

Big Bear is simply put the ideal place to bring a family, any time of year!

Conveniently located in the heart of Michigan's beautiful north country, Big Bear has been providing exceptional vacations for more than 30 years. The great outdoors are truly great here, and can be experienced in any number of ways. Paddle the crystal-clear Sturgeon River in a rented canoe or kayak, play some golf on a nearby course, or test yourself on the resort's rope course. The area abounds with wildlife, pristine rivers, lakes and forests, and hundreds of miles of hiking, biking, and snowmobile trails, providing unlimited opportunities for the outdoor enthusiast. All that, plus the superb accommodations back at the resort, adds up to an unforgettable experience!

Address

4271 S Straits Hwy, Indian River, MI 49749

Getting there

Less than 1 mile from I-75, Big Bear Adventures is also within an easy 30-minute drive of many resort areas such as Petoskey, Gaylord, Harbor Springs, Charlevoix, Mackinaw City, Mackinac Island, and St. Ignace.

Related Onsite Offerings

Check out the mini-golf and ropes course!

The only way to enjoy a luxurious Michigan vacation is on a lakefront or beach house rental right on the shores of Lake Michigan with Holiday Vacation Rentals.

Their premier accommodations feature stunning lake views, modern amenities including private decks and balconies, full kitchens, hot tubs and whirlpools, spacious great room/living areas, just to name some. When you plan a vacation with Holiday Vacation Rentals, you have access to plenty of onsite and nearby activities like local golf courses, fishing adventures, hiking trips and more! Holiday Vacation Rentals is everything you're looking for in a memorable Michigan getaway!

Address

6789 S Lake Shore Drive Harbor Springs, MI 49740 US

Highlights

Enjoy a night by the fire pit or relax in the sauna or indoor pool when you plan a week or weekend getaway and stay at LeBear Resort. Or if you prefer, keep yourself active boating, fishing, biking, or hiking around the lake!

Fun facts

Holiday Vacation Rentals offers pet-friendly accommodations for pet owners who can't leave their pet behind. Your pet is sure to love playing out on the beaches just as much as you!

If you're looking for a Michigan vacation destination that's perfect for a romantic rendezvous with your special someone, Huron House has exactly what you're looking for.

Located along the shores of the Great Lake, Huron House is a 14-room luxury Bed & Breakfast that is sure to keep the flames of passion glowing throughout your stay. Begin each day with gourmet breakfast delivered to your room. You can spend your days touring the local lighthouses, visiting a nearby bird sanctuary, or even taking a tour on the AuSable River Queen, a class paddle-wheel boat that offers tours throughout the year. While the Sunrise Coast of Michigan offers plenty of unique activities and things to do during your stay, you may prefer to stick around the property and enjoy the comfort of your luxury accommodation featuring a fireplace, beachfront views, and private outdoor hot tub (some units) or in-room Jacuzzi (some units). Find out what all the buzz is about at Huron House!

Address

3124 North US-23 Oscada, MI 48750

Highlights

In addition to the fireplace and Jacuzzi/whirlpool, guests at Huron House also enjoy access to an outdoor BBQ grill (community), complimentary snacks and drinks, a media player with Netflix and Pandora, and candles to help set the mood for your romantic getaway.

Fun facts

Huron House offers gluten free toast and homemade gluten free muffins and gluten free granola, served by advanced request. Please let the property know about any dietary restrictions in advance.

Recently featured in a New York Times travel cover article, the Kingsley House specializes in romantic getaways and unique theme packages.

Just minutes from Fenn Valley Winery, Crane's Apple Orchards, dune or horseback rides, antiques, and sunset sailboat cruises on gorgeous Lake Michigan, there is no shortage of activities offsite. The house itself isn't too shabby either: enjoy jacuzzi suites, an in-house spa, eight fireplaces, a wraparound porch, a four-story turret, and wireless internet. After your hunger for exploration has been satisfied, your stomach will appreciate the delicious complimentary breakfast, which was hailed as the "Best Breakfast in the Midwest" by Arrington's Inn Traveler.

Address

626 W. Main St., Fennville, Michigan 49408

Highlights

Relax on the shores of Lake Michigan, explore the waters on a cruise, or cast a line.

Related Onsite Offerings

Enjoy your favorite winter adventures including cross-country skiing and winter hiking at the Allegan State Forest and Saugatuck Dunes' State Park.

Escape to The Hotel Saugatuck, where you'll find authentic bed and breakfast charm and hospitality!

This luxury 18-room bed & breakfast oozes class, from its gourmet breakfasts to its breathtaking views of Lake Kalamazoo. The Hotel's history is long and storied, originally built in 1865. It's actually the only original mill in the area still standing from the busy lumbering era- you're experiencing history right when you step through the front door. Add in the surrounding attractions, superb accommodations, and delectable breakfasts and you have a can't-miss experience!

Address

900 Lake St, Saugatuck, MI 49453

Highlights

For a price the staff will have a dozen roses arranged in a vase upon you arrival!

Fun facts

Enjoy a small house-made cake enjoyed with a complementary bottle of Prosecco.

Look out the window at Drummond Island Resort & Conference Center and a sense of tranquility will overtake you. The 2,000 beautiful acres of woods, water, and wildlife serve as a perfect complement to your rustic accommodations.

Drummond Island is the largest freshwater island in the United States, as full of natural beauty as it is hospitable locals. Drummond Island Resort is open year round, and is glorious regardless of season. Each and every amenity and service at the resort is designed to complement your northwood’s experience, from comfortable accommodations and excellent cuisine to the long list of resort activities that guarantee a refreshing and satisfying stay (including the 18 hole championship golf course, The Rock, a must for golfers). Most don't think "island paradise" when they think Michigan; you will after a stay here!

Address

33494 S Maxton Rd, Drummond, MI 49726

Related activities

The resort is 2.4 miles from Williams Nature Preserve and 4.3 miles from the Drummond Island Airport.

Related Onsite Offerings

A fitness center, heated outdoor pool and tennis courts are also available, as are free loaner bikes, kayaks and canoes.

Escape to a secluded sanctuary at Inn on Lac Labelle at Mount Bohemia. Featuring five bedrooms, this inn is one of the few properties located on the Keweenaw Peninsula of Lac Labelle. Three of the rooms overlook the sparkling shores and every one is all-inclusive. You'll be treated to breakfast and dinner in the North Pole bar and Restaurant each day. Afterward, retreat to your room and watch the sunset from your spacious deck. If you'd prefer to explore the area, enjoy an array of adventures, all included in one price. All the equipment and guides for sea kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, and biking are available at no extra cost. Set off on a fishing expedition or cast off the dock. When the winter season arrives, carve up the ski slopes at Mount Bohemia and Voodoo Mountain, which features a vertical drop of almost 700 feet. Your all-season adventure center is at Inn on Lac Labelle at Mount Bohemia!

Address

PO Box 578, Houghton, Michigan 49931

Related activities

Featuring more than 1,100 untainted acres and more than 12 miles of hiking trails, Mount Bohemia is an outdoor enthusiast's oasis!

Fun facts

The average annual snowfall for Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula is 273 inches, making Mount Bohemia a backcountry skier's sanctuary!

Where the waters of the mighty Lake Superior meet the foothills of the majestic Porcupine Mountains you’ll find Mountain View Lodges.

Tucked away on the lush wooded shores of Lake Superior, Mountain View Lodges provides a lakefront getaway with all the comforts of home. Each of the cabins is decorated and furnished with your relaxation in mind. The cabins each have a full kitchen to easily prepare all your meals and a screened in porch to take in the sights and sounds of the wooded shoreline. You’ll appreciate the extra elbow room as you relax on the cozy couch and enjoy the fireplace, internet and television. The cabins are conveniently located less than 100 feet from the water giving you access to the private Mountain View Beach. During the warmer months enjoy hiking the over 80 miles of beautiful mountain trails or try fishing the lake, rivers and streams that call the area home. During the winter the fun doesn't stop. Go skiing on one of the local ski hills, snowshoe on the local trails or try you hand at ice skating. Other top activities to enjoy in the area include mine tours, the mysterious Paulding Light, ski jumping and the historic Copper Harbor area. This is the perfect place for families, couples and friends. Contact the friendly staff today to experience the natural beauty of Mountain View Lodges!

Address

Mountain View Lodges 34042 107th Engineers Memorial Hwy Silver City MI 49953

Related activities

This is the prefect place for a romantic getaway. Rekindle the fire in your relationship surrounded by breathtaking views and experiences. The secluded and relaxing vibe of the resort provides a great couples environment away from the hustle of everyday life.

Fun facts

Lake Superior is a giant lake. It has a width of over 159 miles and is almost 350 miles long.

Enjoy four seasons of adventure at Trout Creek Condominiums, which showcases Michigan's breathtaking natural splendor and spectacular year-round amenities. The resort is located in the heart of Michigan ski and golf country, and offers discounts on golf at area championship courses and Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry and lift tickets at neighboring Nubs Nob and Boyne Highlands.

Lake Michigan beaches are nearby, perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. Terrific hiking, biking, and the resort towns of Petoskey, Harbor Springs, and Mackinac Island all make this the perfect family getaway. The resort itself offers an array of adventures for all ages as well. Explore shimmering swimming pools, fishing ponds, hiking trails, and tennis courts. Their beautiful rental condominiums offer central air conditioning and are non-smoking, perfect for families and friends!

Address

4749 South Pleasantview, Harbor Springs, Michigan 49740

Highlights

You can find an array of aquatic adventures at nearby Little Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan, which provide the perfect outdoor playground for water skiing and boating.

Related activities

Frequenters of the fairway can tee it up on many nearby golf courses like True North, Little Traverse Bay, and Black Lake!

A 900-acre Michigan outdoor oasis, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa showcases pristine forests, lush greens, and sun-soaked beaches. Situated along the East Grand Traverse Bay, Lake Michigan's wealth of water adventures are just outside your door. Families can try fishing, canoeing, boating, swimming, and much more. On land, there are three championship golf courses onsite and scenic hiking trails nearby. After recreation, seek relaxation at the 7,000-square-foot Spa Grand Traverse. Please your palate at any of the five onsite restaurants or kick up your feet at the private beach club. Indoor and outdoor hot tubs are the perfect place for parents to relax while the indoor water playground teems with fun for the little ones. Choose from almost 600 guest rooms and condos and indulge in amenities like four swimming pools, high-speed internet, and flat-screen televisions. Luxury and leisure unite here!

Address

100 Grand Traverse Village Boulevard, Acme, Michigan 49610

Highlights

Candy connoisseurs can sample the sweets at Dylan's Candy Bar, 15,000 square feet of chocolate, ice cream, and candy heaven.

Related Onsite Offerings

The spa features 23 treatment rooms, a salon, and a boutique. Indulge in a host of treatments at this relaxation center.

Garland Lodge and Resort exudes a rustic elegance, combining a stunning natural setting and exceptional amenities. Four golf courses await onsite, inviting you to tee it up on a multitude of holes. Three onsite restaurants and a coffee shop give you as a diverse an array of dining options. A plethora of packages satisfy golf enthusiasts, families, and couples. If you'd like some fun off the property, explore the stunning natural splendor on a nature hike or cast off on Lake Michigan. After sinking the last putt, return to your villa, cottage, or lodge and soak in the serenity. Stretch out on the deck, fire up the gas grill, or unwind in a Jacuzzi tub. Indoor and outdoor swimming pools, an enclosed hot tub, and a state-of-the-art workout facility are always at your fingertips. This golf getaway is the perfect place to drift away from the world and relax.

Address

4700 North Red Oak Road, Lewiston, Michigan 49756

Highlights

Tee off on a quartet of golf courses: Fountains, Reflections, Swampfire, and Monarch. These diverse courses offer different challenges and stunning scenery!

Related Onsite Offerings

Grab a bite to eat at the Tamarack Dining Room, which utilizes fresh, local ingredients to create culinary delights!

Uncover entertainment for every season at Otsego Club and Resort! When the summer sun is shining, tee it up on two challenging PGA championship golf courses, The Classic and the Tribute. Explore the Michigan wilderness on a hiking trip through the Sturgeon River Valley, cast off on a fishing trip on the the Sturgeon River, or soak in the serenity on a canoeing expedition. When the land is blanketed in powdery snow, enjoy a winter wonderland of adventures like downhill and cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding. Families will find more fun onsite, where two Laykold tennis courts and a shimmering swimming pool await. Feel at home with modern conveniences like flat-screen televisions, complimentary high-speed internet, and spa amenities. Soak in the Jacuzzi tub or explore the natural splendor of the property. The stunning scenery is the perfect backdrop for a dream wedding or for an inspiring corporate retreat. Lodges and chalets welcome every type of traveler any time of the year!

Address

696 M-32 East, P.O. Box 556, Gaylord, Michigan 49734

Highlights

Fairway frequenters will love The Classic and The Tribute, two championship golf courses designed by Rick Robbins and PGA Tour Professional Gary Koch. Wandering woodlands, wildlife, and water make for a scenic round.

Related activities

With more than 8.5 miles of groomed snowshoeing and cross country trails, vacationers will have plenty of space to explore during the winter.

Whether you're in search of a corporate retreat or vacation destination, The Leland Lodge and Conference Center welcomes you with a business meets pleasure atmosphere! Host an event in this picturesque place and have access to inspiring meeting rooms and an array of amenities. This newly renovated oasis includes a banquet facility, wonderful wine bar, and exceptional restaurant. Wander off-site and enjoy the aquatic adventures of nearby Lake Michigan or hike through the tree-lined trails. Onsite, you'll find a vacation for everyone from families to couples to business travelers. Spacious guest rooms include flat-screen televisions, fireplaces, and patios overlooking the Leland Country Club golf course. If you'd like to catch a tan, there are two nearby sun-drenched beaches just outside your door. Wander off-site or stay on the property and discover an unbeatable Michigan stay at The Leland Lodge and Conference Center!

Address

565 Pearl St, Leland, Michigan 49654

Highlights

Stop by Bogey’s 19th Hole bar and grill and sample the fare on the outdoor deck overlooking the eighth green.

Related Onsite Offerings

Those searching for a couples' escape can purchase the Romantic Getaway package, which includes accommodations for two, a bottle of champagne, and chocolate-covered strawberries.

Great outdoor adventures are easy to find at Hamlet Village Resort Condominiums.

Hamlet Village offers rentals in beautiful Northwest Michigan. Enjoy the furnished and well-maintained rentals equipped with modern amenities including a complete kitchen, wireless internet, and a washer and dryer unit. The accommodations can be a perfect romantic escape or an ideal spot to bring the whole family together. In the summer, enjoy a round of golf at some of the best courses in all of the midwest or head over to Lake Michigan. There, you’ll have your choice of swimming, fishing, and boating. The fun doesn’t stop there though since Hamlet Village Resort Condominiums is the only ski-in/ski-out vacation rentals in all of Northwest Michigan! Enjoy downhill or cross country skiing and snowboarding at nearby Nub’s Nob Ski Resort.

Address

5484 Pleasantview, Harbor Springs, MI 49740

Fun facts

Beyond the rentals, Hamlet Village Resort Condominiums also has real estate for sale.

Related Onsite Offerings

In the fall, book a hunting trip through Hamlet Village. Their Pheasant and Chukar preserve offers great opportunities where you will even have the option of using a dog guide

Swing into serenity at A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort! Showcasing 54 sensational holes along the idyllic Torch Lake, you'll find an unforgettable golf getaway here. Discounted golf packages, golf lessons, and three exceptional courses are sure to please frequenters of the fairway. Of course, there's more to do than tee it up here. For some additional aquatic adventures, head to the nearby Lake Michigan and discover fantastic fishing, boating, and a wealth of water sports. Stay on land and hike through the wandering wilderness trails! Once you've taken your share of swings, return to the resort and settle into your town home or condo. One- to four-bedroom stays accommodate everyone from families to couples and feature a host of amenities. Patios with stunning lake views, barbecue grills, and welcoming decor await inside. Swing by the Midwest at this Michigan golf mecca!

Address

627 A-Ga-Ming Drive, Kewadin, Michigan 49648

Highlights

Sharpen your swing at the lighted driving range and ask for expert advice from PGA staff members, who are available for lessons.

Related Onsite Offerings

Enjoy good eats at both Duffers Bar & Grill and Antrim Dells, which feature a variety of food like walleye, jumbo shrimp, and grilled chicken.

Offering over 400 feet of beachfront fun, a free shuttle service to Downtown, and inspiring views of Old Mission Peninsula, Cherry Tree Inn & Suites will give you an experience you’ll never forget.

Unwind in any of the 76 deluxe rooms that are fully equipped with kitchenettes and thick concrete walls providing a quiet stay where nothing will get in the way of a good night’s sleep. More amenities you’ll come across include a complimentary hot breakfast, an exercise room, and onsite laundry so you can pack light! Cherry Tree Inn also offers both an indoor and outdoor pool where you’ll be able to swim year-round. Grab your suitcase and head to one of northern Michigan’s finest getaways!

Address

2345 US 31 N Traverse City, Michigan 49686

Highlights

Cherry Tree Inn & Suites complimentary shuttle service will take you Downtown Traverse City where you can spend a day shopping or gambling at Turtle Creek Casino if you’re feeling lucky.

Related Onsite Offerings

Stop by the onsite Sweet Shoppe with your sweetheart, where you can purchase everything from Moomer's award-winning ice cream to Leelanau Coffee products.

Set among the tranquil forests, streams, and lowlands of Northern Michigan, Glen Craft Marina and Resort not only meets but exceeds all your expectations of what an ideal vacation spot should be.

Every morning, start your day with a cup of coffee and take in the gorgeous views of Glen Lake from the comfort of your own accommodations. The luxury suites and cottages can host between two and six guests, and the lodge is constructed with gigantic Montana Lodge Pole timbers which complements the natural warmth of the surrounding area. Onsite, take advantage of the countless amenities like the gas grills and full kitchens where you can craft your own meal or rental options including family ski boats and pontoons.

Address

6391 S Lake St Glen Arbor, MI 49636

Extra Stops

While the resort is resort is intentionally remote, is is also just thirty minutes from the metropolitan Traverse City area for entertainment including shopping, fine dining, and casinos.

Highlights

If you do plan on renting, you'll be pleased to know that guests receive 10% off all rentals.

Offering comfortable accommodations and a Conference Center fit for royalty, UAW Black Lake is a picturesque Michigan getaway you won't want to miss out on.

Located among 1,000 acres of heavily wooded acres on the beautiful shores of Black Lake in Northern Michigan, the Center is centrally located within a one-hour drive of some of the state’s most scenic tourist attractions. The accommodations consist of three-bedroom premium and standard condos, one and two-bedroom apartments, family units, and standard hotel rooms. After a day adventuring or catching up with relatives, enjoy a fireside meal in their main dining room that overlooks the reflecting pond.

Address

2000 Maxon Road, Onaway, MI 49765

Extra Stops

Exciting parks and landmarks to visit nearby include Ocqueoc Falls, Onaway State Park, and the sinkholes of Mackinaw State Forest

Fun facts

The Conference Center was created as an educational center for UAW members across the country.

Crystal Mountain combines recreation and relaxation all year round! Stop by this Michigan marvel and ski or snowboard the 50 downhill runs or hit some obstacles at the terrain park. Cross country skiing, dog sledding, and snowshoeing add to the winter activities. When the warm weather welcomes you, try the alpine slides, mountain biking, a climbing wall, and more. Swing away on the resort's two distinctive golf courses or set off on a kayaking or tubing excursion down the Betsie and Platte Rivers. When you're not uncovering adventures, relax in the Crystal Spa with a host of rejuvenating treatments. Choose from more than 250 hotel rooms, suites, condos, and town homes. These diverse accommodations include amenities like tennis courts, swimming pools, hot tubs, balconies, and more. Corporate retreats up to 350 redefine what it means to meet. Come for any reason or any season and experience the excellence of Crystal Mountain!

Address

12500 Crystal Mountain Drive, Thompsonville, Michigan 49683

Highlights

Tee it up on either the Mountain Ridge or Betsie Valley golf course, both of which have received a prestigious four-star rating from Golf Digest magazine.

Related Onsite Offerings

The 18,500-square-foot Crystal Spa features a laundry list of amenities: private transition rooms with heated floors, steam rooms and infrared saunas, and an outdoor Mosaic Garden with hot tub.

Hawk’s Eye Golf Resort is a luxurious getaway that features two championship 18-hole golf courses and beautiful accommodations.

Hawk’s Eye was rated “24th Best Course in the United States” by Golf Advisor. It is comprised of two, semi-private courses onsite: Hawk’s Eye and The Chief. Though they are beautiful, they provide a challenge for both beginners as well as experienced golfers. The resort offers much more than just golf however. The charming accommodations provide great fun for the entire family! A pool is onsite, but if you are willing Lake Bellaire and Torch Lake are located minutes away from the resort. Boating and fishing could provide the perfect break from a long day of golf! There is plenty of other things going on in the area as well including: archery ranges, breweries, farm markets, and shopping centers.

Address

5820 Shanty Creek Road Bellaire, Michigan 49615

Highlights

The resort offers everything from just basic rooms all the way up to 4800 square feet vacation homes.

Fun facts

Hawk's Eye offers a unique promotion to golf free on your birthday. Conveniently enough, if your half birthday is in the off-season you may redeem your free game on your half birthday.

At Sojourn Lakeside Resort you'll enjoy a wealth of outdoor activities and some of the best hospitality in all of Michigan!

Your cozy accommodations at Sojourn Lakeside Resort feature refrigerators, microwaves, a soaker tub (Jacuzzi Suites available), and robes for individual guest use. When you're suitably relaxed and pampered, get out and experience the resort's 35 acres of private wooded land, filled with picturesque hiking trails and native flora and fauna. Onsite, adults can enjoy a Social Hour at Sandbar Lounge while the kids enjoy a sunny, fun-filled day on 700' of Dixon Lake beach. After the sun sets, head to the beach for a bonfire and make sure to bring along marshmallows for s'mores!

Address

2332 E. Dixon Lake Rd, Gaylord, MI 49735

Highlights

There's nothing more relaxing than morning yoga on the beach or a sunset session on the deck at Sojourn Lakeside Resort. The hospitality staff is happy to help you set up a session during your stay.

Fun facts

Sojourn Lakeside Resort originally opened in 1948 as a guest ranch and then as a dude ranch before becoming El Rancho Stevens, which served it's last guests in 2004.

Offering a wide range of unique lodging choices supported by luxurious facilities designed for romantic getaways, family vacations, weddings, reunions, and corporate meetings, The Homestead will be your distinctive lakeside four-season resort perched on beautiful Lake Michigan.

Guests enjoy the mile-long beach, the spa and salon services, and golf at some of the most stunning courses in all of Michigan. With a variety of lodging options and vacation packages that include hotel rooms, suites, condominiums, and homes for rent near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Park, it's hard to imagine a stay more exciting than this!

Address

1 Wood Ridge Road Glen Arbor, Michigan 49636

Fun facts

The Homestead is located in what ABC's Good Morning America viewers have recognized as the "Most Beautiful Place in America."

Related Onsite Offerings

Guests will have a slew of restaurants at their disposal including Nonna's, Cavanaugh's, and Cafe Manitou.

Experience Germany without leaving the Midwest at Bavarian Inn of Frankenmuth! This Frankenmuth fairy tale exudes Old World charm with architectural attractions like a glockenspiel and a wooden covered bridge. Savor authentic German dishes and family-style chicken dinners. The seven acres of fun includes such entertainment as an indoor waterpark with four pools, 40 shops and boutiques, and dozens of festivals throughout the year. The inn itself is a painting plucked from Germany. Settle into any of the 360 European-themed rooms and be transported across the ocean. Two restaurants serve food to satisfy every stomach while a wide selection of meeting rooms are great for every group. Bring your dream wedding to life in this scenic location or explore a wide selection of family options. European entertainment awaits in the heart of Frankenmuth!

Address

One Covered Bridge Lane, Frankenmuth, Michigan 48734

Highlights

Make a splash at the waterpark, which showcases four indoor pools, a slew of slides, and relaxing whirlpools. Stay dry at the arcade or on the 18-hole miniature golf course. Family fun abounds!

Related Onsite Offerings

Sample authentic German dishes such as Schnitzel and Sauerbraten or enjoy surf and turf with steak and seafood.