Situated at the southern end of Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City is renowned for picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture, and, notably, its array of upscale and historic accommodations. The city offers several exceptional lodging options for discerning travelers seeking a blend of luxury, history, and comfort. Here are some of the finest establishments that promise an unforgettable stay.
Tamarack Lodge
2035 N U.S. 31 North, Traverse City
Perched on the pristine beaches of the East Arm of Grand Traverse Bay, Tamarack Lodge epitomizes luxury waterfront living. This resort offers elegantly appointed residences that provide panoramic views of the bay's sparkling blue waters. Each suite is meticulously crafted, featuring gourmet kitchens, cozy fireplaces, and private balconies or patios, ensuring guests experience the comforts of home with the indulgence of a high-end resort.
Perched on the pristine beaches of the East Arm of Grand Traverse Bay, Tamarack Lodge epitomizes luxury waterfront living. This resort offers elegantly appointed residences that provide panoramic views of the bay's sparkling blue waters. Each suite is meticulously crafted, featuring gourmet kitchens, cozy fireplaces, and private balconies or patios, ensuring guests experience the comforts of home with the indulgence of a high-end resort.
The lodge's proximity to Traverse City's renowned wineries, golf courses, and cultural attractions makes it an ideal base for exploration. Whether savoring a sunset over the bay or embarking on a local adventure, Tamarack Lodge offers a serene and opulent retreat.
Alexandra Inn
2227 US-31, Traverse City
As one of Traverse City's newest boutique hotels, Alexandra Inn seamlessly blends personalized service with the charm of an intimate inn. Opened in 2023, this intimate, family-owned establishment is situated directly on the beachfront, offering 32 guest rooms and immediate access to the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan.
As one of Traverse City's newest boutique hotels, Alexandra Inn seamlessly blends personalized service with the charm of an intimate inn. Opened in 2023, this intimate, family-owned establishment is situated directly on the beachfront, offering 32 guest rooms and immediate access to the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan.
The Inn's design emphasizes modern elegance, with rooms that feature contemporary furnishings, state-of-the-art amenities, and private balconies overlooking the water. The attentive staff dedicates themselves to curating bespoke experiences, from arranging private wine tours to recommending hidden local gems. Alexandra Inn is a compelling choice for travelers seeking a fresh and luxurious perspective on Traverse City.
Chateau Chantal Winery and Inn
15900 Rue de Vin, Old Mission Peninsula
Perched atop rolling hills 12 miles out onto Old Mission Peninsula, Chateau Chantal offers a unique fusion of a winery and luxurious Inn. Breathtaking views of vineyards and Grand Traverse Bay exhilarate guests, creating a picturesque backdrop for relaxation. Each of the Inn's 12 rooms is thoughtfully designed with French-inspired decor, reflecting the chateau's European influences.
Perched atop rolling hills 12 miles out onto Old Mission Peninsula, Chateau Chantal offers a unique fusion of a winery and luxurious Inn. Breathtaking views of vineyards and Grand Traverse Bay exhilarate guests, creating a picturesque backdrop for relaxation. Each of the Inn's 12 rooms is thoughtfully designed with French-inspired decor, reflecting the chateau's European influences.
Mornings begin with a gourmet breakfast, while you spend afternoons touring the vineyards, participating in wine tastings, or attending one of the chateau's culinary events. The harmonious blend of viticulture and hospitality ensures an immersive experience that delights oenophiles and leisure travelers.
Old Mission Inn
18599 Mission Road, Old Mission Peninsula
Steeped in history, the Old Mission Inn is distinguished as Northern Michigan's oldest continually operating hotel, with origins dating back to 1869. Located on the scenic Old Mission Peninsula, this Inn exudes a nostalgic charm, with its period furnishings, original woodwork, and vintage photographs adorning the walls. Each of the Inn's six rooms tells a story, offering guests a journey back in time without compromising on modern comforts.
Steeped in history, the Old Mission Inn is distinguished as Northern Michigan's oldest continually operating hotel, with origins dating back to 1869. Located on the scenic Old Mission Peninsula, this Inn exudes a nostalgic charm, with its period furnishings, original woodwork, and vintage photographs adorning the walls. Each of the Inn's six rooms tells a story, offering guests a journey back in time without compromising on modern comforts.
The expansive porch provides a tranquil spot to enjoy views of Lake Michigan, while the Inn's proximity to local wineries and historic sites offers ample opportunities for exploration. An adult-only property--which means no children or no organized group events such as weddings or reunions--the Old Mission Inn is a genuine retreat for romantics seeking a blend of history and hospitality.
Park Place Hotel
300 E State Street, Downtown
Dominating Traverse City's skyline since 1873, the Park Place Hotel is a testament to timeless 19th-century elegance. When the hotel succumbed to fire in 1929, reconstruction began almost immediately, and since its 1930 completion, the 10-story, 140-room establishment married historic charm with contemporary amenities. Guests select from a variety of rooms and suites, each carefully outfitted to provide comfort and style.
Dominating Traverse City's skyline since 1873, the Park Place Hotel is a testament to timeless 19th-century elegance. When the hotel succumbed to fire in 1929, reconstruction began almost immediately, and since its 1930 completion, the 10-story, 140-room establishment married historic charm with contemporary amenities. Guests select from a variety of rooms and suites, each carefully outfitted to provide comfort and style.
The 10th-floor Beacon Lounge boasts panoramic city and bay views, making it perfect for evening cocktails. The central location promises guests walking distance proximity of downtown's vibrant dining, shopping, and cultural attractions, including those in the Front District, Old Town, and the Warehouse District.
The Wellington Inn
230 Wellington Street, Downtown
Just east of the Park Place Hotel and Boardman Avenue, architectural aficionados will fall in love with the Wellington Inn. A gorgeous 1905 neo-classical mansion, this Inn provides guests with an unparalleled experience. Meticulously restored to its original splendor as an elegant bed and breakfast, the Inn puts you in the historic heart of Traverse City, with nine guest rooms adorned with period antiques, evoking the opulence of the early 20th century.
Just east of the Park Place Hotel and Boardman Avenue, architectural aficionados will fall in love with the Wellington Inn. A gorgeous 1905 neo-classical mansion, this Inn provides guests with an unparalleled experience. Meticulously restored to its original splendor as an elegant bed and breakfast, the Inn puts you in the historic heart of Traverse City, with nine guest rooms adorned with period antiques, evoking the opulence of the early 20th century.
For extended stays, you can secure a place in one of two carriage house rooms featuring themes of 1930s Art Deco and 1940s French Countryside. Guests can enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the stately dining room, unwind in the library, or explore the nearby boutiques and galleries. The Wellington Inn provides a refined retreat celebrating the city's rich heritage.
Grand Traverse Resort and Spa
100 Grand Traverse Village Boulevard, Acme
Finally, for those seeking a comprehensive luxury experience, the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa promises a slate of amenities catering to every indulgence. Set amidst 900 acres along the eastern shores of Grand Traverse Bay, the resort boasts three championship golf courses (two of which are designed by golfing legends Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, respectively), three indoor/outdoor pools, a full-service spa, multiple dining venues, and upscale accommodations ranging from hotel rooms to condominiums.
Finally, for those seeking a comprehensive luxury experience, the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa promises a slate of amenities catering to every indulgence. Set amidst 900 acres along the eastern shores of Grand Traverse Bay, the resort boasts three championship golf courses (two of which are designed by golfing legends Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, respectively), three indoor/outdoor pools, a full-service spa, multiple dining venues, and upscale accommodations ranging from hotel rooms to condominiums.
Guests can engage in various activities, from indoor tennis courts and a water playground to visiting the 100,000-square-foot health club or shopping in the on-site boutiques. The resort's proximity to downtown Traverse City allows for easy exploration of local attractions, while its expansive grounds provide a secluded haven for relaxation and recreation.
Discover More of Traverse City with a Trusted Real Estate Partner
Traverse City's lodging landscape is rich with options that cater to travelers seeking both luxury and a connection to history. Each of these establishments offers a unique narrative, inviting guests for an exceptional stay with waterfront views, the charm of historic architecture, or the promise of world-class amenities.
If you're seeking further insight on a Traverse City area home or investment property, contact Blue Lake Realtors today to begin your Northern Michigan real estate journey.
