7 Ideal Great Lakes Destinations for a 3-Day Weekend in 2024
Many travelers love lake vacations because of their versatility. You can enjoy time on a quiet beach, do some small-town shopping, hike the mountains, or visit historical landmarks. Coastal dwellers may be inclined to overlook the Great Lakes, but they are missing out on a breathtaking party of the country. Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario are colorful, inviting destinations for water sports, elegant hotels, and movie-style downtowns. The Great Lakes also hold about one-fifth of the world's freshwater supply. If you can't get enough panoramic water views and endearing downtowns, you have to visit the Great Lake region for a three-day long weekend in 2024.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
If your idea of the perfect vacation includes leaving your car at home, you won't want to miss out on Mackinac Island, located in Michigan on Lake Huron. Highway M-185 is the only state highway in the nation that doesn't allow cars. Most folks ferry to the island from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, but you can also access the destination by private boat or plane. Once you are there, bikes and horse-drawn carriages are the best way to get around.
Kayaking, fishing, parasailing, and boat cruising are all popular activities on the storybook island. You can also relax and enjoy the awe-inspiring views at lakeside eateries like The Pink Pony or Chianti. If you need somewhere to stay, you can't go wrong with The Grand Hotel, an American beauty featuring opulent guest rooms and a vivid pin-stripe-and-brass-chandelier decor that will make you think you stepped into a Bing Crosby movie. The nearby Island House Hotel provides porch rocking-chair views of the lake, live music, and proximity to popular visitor destinations. These include the original Mackinac Island Butterfly House and Insect Museum, carriage rides, and downtown shops.
South Haven, Michigan
On the eastern shore of Lake Michigan rests the bustling hamlet of South Haven. The lake itself is ideal for kayaking and paddling in the summer. It's also famous for its lighthouses and stunning sunsets. In the colder months, enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. If you love history, visit the Michigan Maritime Museum, where you can learn about the region's fishing and military significance. Shoppers can stroll through downtown South Haven and visit charming shops like The Blueberry Store and Country House Furniture. Foodies will appreciate local delights at the Harbor Light Brewery, 12 Corners Vineyards, and Cafe Julia. And, if you are bringing children along, don't forget to visit spots like the fun and colorful Kid's Corner Playground or the lakeside Splashpad.
Staying for the weekend means checking into one of South Haven's charming accommodations, including The Inn at the Park, which offers Victorian decor and a garden bistro. You can also find hotels with familiar names like The Country Inn & Suites by Radisson and The Hampton Inn. The Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport is only about an hour's drive from South Haven, so those visiting from the coastal states can enjoy a relatively easy journey.
Marblehead, Ohio
Marblehead graces a northern Ohio peninsula that divides Lake Erie from the Sandusky Bay. It is home to the oldest operating lighthouse in the Great Lakes. You can climb the lighthouse tower, visit the keeper's station, or learn about the landmark's history at the History of the Marblehead Lighthouse Historical Society. Or spend the afternoon picnicking, biking, and enjoying the splendid views from the lighthouse's expansive lawn.
If you want to venture further, fishing, swimming, birdwatching, and boat tours are popular at East Harbor State Park. When you are ready to take it rest, spots like The Captain's Lodge offer modest accommodations, and down-home joints like Big Bopper's will keep your belly full.
Traverse City, Michigan
Located on the Grand Traverse Bay of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is known for its fine wine and outdoor play. Unlike many other Great Lake destinations, Traverse City has its own airport, and you can find non-stop flights from many major cities. Stay at the modern Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, where you will appreciate a full-service spa, two pools, and The Den Entertainment Center with an arcade, axe-throwing, virtual reality, and more. Golf and an on-site gallery of shops are also sure to keep everyone in your family happy.
Bike, beer, or wine tours are popular in the region and are especially helpful if you have never visited before and want to get a nice overview. Waterparks like the Great Wolf Lodge and attractions like Rainbow Valley Family Farms are wonderful destinations if you are bringing the family. Moreover, downtown Traverse City is a shopper's paradise with charming food shops like Cherry Republic and lake-style-influenced boutiques like Ella's.
Winthrop Harbor, Illinois
Located on the sparkling shores of Lake Michigan and a suburb of Chicago, Winthrop Harbor is known for its North Point Marina, the largest marina in the Great Lakes. Here you will find boats for rent or charter, a ship store, and a heated, kid-friendly pool where day passes are available. It's also home to delightful restaurants like The Tropics, with splendid views, and Harbor Brewing, with its handcrafted ales and lagers. Live lakefront music is also on tap in the warmer months. The nearby Inn on Sheridan is located just up the road in Zion, and it offers comfortable rooms, two firepits, and a fitness center.
Holland, Michigan
Holland is a Lake Michigan town known for the Tulip Time Festival, which takes place every May and offers a carnival, entertainment, and fireworks. Millions of tulips bloom in the city's parks and downtown areas. If you are visiting in October, don't miss the Fall Fest, when the community plants the tulips and an Artisan market lines the streets with vendors and crafters. Families will love visiting Nelis' Dutch Village, which has Dutch dancing, shoe carvings, rides, and farm animals. If you are visiting in the warmer months, check out the swimming at the Holland State Park Beach and the Big Red Lighthouse, which is over 100 years old. Or learn about the area's Dutch heritage by visiting The Holland Museum or the Cappon House Museum.
For a place to stay, the White Pines Inn & Suites has family suites, free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and a pool. You can also enjoy familiar hotel names like the Staybridge Suites or the Hilton Home2 Suites. When hungry, stop for an affordable waterfront meal at Boatwerks or relax downtown at Seventy-Six. This neighborhood also has adorable shops like Glik's Boutique and Big Fish Sportwear.
Grand Marais, Minnesota
Located on Lake Superior's North Shore, Grand Marais is known for its artsy vibe. Stroll through downtown and visit gems like The Sivertson Gallery, with its glorious paintings and seascapes, or the North House Folk School, where you can take basket weaving or fiber arts classes. Events like the Northern Landscapes Festival and the Radio Waves Music Festival make this a popular destination for creators and collectors each year.
To maximize your Great Lakes experience, try staying at resorts like Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior, which offers water views, pools, hot tubs, and recreational activities. Or enjoy a Little House on the Prarie-like experience at the Hungry Hippie Hostel, Farm, and Tacos. Outdoor adventurers can also hike and explore the waterfalls at Grand Portage State Park, less than 40 minutes away.
If your ideal vacation includes sparkling lakes, soaring mountains, fanciful shopping, and delectable food, you have got to check out the colors and charm of the Great Lakes. Many small towns here offer a surprising level of amenities and activities that will fill up a three-day weekend and could leave you wishing to extend your stay! Before visiting in 2024, research transportation, accommodations, and weather to make sure you find the perfect lake getaway for you.
