Crystal Lake Resort

Tucked into the rolling hills of Benzie County, Mountain Valley Lodge and Campground brings together the best of both worlds. Wake up to the sound of birds chirping in towering pines, then step outside to breathe in that crisp Northern Michigan air. Kids can run free on spacious grounds while your four-legged family members explore pet-friendly trails. The lodge rooms smell like cedar and feel like home, with windows that frame views of the surrounding forest. After a day exploring the area's lakes and dunes, gather around the campfire as stars emerge overhead.

MI Sauna brings authentic Finnish wellness traditions to Grand Traverse County with a distinctly Michigan twist. This family-run operation started when the owners, both Finnish-American, wanted to share the health benefits and social traditions of proper sauna culture with their community. Their wood-fired saunas use locally sourced cedar and birch, creating that perfect balance of dry heat and aromatic steam. Kids learn alongside adults here – it's not just about relaxation, but about slowing down together. The post-sauna cool-down area overlooks the surrounding woods, making each visit feel like a mini retreat from Traverse City's busier attractions.

After a day exploring Traverse City's beaches and wineries, you'll appreciate the straightforward comfort at Baymont by Wyndham. The hotel delivers exactly what families need: spacious rooms that actually fit everyone's gear, a pool where kids can burn off energy, and complimentary breakfast to fuel morning adventures. Located conveniently in Grand Traverse County, you're minutes from downtown's shops and restaurants, yet far enough away to enjoy peaceful evenings. The staff knows the area well and happily shares recommendations for cherry festivals, hiking trails, and local favorites most tourists miss.

Mitchell Creek Inn puts families first with spacious rooms and thoughtful touches that make traveling with kids actually enjoyable. Located in Grand Traverse County, this welcoming hotel understands what parents need - from connecting rooms that give everyone space to breathe, to a continental breakfast that satisfies picky eaters and coffee-craving adults alike. The outdoor pool becomes summer headquarters for splashing kids while parents relax nearby. Clean, comfortable accommodations without the fuss, plus easy access to Traverse City's beaches, cherry orchards, and family attractions. Staff genuinely care about making your Northern Michigan vacation memorable for all the right reasons.

Sleep Inn & Suites Bay View sits strategically positioned in Grand Traverse County, where smart travelers have discovered a refreshingly straightforward approach to hospitality. The owners built this property with a clear vision: comfortable accommodations without unnecessary frills, plus genuine Northern Michigan warmth. Your four-legged family members receive the same welcoming treatment as human guests, making this one of Traverse City's most genuinely pet-friendly establishments. Clean rooms, reliable service, and that rare combination of professionalism with small-town friendliness keep guests returning season after season.

Tucked away on the scenic Leelanau Peninsula, Leelanau Sands Showroom brings authentic Mexican and Latin flavors to Northern Michigan's wine country. This unexpected culinary gem combines traditional recipes with fresh, local ingredients that reflect the region's agricultural bounty. The vibrant atmosphere captures the warmth of Latin hospitality while maintaining that relaxed Michigan charm. Handcrafted margaritas pair beautifully with dishes that showcase genuine spice and flavor profiles you won't find elsewhere in the area. It's a refreshing departure from typical tourist fare, drawing food lovers who appreciate bold, authentic cuisine in an unassuming setting.