Skip to Content

13 Unique Places to Stay in Michigan: Coolest Lodging + Hotels

Whether you’re seeking thrills in Detroit or looking to kick back in wine country, these unique places to stay in Michigan await you! We’ve searched for you and gathered the best unique lodgings in Michigan, perfect for romantic getaways, solo journeys, family trips, or a friend’s weekend.

With so many cool places to stay in Michigan, we’ve brought you destinations from across the state, from Detroit and Traverse City to Harbor Springs and Midland. Choose which one is best for you!

The H Hotel – Midland: The Perfect Leisure & Business Traveller Hotel in Michigan

Cool hotel in Michigan The H Hotel– Midland
Room at the The H Hotel– Midland
Your choice for both work and play! (hotels.com)

The H Hotel is a hotspot for travelers looking for cool places to stay in Michigan in downtown Midland! Dive into the indoor pool, pedal around Midland using their loaner bikes, and enjoy American cuisine at the on-site restaurant when hunger strikes.

The rooms and suites feature sleek and minimal yet captivating designs, including plush bedding, a seating area, and a desk (perfect for business travelers!). Plus, its prime location offers easy access to local gems like the Dow Gardens, Alden B. Dow Home & Studio, and the Currie Gold Course.

The Detroit Club Hotel: Former Private Club Turned Cool Hotel With a Spa

one of the best unique places to stay in Michigan The Detroit Club Hotel

The Detroit Club Hotel, established in 1882, carries Detroit’s rich history into the modern day. Once a private club, it’s now a 21-room boutique hotel offering a luxurious spa, cocktail lounge, fine dining restaurant, and cigar bar. Here, you’ll be transported back in time as the accommodations feature an interior design inspired by the original 1800s luxury.

Located in downtown Detroit, you can easily walk to attractions like the Detroit Riverwalk and the Detroit Opera House. Put together the location and the charm, and you’ve got yourself a unique Detroit experience.

Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island: Quirky & Luxurious Hotel With Endless Activities

Creative design of room at unique Michigan lodging Grand Hotel – Mackinac Island
Can this room be any more cute? (hotels.com)

The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island looks like something straight out of a cinematic movie. With its iconic 660-foot front porch, recognized as the world’s longest, the hotel has been a Michigan hallmark since 1887.

Boasting colorful, luxurious, and nostalgic decor and design, you’re bound to be delighted with whichever room you book. Some even include balconies! Amid the car-free ambiance of Mackinac Island, guests can enjoy activities like biking, golfing, and swimming in the hotel’s expansive pool.

Amway Hotel: Luxurious Unique Hotel in Michigan With Cool Indoor Pool

View from the Amway Hotel Grand Rapids

The Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids invites you to experience a blend of historical allure and grand luxury. Once called the Pantlind Hotel in 1913, you’ll be greeted by its preserved architecture, including one of the world’s most extensive gold-leaf ceilings in the lobby. Book yourself a room or suite and dive into a simple and cozy space perfect for leisure travelers.

For an extra touch of luxury celebrating the hotel’s history, treat yourself to one of the Plaza suites with historic design and city views. For a bite, fear not, as the dining options are seemingly endless — on-site, there’s a steak house, Spanish restaurant, lounge, and cafe.

Chateau Chantal Winery Inn Bed & Breakfast: Wine Country Inn Near Traverse City

Room at unique place to stay in Michigan near Traverse City Chateau Chantal Winery Inn Bed & Breakfast
We’re obsessed with the rich purple of this room! But each room offers different design and color. (chateauchantal.com)
chateau chantal One of the most unique places to stay in Michigan to go wine tasting
One of the most unique places to stay in Michigan to go wine tasting! (chateauchantal.com)

At Chateau Chantal Winery Inn on Michigan’s Old Mission Peninsula, you’re transported to a European-inspired retreat. Just a short drive from Traverse City and overlooking the pristine waters of the bay, this elegant Bed & Breakfast pairs perfectly with its renowned winery. The rooms feature a romantic and colorful interior, and some include high ceilings, jacuzzi tubs, and balconies, all perfect for settling in.

Start your morning with a coffee or tea from your balcony and wind down with a glass of wine from the tasting room in the evening. Not to mention, a complimentary hot breakfast is included daily! Beyond the inn, the peninsula entices with its serene hiking trails and neighboring wineries, ensuring your days are filled with exploration and delight.

Bavarian Inn Lodge: German Themed Fun Place to Stay in Frankenmuth with a Water Park

Lobby at the unusual places to stay in Michigan Bavarian Inn Lodge

The Bavarian Inn Lodge in Frankenmuth isn’t just one of the cool places to stay in Michigan—it’s a German wonderland in the Midwest that’s perfect for families (or the young at heart)! Decked out in Bavarian style, from its timbered facade to themed rooms, the vibe is all about German fun.

Splash in the indoor waterpark, challenge yourself in the game room, or feast on German-inspired and American dishes at the on-site restaurant. And for some nearby outdoor adventure (if you’re not already exhausted from the water park and games), check out the nearby Aerial Park!

Big Bay Point Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast: Unusual & Historic Michigan Lodging in an Active Lighthouse

room interior of Big Bay Point Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast unusual place to stay in Michigan
Just book it, need we say more? (bigbaylighthouse.com)

Sitting atop the cliffs of Lake Superior, the Big Bay Point Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast stands as one of the most unusual places to stay in Michigan. This active lighthouse, dating back to 1896, offers a glimpse into maritime history and ensures guests immerse themselves in their distinctive rooms, each boasting antique furnishings and nautical themes. As a guest here, you’ll even get access to the lighthouse tower, where you can take in sweeping views of the lake!

Although there are no on-site restaurants, this part of the Upper Peninsula is home to a general store, tavern, and restaurant, so you can enjoy your escape without going far! And if you’re seeking to indulge in nature, you have access to the best hiking, skiing, and hiking in Big Bay.

Old Harbor Inn: South Haven Gem on the Water

Room interior at cool Michigan hotel Old Harbor Inn
Views from the Old Harbor Inn South Havn MI
Waking up to this view is like a dream(hotels.com)

The Old Harbor Inn South Haven stands out when looking for unique lodging in Michigan. With its prime location overlooking the harbor, you’re treated to mesmerizing water views that vary from room to room.

Speaking of rooms, each room and suite has its own distinct style, and some include balconies, jacuzzi tubs, and kitchenettes. And it’s not just about the stay! Discover South Haven’s local scene – from sunbathing on beaches and touring the lighthouse to munching at local eateries.

Atheneum Suite Hotel in Detroit: Luxurious Stay in Detroit’s Greektown

cool interior of Atheneum Suite Hotel in Detroit Michigan
Lobby at the Atheneum Suite Hotel Detroit
The Atheneum exudes luxury (hotels.com)

At the Atheneum Suite Hotel, you’ll quickly realize why it’s hailed as one of the cool places to stay in Michigan. Rich in Detroit’s history and mixed with a dash of Modern Greek decor, the hotel seamlessly combines past and present. Each room is designed with a keen sense of style, boasting city views, a desk, and a whirlpool or marble tub.

Nestled in Greektown, you’re moments away from casinos, lively nightlife, and all the Greek dishes you could want! Choosing the Atheneum isn’t just about resting, though; it’s about immersing yourself in Detroit’s vibrant downtown scenes – and then relaxing in your soaking tub at the end of a long day!

Henderson Castle: Historic Lodging With Daily Chef-Prepared Breakfasts

Henderson castle is of Michigan's most unique lodging/vacation rentals
Room at Henderson Castle in Kalamazoo
The Castle is like stepping into a time capsule!(booking.com)

Ever dreamed of a sleepover at a castle? Henderson Castle in Kalamazoo is where fairy tales meet modern-day. Built in 1895, this Queen Anne beauty invites you in with its majestic presence. Each room comes with its own personality, featuring historic decor and romantic woodwork to immerse you in the elegant ambiance.

A stay here is more than just a bed to sleep on, but an experience. Enjoy a High Tea service and indulge in premium teas, or stay over the weekend and dig into Sunday Brunch. On-site, there’s even a spa to unwind after a long day of exploring.

Inn at Black Star Farms: Serving a Complimentary Bottle of Wine in Traverse City Wine Country

Inn at Black Star Farms incredible architecture of unique Michigan stay
Room interior of fun place to stay in Michigan near Traverse City Inn at Black Star Farms
The perfect place to rest after wine tasting (blackstarfarms.com)

The Inn at Black Star Farms in Suttons Bay brings us wine-country elegance just 12 miles North of Traverse City. If you’re hunting for unique places to stay in Michigan, this spot’s a cork-popping winner! Located in Traverse City’s prime wine region, this inn doubles as a winery. No two rooms are the same, yet one thing in common is their spacious floor plans and relaxing countryside views. Some even have a tub if you want that extra touch of relaxation.

Upon arrival, you’ll even find a bottle of complimentary wine waiting for you in your room! And as if it doesn’t get any better, on-site, you can hike three miles of trails, enjoy daily wine tastings, and feast on chef-prepared breakfasts each morning — we’re already drooling!

Colonial Inn: Cute Harbor Springs Inn with Pool and Library

Cute room interior of the Colonial Inn at Harbor Springs Michigan

The Colonial Inn in Harbor Springs is a historic gem dating back to the late 19th century. With its colonial architecture, the inn is linked to the area’s past, but inside, guests find modern comforts. The quant rooms feature flowery patterns with subtle pops of color among their spacious floor plans. Visit in the winter, and you’ll love cuddling up by the fireplace each room includes!

To top it all off, you’ll find a range of terrific amenities, including a heated swimming pool, veranda, spacious lobby, and library. Aside from the iconic decor and amenities, another iconic aspect of the inn is the daily hot breakfast, perfect for fueling up for the day ahead.

Detroit Foundation Hotel: Hip Hotel in the Heart of Detroit With On-Site Restaurant

Exterior of Detroit Foundation Hotel , unique hotels in 
Michigan

Detroit Foundation Hotel isn’t your average stay; it’s a slice of Detroit’s fiery past turned chic and modern! Dating back to the 1920s, the building once served as the Detroit Fire Department Headquarters, but today is re-imaged as your next downtown Detroit getaway. With only six rooms, it’s an intimate experience, and each room fuses together sleek modern and historical design elements.

With an appreciation for local creativity, the hotel also ensures each room is accented by Detriot-made touches. It’s the ideal spot to stay, putting you at the heart of it all — but if you just wanna kick back for a night, there’s an on-site restaurant and bar on the first floor to wine and dine at.

Which one of these unique places to stay in Michigan will you choose? let us know in the comments below!

Traveling onwards in the Midwest? Check these out: