The fresh, crisp air, the leaves falling off the trees, the aroma of peppermint lattes, and the feel of cozy, chunky knit blankets by an outdoor or indoor fire—fall and winter in Michigan is the best feeling, especially when it’s the time of year when you celebrate your love. (But really, any time is the perfect time for looking into romantic Michigan getaways with your partner!)
This year, we turned 16–my husband and I celebrated being married for 16 years! Every year (if possible) we love to go on a Michigan fall dream getaway. We love a good road trip with just the two of us: reconnecting, laughing, challenging each other with a Q&A, and getting to know each other on a deeper level.
Check out our top 11 romantic dream getaways in Michigan below that we’ve explored and added to our wish list. Plus, discover six tips for keeping the spark alive!
Our Favorite Spots for Romantic Michigan Getaways
The Colonial Inn | Harbor Springs
A perfect place for a peaceful escape. Harbor Springs offers small-town charm and scenic drives along the Tunnel of Trees. This 130-year-old historical inn will take you back in time and will have you feeling like you’re part of Gone with the Wind! You’ll want to take a nice walk together around the grounds and the heart of Harbor Springs. We usually visit in the summer, but fall is such a great season to explore the city and grab some pumpkin spiced lattes!
Dune Climb Inn | Sleeping Bear Dunes
The former Duneswood Resort has a brand-new name with the same cozy charm! Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore provides a peaceful and unforgettable getaway. Mountain biking or hiking, wine tasting or trail walking, whatever you love to do . . . do it together!
Grand Hotel | Mackinac Island
Famous for its historic charm, horse-drawn carriages, and no cars allowed, doesn’t it sound like a romantic movie? We have yet to stay at this iconic hotel and can’t wait to experience it. Enjoy the stunning Michigan sunsets, long bike rides around the island, and beautiful scenic views together! This is a great way to spend your anniversary or even just for a fun getaway!
The Hotel Saugatuck | Saugatuck
For a romantic and intimate vibe, this luxury bed & breakfast would be a perfect weekend for love! Saugatuck offers boutique shops, great dining, and beautiful beaches for a warm fall day. Adding this one to our list right away–you should too!
Huron House | Oscoda
In Oscoda–along beautiful Lake Huron–this bed & breakfast will have you feeling like young love. An award-winning adult getaway, enjoy the lakeside fire pits while dreaming about your future together. Manifest your dreams of becoming the best partner for your babe!
The Inn on Ferry Street | Detroit
For a mix of city-feel and relaxation, combine historical architecture and the feeling of being part of Bridgerton or a holiday Hallmark movie and it’s the perfect spot for a romantic urban escape. Detroit is a hot spot for all of the modern and trendy restaurants, too! Plan a cozy night with your boo here and the next day check out the museums, all within walking distance from the Inn.
Spillway Lodges | Bellaire
Bellaire has a charming country vibe that invites you to relax on the porch of one of its beautiful dollhouses, sipping tea and enjoying a good book! This lodge is a perfect luxury getaway for couples looking to escape into nature. Nestled near Torch Lake and the Chain of Lakes, couples can indulge in outdoor adventures, cozy evenings by the rooftop fire, and calming moments in the hot tub–or, if you dare, invigorating experiences in the cold plunge! We were so happy to spend our anniversary here this year!
Stafford’s Bay View Inn | Petoskey
With its charming downtown, Victorian architecture, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, Petoskey is perfect for couples! Your romantic stay at the Inn will take you on a “Bridgerton-like” getaway. Talk about a steamy romance! A historic and romantic atmosphere will provide you with unforgettable memories!
Stillwater Stables & Stays | Ortonville
Stillwater Stables offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and romantic serenity for couples seeking a getaway! Nestled in a picturesque countryside, this enchanting retreat invites you to reconnect with nature and each other. Enjoy peaceful horseback rides through scenic trails, cozy evenings by the fire, and the A Walk to Remember kind of starry nights. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or simply escaping the hustle of everyday life, Stillwater Stables is the ideal destination to create unforgettable memories with the one you love the most!
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons | Traverse City
This historic former asylum turned modern-chic village offers unique charm with cute shops, fancy restaurants, and beautiful trails. Stay in a renovated suite at The Village and enjoy wine tasting up the peninsula (one of our favorite places is Bonobo Winery!). Recommended by a good friend, we stayed here multiple times because each room is different, and the gorgeous grounds are perfect for a romantic, relaxing experience.
Weathervane Terrace Inn & Suites | Charlevoix
The quaint town of Charlevoix on the shores of Lake Michigan has stunning views, unique architecture, and beautiful beaches. My boys and I have only passed through Charlevoix and enjoyed the downtown area . . . next time, we would love to stay here and relax in the hot tub!
Six Ways to Keep the Fire Strong in Your Marriage
After 16 years of marriage, we’ve come to appreciate that it’s no longer that shiny, young (stupid) love it once was–and that’s a beautiful thing! Our relationship has evolved, and we are grown adults now (individually, and as a couple!). We continue to rediscover each other year after year and support one another no matter what. Here are some hot tips for keeping the spark alive and staying strong together:
Laugh a lot.
Remember, you didn’t just marry your spouse; you married your best friend. You do everything together—eat, sleep, brush your teeth, go on trips—and laughing until one of you nearly pees your pants should always be at the top of the list!
Touch a lot.
There’s something so simple yet sensual about holding hands. It takes you back to those first dating days when everything felt new and exciting. Whether it’s holding hands or any other kind of touch, every little bit of human connection strengthens your bond.
Talk it out.
If you’re anything like me, when I’m heated, I love to go silent! But I’m still learning the art of talking through disagreements. Baby steps and compromise, right? Luckily, my husband is the opposite.
Be passionate.
What is love without passion? With each other, with each other’s passions, with life! Show your partner how much you care by being passionate about their passions.
Surprise each other.
Shake things up! Book a quick getaway, cook something new and exciting, or plan a fun night out like a murder mystery dinner or holiday in the city. Little surprises keep things fresh and fun!
Grow together.
The key word is together. You married to build a life as a team, so every new chapter is a chance to level up as a couple. Celebrate each other’s wins and growth along the way!
We have been together for more than 20 years. We’ve learned that whenever we get into an argument, we always come back to the “WHY” behind our love. Is what we’re fighting about really worth the stress? It’s that simple question that keeps us grounded and focused on what truly matters: our family, our legacy, us.
