The Wolverine State is famous for its quaint, pretty towns along Lake Michigan paired with the bustling metropolitan and historic downtown Detroit.
But there’s much more to this state than its most stereotypical locations or Hilton hotels. We’re here to break down some of the most unique hotels, vacation rentals, cozy cottages, log cabins, and more across Michigan!
1. Tiki Hut Yurt- Mahina
- St. Ignace, Northern Michigan
- Best for minimalist vacations and yurts
Craving a true getaway from civilization? This minimal-square-foot yurt vacation rental in St. Ignace fits the bill. Its construction is minimal and simple, but still cozy and beautiful, as you’re enveloped in nature and have access to the lake as well. You’re between two Great Lakes and a bit north of Mackinac Island.
The area also has private bathrooms for you to retain some comforts in a camping setting, and you can take a shower as well. We also adore the effort that went into mood lighting within the yurt, as they really make the ambience that much more serene.
You can also bring your dog along, as the RV campgrounds where the Yurt is situated is pet-friendly and offers dogsitting services! You have your privacy within the trees, but it’s comforting to know that the RV office offers wood and ice for sale, as well as a helpful guide if you need anything for your stay.
2. Grandpa George’s Dairy Barn
- Bay Port, Michigan
- Best for: Farm experience
This family-friendly second-level of a barn has been transformed into a unique vacation rental in Michigan’s Huron County. With wooden accents and foundational beams that reflect the barn’s construction, it’s truly one-of-a-kind. It’s only a 27-minute drive from Port Crescent State Park, where you can enjoy tons of outdoor activities, too.
Within the home, the hosts took the time to incorporate farm-themed elements, like the home’s indoor yard games, including carpetball table and cornhole boards. The deck treats you to views of the expansive farm fields, and it’s not uncommon to see geese and deer meandering by.
Other comforting and curious details include street signs as decor, hammocks outside, an indoor fireplace, Wi-Fi, and a fire pit to enjoy company under the stars!
3. A-Frame in Evergreen Trees
- Lapeer, Michigan
- Best for cabins with a touch of luxe
If you love nature but can’t do without your creature comforts, this Michigan cabin will be a treat for every step of your vacation. Its stunning A-frame exterior captures your attention from the get. As you walk up the deck steps into the home, the gorgeous living room fills with space with its high ceilings and expansive windows, all meeting at the tip of the triangle on top.
This cabin is well-immersed in nature, with minimal noise, traffic, or people in the area. No neighbors to be found, except the odd deer or squirrel! This is the perfect spot to unwind and appreciate the silence of nature, as you’re enveloped by forests for a stunning backdrop every hour of the day.
Amenities include board games, a record player, air conditioning and heating, and ample spots to relax. We also love the interior design of the kitchen, with light-shaded wooden accents that breathe life and tranquility into the room, as well as modern counters, green cabinets, and a family-style table.
4. The Palmer House: Frank Lloyd Wright Secluded Home
- Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Best for architectural and interior beauty
With a layout based on the equilateral triangle, this home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright sparks conversation and awe at every corner. The Palmer House features warm tones of red and brown throughout the floors and walls, with geometric shapes within the furniture, shaping the windows, and beds.
We especially loved the triangular-tipped sitting area, with an angular sofa and views of nature through the expansive windows. You’ll also find typical amenities here, like hair dryers, towels, Wi-Fi, kitchen essentials, and books. Keep in mind that this home doesn’t have any televisions, so it might not be well-suited for long stays with children. It’s also a pricey rental at over $1,000 per night, though reviews all gush at the architecturally stunning design of the home and say it’s worth it.
5. Newly Historic Condo
- Traverse City, Michigan
- Best for golf course proximity and unique design
You might not crave all the space of a chalet, but who says you can’t enjoy comforts in a condo? If you’re a golf aficionado, you might want to stay in Traverse City, Michigan (not to be confused with Lake Superior’s Traverse Bay, which is much more North) which hosts the Bay Meadows Family Golf Course.
The historic condo itself is located within the historic Village of Grand Traverse Commons, and the interior blends modern comforts with the stone brick walls of the historic building. You’re also close to city attractions like the Botanical Gardens, painted Hippie Tree, and Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area! It’s also child- and baby-friendly, as you can request a crib from the host in advance.
6. The Maple Mid-Mod
- Saugatuck, Michigan
- Best for city and tranquil vibes in one
This tastefully decorated home is a short, 15-minute walk from the trendy downtown Saugatuck. You truly get the best of both worlds, with proximity to town, paired with a backyard ravine where you can enjoy tranquil afternoons of birdwatching or outdoor biking!
The mid-mod home itself is inspired by the mid-century-modern style, with sleek furniture, adirondack chairs, a floating bathroom sink, and wooden accents. Windows span wall to wall, inviting natural light into almost every room. You’re not far from the infamous Saugutuck beach dunes as well, and while the home doesn’t have lakefront access, you’re not far from Lake Michigan, either!
Come with your hunny, family, or group of friends, as the three bedrooms allow for small and large groups alike.
7. Loft in the Zoo
- Kalamazoo, Michigan
- Best for sustainability
This loft-style apartment is centrally located in Kalamazoo and offers unique interior design, downtown attractions nearby, and a focus on sustainability with its solar power!
The living room has a one-of-a-kind purple sofa, swinging chair, and tasteful brown chairs, all facing one another for a community feel. The kitchen and bedroom both have striking exposed brick, and the kitchen’s spacious counter and hanging lights deliver the perfect space to cook your favorite meal.
Nearby Kalamazoo attractions include the Kalamazoo Mall, Gibson Guitar Factory, and Kalamazoo Beer Exchange!
8. Perry Hotel
- Petoskey, Michigan
- Best for hotel amenities
Stafford’s Perry Hotel is a grandiose, yellow building that houses plenty of guest rooms, perfect for romantic couples, family groups, or even reunions who want to stay in the same place. Petoskey is a small town in Michigan with under 5,000 locals, sitting on the coast and close to Bayfront Park. It’s well-known for its unique wineries and breweries, including the Petoskey Farms Vineyard.
The boutique hotel features all the amenities you need to relax year-round, including an on-site hot tub and pool, room service, sauna, and ample space in the hotel to relax and unwind.
Where will you stay in your Michigan getaway?
No need to stay at the same hotel on your trip to Michigan. Whether you crave a city-slicking experience in Detroit or architectural masterpiece in Ann Arbor, Michigan has it all.
For more unique places to stay across the US, whether it’s in Texas, Florida, or beyond, make sure to keep checking our blog!
