Some people think they need to plan an expensive trip to an exotic island just to squeeze in a little time with their loved ones. But if you’re fortunate enough to live in or near Michigan, there are some amazing getaway destinations and couple-friendly hotels that are perfect for love birds. Here are our top romantic getaways in Michigan to take a break from routine and treat the one you love to a little something special.
Frankfort
Frankfort is a lovely town for planning a romantic getaway in Michigan, and it’s only about three hours away from Detroit. This is a cute town right along the lake that offers picturesque sunsets, clear waters, and views of historic Victorian homes. It’s fun to walk hand-in-hand with your sweetheart here to explore the small-town coffee shops and stores. The Betsie Point Lighthouse is also nearby and a very romantic spot to see. Other things to check out in Frankfort include Crystal Lake, the Betsie Valley Trail, and the Ellie Harold Art Studio & Gallery.
Traverse City
Traverse City is a beautiful Michigan town that is best known for growing delicious cherries. This is a popular summertime destination for couples who love to eat at great restaurants and go to local festivals. Plan your weekend getaway in June to check out Traverse City’s cherry festival. The Traverse City area is also known for its locally produced wines, so plan to visit a couple of wineries for tastings and tours when you’re in the area.
Saugatuck
We also love taking romantic getaways to Saugatuck, Michigan because of its laid-back vibe and proximity to the beach. This destination is less than an hour away from Grand Rapids and has lots of galleries and restaurants to explore. It’s become a favorite destination of LGBT couples who love to travel in recent years too. While in Saugatuck, consider going off-roading with a Saugatuck ATV dune ride, visiting Oval Beach, hopping on-board the Saugatuck Chain Ferry, and seeing the Amazwi Contemporary Art Gallery.
Grand Haven
You can also plan a trip to Grand Haven, Michigan for your romantic getaway and enjoy picturesque views of Lake Michigan. This town is a waterfront paradise with a couple of public beaches, views of lighthouses, and a boardwalk. Fun things to do in Grand Haven with your partner include eating local seafood, chartering a sailboat to go on a chilled-out cruise, and browsing the local shops together. You can also check out Chinook Pier Mini Golf with 18 holes, rent a kayak or bike to get active, or even take an aerial tour of the area from the Grand Haven Memorial Airport.
Frankenmuth
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway around Christmastime, then look no further than Frankenmuth. this is a Bavarian-themed town that feels like a German Christmas market in the winter months. Come here with your lover to go ice skating, marvel at the brightly colored Christmas lights, and get into the holiday celebratory mood. Of course, Frankenmuth is cute and quaint all throughout the year, so it’s fun to visit any time, especially in September for the annual Oktoberfest celebration.
Detroit
Detroit is a city that deserves a second chance and that will really “wow” you when you discover its wide array of things to do. There are so many top-notch and romantic restaurants here to dine out with your partner, including The Whitney, Roast, and Iridescence. These spots offer delicious food, impressive city views, and are in close proximity to nearby theaters for your post-dinner entertainment. It’s also fun to visit the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, play the unique game of fowling at the Fowling Warehouse, and go ice skating at a local rink on your getaway to Detroit.
Mackinac Island
One of America’s alluring island destinations, Mackinac Island is another romantic getaway spot in Michigan that’s full of history, scenery, and fun for couples. The area has a Victorian vibe with cobblestone streets and old-fashioned shops. Anyone with a sweet tooth owes it to himself or herself to come here because Mackinac Island is famous for its homemade fudge shops! There are plenty of things to do here to keep couples active and entertained, including hiking, kayaking, and horseback riding. This 14-mile island is a bit quieter and not as crowded with tourists if you visit in late April to early Mary or from mid-September to late-October.
Holland
In the springtime, our favorite romantic getaway in Michigan is Holland. Just like the European country, this town embraces its Dutch roots and grows millions of tulips each year. You’ll feel like you traveled halfway around the world when you see the windmills and tulips in full bloom here. Take a walk along 8th Street for shopping, and stop by the New Holland Brewing Company for a refreshing local brew. A perfect weekend trip just a short drive from Chicago, top things to do in Holland on a romantic getaway include visiting Holland State Park Beach, Mount Pisgah, the Holland Farmers Market, Windmill Island Gardens, and Bowerman Blueberries Farm Market.
Harbor Springs
The Michigan town of Harbor Springs is full of ultra-romantic hotels and restaurants that couples will love on a weekend away. For example, you can book a room at the romantic Colonial Inn in Harbor Springs or the Boyne Highland Resort. Then check out local restaurants like Stafford’s Pier Restaurant, The New York, and the Little Traverse Bay Restaurant. The town itself has a picturesque location along Lake Michigan and offers lots of ways to get active in the summer with hiking and biking and in the winter with snow sports.
Luddington
Another great romantic getaway for winter is Luddington because this town is a snow sports heaven. Come here to go cross-country skiing or to snowshoe after a big snowfall with your partner who loves snow as much as you do. Ludington State Park is a year-round destination for both snow sports and hiking in the summertime. There are also some nice beaches nearby and a couple of lighthouses to check out. You can also check out the Jam Farm and the Amber Elk Ranch in Luddington.
