20 Top Romantic Getaways in Michigan

No matter if you choose to bed down at a quaint bed-and-breakfast in the woods, a luxurious urban escape in Detroit or a chateau nestled beside a vineyard, you and your sweetheart will remember your Michigan getaway for years to come.

Conveniently located just off the M-40 in southwest Michigan about 45 miles from Grand Rapids, the Castle in the Country Bed & Breakfast Inn is an adults-only property and a favorite among travelers for its serenity, well-appointed rooms and unobstructed countryside views. Plush beds, fireplaces and jetted tubs are just some of the amenities that make the accommodations perfect for a cozy retreat.

Outside the rooms, there are plenty of activities to fill your days. Go kayaking or paddleboating on the private lake, or if you’re visiting in winter, try snowshoeing on the surrounding trails. Then, head to Fenn Valley Vineyards – one of the largest wineries in the state – to sip vino together, or opt for a more casual date at nearby cider house Virtue Cider.

Take your vacation to the next level with one of the inn’s couples packages. The “Royal Treatment Experience” package provides traveling twosomes with a fully stocked picnic basket, a dinner voucher and side-by-side massages. If you’re hoping to take more than the vacation to the next level, the “Enchanted Proposal Package” adds on perks like a welcome gift, chilled wine, daily breakfast delivered to your room and, of course, a secluded area reserved for your proposal.

Situated about 30 miles northwest of Traverse City in Leelanau County, the landscape of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore boasts vibrant waters and lush forests. The protected area, which “Good Morning America” once named as the most beautiful place in the country, is characterized by its towering dunes. The perched dunes (essentially sand dunes on top of cliffs) soar more than 450 feet above the water, and they’re likely to take your breath away.

Depending on the season, lovebirds can experience everything from snowshoeing to scuba diving at the lakeshore. This area captivates hikers with nearly 100 miles of trails for all skill levels. Whether you’re meandering along the Cottonwood trail or expertly navigating the Dunes Trail – which includes the popular but difficult Dune Climb – you’ll be treated to panoramic views of glistening Lake Michigan. In the winter months, there are plenty of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing adventures to embark on before cozying up with hot cocoa in a lodge.

Although the dunes are in a more remote area of the state, couples will find no shortage of lodging options. The Homestead, located about 5 miles northeast of the dunes, offers multiple accommodation choices, from traditional rooms and suites to villas and vacation home rentals, including ski-in, ski-out rental options. All guests enjoy access to an on-site spa and an array of fine dining establishments. LeBear Luxury Residential Club and Spa, which offers access to a private beach, a sauna, and indoor and outdoor pools, also sits a few miles away. What’s more, there are many camping options ideal for adventurous duos who prefer a more rustic experience.

Sitting just outside the downtown area of Mackinac Island in northern Michigan, the Island House Hotel perfectly blends convenience with stately charm and lakefront views. Established as a resort in 1852, this hotel offers a variety of modern amenities today. On the grounds visitors will find manicured gardens and cobblestone walkways leading to the lakefront. Couples can relax in the hot tubs or indoor pool, soak up some rays on the sun deck, watch boats pass through the harbor, or enjoy a romantic evening stargazing by one of the chimineas.

If you want to take your weekend getaway to the next level, consider splurging on the “Romantic Getaway” package. You and your partner will receive sparkling wine, chocolate-covered strawberries, souvenir Champagne flutes and dinner at the on-site 1852 Grill Room. The “Bed & Breakfast” package, meanwhile, includes a full-service breakfast each morning in the 1852 Grill Room.

When you want to explore the rest of the island, consider renting bikes from the hotel and touring the area on two wheels. You can ride around at your leisure, as you won’t find any cars or other distractions on this quaint island. Plus, the Island House Hotel is the only lodging option within Mackinac Island State Park, so you’ll enjoy easy access to the park’s 70-plus miles of trails.

A massive white estate surrounded by colorful tulip gardens, expansive lawns and a private golf course, the Grand Hotel will make you and your better half feel like royalty. After arriving on Mackinac Island, you can arrange for a horse-drawn carriage to pick you up from the ferry docks and bring you to the Grand Hotel.

Once you get settled into your guest room or suite – many of which come with lake views and a balcony – you and your significant other can begin enjoying the hotel grounds. Spend your day playing pickleball, shuffleboard or bocce ball before cooling off in the hotel pool. After an activity-filled day, take time to relax on the longest porch in the world and watch boats cruise around the harbor. Previous visitors recommended taking a self-guided tour through the Grand Hotel Stables, where you’ll come face to face with Hackney horses. You can also stop in the neighboring carriage museum to admire the antique sleigh collection.

A tiny town in Michigan’s Harbor Country, located about 70 miles from bustling Chicago, New Buffalo has all the elements of a peaceful couples retreat. In downtown New Buffalo, duos will find a thriving arts scene with galleries and a historic theater called The Acorn. New Buffalo Beach offers a long expanse of sand, picturesque lake views, and rental spots for kayaks and paddleboards. You and your loved one can also kayak down the Galien River Marsh Trail or stroll along the boardwalk in Galien River County Park. A yacht cruise from Oselka Marina or a sailboat trip with New Buffalo Sailing Excursions can also make for a memorable and intimate date.

Oenophiles, meanwhile, will also be pleased to hear the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail – a network of wineries along the shore area – begins near New Buffalo. If you don’t have time to explore the entire trail (which ends about 70 miles northeast, near Saugatuck), visitors say the first stop, the St. Julian Winery & Distillery tasting room in Union Pier, is worth a trip for its expansive selection and friendly staff.

Cap off your trip with a stay at the luxurious Marina Grand Resort, which offers marina views and a lively waterfront tavern, or by bedding down at the Lake Country Inn, a quaint property with a bed-and-breakfast atmosphere and modern amenities like in-room fireplaces and private porches in certain rooms.

Couples can get a taste of Europe without leaving the U.S. by taking a quick trip to the town of Frankenmuth, Michigan’s Little Bavaria. Originally settled by German immigrants, this small town entices travelers with its Bavarian architecture, unique shopping options and, of course, its German beer offerings. You and your significant other may choose to kayak down the Cass River and check out the Bavarian buildings from the water, or enjoy a narrated river cruise on the Bavarian Belle Riverboat. When hunger strikes, stop at The Station 100 for an upscale take on wiener schnitzel, or grab a soft pretzel and a pint at the more casual Frankenmuth Brewery.

Winter is a great time for a romantic visit to Frankenmuth, as you can cozy up to your loved one at ChristKindlMarkt, the annual Christmas market while shopping for trinkets or sipping warm beverages like German glühwein – a type of mulled wine. Whatever time of year you choose to visit, you’ll be greeted with twinkling lights, horse-drawn carriages and the opportunity to shop at the country’s largest year-round Christmas store. There are also events throughout the year, including the Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival in June and a large Oktoberfest celebration in September.

When it’s time to rest, check into one of the many romantic lodging options around town. The Marv Herzog Hotel is a visitor favorite thanks to its peaceful atmosphere and river views. The Bavarian Inn Lodge also offers charming accommodations with the option to add on a “Romantic Package” that comes with Champagne and Bavarian chocolates.

Visitors are drawn to Saugatuck, located just 40 miles southwest of Grand Rapids, for its vibrant arts culture and scenic views of Lake Michigan. There are art galleries galore downtown, as well as in the neighboring town of Douglas. Boutique shops and local eateries abound here as well – not to mention the area is known around the region for its craft beer and hard cider offerings. Some visitor-favorite locations include Saugatuck Brewing Co., Guardian Brewing Company and the Fenn Valley Vineyards tasting room.

Saugatuck’s Oval Beach is a popular summer destination; its sand dunes and turquoise water are reason enough to make the trip to western Michigan. Couples up for an adventure can take their beach vacation to the next level by touring the shoreline with Saugatuck Dune Rides. For a special date night in town, book a ticket for a comedic or musical performance at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, which showcases a mix of local and national artists. The Saugatuck area is also known for its popular LGBTQ entertainment options, as well as its inclusive atmosphere: There are more than 140 LGBTQ-owned establishments, including restaurants and lodging options, in the area. Additionally, the town is home to The Dunes Resort, one of America’s largest LGBTQ resorts. The property boasts a massive pool, plus several bars and nightlife venues.

If you’re looking for quieter accommodations, turn in for the day at The Hotel Saugatuck to enjoy modern decor, lake views and plenty of romantic add-ons like Champagne, chocolates and roses. The Wickwood Inn is another dreamy setting in town. A stay here offers in-room fireplaces in select accommodations and a farm-to-table breakfast each morning.

Located on the banks of Lake Macatawa in western Michigan, Holland offers everything you could want in a romantic escape. Not only does this town serve as a convenient getaway for Michiganders, but it’s also a popular vacation destination for Chicago couples, as it sits approximately 150 miles northeast of the Windy City.

Beach-loving twosomes can spend time at Holland State Park lounging on the sand or watching the sun set over Lake Michigan. Culture hounds can lose themselves in one of the nearly 100 art installations located around town or catch a show at the Holland Community Theatre. Meanwhile, history buffs may want to peruse the exhibits in the Holland Museum to learn about the town’s Dutch heritage. The town’s Dutch influence can also be seen in the romantic Veldheer Tulip Gardens – the perfect place for amorous duos to stroll hand in hand among the vibrant flowers.

A number of restaurants downtown provide a dreamy date night setting, including Butch’s Dry Dock and Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant. For a sweet morning treat, head to visitor favorite deBoer Bakkerij, which garners rave reviews for its massive Dutch pancakes and indulgent pastries. There are plenty of lodging options scattered around Holland, and you can’t go wrong with anything downtown near the area’s best boutiques, shops and restaurants. Haworth Hotel is a luxurious central option that offers event space for weddings, as well as a unique design and an abundance of amenities.

No romantic details were overlooked when PrairieSide Suites Bed & Breakfast was designed. With amenities ranging from in-room whirlpool soaking tubs and electric fireplaces to hot breakfasts in bed and complimentary baked goods in the lobby, you’ll never want to leave this couples oasis. The grounds of PrairieSide Suites set a magical mood as you stroll through the perennial gardens or relax in the pergola. If you and your partner are looking for evening excitement, head to a restaurant or bar in central Grand Rapids, which is located less than 10 miles northeast of this B&B.

Like any true romantic escape, the property offers special packages to elevate the experience. The “A Night to Remember” package includes charcuterie, truffles, a rose and two movie passes to a theater nearby. The “Ultimate Indulgence Getaway” option includes truffles, candles, souvenir mugs and a couples massage, among other perks. Even the simple “Dinner & Movie Getaway” package makes for a memorable date night, as it offers a dinner voucher to an Italian restaurant plus two movie passes.

Guest rooms at The Historic Webster House welcome you with amenities such as a crackling fireplace, a whirlpool tub or even a skylight. You’ll also get a complimentary snack basket upon arrival. Antique furniture and custom décor help to set the cozy mood.

If you and your significant other can bring yourselves to venture outside your comfortable dwelling, you’ll find this small historic inn offers all the amenities of a larger hotel. The homemade breakfast served fireside each morning garners rave reviews from past visitors. The spa and sauna area, which you’ll have all to yourselves if you reserve it in advance, offers treatments like hot stone massages and reflexology. Once you’re totally relaxed, spend the rest of your afternoon lounging in one of the plush common areas, socializing with other guests or enjoying a glass of complimentary wine.

This bed-and-breakfast offers an array of packages to dial up the romance. Anyone planning to pop the question can purchase the “Romantic Proposal Package” for some extra goodies, such as a bottle of sparkling wine, a dinner voucher, breakfast in bed and a thoughtfully decorated spot to get down on one knee. The “Rediscover Your Romance” package promises house-made chocolate truffles, a bouquet of flowers and a bottle of wine, while the “Honey Boomer” package adds on in-room massages. If your package includes a dinner voucher, you can use it at one of the restaurants nearby. Luckily, this restored inn within walking distance of downtown Bay City’s restaurants and antique stores.

Couples looking for an urban oasis need not look further than the Shinola Hotel in downtown Detroit. Housed in a historic building that dates back to 1915, this hotel puts a modern spin on old-school charm. If you splurge for a penthouse suite, you and your partner can enjoy a private terrace, a gas fireplace, a dining area and even a collection of vinyl records with a turntable.

The hotel’s dining scene doesn’t skimp on romance, either. The upscale San Morello serves up all the flavors of southern Italy but with a modern twist. Even the Living Room – the hotel’s lobby area – exudes romance with its crackling fireplace and posh drink options from the Evening Bar. For a taste of culture, lovebirds can peruse the hotel’s art collection, which features varying kinds of artwork. Shinola also boasts a prime location in the heart of Detroit, meaning you’ll find numerous restaurants nearby, some of which host couples cooking classes, as well as coffee shops and boutique stores in Parker’s Alley.

The state’s second most populous city also offers a host of farm-to-table restaurants. Visitors can sample fruits, vegetables and meat straight from the city’s nearby farms and orchards. Some favorite romantic dining spots include Reserve Wine & Food, which boasts one of Michigan’s most extensive charcuterie bars to pair with a selection of more than 200 wines, and The Søvengård, which offers a Scandinavian take on local ingredients. You and your partner can also spend time sampling some Michigan beer options, as Grand Rapids is known as one of the best spots for craft beer in the country.

Couples have the option to book a horse-drawn carriage ride around the city – an excursion that’s sure to make you fall a little more in love with each other and with Grand Rapids. End your day in Lookout Park, a small hilltop area overlooking the city that residents and visitors agree is one of the best places to watch a Grand Rapids sunset. You may even want to bring your own picnic.

Sometimes, nothing is better than escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoying the serenity of nature with a loved one. On this remote Lake Superior island that’s only accessible by boat or floatplane, Isle Royale National Park provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway with no distractions.

Adventurous couples will revel in the many natural attractions and adrenaline-pumping activities the island has to offer. Embark on a 30-mile Feldtmann Lake loop Trail hike across the area’s rugged terrain, or explore the remnants of shipwrecks while scuba diving in Lake Superior if you’re an experienced diver. Couples will find 165 miles of hiking trails that weave throughout the island, meaning there are plenty of hikes for all abilities. Stoll Memorial Trail is an easy option for stunning lake views. If you want to get out on the water, rent a kayak or paddleboard from the Windigo Store on the western end of the island.

You won’t find any resorts on Isle Royale, but there is one traditional accommodation option available if you don’t want to stay at one of the island’s 36 campgrounds: Rock Harbor Lodge. Choose a guest room or a secluded cottage with views of Lake Superior at this seasonal lodge (open only in summer), and cozy up with your beloved without leaving nature too far behind.

You may know Traverse City for its ski offerings or its famous Traverse City Film Festival, but this urban area in northern Michigan also offers a plethora of swoon-worthy activities for a Midwestern couples retreat. A solid first stop on any Traverse City tour is a winery: Some visitor favorites include Bowers Harbor Vineyards and Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery. If you prefer beer to wine, you’re in luck, since Traverse City is also a craft beer lovers paradise. Hop between different breweries via bicycle and even by kayak on a brewery tour.

In downtown Traverse City, you’ll also find plenty of mom-and-pop shops, boutiques, art galleries and coffee bars to fill your day. When it comes to a date night, you and your partner might enjoy trying one of the upscale establishments the destination has to offer. The Boathouse Restaurant offers fresh seafood with French flavors, while Trattoria Stella serves up carefully crafted Italian classics. Most importantly, you can’t leave without tasting one of the cherry pies from Grand Traverse Pie Company to understand why this city is famous for its cherries. End your day in Traverse City with a sunset boat tour.

If you’re looking for top-notch accommodations in this area, check out the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, situated on 900 acres and overflowing with amenities. Along with all the perks of your typical resort and spa, the Grand Traverse boasts private beach access, a nearby casino, and the 17-story Tower with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and East Grand Traverse Bay. If a quieter escape is more your style, opt for the Inn at Black Star Farms, which sits on a picturesque winery estate around 15 miles north of Traverse City.

With clinking glasses, the scent of aged cabernet and the glistening waters of Grand Traverse Bay in the background, Chateau Chantal’s tasting room offers an ideal romantic ambiance. Whether you’re seated on the East Patio, the West Terrace or inside, you can enjoy views of the vineyard and lush forests surrounding the property. On certain summer evenings, you can even enjoy live jazz in the tasting room. You and your sweetheart can elevate your winery experience by strolling among the growing grapes along the Founders’ Trail and indulging in a multicourse dinner complete with expert wine pairings on select days. For additional samples of local wines, sign up for a guided tour of various Traverse City wineries.

It may be difficult to leave Chateau Chantal behind after just one day on-site, so consider booking a room at the property’s bed-and-breakfast. The accommodations – which are adorned with chandeliers and complemented by granite wet bars, elegant bathrooms, and (in select spaces) private patios or balconies – make for a wonderful romantic weekend. This B&B offers plenty of special packages to make every couple’s retreat here extra special: Add-ons include items like gourmet chocolates, flowers, fresh fruit and, of course, wine. Outside your digs, guests will find cozy fireplaces and plush chairs. This wine wonderland is located about 15 miles north of central Traverse City, making for an easy daytrip.

A town known for its “million dollar sunsets” is an obvious choice for a romantic getaway. Petoskey, which is nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay, offers travelers sandy beaches and natural beauty alongside a charming downtown.

Plan a picnic date on the sand at Petoskey State Park, or walk hand in hand along Magnus City Park Beach while hunting for the signature Petoskey stones – the state stone of Michigan. There are also plenty of hiking opportunities in the area, such as Boyne Mountain’s well-marked hiking trails or the Skyline Trail. Especially adventurous duos can enjoy a zip line excursion across Boyne Mountain or raft down the rapids in the Bear River Valley Recreation Area’s one-of-a-kind whitewater park. At the end of the day, some of the best sunset viewpoints are at Sunset Park, East Park and Petoskey City Marina; you can then make a short trip north to Headlands International Dark Sky Park, one of the top Dark Sky Parks, for twinkling constellations or even a glimpse of the aurora borealis.

With all of its natural attractions, it’s easy to forget that Petoskey is also home to a vibrant downtown area. Shop at some of the many boutiques, dine at the trendy Pour Kitchen & Bar, grab a drink at the Petoskey Brewing Co. or socialize at Ernesto’s Cigar Lounge & Bar. Then, couples can turn in for the night at Stafford’s Perry Hotel to sip Champagne and enjoy chocolate-covered strawberries in your guest room with the “Ultimate Romance Package.” From your accommodations, some of which include fireplaces or private balconies, you can admire views of the rose garden, Little Traverse Bay or the bright lights of downtown Petoskey.

If you’re looking for a more upscale getaway but still want to enjoy the million dollar sunsets of Petoskey, head over to the Inn at Bay Harbor. This boutique hotel is part of the Marriott Autograph Collection and boasts a full-service spa, a four-season catalog of activities and entertainment, and a lakefront property that will make sunset viewing a breeze for you and your partner.

Couples will find romance and adventure in every season at this inn. In the summer, you can enjoy lake vistas while relaxing on the property’s sandy beach or playing a game of chess on the lawn chessboard. In the autumn, you’ll find Bay Harbor surrounded by lush woods sporting the spectacular color changes of the fall, enjoyed best on a breathtaking romantic drive through the Tunnel of Trees that begins just a few miles north of the Inn. If you’re an adventurous couple, try your hand at fat tire biking in winter.

For an elegant evening together, grab dinner at the traveler-favorite Vintage Chophouse (the Inn at Bay Harbor’s fine dining restaurant) before heading to Bay Harbor’s marina to watch the sun set or catching a show at the Great Lakes Center for the Arts. Downtown Bay Harbor boasts charming brick-paved streets lined with unique boutique shops and waterfront dining options. After a full day of activities, retire back to one of the Inn at Bay Harbor’s luxurious rooms, some of which come with a private balcony and fireplace. Add on the “Romance Package” for nightly cordials, roses and breakfast for two in The Sagamore Room.

Located on the Lake Michigan shoreline less than 35 miles west of Grand Rapids, Grand Haven offers couples abundant natural escapes, unique landmarks and a thriving downtown. Distinguished by its acres of sandy and wooded dunes, this beautiful area can be explored by following winding trails or climbing the 1,000 feet of stairs placed to help you view the picturesque landscape. Head down to the soft-sand shoreline after your trek for a romantic picnic with your partner.

Once you’ve had your fill of the breathtaking landscape, spend a day exploring the easily walkable and charming historic downtown. In summer, you can access all the top stops downtown via the Lakeshore Trolley, which runs Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. One of Grand Haven’s most popular attractions is easily accessible from downtown: the Grand Haven Boardwalk. This 1.5-mile-long stretch, officially named Lighthouse Connector Park, runs along the Grand River and out to Lake Michigan where you’ll find two red lighthouses on the south pier, one of Grand Haven’s most popular spots for a romantic sunset photo.

Grand Haven offers a large number of places to stay. For unparalleled views, treat your love to a room at Looking Glass Beachfront Inn, which is located on a dune overlooking Grand Haven State Park, the lighthouses and the Grand River channel. Couples may also want to book a room at the Harbor House Inn, which boasts whirlpool tubs, fireplaces and a prime location across from the boardwalk. To truly up the romance, make sure to add the Grand Haven Musical Fountain display to your after-dark itinerary in the summer.

Find your romance in the lush forests, plentiful nature preserves and winding water trails of South Haven, a prestigious Pure Michigan Trail Town located around 60 miles southwest of Grand Rapids. This spot is the perfect romantic getaway for nature-loving couples.

In South Haven, you and your partner will find no shortage of hiking, biking and water activities to keep you busy any time of the year. Head over to the 23-mile Bangor to South Haven Heritage Water Trail for a day of paddling through breathtaking wilderness. For couples who prefer to remain on land but still want a taste of the water, check out the scenic Harborwalk, a pedestrian trail with historic markers that runs pier to pier from North Beach to South Beach along the Black River.

Amid copious outdoor and water-based excursions, don’t overlook South Haven’s quaint downtown and rich farmland. Whether you’re venturing into the boutique shops or enjoying a nostalgic date at the retro Rocket Arcade, this small town has plenty to keep you entertained. To stay close to the downtown scene, book a room at the Historic Hotel Nichols, a family-owned hotel located in the heart of South Haven that offers romantic add-ons in addition to the convenient location. For something a bit quieter without sacrificing too much convenience, check out Yelton Manor, Inn at the Park or the Carriage House at the Harbor: All three of these cozy B&Bs offer romance packages to help pamper you and your sweetheart.

Ann Arbor may be best known as the home of the University of Michigan, but this bustling city is a creative and cultural hub. With innovative businesses and four exciting districts each offering a unique aspect of this city’s personality, there’s no shortage of fun and romantic things to do in Ann Arbor.

Make sure to explore all four of Ann Arbor’s downtown districts: Kerrytown, Main Street, South University and State Street. Venture to Kerrytown for creative eateries, including some of the famous Zingerman’s family restaurants, and charming stores. Or head to the State Street District to explore Ann Arbor’s thriving arts and culture scene; with numerous fairs, festivals, galleries and museums calling this district home, there’s always some fun new experience you and your love can bond over.

For a little bit of everything, spend a day in the Main Street District for its award-winning fine dining, wide variety of shops for every need and innovative art galleries. Bookworms can enjoy an afternoon date at the quirky Literati Bookstore before heading to The Last Word, a speakeasy-themed bar with a drink menu broken down into chapters. And make sure you don’t miss the South University area. The Tudor Gothic architecture on the Law Quad of the University of Michigan is stunning and only a short walk from the Engineering Arch, a picturesque spot where legend says you’re certain to get married if you kiss your sweetheart under the arch.