Luxury Resorts in Michigan

The Inn at Stonecliffe Mackinac Island

Here’s a travel guide to three standout luxury resort stays in Michigan — perfect for planning a getaway that’s scenic, relaxing, and memorable. I’ve included highlights, best times to visit, what to do nearby, and tips for each destination.

🏖️ The Homestead — Lake Michigan Luxury & Nature Retreat (Glen Arbor)

The Homestead Resort Glen Arbor Michigan

Overview: Set atop dunes and overlooking Lake Michigan near Sleeping Bear Dunes, The Homestead is one of Michigan’s classic luxury resort experiences. It blends natural beauty with upscale amenities and outdoor adventure.

Why It’s Special

• Spectacular location: Stunning views of Lake Michigan and quick access to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore — often voted one of America’s most beautiful places.

• Resort amenities: Spa and salon services, beach access, multiple pools, golf, watercraft rentals, and tennis.

• Seasonal activities: Summer offers swimming, boating, hiking, and biking; winter features skiing, snowshoeing, and skating.

Who It’s Best For

• Nature lovers and scenic photography enthusiasts

• Couples seeking romantic lakefront sunsets

• Families and multigenerational groups wanting variety in activities

Top Things to Do ☑ Hike the dunes and trails at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore ☑ Kayak on Lake Michigan ☑ Enjoy golf with panoramic water views ☑ Stargaze on quiet beach nights ☑ Shopping and Dining in Glen Arbor, Leland & Traverse City

Best Times to Visit

• Late spring to early fall: Warmer water and outdoor activities

• Winter: Cozy indoor experiences and snow sports

  
  

🌅 Inn at Bay Harbor — Bay Harbor Elegance & Great Lakes Views (Bay Harbor)

The Inn at Bay Harbor

Overview: Located near Petoskey and Little Traverse Bay, Inn at Bay Harbor blends luxury with a relaxed lakeside vibe. It’s part of a larger resort community with golf, dining, and marina access.

Why It’s Special

• Highly rated luxury stay: Excellent guest ratings and refined service.

• Bay Harbor amenities: Access to golf at Bay Harbor Golf Club (rated highly in the region) and charming village shops/ dining.

• Water activities & scenery: Walkable to marina, water tours, sunsets over Little Traverse Bay.

Who It’s Best For

• Couples looking for a refined yet relaxed getaway

• Travelers who enjoy golf or water sports

• Those wanting convenient access to Petoskey and Harbor Springs

Top Things to Do ☑ Play the scenic Bay Harbor Golf Club ☑ Sunset sail on Little Traverse Bay ☑ Explore downtown Petoskey and Harbor Springs☑ Relax on private beaches

Best Times to Visit

• Summer / early fall: Prime weather for boating, golf, and outdoor dining

  
  

⛴️ The Inn at Stonecliffe — Historic & Serene Luxury on Mackinac Island

The Inn at Stonecliffe Mackinac Island

Overview: A truly unique Michigan luxury experience, The Inn at Stonecliffe offers a peaceful retreat on car-free Mackinac Island — a place where bicycles and horse-drawn carriages are the main modes of transport.

Why It’s Special

• Historic estate with modern charm: Originally a 1904 mansion, recently fully renovated with elegant rooms, suites, and private cottages.

• Car-free island tranquility: No cars, just quiet roads and natural beauty — perfect for unplugging.

• Luxury amenities: Seasonal pools, wellness center, expansive lawn views of the Straits of Mackinac, fire pits, lawn games, and more.

• Cultural and historic feel: Onsite dining and experiences that highlight the Great Lakes region.

Who It’s Best For

• Couples or small families seeking a peaceful luxury stay

• History and architecture lovers

• Travelers wanting a distinctive Midwest getaway

Top Things to Do ☑ Bike or carriage around picturesque Mackinac Island☑ Watch sunset from Sunset Rock right on property ☑ Explore Fort Mackinac and island fudge shops ☑ Enjoy curated activities like art classes, yoga, or lawn games

Best Times to Visit

• Late spring through early fall: When island ferries run regularly and outdoor amenities are open

🏛️ Grand Hotel — Timeless Luxury on Mackinac Island

The Grand Hotel Mackinac Island Michigan

Overview No list of Michigan luxury resorts is complete without the iconic Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. Opened in 1887, this legendary resort is famous for its sweeping views of Lake Huron, refined traditions, and the world’s longest front porch. Staying here feels like stepping into a more elegant era—one defined by gracious hospitality and classic style.

Why It’s Special

• Historic grandeur: A National Historic Landmark with beautifully restored rooms, public spaces, and manicured gardens

• Car-free island experience: Arrive by ferry, then travel by horse-drawn carriage or bicycle—no cars anywhere on the island

• Signature traditions: Afternoon tea, evening dress code, live music, and impeccable service

• Unmatched views: Sunrise and sunset over the Straits of Mackinac from the porch are unforgettable

Who It’s Best For

• Travelers who love classic elegance and tradition

• Couples seeking a romantic, once-in-a-lifetime stay

• History lovers and fans of refined, old-world resorts

• Multi-generational trips where atmosphere matters as much as amenities

What to Do

• Relax on the front porch with a cocktail and lake views

• Bike the 8-mile loop around Mackinac Island

• Visit Fort Mackinac and explore charming downtown shops

• Enjoy fine dining in the Grand Hotel’s main dining room or casual options on the island

Best Time to Visit

• Late May through September, when the island is fully alive with gardens, events, and ferry service

• June and September are especially lovely for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Good to Know

• A nightly resort fee applies and includes many activities

• Evening attire is part of the experience (jackets for men, dresses or elegant attire for women after 6:30 pm)

✈️ Travel & Planning Tips

The Homestead — Glen Arbor

Best Access: Drive or fly

• By air: Fly into Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), about a 45-minute scenic drive

• By car: Ideal for a road trip; the drive along Lake Michigan is part of the experience

• Good to know: Renting a car is recommended to explore Sleeping Bear Dunes, wineries, and nearby towns

Inn at Bay Harbor — Bay Harbor / Petoskey

Best Access: Fly + short drive

• By air: Fly into Pellston Regional Airport (PLN), about 30 minutes away

• Alternate airport: Traverse City (TVC), roughly 1.5 hours by car

• By car: Easy drive from Chicago, Detroit, or Ohio

• Good to know: A car is helpful for exploring Petoskey, Harbor Springs, and the surrounding coastline

The Inn at Stonecliffe — Mackinac Island

Best Access: Fly or drive + ferry

• By air: Fly into Pellston (PLN), then drive ~20 minutes to Mackinaw City or St. Ignace

• By ferry: Take a ferry to Mackinac Island (about 15–20 minutes)

• On the island: Transportation is by horse-drawn carriage or bicycle (no cars allowed)

• Good to know: Stonecliffe is on the quieter west side of the island, away from downtown crowds

Grand Hotel — Mackinac Island

Best Access: Fly or drive + ferry

• By air: Pellston (PLN) is the closest airport

• By ferry: Same ferry access as Stonecliffe

• On arrival: Guests are greeted with a horse-drawn carriage transfer directly to the hotel

• Good to know: Grand Hotel’s arrival experience is part of its iconic charm—plan to arrive mid-afternoon to enjoy the porch and grounds

✨ Travel Tips

• Best airports overall: Traverse City (TVC) for mainland resorts; Pellston (PLN) for Mackinac Island

• Best season for travel: Late May through September for smooth ferry service and full resort amenities

• Packing note: For Mackinac Island, pack comfortable walking shoes—and for Grand Hotel, elegant evening attire

Best Seasons

• Summer: Peak season for all three — warm weather, water views, and full activity calendars.

• Shoulder seasons (May/September): Fewer crowds, mild weather, still beautiful.

• Fall colors: Particularly gorgeous around northern Michigan lakes and forests.

Dining & Local Culture

• Michigan’s regional cuisine highlights Great Lakes fish, cherries, locally sourced produce, and craft beverages.

• Explore local wineries (Leelanau & Old Mission peninsulas), artisanal markets, and farm-to-table restaurants.

Michigan Luxury Resorts: Comparison Chart

Resort	Location	Best For	Style & Atmosphere	Signature Experience	Ideal Season
The Homestead	Glen Arbor (Lake Michigan)	Nature lovers, active travelers	Relaxed luxury, scenic, outdoorsy	Sleeping Bear Dunes, lakefront sunsets, four-season recreation	Late spring–early fall
Inn at Bay Harbor	Bay Harbor / Petoskey area	Couples, golfers, lake views	Refined, contemporary, quiet elegance	Bay Harbor Golf Club, marina walks, sunset dining	Summer & early fall
The Inn at Stonecliffe	Mackinac Island	Peaceful retreats, boutique luxury	Historic, serene, understated	Car-free island, private lawns, sunset views	Late May–September
Grand Hotel	Mackinac Island	Classic luxury, tradition lovers	Grand, formal, iconic	World’s longest porch, formal dining, timeless traditions	June–September

At-a-Glance Differences

• Most Scenic & Active: The Homestead

• Best Modern Lakeside Luxury: Inn at Bay Harbor

• Quietest & Most Intimate: The Inn at Stonecliffe

• Most Iconic & Historic: Grand Hotel