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3 Romantic Michigan Getaways Perfect For a Honeymoon

Whether you are honeymooning, celebrating an anniversary, or searching for a romantic getaway with your loved one, Michigan has it all.  Romantic island adventures, beautiful vineyard chateaus, horse-drawn carriage rides, and quaint Bavarian villages exude the perfect backdrop for your romantic Michigan getaway.   

Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is hard to beat for romance.  Take a horse-drawn carriage ride for two around the island for close up views of Arch Rock, the crashing waves of Lake Huron, and the famous Grand Hotel. Share a couple of scoops of creamy Mackinac Island Fudge ice cream from Sander’s, snack on a slice of rich, just made Murdick’s fudge, and rent a couple of bikes to explore the scenic island.

  • Best Places to StayOld Mission Hotel or the Grand Hotel

The romantic movie, “Somewhere in Time” was shot at the Old Mission Hotel and many other scenic locations on the island.  Lounge in the white Adirondack chairs on the hotel’s lush lawn to bask in the sun while enjoying incredible views of Lake Huron. 

The Grand Hotel simply oozes romance from the moment you walk onto the American flag lined porch and enter the lavishly appointed hotel. Five presidents have stayed at this hotel, possibly to experience The Jewel golf course, heralded the “Best Grand and Boutique Golf Hotels” by Golf Digest.  Enjoy an intimate meal by their Executive Chef and wander the hotel’s famous gardens.

  • Best Places to Eat: Pink Pony and Carriage House Dining at the Hotel Iroquois

The Pink Pony is a wonderful restaurant located on Main Street. In fact, it is our favorite restaurant on the island.  From the huge pink umbrellas to the views of the arriving and departing ferries, this restaurant is hard to beat.  Their crunchy salads, flavor-filled fish tacos, and grilled burgers will surely have you swooning.  

If you love incredible views of the Straits of Mackinac and outdoor waterfront dining, the Carriage House at the Hotel Iroquois is an excellent choice. Located on Main Street, seafood and steaks are the stars at this elegant restaurant. Each day, the chef prepares succulent jumbo lump crab towers with avocado and fresh salsa, pan-seared diver scallops with lemongrass, and mouthwatering filet mignon with sauce bearnaise.

Traverse City

Traverse City, also known as the Cherry Capital of the World, is rich in natural beauty, vast beaches, downtown shopping, and outdoor adventures such as hiking and kayaking. The city is also a trendy destination for foodies, wine enthusiasts, and romantic couples.
While visiting Traverse City, be sure to embark on a scenic drive along Old Mission Peninsula for a wine tasting adventure.  Black Star Farms, Brys Estate Vineyard, 2 Lads Winery, and Mari Vineyards are excellent wineries for tasting and enjoying a meal.  Plus, the views of the vineyards are incredible.  Continue to the tip of the Old Mission Peninsula to tour the Old Mission Lighthouse.

  • Best Place to StayChateau Chantal Winery and Inn

Chateau Chantal, located on the Old Mission Peninsula, is unbeatable when it comes to romance as the winery is surrounded by lush vineyards and overlooks the sparkling Grand Traverse Bay. Add a Celebration Package to your room so that chilled champagne, lush flowers, and gourmet chocolates await your arrival.

  • Best Place to EatThe Boathouse Restaurant

The Boathouse Restaurant, located on Old Mission Peninsula, is an excellent romantic dinner destination as the waterfront restaurant offers an incredible farm to table menu.  Enjoy succulent seafood, steaks, and vegetable dishes with a glass of Traverse City wine.

Frankenmuth

This lovely Bavarian village, located in southeast Michigan, is rich with charm and romance. It is obvious from the moment you arrive and see the numerous Bavarian-themed buildings lining Main Street, the colorful glockenspiel on the Bavarian Inn, arched stone bridges spanning the pretty Cass River, and the large red paddlewheel of the Bavarian Belle Riverboat. 

Walk hand in hand through Frankenmuth’s leather shops, watch creamy fudge being made right before your eyes, roll some pretzels at the Bavarian Inn, and embark on a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the city. You and your sweetheart can experience Europe without leaving the United States!

  • Best Place to StayThe Marv Herzog

The Marv Herzog, located on Main Street, is a lovely hotel with the atmosphere of an alpine lodge. The hotel features balconies and scenic views of the Cass River. The Marv Herzog is a wonderful place to escape and relax with your sweetheart.  

  • Best Places to EatThe Bavarian Inn and Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth 

The Bavarian Inn and Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth are both absolutely incredible Bavarian experiences. In both restaurants, friendly servers wear traditional Bavarian outfits while serving heaping platters of juicy chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, thick gravy, and all the trimmings.  Save room for dessert, as you will be presented with cool scoops of chocolate and vanilla ice cream.   

Whether you choose a lovely Bavarian Inn, a hundred-year-old chateau overlooking a lush vineyard, or a horse-drawn carriage ride on an island, you and your sweetheart will remember your romantic Michigan getaway for years to come.

Author Bio: Sherry Trautman, founder of Traveling Michigan, loves to explore every inch of the Mitten State by hiking, biking, kayaking and getting lost! Connect with Traveling Michigan on Instagram and Twitter.