15 Best Romantic (Weekend) Getaways in Michigan

Normally, when people think of Michigan, images of deep snow, 8 Mile, GM motors, and vast midwestern fields come to mind. However, this northern state – wrapped on three sides by the Great Lakes – will surprise you with all the variety it has to offer.

Now’s the time to share a romantic weekend with your partner in this mitten-shaped state boasting country charm, big city vibes, pristine beaches, quaint historic towns, lakeside walks, and serene nature. Michigan also has a great range of places to stay for loved up couples.

Here’s our list of the best 15 romantic getaways to take with your loved one in Michigan:

1. Grand Hotel – Mackinac Island

Time stands still on Mackinac Island, a 3.8-square-mile island above Michigan’s northern shore where cars are prohibited and everyone gets around by foot or by horse and buggy. In fact, the only way to reach the island itself is by ferry, private boat, small aircraft, or snowmobile in winter via an ice bridge.

It’s in this secluded and devastatingly charming island where you and your loved one will find the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. At the Grand Hotel in Mackinac Island, enjoy your partner’s company on the world’s longest porch, stroll through the town on a horse-drawn carriage, and make sure you try the famous fudge, a Mackinac Island tradition since the 1800s.

Website: http://www.grandhotel.com/

2. Chateau Chantal

When romance beckons, you can do far worse than staying at a vineyard known for its refreshing vintages like Chateau Chantal. This cozy inn is the epitome of rest and relaxation offering B&B style accommodation. The quiet country roads, nearby beaches, immense vineyard, and cultural venues of Old Mission Peninsula set the scene for intimacy and togetherness.

At the Chateau Chantal, you and your loved one will have your own whirlpool tub, private balcony with beautiful views, and a fireplace to snuggle up to after dark. But be sure you also visit the tasting room, where you can sample the chateau’s range of wines, attend a wine education dinner, try the wine boot camp, or enjoy wine and food pairings. And all within sight of the Great Lakes.

Website: http://www.chateauchantal.com/

3. Bavarian Inn Lodge

Travel across the Atlantic without ever getting your passport out when you stay at this German-themed lodge in downtown Frankenmuth, known as Michigan’s “Little Bavaria.” This enormous hotel boasts nearly 400 guest rooms, four indoor pools, two water slides, and an indoor water park. The lodge is also nestled on 13 acres of riverfront property, hard to come by in the middle of the country.

Sip on craft beer at the on-site Bier Garten, take a romantic ride in a horse-drawn carriage, and dine on authentic German dishes such as bratwurst, schnitzel, and so much more. Escaping to the Bavarian Inn Lodge is a perfect getaway for couples looking to try something different for a unique vacation.

Frankenmuth also made it to our list of the best small towns to visit in Michigan!

Website: http://www.bavarianinn.com/

4. Old Harbor Inn

In Michigan’s Maritime District of South Haven, the Old Harbor Inn sits on the Black River where it meets Lake Michigan. Its prime location makes it one of the only places you can get a sunset over the water in the eastern United States.

Right outside the door of this hotel is easy access to sandy beaches and downtown South Haven, packed with interesting shops, fine restaurants, and exciting cultural sites. And as a guest of the Old Harbor Inn, you and your loved one will have access to its private 300-ft boardwalk overlooking the Black River and indoor pool.

Stop by the Old Harbor Inn and you get a beach-town feel right at the heart of the Midwest.

Website: http://www.oldharborinn.com/

5. Otsego Club and Resort

Visit the Otsego Club and Resort in the summertime or wintertime alike. This once private club is now open to the general public, but still has an air of exclusiveness you’re sure to love.

With optimal slopes for skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and snowshoeing, the Otsego creates the scene for an unforgettable getaway in the winter. To turn the vacation even more romantic, schedule a private bonfire or hit the ice skating rink for a date.

In the summer, take advantage of Otsego’s renowned golf courses in the midst of woodlands, water, and wildlife. Spend a day on the river or lake with your special someone, fishing or canoeing through the scenic nature. The Otsego in northern Michigan is famous for its trout and salmon fishing, so if you’re lucky, you might not even have to pay for dinner!

Website: http://www.otsegoclub.com/

6. Castle in the Country B&B

Indulge in your fantasies for a weekend at Michigan’s Castle in the Country Bed & Breakfast. At this Victorian-style B&B surrounded by 65 acres of rolling farmland, you can enjoy the seclusion you need for alone time with your loved one.

Stroll through the nature trails or paddle away in the castle’s paddle boat with your sweetheart. Relax at the Royal Retreat Spa, in the Castle Keep building, and let all your troubles slip away. Love birds should opt for the a la carte couples massages, which can last 60 minutes or 90 minutes of utter delight.

Website: http://www.castleinthecountry.com/

7. The Island House Hotel

Escape to the picturesque Mackinac Island for a romantic getaway outside the hustle and bustle of daily life. Established in 1852, the Island House Hotel offers a charming, historic experience on the water for couples.

With direct access to the dock, panoramic harbor views, and warm hospitality, the Island House Hotel makes for a perfect destination to relax and reconnect. Soak in the heated indoor pool and hot tub, bask in the luxurious sauna, and watch the world go by from the waterfront veranda. This historic mansion on the water is so beautiful you might never want to leave. The owner’s didn’t – they’ve now been caring for this grand dame of Mackinac Island for two generations.

Website: http://www.theislandhouse.com/

8. Marv Herzog Hotel

Like the Bavarian Inn, this hotel revels in the German heritage of the town of Frankenmuth to offer guests a twist on a typical Michigan getaway. Discover the Old World enchantment in this Bavarian-style town with flower-lined avenues, German delis, and even windmills reminiscent of European villages.

However, you can kiss measly continental breakfasts goodbye when you discover the glory that is the complimentary breakfast at Marv Herzog, including eggs, biscuits, sausage, and Belgian waffles. After you’ve replenished your energy, explore the town of Frankenmuth.

If you’re visiting in mid-June, make sure to catch the Bavarian Festival Parade. A month later in mid-July, Frankenmuth hosts the Michigan Bier Celebration. At the end of September (ironically) each year, you can enjoy the town’s Oktoberfest. And throughout October, this German oasis puts on a Crabby Clam & Lobster Fest and a Scarecrow Fest. You sure won’t run out of culture when you stay in this gem of a town!

Website: http://www.marvherzoghotel.com/

9. Shanty Creek Resort

This resort is actually more of a resort village. Choose between four different options for stays here: Schuss, Cedar River, Hawk’s Eye or Summit villages.

At Schuss Village, once known as The Kingdom of Schuss, guests delight in the Alps-inspired European charm with relics from yesteryear. With 43 downhill alpine ski slopes, the Monster Terrain Park with snow rails and jumps, and ski-in/ski-out condos, this Village is famous for its skiing come winter.

Cedar River Village, on the other hand, is more a destination for when the snow melts. Enjoy the sunshine on one of Michigan’s best golf courses at one of the “Top Golf Resorts in the World,” an accolade gifted the resort by Condé Nast Traveler.

Hawk’s Eye Village has a little of everything – the resort’s newest golf course, summer-season pub, and a range of other recreational activities sure to keep you unsure what to do next.

And as the original Shanty Creek, Summit Village overlooks Lake Bellaire and the slopes of Summit Mountain. Visit this location any time of the year, whether you want to laze away on the beaches of the lake, test your palate in the “foodie-haven” of the small towns dotting the area, or bring your own Winter Wonderland dreams to life.

Shanty Creek is perfect for couples looking to enjoy the outdoors.

Website: http://www.shantycreek.com/

10. Lake Shore Resort

This lakefront hotel caters to adults looking for some romantic alone time, so most of the rooms have a single king bed, and children below the age of thirteen are strictly prohibited from lodging at the Lake Shore. With its own private beach, outdoor pool, and guest rooms with large windows showcasing the beautiful views of Lake Michigan, a stay at the Lake Shore is as romantic as it gets!

Turn off all your distractions and connections to the outside world, and simply unwind with your loved one at this peaceful retreat. There are plenty of ways to do just that, with kayaking on the lake, and hiking and biking on the lake shore. Come evening, sunsets and then firepits provide a focus, alongside a ceiling of stars the likes of which you’ve probably never encountered in Michigan before.

Website: http://www.lakeshoreresortsaugatuck.com/

11. National House Inn

For over 170 years, the National House Inn has been providing warm hospitality combined with comfortable amenities in the heart of the historic town of Marshall, Michigan. Stays here are all about the simple pleasures of life, from enjoying a good book from a comfy sofa, to savoring the delights of an afternoon tea.

You might also want to discover why the National Trust of Historic Preservation named Marshall one of the “Dozen Distinctive Destinations” nationwide. As a real-life museum for 19th century architecture with 850 structures dating back to the 1800s, abundant ghost tours, many antique shops, and numerous artistic centers, this historic landmark is a must-see for all couples who swoon over charm and nostalgia.

Website: http://www.nationalhouseinn.com/

12. Inn at Black Star Farms

Not many inns that you’ve heard of welcome guests with a complimentary bottle of red house wine or nightly wine and canapé events. But then again, not many inns are at Black Star Farms. This rural oasis awaits you and your loved one when you’re looking to truly get away and breathe that fresh, country air.

Covering 160 acres of wooded trails, orchards, vineyards, and stables, the Inn at Black Star Farms will bring you the peace and quiet you’ve been craving. Stare into the vast open skies without the city lights ruining your view. Pamper yourself at the sauna/spa room for a couples massage with your sweetie. Treat yourself at the onsite tasting room or the Leelanau Cheese Company creamery. Cheese, wine, massages—do you still need more reason to come here? How about the fact USA Today readers named it a top 10 wine country hotel?

Website: http://www.blackstarfarms.com/inn/

You may also like: Our list of the Best Lakes in Michigan

13. Hilton Garden Inn – Ann Arbor

Home to the enormous University of Michigan, Ann Arbor is the state’s quintessential college town. When you’re feeling hip and funky, stop by colorful Ann Arbor for a visit. And for couples looking to turn up the romance in this artsy town, there’s no better place to stay than the Hilton Garden Inn.

This luxurious hotel located smack dab in the middle of Ann Arbor provides guests with the comfort and elegance that washes away all stress. The indoor pool provides a welcome space to exercise, alongside a fitness center, while The Garden Grille & Bar is open morning and evening for cook-to-order breakfasts and seasonal meals.

Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/arbgigi-hilton-garden-inn-ann-arbor/

14. Village Suites Bay Harbor

Previously known as the Bay Harbor Village Hotel, this stay has shifted its attention to providing guests high-end suites and penthouses. Located on the banks of Lake Michigan, many of the suites have panoramic waterfront vistas which just ooze romance whatever the time of year.

One-bedroom suites start at an incredible 1,000 sq ft, and come with their own kitchens, should leaving the heavenly space break the spell your weekend end intended to create. Additional loved up features include fireplaces, separate living areas, and walk-out private balconies. Outside of suites, there’s a seasonal Olympic sized swimming pool and Jacuzzi, coffee bar, and small library.

Website: http://bayharborvillagehotel.com/

More on Michigan: 25 Best Things to Do in Michigan

15. Beaver Island Lodge

As you could assume from the name, the Beaver Island Lodge is perfect for nature-loving couples. Tucked into the lush forests overlooking Lake Michigan, this lodge offers guests the space they need to escape their hectic day-to-day lives.

Along with the stunning views of nature, the main feature at the Beaver Island is its food. With self-proclaimed “foodies” (Eric and Dana Hodgson) as the Lodge’s owners, this place puts a special emphasis on the culinary experience. Dip into the melting baked brie, devour the succulent scallops served with arugula pesto and caper aioli, and stare off into the sunset over Lake Michigan.

Website: http://beaverislandlodge.com/