Best Hotels on Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan is really big, that’s one of the things it’s known for. That, and for being beautifully ocean-like, and a paradise for sailors. It has several major ports: Chicago, Green Bay, Milwaukee, Gary in Indiana and Muskegon in Michigan, and then lots and lots of really pretty little waterside towns and hamlets. The beaches of Lake Michigan are so pale and sandy that it’s frequently referred to as ‘the third coastline’ (the beaches even have sand dunes in places), and a good percentage of the shoreline is national parkland, or forest. With this varying landscape comes a plethora of accommodation options from urban chic hotels to rural retreats; there are many family friendly properties and for those who prefer a B&B there's plenty of choice too. Use our guide to the best hotels on Lake Michigan and start planning your holiday!

For Water Views

The Looking Glass Beachfront Inn is a wonderfully homely feeling B&B right on the water, with a terrace and deck perfectly positioned for watching the sun set over the sand and the water. Some of the five rooms and suites have water views too. A mile from Grand Haven, this still feels like an escape, but one you can easily walk to a bar or restaurant from. There’s no restaurant, but there's a home cooked breakfast served daily in the communal dining area, and there are cooking facilities for guests if you fancy it. The loft room is ideal for families.

For a City Break

Illinois’s Graduate Evanston is a gorgeously nostalgic downtown hotel with a definite varsity feel, and makes this list because the historic property it occupies is just minutes from Lake Michigan. This is a big place, with 120 rooms and suites, plus a gym, a number of cosy lounges, and a cheerful restaurant. The rooms come in a range of sizes, with some great picks for families, as well as single folk, and the retro chic décor makes all the rooms feel charming – as well as having all the mod. cons..
Chicago’s Sophy Hyde Park is a contemporary pick in an arty, culturally rich Chicago neighbourhood. The best of the 98 rooms and suites have incredible Chicago views through corner windows, and all of them have bright, arty décor and a fun vibe, as do the communal areas. Great for families, but also for anyone wanting to see the sights, or experience the nightlife of Chicago.

For a Countryside Escape

Built in the 1860s, the Deer Path Inn was modelled after an English mansion, and sits Tudor-style pretty on the banks of Lake Michigan, surrounded by pleasant English-style gardens. In addition to the 55 traditional rooms and suites, the inn is known for its pub, and its afternoon teas. Less than an hour away from Chicago, this is a great luxury escape or mini-break.

For an Active Holiday

The Hotel Earl of Charlevoix is in downtown Charlevoix, and offers bold monochrome design in 56 spacious rooms and suites: think mid-century modern feel carpets and wallpapers, and contemporary art. The largest rooms have kitchens and balconies – in fact the Earl Suite has two bedrooms and a large living room too. There’s no restaurant, but they do offer a continental breakfast, drinks and small plate dining. And there’s a gym.

For a House Party Feel

The Spring Lighthouse is only a small property, with just four individually decorated rooms and suites, but it still has its own private beach on Lake Michigan, so feels very much like staying with lucky friends. The décor adds to the impression of staying with friends, with plenty of unique antiques and collectables. There’s no restaurant, but they offer three course breakfasts, and there’s a barbecue area if you want to cook for yourself.
Spacious and trendy, the Kinn Guesthouse is a converted home in suburban Millwaukee. There are eight rooms to choose from, all uniquely decorated with local artwork and designer furnishings, and there’s a cosy communal kitchen, lounge and TV room. So it feels like being the guest of cool friends, with great taste!

For Families

The Inn at Bay Harbor is a beach resort on the lake, complete with a private beach, a choice of four golf courses, a full service spa and gym, a kids club, and world class sunsets over the water. Accommodation comes in all shapes and sizes, including rooms, suites and whole two and three bedroom cottages and villas (with kitchens), and most choices have a private balcony. A winner for all ages!

For Romantics

The Hillside Waterfront Hotel is an elegant, seven room inn right opposite Eagle Harbor in peaceful Ephraim. The rooms are spacious and airy, with luxurious, white and cream colour schemes, fireplaces, whirlpool baths, private balconies and water views. There’s no restaurant, but there are plenty of great places to eat and drink within a short stroll, and they offer a delightful breakfast. In the winter months this is a great base for cross-country skiing.
Minutes from one of Lake Michigan’s beaches, Martha's Vineyard B&B has 12 cosy rooms and suites, with private porches and entrances, fireplaces and whirlpool tubs as standard, plus hearty breakfasts.
With six, charming, traditional rooms in Sheboygan Falls, the Rochester Inn makes for a cosy and romantic base for exploring Lake Michigan. Rooms have whirlpool tubs, antiques, thick carpets and four-poster beds. There’s no restaurant, but they offer an opulent breakfast, so you’ll feel well looked after.
The Wickwood Inn is an elegant, owner-run B&B in downtown Saugatuck, with 11 rooms and a homely feel: think antiques, open fires and lots of plump cushions and little chairs to relax into with a glass of wine. The owner is the author of best selling cook books, and while there’s no restaurant, the breakfast offering is gourmet, and they offer afternoon tea-time snacks and small plates at supper to accompany drinks.
The Foxglove Inn is a stylish, all-suite, adults-only B&B in Sturgeon Bay. Each of the nine suites are huge, with private fireplaces, living spaces, antiques and fancy baths. There are no common areas, but the room sizes will make up for it, and there’s space for breakfast to be served in every suite.

For a Rural Retreat

Surrounded by peaceful, woodland gardens, The Inn at Union Pier is a rural, 16 room retreat, just steps from Lake Michigan. The rooms range in style from wonderfully traditional: complete with tiled, Scandinavian wood burning fireplaces, to more contemporary options featuring two person jetted tubs. Communal areas include the beautiful expanse of garden, a library, a games room, and generous terraces. There’s no restaurant, but they offer a lovely breakfast.
The Hotel Saugatuck is a stylishly renovated 12 room B&B, carefully converted from a 19th century lumber mill on the shore of Lake Kalamazoo, which is close to Lake Michigan. Rooms are split between the main house and private cottages, with décor featuring bold prints and whirlpool tubs. Our favourite rooms have private porches with views of the lake.
Goldberry Woods is an organic farm with rooms and self-catering cottages, surrounded by forest and close to Lake Michigan. Décor is pleasingly rustic and homely, considering this is a farm, and the 11 rooms, suites and cottages are cosy and comfortable. There’s a year round heated pool and hot tub too, and they offer a farm-fresh breakfast.

For Great Value

The 4411 Inn & Suites is a mid-century motel recently transformed by a contemporary make over. Now bright, airy, and complete with all the mod cons, these 26 rooms and suites, just an hour from Chicago and minutes from Lake Michigan, are an affordable pick. Facilities include communal outdoor seating with a fire pit, and a grill station. Some of the larger rooms have two and three bedrooms with bunks — ideal for families or groups.

Best B&Bs

The Blacksmith Inn on the Shore is a charming, and rather luxurious 15 bedroom inn right on the shore of Lake Michigan. The rooms are spacious, with private balconies – and hammocks, so you have your own personal lake views. If you’re planning a romantic escape book one of the rooms with a whirlpool bath and fireplace. There’s no restaurant, but they offer a gourmet breakfast. The inn can lend you a kayak – or, for the ultimate in romantic facilities, a tandem bike! No kids or pets, we’re afraid.
Converted from a large and charming, Victorian-style home in Ludington, The Lamplighter B&B is ideal if you’re looking for an elegant, grown-up feeling stay. There are just five rooms and suites, all decorated with antiques, and the fanciest with fireplaces and spa baths. Breakfast is served in the dining room, and you can arrange chef-cooked suppers there also.
Among The Vineyards Bed and Breakfast is both among the vineyards and close to the beaches of Lake Michigan. Its four rooms are individually decorated and stylish (the best with a statement cedar tub for two), and there’s a shared den, breakfast lounge and outdoor pool. Expect bold colours, friendly hosts and a locally sourced, homemade breakfast, plus cookies.

Still not sure where to book?

You could refine your search to a city break and browse the best places to stay in Chicago, the best places to stay in Green Bay or Milwaukee
You could place your map pin right into Lake Michigan and see what we recommend...
Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.

20 Best Hotels on Lake Michigan

Deer Path Inn

Illinois

An award-winning boutique hotel located in an exclusive Chicago suburb on the banks of Lake Michigan. Built in the 1860s, the property was modelled after a Tudor-style English mansion; expect English Gardens, gabled ceilings and large fireplaces. They serve Afternoon Tea and there is a pub on-site.

Country Escape - Less than an hour from Chicago, guests come to Lake Forest for low-key beach days, hikes on reserve trails, golf and fishing
Weddings - Due to the Winsdor Hall and English Gardens, the hotel is a renowned wedding destination for classy high-spend celebrations
Sights nearby - Wildlife Discovery Center, Popcorn Factory Store and Elawa Farm
Full of character

from AU$491 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Sophy Hyde Park

Chicago (Hyde Park)

A contemporary yet cosy boutique hotel located in Chicago's culturally-rich Hyde Park district. Whether you want to feel the city's pulse, see the sites or dine like a local, this impressive hotel is a winner. Decor is eclectic, fun and warm with fantastic artwork. Rooms have phenomenal city views.

Business meetings - A good choice for non-corporate off-sites or meetings due to the university location and buzzing dining options
City Style - Not many properties manage to combine boutique cool and charm with so many facilities and a wonderful location
Local exploring - There are museums, galleries, restaurants, boutiques, parks and cultural sites galore on the doorstep
Great walks - Take a stroll or a jog in the very pleasant Midway - one of Chicago's famous city parks

from AU$292 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

The Hotel Saugatuck

Saugatuck (Michigan)

Boutique B&B on the shores of Lake Kalamazoo, close to Lake Michigan. The former 19th-century lumbering mill has been tastefully renovated with colourful and contemporary rooms in the Main House and cottages. Think bold colours, lake-view porches & jetted tubs. Perfect quiet weekend-away material.

Back to Nature - Spend days looking out over vast lake landscapes, breathe in fresh air and spend plenty of time on the water
Total relaxation - It's tempting to sit on the porch Adirondack chairs or you baloncy and simply watch lakeside life go by
Lakeside - The Kalamazoo Lake, leads to Lake Michigan, via the Kalamazoo River
Sailing - Charter a boat on Lake Michigan or take a harbour tour

from AU$292 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Blacksmith Inn on the Shore

Wisconsin

A charming and luxurious lakeside inn nestled on the shore in the heart of Door County, Wisconsin. Rooms are elegant and spacious with private balconies with hammocks, in-room whirlpool, fireplace and sweeping vistas of the harbour. Indulge in delicious gourmet breakfasts. An idyllic rural getaway.

Active Holiday - With fishing, sailing and kayaking all easy accessible, the inn is the perfect spot for discovering the fun of Lake Michigan
Romantic Break - Whirlpools, fireplaces and private balconies, many with hammocks, provide the backdrop for a deliciously romantic getaway
Kayaking - Borrow the inn's kayak and paddle across the lake
Sights nearby - Take the car ferry ride to Washington Island

from AU$223 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hillside Waterfront Hotel

Wisconsin

An elegant waterfront inn, in the heart of the quiet town of Ephraim. Rooms are spacious and airy with white and cream colour schemes, fireplaces, whirlpool tubs and private balconies showcasing the outstanding waterfront views of Eagle Harbor. A romantic choice for a rural escape.

Active Holiday - Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and romantic cruises are especially popular on the lake in the summer months
Sights nearby - A day at Rock Island State Park is a must if you plan to explore the Washington Island area of Door County
Great walks - Discover the endless trails nearby to the inn
Sailing

from AU$563 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Wickwood Inn

Saugatuck (Michigan)

Upscale and elegant owner-run B&B in downtown Saugatuck with a homely and inviting feel. Everything has been done to the highest spec; expect effortlessly chic interiors, art and antique-filled rooms, fresh flowers, gourmet food and luxurious rooms decorated in unique styles. Ideal romantic getaway.

Foodies - Run by Julee Rosso, co-founder of The Silver Palate Gourmet Takeout in NYC and best-selling cookery author - expect good things
Local exploring - Saugatuck offers wonderful array of activities from boating, walks and riverside beaches to shopping, theatre & art exhibitions
Back to Nature - Enjoy surrounding nature with birdwatching, dune rides, kayaking, sailing, fishing, cross-country skiing and sunset boat rides
Romantic Break - Rooms are romantic havens with four-poster beds, fireplaces, cashmere robes and cosy seating areas - especially Christy Suite

from AU$509 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

The Inn at Bay Harbor

Michigan

Sprawling luxury resort on banks of Lake Michigan. Boasting world-class sunsets enjoyed from private beach, pool, lawns or balcony, the property offers impressive amenities and facilities, whatever holiday you're after. Classic rooms, suites and cottages provide a wide range of deluxe accommodation.

Honeymoons - Wide range of spoiling facilities and experiences - all with stuning lake views and sunsets - results in one-of-a-kind honeymoon
Golf - Four different courses are considered amongst the best in the country. Enjoy special door-to-door golf club delivery service
Families - Three-bedroom cottages, Kid's Club, babysitting and activities for all the family mean this is a great success for all ages
Beach Life - Enjoy days on the private pebble beach, sea-front lawn or private yacht charters and sailing excursions to sandy beaches

from AU$366 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Martha's Vineyard B&B

Michigan ( 473 North Blue Star Hwy )

A charming historic inn offering an adult-only stay just minutes from the beach. Cosy rooms are traditionally dressed with antiques and warm hues. The best have porches, working fireplaces, and whirlpool tubs. With hearty breakfasts, warm hosts, and a snug lounge — this is a very welcoming base.

Romantic Break - Choose one of the romantic Guesthouse rooms complete with whirlpool tubs large enough for two and working fireplaces
Active Holiday - This is an area that has something for everyone including hiking, golf, kayaking, sailing, and wine tasting
Kayaking - The Bangor/South Haven Heritage Water Trail offers 21 miles of canoeing and kayaking on the Black River
Restrictions on children - Under certain circumastances older children may be allowed on prior arrangement

from AU$385 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Spring Lighthouse

Michigan (Michigan)

A charming historic home right on the Lake Michigan and boasting a private beach. Individually styled suites are elegant and homely with antiques, large bathrooms, and wonderful views. Three-course breakfasts are served, there's a BBQ area and plenty of quiet spots to unwind. Ideal for couples.

Total relaxation - With a secluded waterfront location, private beach, outdoor seating areas & BBQ — this is an ideal spot for simply unwinding
Romantic Break - An adult-only space with romantic rooms, perfect for a quiet break for two
Minimum Stay - Two-night minimum stay on holidays, summer and fall weekends and during special events
Great walks - Take long walks along Sleepy Bear Dunes

from AU$479 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Lamplighter B&B

Michigan (Michigan)

An elegant Victorian home, turned into a charming B&B, set in the heart of Ludington. Cosy rooms and suites are traditionally dressed with antiques; the best have fireplaces or jetted tubs. Breakfasts are served in a grand dining room and chef-curated dinners can be arranged. A grown-up stay.

Local exploring - Well located on Ludington Avenue close to shopping, antiquing, restaurants, breweries, and entertainment
Romantic Break - Book the charming Ansel Adams Suite complete with a large jetted tub perfect for a cosy couples' break
Restrictions on children - Children older than 7 years are welcomed and younger children can stay if the whole house is rented
Sailing - Charter a boat for the day and explore the Lake Michigan shoreline from the water

from AU$238 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hotel Earl of Charlevoix

Michigan

A boutique hotel with fun and bold design located in downtown Charlevoix. Spacious rooms are decorated in monochrome tones with large modern artworks and the best have kitchens and balconies. With a hot tub and an indoor pool — this is a welcoming base to return to after a day spent exploring.

Active Holiday - Nearby are the Lake Michigan beaches and the waters of Round Lake and Lake Charlevoix — ideal for outdoorsy holidays
Families - The Earl Suite has two bedrooms, a large living room, and a full kitchen making it a great choice for a family stay
Sailing - Bring your own boat or rent one and take a tour to Beaver Island
Swimming Pool - Indoor pool with floor-to-ceiling windows

from AU$198 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

The Inn at Union Pier

Michigan

A charming inn located in a scenic rural spot just steps from Lake Michigan. Cosy rooms and suites boast antiques and most have beautiful Scandinavian Kakelugn wood-burning fireplaces. With warm hosts, homemade breakfasts, and pretty woodland gardens — this is a perfect rural escape.

Back to Nature - Located within mature trees just a stone's throw from a beautiful Lake Michigan beach. An idyllic escape to nature
Short break - Located just an hour from Chicago but feeling a million miles away, this is perfect for a weekend break
Romantic Break - Pick one of the suites with a two-person jetted tub and woodburning fireplace for a romantic stay
Great walks - Go for scenic walks in the Galien River County Park (trails include a tree canopy)

from AU$331 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

4411 Inn & Suites

Indiana

Mid-century motel transformed into contemporary inn minutes from Lake Michigan. Bright, fresh and airy rooms with modern conveniences offer access to outdoor seating and a communal fire pit. Make your own dinner at the grill station or explore options nearby. Great-value boutique base.

Groups - Certain rooms come with two double beds. Two and three-bedroom suites are ideal for families or friends travelling together
Local exploring - Inexpensive & pleasant place from which to explore the area; there are beaches, orchards, national parks & breweries galore
Short break - It's just over an hour's drive to Chicago, making this ideal for a quick change of scenery or weekend break
Sights nearby - Explore the great outdoors at Garwood Orchards, Friendship Gardens, Williams Orchard and Billy Boy’s Blueberry Patch

from AU$212 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Graduate Evanston

Illinois

With a wonderfully nostalgic varsity feel, this downtown hotel is the top choice for university stays. Located in a handsome historic property set minutes from Lake Michigan, amenities include a gym, convivial restaurant & cosy lounges. Retro-chic rooms are gorgeous. On-trend heritage hotspot.

City Style - The perfect balance of old and new; fun features and quirky of-the-moment interior design has breathed life into this grand dame
Learning - Located just two blocks to Northwestern University’s campus and 15 mins from Kellogg School of Business
Restaurant - Atmospheric Trophy Room has wonderful club-like feel; perch at the bar or relax by the fire as you enjoy drinks and light bites
Sights nearby - Ryan Field is within walking distance for game day - cheer on the Wildcats

from AU$263 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Looking Glass Beachfront Inn

Michigan

Delightful owner-run B&B on shores of Lake Michigan. The fab location offers endless lake views from pretty rooms with a homely feel; enjoy stunning sunsets from a large outdoor deck. Tuck into laid-back homemade breakfast inside or outside under shady trees. A charming stay minutes from the beach.

Total relaxation - Spend relaxed days at the beach, soak up the views from the terrace or venture into Grand Haven on foot, it's just a mile away
Views - Perched on a sand dune 79 steps up from the beach, the property offers incredible scenic views over Lake Michigan
Beach Life - Beachside holiday heaven; towels, chairs and umbrellas are all provided for your day at the beach
Romantic Break - Couples will love Sky Room's romantic bed, jetted tub, lake views and all-day sunshine

from AU$332 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Goldberry Woods

Michigan

A 30-acre organic farm close to Lake Michigan. Made up of deluxe rooms in the main house and self-catered cottages dotted within a riverside forest. Enjoy the outdoor pool, hot tub and fresh breakfasts made from farm ingredients. Homely country decor gives an authentic feel. A rustic rural base.

Organic food - Two-acre organic micro-farm grows a range of fruit and veg - including blueberries and tomatoes - that are used for breakfast
Back to Nature - Offers an authentic experience of a working farm; pick produce, enjoy farm-to-table food and enjoy natural surroundings
Weddings - Beautiful setting for rustic rural weddings; say your vows in Modern Farmhouse Barn, Pine Row, Lawn and Fire Pit
Families - Suites and three stand-alone cottages sleep between 4 - 12 people; they're perfect for families or groups

from AU$459 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Among The Vineyards Bed and Breakfast

Michigan

Contemporary wine country B&B 15 mins from beaches of Lake Michigan. Four individually decorated well-appointed rooms boast upscale furnishings and statement tubs. Cosy common areas include a breakfast lounge, den and outdoor pool. Tour the area or simply relax on-site. A homely rural hideaway.

Short break - Located an easy driving distance to Chicago, Detroit, Grand Rapids and Indianapolis yet a little slice of charming rural life
Wine tasting - Tour the many wineries on the surrounding South West Michigan wine trail. Range of guided tour options are available
Total relaxation - Tour local wineries, hit the beach or just enjoy the fresh country air while you sunbathe by the pool
Romantic Break - Rooms have been designed for romance with statement tubs and slick flickering two-sided fireplaces

from AU$311 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Foxglove Inn

Wisconsin (Sturgeon Bay)

An all-suite adult-only B&B set in a quiet district near downtown Sturgeon Bay. Vast suites offer large sitting areas and boast gas fireplaces, antiques, and either jetted tubs or clawfoot tubs. There are no common areas and the friendly host is on-call but gives guests privacy. A romantic hideaway.

Local exploring - Within walking distance of Sturgeon Bay's downtown filled with shops, restaurants, & bars plus Door Country is easily accessible
Romantic Break - The spacious suites offer complete privacy and most have fireplaces and double jetted tubs. A romantic choice
Great walks - With Door County easily accessible there are endless choices for scenic lakeside walks
Whirlpool Bathtub - Most of the suites feature double whirlpool tubs

from AU$377 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Rochester Inn

Wisconsin

A charming traditional inn set in Sheboygan Falls. Suites and rooms are all classically styled with antiques, print wallpaper, thick carpets, and four-posters. The best are double-storey. Extra luxuries include whirlpool tubs and Gilchrist & Soames Thymes products. A very cosy and romantic base.

Romantic Break - The adult-only environment and charming rooms with fireplaces and whirlpool tubs, make this ideal for a cosy break for two
Local exploring - Situated near Kohler, Sheboygan, and Elkhart Lake, this is the ideal base to enjoy Sheboygan County from
Whirlpool Bathtub - Signature Two Storey Suites have double whirlpool tubs and Classic Guest Rooms have single whirlpool tubs
Great walks - There are several state parks to choose from for scenic hiking (or biking) trails

from AU$392 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Kinn Guesthouse

Milwaukee

Spacious & on-trend suites in suburban Milwaukee. The historic brick exterior gives a loft feel to rooms with unique local artwork, designer furnishings & lake views. A cosy communal area with a full kitchen, fireplace, TV & seating area makes this feel like home. Fab long-stay boutique bolthole.

Local exploring - Well-located to explore all the sites along Milwaukee's Oak Leaf Trail; enjoy museums, gardens, waterparks and restaurants
Surfing - Surprisingly, Lake Michigan is a fantastic surfing spot in the winter months. Just make sure to bring your wetsuit!
Great walks - The property is located closeby to access points on the Oak Leaf Trail, one of the city's beloved natural features
Sights nearby - Visit Boerner Botanical Gardens or 220-acre Wehr Nature Center

from AU$354 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

20 Best Hotels on Lake Michigan

For Water Views

For a City Break

For a Countryside Escape

For an Active Holiday

For a House Party Feel

For Families

For Romantics

For a Rural Retreat

For Great Value

Best B&Bs

Still not sure where to book?

20 Best Hotels on Lake Michigan

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