Last Updated on September 25, 2024 by Katrina

Photo credit: Inn at Bay Harbor

On the northern coast of Michigan, the town of Traverse City offers a charming bayside getaway: the self-proclaimed cherry capital of the world has plenty of fruit-based goodies as well as farm-to-fork cuisine, wineries and cool shopping. Many of the best places to stay are right on Traverse Bay, where you can also enjoy sandy beaches along with inn-style ambiance or resort fun. Here are the best hotels in Traverse City, Michigan.

Grand Beach Resort (1683 US-31, 231-938-4455) Traverse City

This 100-room hotel, set on East Grand Traverse Bay, sits next door to sister property Sugar Beach Resort, and they both share a beach with easy access to water sports. “Great location—not too far from downtown, but far enough for rest and relaxation with a beautiful private beach,” writes a Tripadvisor user. “The hotel is near several restaurants and mini golf is across the street.” Amenities include an indoor pool, hot tub, and complimentary continental breakfast. “Wonderful place,” writes a Google reviewer. “They bring breakfast boxes to your room and set them by the door in the morning. The area is lovely and full of wineries, as well as other fantastic little shopping districts.” >> Book this hotel for less

Hotel Indigo Traverse City, an IHG Hotel (263 W Grandview Pkwy; 231-932-0500) Traverse City

“Set in the buzzing warehouse district across from the water, Hotel Indigo Traverse City is a perfect spot for those looking to explore Traverse City, or enjoy a day at the beach,” writes US News & World Report. The hotel has mod aesthetics, a rooftop bar and an on-site restaurant, though one Google reviewer points out that “I love that it’s close to downtown and lots of brewpubs, restaurants and shops, but … it also means that rooms facing the bay are right on the road and the noise from cars is very pronounced.” >> Book this hotel for less

Inn at Bay Harbor, Autograph Collection (3600 Village Harbor Dr.; 855-351-4295) Bay Harbor

Choose from hotel rooms or cottages at this Marriott-family resort with Victorian aesthetics on the shore of Little Traverse Bay. Resort activities include golf, a spa, and afternoon tea. One Tripadvisor user recommends splurging on a lake view room, and another calls the resort “warm, welcoming and wonderful. Our room had a balcony and nice view of the water/grounds, a fireplace and a kitchenette. A wonderful breakfast was included in the rate, and our room had chocolate cherries from Kilwin’s.” A Google reviewer says that the “beach and pool were very clean and we felt like we were at an island resort.” >> Book this hotel for less

Tamarack Lodge of Traverse City (2035 N. U.S. 31 North; 231-938-9744) Traverse City

Enjoy fully stocked kitchens and views of East Grand Traverse Bay at this condo-style resort with a lodge ambience, private beach, and perks such as free nightly cookies. “We stayed in a two-bedroom suite on the ground floor with walkout access to the lake and the terrace,” writes a Tripadvisor user. “We grilled our own steaks and had a lovely time! The 1521-square feet is plenty for two couples.” A Google reviewer comments that the property is “meticulously cared for. We enjoyed the free movie rentals and popcorn, snuggled up in our two-bedroom condo in front of the gas fireplace.” >> Book this hotel for less

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa (100 Grand Traverse Village Blvd.; 231-534-6000) Acme

While this 600-lodging, 900-acre resort is just to the east of Traverse City, the town is a short drive away. US News & World Report likes the resort, which is owned by the Ottawa and Chippewa tribes, for its “golf academy, gorgeous scenery, and the Aerie Restaurant & Lounge.” Choose from rooms, suites, and condo-style lodgings. One Google reviewer who booked a room in the Tower section writes that “the room was a bit small but view of the bay made up for that. Food, service and view at Aerie was great.” >> Book this hotel for less

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