The 8 Best Resorts in Northern Michigan | Hand-Picked for 2025
We analyzed all the options and found the best resorts in northern Michigan that offer the top combination of indulgence, service, location, and, of course, pure relaxation.
It’s well known that Northern Michigan exudes an easygoing charm that makes it one of the most magical places in the US—wide lakes, thick forests, small towns where you can still find fresh fudge and warm coffee at 7am, and just enough upscale places to make your stay feel a little extra.
Thing is, the region’s packed with places that call themselves “resorts,” yet not all of them really deliver the same kind of experience.
So, we pulled together this guide to find the best Northern Michigan resorts, based on a mix of reviews, real guest feedback, and location perks that honestly just make life easier when you’re trying to unwind.
Table of Contents
Methodology
To determine the best resorts Northern Michigan has to offer, we read and analyzed every review listed across Google, TripAdvisor, and Expedia, and evaluated every resort (not just the ones that show up first in ads).
We combed through thousands of real reviews, paying attention to patterns in what people loved, what they tolerated, and what straight-up ruined their trips.
Ratings are helpful, but they only tell part of the story—so we dug deeper into actual comments, sorted for consistent feedback, and filtered out anything that sounded fake, overly vague, or like it came from a bot. We also looked at overall value—because it’s not just about how fancy a place is. It’s about whether what you get feels fair for the price.
Location played a pretty big role too, especially for resorts that are a bit tucked away or near major attractions like Mackinac Island or Sleeping Bear Dunes.
In short, we weren’t just looking for the biggest or the priciest—we wanted the places that are actually worth going back to.
So if you’re planning a trip soon, or just daydreaming about your next summer weekend, this list of the best resorts Northern Michigan has to offer should give you a solid head start.
Please note that some links below are affiliate links, which means that we receive a small commission if you make a purchase through our links, but at no extra cost to you. Thank you in advance for your support!
The 8 Best Northern Michigan Resorts in 2025
8. Boyne Mountain Resort
Key Highlights:
- Over 400 skiable acres and 60 downhill trails
- Two golf courses and an indoor waterpark spanning 88,000 square feet
- Lake access and scenic chairlift rides available during summer
- On-site dining options including farm-to-table cuisine and pub fare
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
7. Best Western Plus Dockside Waterfront Inn – Most Affordable
Key Highlights:
- Private sandy beach directly on Lake Huron
- One of the best resorts in Northern Michigan for budget travelers
- Complimentary hot breakfast and indoor pool
- Less than 0.3 miles from the Mackinac Island ferry docks
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
6. Crystal Mountain
Key Highlights:
- 1,500 acres of year-round resort property
- Over 50 downhill slopes and 25+ kilometers of cross-country trails
- Two championship golf courses and a full-service spa
- Close proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (less than 40 minutes)
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
5. Hamilton Inn Select Beachfront Mackinaw City – Best-Seller
Key Highlights:
- Direct access to a private Lake Huron beach
- One of the most popular resorts in Northern Michigan – over 1,000 guest reviews with an average of 4+ stars
- Heated indoor pool and hot tub available year-round
- Less than 5 minutes from Mackinac Island ferry terminals
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
4. Grand Traverse Resort and Spa
Key Highlights:
- 900 acres of grounds with three championship-level golf courses
- Indoor and outdoor pools, plus a 100,000-square-foot health club
- Fine dining at Aerie Restaurant located on the 16th floor with panoramic views
- Just 15 minutes from downtown Traverse City and Lake Michigan
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
3. Mackinaw Beach and Bay – Inn & Suites – Top Value Pick
Key Highlights:
- All-suite accommodations with lake views in most rooms
- Indoor pool and fitness area with clean, updated equipment
- Complimentary breakfast and free shuttle to Mackinac Island ferries
- Steps away from the waterfront with private beach access
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
2. The Perry Hotel
Key Highlights:
- Historic charm with original architecture dating back to 1899
- Overlooks Little Traverse Bay with sunset views from most rooms
- Easy access to the Petoskey waterfront and Gaslight District shopping
- On-site dining includes a seasonal patio bar and locally-sourced menu
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
1. Mission Point Resort – Top Overall
Location & Prices: Check on Google Maps
Key Highlights:
- Best resort Northern Michigan offers on an 18-acre property right on the shores of Lake Huron
- Five on-site restaurants, including a wine bar and lakeside patio grill
- Full-service spa, movie theater, and lawn games across the grounds
- No motor vehicles – peaceful island atmosphere with bike rentals and horse-drawn taxis
Reviews & Latest Price on TripAdvisor
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