The best Midwest lake vacations offer every traveler’s dream of the refreshing breeze, magnificent views, and exciting water activities.
The Midwest is an exciting vacation destination with a lot to offer. A lake vacation in the Midwest is special because of the many different types of lakes you can find.
You have your pick of the Great Lakes – Superior, Huron, Michigan, and Erie – as well as thousands of smaller inland lakes. And each one has its unique charisma that makes every visitor want to come back.
The best way to enjoy a Midwest lake vacation is to take advantage of the many available activities and find a cozy place to stay a night or two.
For your best Midwest lake vacation, we have listed the top Midwest places that are loved by tourists and guaranteed to deliver an extraordinary lake getaway.
20. Grand Marais, Minnesota
Grand Marais is one of the best Midwest lake vacations spots and is a lovely small town in Minnesota that sits in the delightful freshwater Lake Superior. This harbor village not only spoils every visitor with breathtaking lake views but also offers scenic views of the Superior National Forest.
The best things to do in this Midwest town include going to Artist’s Point to catch magnificent views of the lake, visiting the picturesque Grand Marai Lighthouse, and hiking the miles of the Pincushion Mountain Trail System.
For food, make sure to have a taste of the local fish and you might even get to try dishes at restaurants that are only opened seasonally like Angry Trout Café and The Fisherman’s Daughte.
And of course, drop by the World’s Best Donuts to get yourself a treat from a 51-year-old donut house.
Top Accommodations in Grand Marais, Minnesota
The following are the top accommodations in Grand Marais:
Harbor Inn
Harbor Inn is a hotel by the lake with a fantastic location and offers fishing activities. This place has clean rooms with refrigerators, comfortable beddings, and free wi-fi.
The Shoreline Inn
The Shoreline Inn is another hotel by the lake that offers free continental breakfast, comfortable rooms, and access to an indoor pool.
19. Sylvan Lake, South Dakota
Sylvan Lake in South Dakota is one of the best lake vacations choice for your lakes in the Midwest getaway. This beautiful glacial lake is a perfect place to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing vacation.
The things to do in Sylvan Lake revolve around the great outdoors because of its location in Custer State Park. Custer State Park is one of the most interesting state parks in the US as you will see free-ranging bison herds in this park.
This means families can go hiking, biking, or horseback riding on the miles of trails in the area. You can also explore the caves and rock formations in the area.
Of course, bring your waterproof backpack as you can also just enjoy the views and go fishing, swimming, or kayaking in the lake. And don’t forget to have your camera ready to take a picture of the magnificent sunsets.
Local food options are limited but you can find a few restaurants like the Sylvan Lake Lodge Dining Room and the Custer State Park Visitor Center.
Top Accommodations in Sylvan Lake, South Dakota
The following are the top accommodations for your lake vacation in Sylvan Lake:
Bavarian Inn Black Hills
Bavarian Inn Black Hills is a 3.5-star hotel with a terrace, garden, an indoor and outdoor pool, premium bedding, and designer toiletries.
Lodge at Palmer Gulch
Lodge at Palmer Gulch is a hotel located near Mount Rushmore National Memorial with free continental breakfast, sauna, and hot tub. You can also enjoy on-site activities like basketball, fishing, and volleyball.
18. Saugatuck, Michigan
Saugatuck, Michigan is a wonderful city in the Midwest with Oval Beach as one of the best beaches in the Midwest. Oval Beach has miles of shoreline of Lake Michigan with majestic dunes view.
You can also experience riding on a hand-crank ferry in the Kalamazoo River or have a thrilling Saugatuck dunes ride. There are tons of other fun things to do in Saugatuck as well.
If you’re feeling adventurous, visit Mount Baldhead and Climb the 282-step stairs.
When it comes to dining, Bowdie’s Chophouse with premium steaks and Marro’s with Italian cuisine are the top places for a food trip.
Nothing ends the day better than a sip of wine at the Fenn Valley Vineyards.
Top Accommodation in Saugatuck, Michigan
Here is a special place to consider for your stay in Saugatuck, Michigan:
Old Pike Cottages
Old Pike Cottages offer a guesthouse on the waterfront. This 3.5-star accommodation has a firepit, with heated floors, air conditioning, furnished balconies, and 50-inch TV.
17. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Lake Geneva Wisconsin is one of the places in the Midwest that offers the most remarkable lake vacations all year round for families, couples, and groups. Geneva Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Midwest and will mesmerize every visitor type.
This place is popular among tourists because it has a lot to offer. The activities here include shopping, golf, spas, cruises, and charter fishing.
During winter, you can go ice-skating on the lake or enjoy the snow by going skiing in one of the nearby ski resorts.
And of course, you can’t miss the chance to take a picture in front of the iconic Geneva Lake Shore Path.
When it comes to food, you can find a lot of great restaurants like Popeye’s on the lake, The Boathouse, and Pier 290.
Top Accommodations in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Here are the first-rate places to stay in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.
Lake Lawn Resort
Lake Lawn Resort is a lakefront, 3.5-star resort with an impressive marina, 18 holes golf course, an onsite Spa called Calladora Spa, three restaurants, and a gym. Each room has premium bedding, laptop-compatible safes, and furnished balconies. This resort offers motor boat rentals, kayaking, and water skiing adventures.
Harbor Shores on Lake Geneva
Harbor Shores on Lake Geneva is a family-friendly 3.5-star hotel with a playground, a sauna, a business center, a gym, and an onsite restaurant. All rooms have premium beddings and fireplaces.
16. Devils Lake and State Park, Wisconsin
The Devils Lake and State Park in Wisconsin is one of the most amazing state parks to visit in the Midwest for one of your lake vacations. There are a lot of activities that you can do in the park.
You can go on a fishing adventure in the lake where healthy brown trout, Northern pike, and walleye. Of course, exciting lake adventures on a canoe, kayak, or boat await every visitor.
You can go hiking on one of the different trails that make up the 29 miles of park trails.
The most loved trails are the Tumbled Rocks Trail and the East Bluff Trail.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can even go mountain climbing or bouldering.
Among the best restaurants to have your fill of delicious food near the park are Green Acres Restaurant, The Gym Bar and Grill, ice cream shop Culvers, and Riviera Bowl.
Top Accommodation in Devils Lake and State Park, Wisconsin
You can stay at the following awesome accommodation during your lake holiday in Devils Lake and State Park, Wisconsin:
Sunlac Inn Devils Lake
The Sunlac Inn at Devils Lake is a beautiful accommodation with a garden, a library, and a business center. All rooms have cozy beds, refrigerators, and coffee and tea makers.
15. Murphysboro, Illinois
Murphysboro, Illinois offers one of the best lake holidays for families in the Midwest as it is home to Lake Murphysboro State Park.
Lake Murphysboro, as one of the best lakes in the Midwest, is an excellent place to enjoy the outdoors with your family and friends. The activities that you can do here include camping, picnicking, fishing, swimming, bird watching, and hiking.
One of the trails that you should try is the 1.5-mile-long Lakeview Trail. This trail will give you miles of stunning views of the lake.
There are also a lot of places where you can have a good time and eat great food like Mi Patio Mexican Grill, 17th Street, and Quatro’s Deep Pan Pizza.
Top Accommodation in Murphysboro, Illinois
When visiting Murphysboro, Illinois the following hotel is a great place to stay:
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Murphysboro – Carbondale, an IHG Hotel
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Murphysboro has an indoor pool, a gift shop, and a free self-serve breakfast. The rooms have free wifi with mini-fridges, safes, and comfortable beds.
14. Lake Mille Lacs, Minnesota
Searching for the best vacation lakes, Lake Mille Lacs should be on your top list for lake holidays. As one of the great lakes in the Midwest, Lake Mille Lacs offers fantastic water-related activities for families to enjoy.
Things to do related to lake adventures include guided fishing trips, group fishing, boating, kayaking, and canoeing.
Apply sunscreen as you can also go for a hike, take an ATV ride, go on a birdwatching activity, play golf, or just soak under the warm sun together with your family on the beach. The best beaches are Father Hennepin State Park, the West Shore, and the South Shore.
You can also pamper yourself by visiting the Massage on Mille Lacs and getting a relaxing massage or body treatments.
Never miss visiting some of the best food places which include Izaty’s Resort, Bayview Bar & Grill, and Cedarwood Family Restaurant.
Top Accommodations in Lake Mille Lacs, Minnesota
Here are the best stays in Lake Mille Lacs, Minnesota:
Grand Casino Mille Lacs
Grand Casino Mille Lacs is a 3-star hotel and as the name suggests has a casino for entertainment. There is an indoor pool, a coffee shop, three onsite restaurants, and a grocery store.
Peaceful Wooded Getaway-Near Mille Lacs
Peaceful Wooded Getaway-Near Mille Lacs is perfect for families as you will have the entire home to yourself surrounded by the peaceful woods with access to West of Lake Mille Lacs where you can rent a boat or go on a fishing adventure.
13. Charlevoix, Michigan
Charlevoix, Michigan also has Lake Charlevoix one of the best lakes in the Midwest, and offers a perfect getaway for lake vacations.
Families, couples, and groups of friends can enjoy water-related activities like motor boating, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Charlevoix also has lovely beaches in both Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan so make sure to spend time enjoying a stroll or a good swim on the beach.
The other activities that you can do here are, visit the Castle Farms, go on a hike or bike ride on miles of the North Park Loop Trail, enjoy the beautiful flowers in the Charlevoix Circle of Gardens, and go on a Mushroom House Tour.
Make sure to eat a hearty meal at the best restaurants in Charlevoix including Terry’s Place, Scovie’s Gourmet, and Smoke on the Water.
Top Accommodation in Charlevoix, Michigan
Staying at the following delightful accommodation will step up your stay in Charlevoix, Michigan:
Charlevoix Inn & Suites SureStay Collection by Best Western
Charlevoix Inn & Suites SureStay Collection by Best Western has a 9-hole golf course, an indoor pool, a limo service, and a free continental breakfast. All guestrooms have pillowtop mattresses, air conditioning, and mini-fridges.
12. Duluth, Minnesota
Duluth Minnesota has some of the best lakes to vacation. This place is home to several best lakes in the Midwest which include Lake Superior, Alden Lake, and Wild Rice Lake Reservoir.
You have a lovely walk at the Lakewalk on the shores of Lake Superior, visit Two Harbors Lighthouse and Split Rock Lighthouse for breathtaking sceneries not just on the sites but also along the way.
You can also drop by a family-friendly tourist destination, the Lake Superior Zoo & Zoological Society to get a glimpse of over 140 animal species. You can also extend your visit to Great Lakes Aquarium where you will be fascinated by different sea creatures.
Lake Superior Railroad Museum is another popular tourist spot in the area. You can even experience a vintage train ride during summer or fall where that passes by the shoreline of Lake Superior.
The top-rated restaurants for delectable dishes during your trip are Duluth Grill, OMC Smokehouse, and Va Bene.
Top Accommodations in Duluth, Minnesota
Looking for the best lake vacations, Midwest also offers great places to stay in Duluth Minnesota as follows:
Lift Bridge Lodge, Ascend Hotel Collection
Lift Bridge Lodge is a 3-star hotel near amazing places like Lake Superior Maritime Museum, Duluth’s Aerial Lift Bridge, and Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. This fantastic lodge has an indoor pool, rooms with premium beddings, a free breakfast buffet, a garden, and a terrace.
Fitger’s Inn
Fitger’s Inn is a 4-star hotel with spa services, a nightclub, and a coffee shop. All rooms are air-conditioned with safe, refrigerator, and premium cable channels. The location of this hotel is at the center of the town making it a walking distance of fantastic places like Leif Erickson Park and Rose Garden, S.S. William A. Irvin Ore Boat Museum, and North Shore Scenic Railroad.
11. Chesterton, Indiana
Finding the best lakes in the Midwest, Chesterton Indiana should be a top choice for you. This place is home to the gorgeous Lake Michigan where you can go fishing, surfing, and sailing.
There are also many lighthouses in this area which makes it a perfect place for photographers. Make sure to visit the Washington Park Beach, Dunewood Campground, and Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore.
In case you want to explore more, you can visit the old-school town’s farmers’ market, art galleries, and antique shops. You may also want to play golf at one of the courses in the area or enjoy a glass of wine at one of the vineyards.
Don’t forget to eat at the top-rated restaurants: including Octave Grill, Wagner’s Ribs, and Ivy’s Bohemia House.
Top Accommodations in Chesterton, Indiana
The following are the best places that will make your stay in Chesterton, Indiana memorable:
Comfort Inn & Suites Porter near Indiana Dunes
Comfort Inn & Suites Porter has an indoor pool, a hot tub, and a 24-hour business center. The rooms are spacious enough to fit all your luggage with comfortable beds and air conditioning.
Baymont by Wyndham Portage Indiana Dunes
Baymont by Wyndham Portage has a gym, a restaurant, a 24-hour business center, and free breakfast for guests. This place is also near delightful beaches which include Ogden Dunes Beach, West Beach, and Portage Lakefront Beach.
10. Pella, Iowa
Pella Iowa is a wonderful city where you will get to experience activities in one of the largest Midwest lakes, Lake Red Rock.
As one of the best lakes in the Midwest, there are several water-related activities you can do in Lake Red Rock. You can go boating by boat rentals, paddle boarding, fishing, hiking, and camping within the magnificent lake. If you would like to have more activities, on the sides of Red Rock Lake are the Elk Rock State Park which is one of the top state parks for waterskiing and Whitebreast recreation area.
There’s also the Red Rock Water Trail where you can float the miles from the Des Moine River to the Red Rock Lake Dam.
There are more things to do in Pella City. If you want to know more about the history of Pella, you can go to Pella Historical Village and Vermeer Mill, visit Vermeer Mills to see the tallest working windmills.
The Pella Opera House and De Roos Axe Throwing are also great for entertainment and recreation.
For food in Pella City, make sure to visit the best places in town including George’s Pizza and Steakhouse, El Charro Mexican Grill, and Liberty Street Kitchen. Getting drinks at The Cellar Peanut Pub- Pella will also be a rewarding experience in this city.
Top Accommodations in Pella, Iowa
Here are the most fantastic places where you can spend a night or two during your vacation in Pella Iowa:
Baymont by Wyndham Pella
This hotel is located in the business center near shopping centers. The place has free cooked-to-order breakfast, an indoor pool, a hot tub, a health club, and a 24-hour business center. All rooms have all the necessary amenities for comfort like air conditioning, safes, pillowtop mattresses, and refrigerators.
AmericInn by Wyndham Pella
AmericInn by Wyndham Pella offers a relaxing stay with amazing property amenities like a fireplace in the lobby, a bar, an indoor pool, a hot tub, and a 24-hour business center. All rooms are spacious and with all the necessary amenities for comfort.
9. Sandusky, Ohio
Sandusky Ohio has the majestic Lake Erie, the best lake for a family-friendly vacation and weekend getaway. There are several exciting water-related activities that you can do on Lake Erie.
You can go kayaking, rent a speed boat, experience water skiing, and take a dinner cruise. You can also go to Port Erie Bicentennial Tower where you will get the best views of Lake Erie.
Aside from Lake Erie, this Sandusky city has a lot to offer its visitors. The Kalahari Resort, the largest indoor waterpark in the United States, is one of the places you shouldn’t miss when in Sandusky. The Cedar Point amusement park is also a must-visit as it has a world-class roller coaster that will surely give you an adrenaline rush.
For families with history lovers, the Maritime Museum of Sandusky is also a great place to visit. The museum showcases different maritime artifacts and even has a replica of the U.S. Brig Niagara.
If you love shopping, Cedar Point Commons is the best place for you as it has a lot of retail shops and restaurants. You can also go to the Sandusky Mall, which is the biggest shopping mall in the city.
And of course, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to try the food in Sandusky. There are a lot of great restaurants in the city that offer different cuisines. You can go to Berardi’s Family Kitchen, The Brick Oven Bistro, and Danny Boy’s Italian Eatery
Top Accommodations in Sandusky, Ohio
Here are the best accommodations in Sandusky, Ohio:
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sandusky, an IHG Hotel
Holiday Inn Express & Suites has a golf course on-site, a free breakfast buffet, an indoor pool, and a gym. The rooms have comfortable beds with air conditioning and laptop-friendly workspaces.
Cedar Stables Inn and Suites
Cedar Stables Inn and Suites has an on-site bar and a restaurant. The rooms have air conditioning, heating, and 55-inc plasma TVs.
8. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
Lake of the Ozarks is another top destination in the Midwest if you mention lake vacations. This destination offers different kinds of water-related activities that couples, families, and groups of friends will love.
You can take advantage of the available boat rentals to see the beauty of the lake, go water skiing, tubing, and paddle boarding. You also would not want to miss out on fishing in the Lake of Ozarks as the water is teeming with a variety of fish species like catfish, walleye, bluegill, and crappie.
There’s also the Lake of the Ozarks State Park which offers one of the best state parks campground spots. Visiting a golf course to play a good game while basking in the beautiful Ozark landscapes is also another worthwhile activity in the area.
You can also visit the Bagnell Dam which is an engineering marvel, the Bridal cave with magical stalactites and stalagmites, the Ha Ha Tonka State Park with lovely woodland attractions, and visiting The Historic Willmore Lodge at Lake of the Ozarks.
Make sure to get yourself some good food while you are visiting the Lake of the Ozarks by going to great food places like Sweet Smoke Bbq- Osage Beach, JB Hook’s, and Tucker’s Shuckers.
Top Accommodations in Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
Here are some of the best accommodations in the Lake of the Ozarks:
Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake of the Ozarks
Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake of the Ozarks is a 3-star, family-friendly resort with a golf course, a marina, 3 outdoor swimming pools, an on-site spa, and 5 on-site restaurants. The rooms feature cozy beds with separate sitting areas and 55-inch plasma TVs.
Lake Breeze Resort & Terrace
Lake Breeze Resort & Terrace is a fantastic place for families that features 14-individually decorated cabins, a picnic area, and a barbeque grill. There is also a seasonal outdoor pool and a playground.
7. Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City Michigan is a special city for lake vacations. This place is the perfect spot to experience Lake Michigan as it is known for its clear blue waters and lovely beaches.
There are also many water-related recreational activities in Lake Michigan like swimming, kayaking, boating, fishing, and hiking.
The city also features the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore with miles of shoreline which offers a fantastic view of the dunes and forests. There are also miles of trails in the area that are perfect for hiking and biking.
The Traverse City State Park is another great spot for families with a variety of activities to do like swimming, fishing, and camping. You can also visit the Mission Point Lighthouse which is a beautiful landmark in the city.
Make sure to try out the delicious food in Traverse City in food places including Reflect Bistro Inside Cambria Suites Hotel, The Filling Station, and Grand Traverse Pie Company.
Top Accommodation in Traverse City, Michigan
The following are the best places to stay in Traverse City:
Grand Beach Resort Hotel
Grand Beach Resort Hotel has a waterfront location on a private beach with fantastic property amenities including an indoor pool, a terrace, an arcade room, a hot tub, a gym, and a motorized watercraft. The rooms have premium bedding, air conditioning, and eco-friendly bathrooms.
Bayshore Resort
Bayshore Resort is a 3-star hotel with a terrace, a garden, a fireplace in the lobby, an indoor pool, and a hot tub. All rooms have air conditioning with refrigerators, daily housekeeping, and flat-screen TVs with premium channels.
6. Okoboji, Iowa
Okoboji Iowa is a small city on the famous shores of West Okoboji Lake with vintage-style attractions, natural sceneries, delicious food, and an amusement park. West Okoboji Lake is a famous year-round vacation destination that offers outdoor recreation that families will love.
The miles of the shoreline of West Okoboji Lake has good spots where you can marvel at the majestic view of the lake.
There are plenty of water-related activities to do on the lake including boat rentals, swimming, sailing, fishing, and water skiing. Make sure to have time for some fishing activities as West Okoboji Lake has different species of fish in abundance.
Other activities that will make your lake vacation memorable include visiting the Pearson Lakes Art Center, enjoying the warmth of the sun on one of the beaches of Pikes Point State Park, taking a tour at the Dickinson County Nature Center, and hopping on a boat and enjoy a good cruise at the lake.
The best restaurants to eat your fill of delicious foods include Okoboji Store, Minervas Restaurant & Bar, and O’Farrell Sisters.
Top Accommodations in Okoboji, Iowa
The following are excellent accommodations of choice in Okoboji, Iowa:
The Inn Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection
This 3.5-star hotel has a seasonal outdoor pool, a poolside bar, a library, a fire pit, and a terrace. Each room has hypoallergenic, designer toiletries, and a 50-inch flat-screen TV.
Okoboji Inn & Suites
This accommodation is located near West Okoboji Lake with a free breakfast buffet, a terrace, a firepit, a gym, and laundry facilities. Each room has premium bedding which brings utmost comfort with a refrigerator and a microwave.
5. Branson, Missouri
Branson Missouri has Table Rock Lake which is the best lake for a family vacation. The lake is perfect for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
You can take a boat ride to the nearby islands or have a picnic on one of the many sandy beaches. The waters in miles of the lake shoreline are calm and clear making it perfect for swimming and relaxing.
There are many things to do in Branson Missouri including visiting Silver Dollar City which is an old-fashioned theme park with rides, shows, and shops.
Another great activity is taking a ride on the Branson Scenic Railway which is a historic train that takes you through the Ozark Mountains. You can also visit the Titanic Museum which is a replica of a famous ship.
For some delicious food, make sure to eat at The Keeter Center-Dining, Rocco’s NY Style Pizza by Mama D’s House, and Pickin Porch Grill.
Top Accommodation in Table Rock Lake Branson, Missouri
Here is a great by-the-lake accommodation for your stay in Branson Missouri:
The Lodges at Table Rock Lake by Capital Vacations
The Lodges at Table Rock Lake offers an entire condo for families, couples, or groups of friends. There is an outdoor pool, a fitness center, a kitchen with a stovetop, and a plasma TV with cable channels.
4. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
Looking for the best family lake vacations, Midwest has the wonderful Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota to visit. The pristine lakes in the park offer breathtaking views and even a chance to see the magical northern lights during a clear night.
You can go fishing on the lovely lake to get yourself some freshwater fish for lunch or dinner.
You can also visit the Ellsworth Rock Garden via boat ride through Lake Kabegotama. You can also take a tour of the Grassy Bay Cliffs or follow the half-a-mile scenic Gold Portage trail to see wildlife like moose, bears, and foxes.
Another place that is most visited in Voyageurs National Park is the Kettle Falls which is only accessible by water.
Go to Anderson Bay Overlook which is a favorite spot for families with magnificent water landscapes from a picnic area with a barbeque grill and a dock.
You can also visit nearby restaurants that offer first-rate dishes including Snuffy’s Drive-In, Chocolate Moose Restaurant Company, and Voyageur Restaurant.
Top Accommodation in Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
The following is a brilliant place to stay near Voyageurs National Park:
Cantilever Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
This 3-star hotel has a rooftop terrace, a coffee shop, a sauna, a hot tub, a fireplace in the lobby, and an on-site restaurant. The rooms have premium bedding, designer toiletries, and 50-inch flat-screen TVs.
3. Detroit Lakes, Minnesota
Detroit Lakes Minnesota is another one of the best family vacation lakes in the Midwest. This place is known as the Beach Capital of Minnesota with beautiful, miles of shoreline sandy beaches and refreshing waters.
There are a lot of water-related recreational activities in Detroit Lakes such as swimming, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and picnicking.
You can also visit the Itasca State Park which is the oldest state park in Minnesota. The park is 32,000 acres with lovely mile-long hiking trails and a great place to see wildlife.
You can also explore the possibilities of stargazing at the Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge which is a popular spot for bird watching.
If you’re looking to do some shopping, head on over to Detroit Lakes Shopping Center or visit one of the many antique shops in town.
And for a bite to eat, make sure to stop by one of these top-notch restaurants including Zorbaz, Brygge Taps & Taste, and The Fireside.
Top Accommodations in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota
The following are the top places to stay in Detroit Lakes Minnesota:
Best Western Premier The Lodge on Lake Detroit
This 3.5-star hotel is on a private beach with a marina, a garden, an on-site spa, an indoor pool, and a free buffet breakfast. The rooms have premium beddings with down comforters, daily housekeeping, and designer toiletries.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Detroit Lakes
This hotel is located in the business district with 4 beach bars, an indoor pool, a grocery store, and a 24-hour gym. All rooms offer comfortable sleep with air conditioning, soft beds, and 46-inch Smart TVs.
2. Kangaroo Lake in Door County, Wisconsin
Kangaroo Lake in Door County is one of the best lakes in Wisconsin for a weekend getaway. The 10-mile perimeter of the lake offers fantastic activities to enjoy.
You can go on a fishing adventure and get a chance to catch a walleye, a smallmouth bass, or bluegill.
Looking for more water-related activities, you can rent our paddleboards, kayak, or canoes. You can also go on a tubing, windsurfing, or water skiing adventure.
If you like to spend time in nature, try birdwatching or hiking around the lake. The abundant flora and fauna around the lake will make your trip worthwhile.
Your vacation becomes better with great food. So, visit nearby restaurants that serve delicious food including Coyote Roadhouse, Chives Coor County, and Island Fever Rum Bar & Grill.
Top Accommodations in Kangaroo Lake in Door County, Wisconsin
Kangaroo Lake in Door County is one of the best Lakes in Wisconsin to rent a cabin but you can also stay at the following excellent places:
Beachfront Inn
Beachfront Inn is a motel by the lake that has fantastic property amenities including an outdoor pool with sun loungers, a garden, a terrace, barbeque grills, and a gift shop. The rooms have modern amenities with premium beddings.
Square Rigger Harbor Motel
This is another hotel on the waterfront with a library, picnic area with barbeque grills, and daily housekeeping. The rooms have climate-controlled air conditioning with separate sitting areas and flat-screen TVs.
1. Lake Michigan in South Haven, Michigan
Lake Michigan in South Haven Michigan offers one of the best Midwest lake vacations with miles of shoreline of white sandy beaches and plenty of outdoor activities.
You can go on swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and boating in the lovely lake. You can also just take walks on the shoreline and admire the scenery.
Aside from Lake Michigan, the town of South Haven has a lot more to offer to visitors. You can explore the local wineries, go on a hot air balloon ride, or just stroll around the quaint town.
You can also go to Phoenix Street to shop, explore the picturesque South Haven Lighthouse, visit the Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum and Gardens, and go hiking at the Van Buren State Park.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try racing at the Gingerman Raceway and if your trip is in August, you can even join in the National Blueberry Festival.
Don’t forget to try the local food as well. Some of the best restaurants in town include Taste, Clementines, and Maria’s.
Top Accommodations in Lake Michigan in South Haven, Michigan
Here are the top places to consider during your visit to Lake Michigan in South Haven:
Yelton Manor Bed & Breakfast
This 3-star bed and breakfast accommodation has a garden, a library, and a terrace. The rooms are spacious with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi.
Holiday Inn Express South Haven, an IHG Hotel
This hotel has an indoor pool, a grocery store, and a fire pit. There’s even free breakfast and the rooms have heating and air conditioning with 50-inch TVs.
There you go, all the best Midwest lake vacations perfect for your summer getaway. You might also want to visit the best Midwest cities near the area. So, what are you waiting for? Start packing your bags now!
