Are you looking for romantic getaways in Michigan? There are plenty of options to choose from! Michigan is home to some breathtaking landscapes with lake views, colorful sunsets, and vibrant towns that make for the perfect escape.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin in the woods or a luxurious inn with stunning views, you can find just about any style of getaway in Michigan.
We’ve compiled a list of the best romantic getaways in Michigan. All you have to do is choose the destination and start traveling!
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Romantic Getaways in Michigan You Don’t Want to Miss
From vibrant, bustling cities like Ann Arbor and Grand Rapids to small towns like Copper Harbor and Munising, Michigan is one of the best Midwest destinations for a romantic getaway. Catch a glowing sunset, spend some time exploring the outdoors, or taste some delicious food and drinks.
Take a stroll through a small town and explore the shops, restaurants, and cafes dotted throughout the streets. You can also take a boat ride out on Lake Michigan for some gorgeous lake views. Take advantage of these beautiful places tucked away in every corner of the state, and begin planning your next romantic getaway in Michigan.
1. Traverse City
Traverse City, located on the northeastern shore of Lake Michigan is full of charm and natural beauty. Spend your days venturing out and exploring the shops or take a wine tour north of Traverse City on one of two beautiful peninsulas.
In the spring, Traverse City and areas to the north are just covered in pink and white cherry blossoms, creating a beautiful backdrop for a romantic stroll. In the fall, the foliage is absolutely breathtaking, making it the perfect season for a cozy getaway.
Traverse City is much more than just pretty scenery, though. There are countless activities to enjoy, including wine tasting at local vineyards, exploring the beautiful lighthouses that dot the shores, or soaking up some sun on the beautiful Lake Michigan beaches.
Spend some time shopping at the Grand Traverse Commons while you visit Traverse City. This old complex was used as a mental asylum in the 1800s and is now being converted into shops, apartments, and galleries. The buildings themselves, though, are a sight to see!
2. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Michigan is a state with so many romantic getaways to choose from. However, there is one destination that stands out above the others: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This iconic attraction features miles of white sandy beaches and towering dunes, making it a perfect destination for couples seeking an adventurous getaway.
Couples who visit can hike along the Empire Bluff Trail, which is one of the most photographed trails in the park. The trail winds its way through the forest over a dirt path with plenty of ups and downs and leads to an observation boardwalk that offers panoramic views up towards Sleeping Bear Point and the Lake Michigan shoreline.
The Dune Climb is another feature of the park that couples can take advantage of. Climbing this 284-foot-high sand dune is a thrilling challenge, and once you reach the summit, you can enjoy unbeatable views of the surrounding landscape. You can also continue all the way to the beach, though you’ll be walking through loose sand most of the way.
Sleeping Bear Dunes is one of the best places to watch a sunset in Michigan, a romantic way to end your day. Find a quiet spot on one of the beaches or at the top of the dunes, settle in, and enjoy the colorful show.
Plan to stay in one of the charming little towns which can be used as jumping-off points for exploring. Glen Arbor and Empire feature unique shops, great little restaurants, and plenty of activities.
Stay at the Harbor Lights Resort, just south of the dunes in the town of Frankfort, where you can hear the sound of the waves crashing from your room and have access to a private beach.
3. Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, Michigan is a bustling city that provides couples with a charming urban romantic getaway. With its tree-lined streets, picturesque parks, and vibrant downtown area, Ann Arbor provides a great destination for a short getaway, less than an hour west of Detroit.
One of the must-visit places in Ann Arbor is the University of Michigan campus. Take a stroll through campus and admire the beautiful architecture of buildings like the Law Quad and the Burton Tower. The University of Michigan Museum of Art is also worth a visit, with its extensive collection of art from around the world.
For a romantic dinner, head to the Gandy Dancer, a restaurant housed in a beautifully restored train station, built in 1886. The menu features seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes, and the atmosphere is cozy and intimate.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back evening full of laughs, check out the Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase. This comedy club regularly hosts nationally known comedians and provides a fun and light-hearted atmosphere for couples to enjoy.
End your romantic getaway in Ann Arbor with a visit to the Matthaei Botanical Gardens. Stroll through the gardens and enjoy the natural beauty of the flowers and plants in carefully curated displays.
4. Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids is a vibrant city that is perfect for couples looking to spend some time exploring a new city together. With its fantastic art scene, cultural attractions, and romantic dining options, Grand Rapids should be at the top of your list of great getaway cities in Michigan.
Head to the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, where you’ll be amazed by the stunning plant life and sculpted art. It’s one of the best botanical gardens and sculpture parks in the US, so you should definitely make this one of your stops in Grand Rapids.
For a more leisurely activity, visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum, where you’ll learn about the city’s history and culture through interactive exhibits.
When it comes to dining, Grand Rapids is a foodie’s paradise. The city has plenty of coffee shops and restaurants that offer gourmet dishes and romantic atmospheres. Some of the popular spots include Butcher’s Union and The Sovengard.
It also has an eclectic craft beer scene, which is perfect for enjoying a happy hour or spending an evening tasting new brews. Check out the well-known Founders Brewing Co. or many of the smaller, but still tasty and creative, breweries around town.
5. Mackinac Island
Michigan’s Mackinac Island may be small, but it holds a big charm for couples looking for a romantic getaway destination. The island’s most unique feature is that cars are completely banned from its roads. Horses and horse-drawn carriages are much more likely to be your mode of transportation here.
Couples can explore the island’s beauty in a variety of ways, whether it’s a leisurely horse-drawn carriage tour of the island or a romantic bike ride around the perimeter to take in stunning views of Lake Huron.
When it comes to accommodations, Mackinac Island has plenty of charming bed and breakfasts that offer a cozy and intimate setting for couples. There aren’t any chain hotels on the island, but the historic Grand Hotel is certainly a sight to see, or better yet spend a weekend.
Mackinac Island is also home to some fascinating historic sites that couples can explore along with the beautiful scenery. Fort Mackinac, which was built by the British in the late 1700s and offers an immersive look into the island’s past, was also the headquarters for the second national park in the United States. Mackinac National Park was transitioned to the state of Michigan in 1895, and at that time was designated the first state park in Michigan.
In addition to its natural and historic attractions, Mackinac Island is also home to a variety of delicious dining options. Don’t skip out on the classic fudge shop experience while you visit the island!
6. Marquette
Located on the picturesque shores of Lake Superior, this charming city in the Upper Peninsula has plenty to offer couples looking for a special escape.
One of the most romantic attractions in Marquette is Presque Isle Park, which offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior. Take long romantic walks along the park’s scenic trails and enjoy the stunning sunset over the lake. This is one of the best places to enjoy a sunset in the UP! The park also features bike paths that wind through the woods and along the lake, making it a perfect destination for hikers and bikers.
If you’re looking to explore more of the city, Marquette’s charming downtown area is a must-visit. Here, you’ll find a variety of unique shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as historic attractions like the iron ore dock, which played an important role in the city’s industrial past.
For a deeper look into the city’s history, take a tour of the impressive Marquette Maritime Museum, showcasing the city’s maritime heritage. With a wide range of exhibits and artifacts, this museum is the perfect destination for couples who want to learn something new about life on Lake Superior.
Of course, no romantic getaway is complete without great dining options, and Marquette has plenty to offer. While you might not think you’ll find cajun creole dishes that will blow your taste buds away in the UP, check out Lagniappe for some of the best seafood risotto and shrimp po’boys you’ll find outside of New Orleans.
7. Houghton Lake
When it comes to romantic getaways in Michigan, Houghton Lake is a hidden gem in the middle of the state that simply should not be overlooked. The lake provides couples with the perfect backdrop for a peaceful getaway.
One of the most prominent features of Houghton Lake is its beachfront lake access, making it the ideal spot for romantic walks along the shore. For those who love water activities, Houghton Lake offers everything from paddle boating to fishing.
In terms of accommodations, Houghton Lake has a range of options that cater to any couple’s preference. Whether you’re looking for cozy cabins by the lake, or historic inns that exude charm and character, Houghton Lake’s got you covered.
While Houghton Lake is certainly more of a summer destination, you can spend some time near the water all year round. For those who prefer a more leisurely activity, sitting outside and playing lawn games, or tennis is a great way to spend some time. There is even a disc golf course near the lake, and if you’ve never played before, it’s the perfect way to try something new.
8. Munising
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway destination in Michigan that’s surrounded by natural beauty and adventure, Munising is the perfect place for you and your partner.
Nestled in the heart of the Upper Peninsula, Munising is the western gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, a must-visit destination for any couple seeking an adventurous getaway.
One of the main things that make Munising truly special is its proximity to numerous parks and opportunities for outdoor adventure, offering endless opportunities for hiking, boating, kayaking, and sightseeing.
With its stunning rock formations and colorful cliffs, Pictured Rocks is particularly breathtaking. Exploring this incredible landscape with your significant other on a cruise, kayaking, or hiking through the park’s trails will certainly be a memorable experience.
The adventure doesn’t end there. Munising also offers a great jumping-off point for exploring the dozens of other waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula. So whether you’re looking to add a bit of excitement to your romantic getaway or simply relish in the natural beauty that surrounds you, Munising is the place to go.
Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a longer Upper Peninsula road trip, make sure Munising is a stop on your journey.
9. Copper Harbor
You’ll likely have to do some planning to reach Copper Harbor, but traveling the distance will be worth it! Located at the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, this charming small town is a favorite among couples due to its picturesque scenery that feels like it is a world away from any large city.
One of the main draws of Copper Harbor is its panoramic view of Lake Superior and the stunning landscape that surrounds the town. The sunsets here are legendary, with vibrant colors painting the sky as the sun lowers over the horizon. Taking a leisurely sunset cruise on the Isle Royale Queen IV is a fantastic option for couples looking to spend some quality time together out on the water, enjoying views.
For the more adventurous, Copper Harbor offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Take a hike or a bike ride through the miles of scenic trails that wind through the area. Take a kayak out on the crystal clear waters of Lake Superior and explore the coastline.
For the ultimate adventure, you can take the ferry over to Isle Royale National Park and enjoy a few days on the remote backcountry island without any distractions, besides maybe a moose.
Wrap Up – Romantic Getaways in Michigan Perfect for Couples
Michigan is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. Its stunning landscapes, cozy accommodations, and endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation await you and your partner.
Whether you want to snuggle up by the fire, explore the great outdoors, enjoy some time on the lake, or indulge in some delicious local cuisine, romantic getaways in Michigan are easy to find.
About the author: Samantha is the owner and creator behind PAonPause, exploring travel around the US’s Great Lakes states and the National Parks. She believes that any occasion can be a great excuse to travel and does so as much as possible while still working full-time. She loves to share her time exploring the outdoors with her 2 rescue dogs.