Twelve Michigan Bed and Breakfasts you need to try- updated March 2024

This original blog was written over five years ago and featured some new inns that had just joined the Michigan Bed and Breakfast Association. We are updating this post to feature the inns that are still members and to add our twelve new members who have recently joined or changed ownership.   Why single out these particular 12 new Michigan Bed and Breakfasts and seven original ones you need to try? After all, the Michigan Bed and Breakfast Association has 60 member inns across Michigan, each of them periodically inspected and quality-assured. We love to feature our MBBA inns, especially the newer ones, so you can see the wide assortment of lodging choices you have when choosing  quality-assured Michigan Bed and Breakfasts. Follow along and decide which Michigan Bed and Breakfast is the perfect one for you.

Twelve New Michigan Bed and Breakfasts

Fountain at Villa on Verona surrounded by flowers and gree lawn and the villa in the background
Villa On Verona Boutique Hotel

Villa on Verona

Nestled in the heart of Marshall, Michigan, the Villa on Verona Boutique Hotel invites you to step away from the ordinary and immerse yourself in a world of timeless charm. This historic Italianate-style mansion exudes elegance and warmth. As you approach, the expansive stone front porch beckons—a place where stories unfold over morning coffee and sunsets. Inside, the grandeur of chandeliers, marble, and wood floors awaits. Feel the warmth of the fireplaces and the embrace of history. Choose from five uniquely themed guest rooms, each a sanctuary of comfort and style. With 12-foot ceilings and abundant natural light, these rooms blend modern amenities with historic decor. The Villa has a resort like atmoshere with beautiful gardens, an outdoor pool and hot tub, tennis court and bubbling fountains.

This review on Google highlights the Villa’s grandeur-“Wow! We absolutely loved our stay at this beautiful historic Bed and Breakfast. You truly feel like you are staying in a Villa in Italy with the beautiful and enchanting Italian themed decor throughout the house. The location is the perfect distance from the town of Marshall. The pictures online also do not do justice to the true beauty of the Villas. We will definitely be back!”

Log cabin beach front inn with porch
The Sweetwater Sea B&B

The Sweetwater Sea Bed and Breakfast

Experience Northeast Michigan’s beauty while staying at Pure Michigan’s newest boutique inn- the Sweetwater Sea Bed and Breakfast. The inn was purpose-built for your comfort while enjoying warm hospitality, homemade breakfasts, and the beautiful vistas of Lake Huron. Imagine enjoying that first cup of coffee with spectacular views of Michigan’s sunrise coast from the comfort of your room or the fireside patio below.

Here is a recent review from Google- “We stayed at Sweetwater Sea Bed and Breakfast while visiting family over Christmas and could not have enjoyed it more. The ambience, excellent breakfasts and comfort are exemplary. The hosts treated us as family and ensured that we were more than comfortable. A beautiful setting on the shores of Lake Huron. Highly recommend this beautiful place.”

Front view of the grand Neo-classic mansion, the Cartier, located in Lexington
Cartier Mansion

The Cartier Mansion

Standing proudly in all its grandeur, the iconic Cartier Mansion epitomizes stunning neo-classic architecture and an era of elegance and grace. The sprawling historic mansion and the renovated carriage house combine historical elements with the most modern comforts, making it a premiere destination in Northern Michigan. Each Cartier Mansion guest room is wonderfully unique and luxurious, ranging from quaint, cozy spaces to multi-room suites with outdoor balconies. Each room features luxurious bedding and towels, private bathrooms with Beekman 1802 bath amenities, and individual climate control. The entire property has high-speed mesh WiFi, making for a perfect destination to combine business with pleasure.

Here is a review from Google that highlights how happy guests are staying at the Cartier Mansion- “Recommend to the fullest, this wonderful location was the cornerstone to our recent marriage engagement trip just after Thanksgiving. The mansion was likely the most intricate Christmas location I’ve ever been to, was beautifully decorated with tasteful seasonal music playing throughout. Was truly like having a Downton Abbey experience. Owners were kind, informative and prepared a delicious vegan meal for us in the morning. Location was perfect as well, literally a mild walk away from the main stream. Can’t recommend enough, especially for a holiday getaway.”

Red country farmhouse that is now the Frankenmuth Country B&B
Frankenmuth Country B&B

Frankenmuth Country Bed and Breakfast, Frankenmuth

Looking for a fun getaway that celebrates Christmas all year long? You can check out the lodging at this Best Michigan Bed and Breakfast- The Frankenmuth Country Bed and Breakfast, just five minutes north of downtown Frankenmuth in southwest Michigan. Whether your days are spent relaxing on the front porch, shopping in Frankenmuth, kayaking, enjoying an old-fashioned carriage ride, or spending a lazy afternoon on a riverboat, your stay at the Frankenmuth Country Inn is a special experience.

Here is a review highlighting how special MBBA innkeepers are and how much they care about the quality of your stay- “Alice and Jim are wonderful hosts. We loved the warm, cozy feel of their home. Our room was great. Very comfortable and spacious with great views of the surrounding countryside. Breakfast was truly a treat, including delicious baked goodies as well as home-cured bacon compliments of Jim. And we were able to enjoy playtime with Ruby, their fun-loving and friendly labradoodle. We had such a good time that we extended our stay an extra day. As much as we enjoyed everything that Frankenmuth has to offer, our stay in Alice and Jim’s home was the most memorable part of our trip.”

Garden Grove Inn Bed and Breakfast, Union Pier Michigan
Garde Grove B&B

Garden Grove Inn, Union Pier

For those who have not experienced “Harbor Country” in Southwest Michigan, you need to reserve your stay today and experience this beautiful part of Pure Michigan. It’s filled with beautiful beaches, farmland, wineries, breweries, and plenty of cultures, shopping, and outdoor recreation. The Garden Grove Inn is a 100-year-old farmhouse that is a peaceful enclave in the heart of this area, just an hour/under two hours from Chicago. This popular bed and breakfast destination was once a fruit farm and has long been recognized as a beautiful escape for guests to enjoy the magnificence of Lake Michigan and its sandy beach, rolling hills, beautiful forests, and sand dunes making for endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

The innkeeper at Garden Grove is warm, caring, and talented in the kitchen. Here is a recent guest review from Trip Advisor- “This is our favorite B&B in Michigan! The room was spacious and the fireplace was delightful. We enjoyed the jacuzzi tub and relaxing in the large room (we stayed in the Lavender Room in the Carriage House this time). Hillary’s hospitality is kind, warm, and attentive. Her breakfasts are homemade and delicious, especially the cinnamon cake! The location is perfectly nestled and close to New Buffalo with all the restaurants and the beach is just down the road. We enjoyed this winter weekend getaway! Highly recommend.”

Exterior of Glen Arbor Bed & Breakfast
Photo credit- Glen Arbor

Glen Arbor Bed and Breakfast, Glen Arbor

The Glen Arbor Bed and Breakfast and Cottages has a magnificent location in Glen Arbor, with easy access to the Leelanau Peninsula and the towering dunes in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake Shore. The inn has a laid-back atmosphere with warm hospitality and delicious homemade breakfasts. Sophisticated luxury can be found in the six unique rooms and two charming bed-and-kitchen cottages.

This bed and breakfast is a perfect home base if you are a cyclist as noted in this recent review- “As avid bicyclists, this B&B is perfectly located in Glen Arbor to access M-22 routes, Sleeping Bear, and the Leelanau Trails. Laura is a gracious host and her food is spectacular. A great way to start the day. We stayed in the Queen’s Room which was perfect for our 2-night stay. The large front porch with tables and chairs made it perfect to open a bottle of wine with some cheeses and dips and watch life pass by in downtown Glen Arbor.”

Front of the Jade Estate Inn- decorative white trim with green
Jade Estate

 

Jade Estate, Allegan

Charm meets grandeur at the romantic Jade Estate Inn, a home that has been stopping traffic on its corner of a quiet Allegan neighborhood since 1863. Go ahead and admire the tall doors, high ceilings, and rich details of a day gone by, but the owners want you to make yourselves comfortable in any of the bed and breakfasts’ six beautifully appointed rooms and the spacious common areas and gardens. If you are a history buff, check out this blog, Best Historic Inns in Michigan,  which highlights Jade Estate’s fascinating history. The inn’s perfect location allows you to enjoy a country lifestyle with easy access to the Art Coast of Michigan in Saugatuck, South Haven, and Holland.

A recent review highlighted the gorgeous architecture and hospitality- “We stayed in the Emerald Room for one night. The property is extraordinary, it was a rare experience to stay in a house of that caliber. We had a smooth contactless check-in experience and were the only couple staying in the house that night. The room had large windows and amazing high ceilings, as well as a one-person jacuzzi tub. The carpets were extremely soft, the bed was very comfortable, everything was extremely clean and tidy, and there were some homemade cookies and complimentary toiletries available to us. In the morning, we read on the porch swing before an amazing breakfast prepared by one of the lovely innkeepers Cathy of fruit, danishes, breakfast sausages, hash browns, and broccoli quiche. We walked around the quiet neighborhood and there were many other nice houses in the area too!”

Front of Newton of Ypsilanti
Newton of Ypsilanti

Newton of Ypsilanti Bed and Breakfast, Ypsilanti

Calling all foodies! This bed and breakfast is owned by a culinary chef who supports local artists and the farm-to-table movement. Guests enjoy luxurious rooms, artfully prepared breakfast, and a host that will keep you returning for her home-cooked fare that is both simple and fresh with deep flavors. Ypsilanti is also a neighbor to Ann Arbor if you wish to check out a football game or great shopping. Check out this previous blog that talks more innkeepers who are professional chefs.

This review perfectly describes the quality of Allison’s food and the comfort she shares with her guests- “This was such a charming BnB. I was visiting for work but left feeling like I was on vacation – rested and relaxed. The Barnard Suite had the comfiest bed in the world, beautiful bedding, and a sweet sun-soaked room with a chaise lounge – the perfect reading nook. Allison and Chuck were great hosts and Allison’s cooking is top-notch. Haven’t had such a good breakfast in years. Worth every penny, I can’t wait to stay again!”

Guest room at the PrairieSide Suites with a jacuzzi
Luxury Suites at the PrairieSide Suites

PrairieSide Suites Bed and Breakfast, Grandville

New owners are adding even more ambiance to this award-winning romantic bed and breakfast located in Grandville, just a short drive from Grand Rapids. Guests enjoy luxury and pampering in the large king suites, including romantic jacuzzis. Breakfast can be delivered to your door or enjoyed in the intimate dining room in the main house. The inn also includes a dedicated spa room for couples to enjoy romantic massages and an outdoor pool. Sometimes a Michigan Bed and Breakfast with a Jacuzzi will make your romantic getaway perfect!

This review shares just how romantic the Prairieside is- “When I booked a room I expected a typical B & B experience where you sit down with the other guests for breakfast and conversation. Prairieside is not that kind of place, but we were pleasantly surprised by the peace. No kids are running up and down the halls and no one bothers you. We were celebrating our 40th anniversary so on the first day after a lovely breakfast of quiche, potatoes, and fruit in our room we splurged on a relaxing couple’s message. Then in the afternoon, we headed to downtown Grand Rapids for museums and dinner. If you are looking for something special to do nearby I recommend visiting Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. After a day at the garden park we decided to relax and have a quiet dinner on “the veranda” at Prairieside (dinner is not available at the inn but you can order from a nearby restaurant). The grounds feature a beautiful garden area with a lovely swing, water fountain, and tables with umbrellas. There are also cookies and cake available in the coffee area inside if you desire a snack.”

Gazebo at the Rosemont Inn
Rosemont Inn

Rosemont Inn Bed and Breakfast, Douglas

This Michigan Bed and Breakfast on the Water is a hidden gem tucked away on a side street on Douglas and just a short drive to the Art Coast of Michigan’s Saugatuck. Guests enjoy stunning water views from Douglas Beach, just across the street! The Rosemont Inn is open year-round and is known for its welcoming hospitality and comfortable rooms. What sets this inn apart is its quiet coastal location in a sought-after area called the Art Coast of Michigan, where you will find some of the best food and culture in the region. Guests enjoy an outdoor pool and sauna area along with beautiful gardens.

This review describes what separates an MBBA inn from all other lodgings – “This was our first experience at a B&B and it was delightful. Rosemont Inn is in a quiet cottage neighborhood on the shores of Lake Michigan. The inn and beautiful grounds are well maintained, and with our late August stay, butterflies are everywhere. Extremely comfortable bed and amazing pillows. Breakfast was delicious every morning with dining options both inside in the sunny breakfast room and outside at umbrella tables by the pool and koi pond. The amazing front porch is just like returning to grandma’s house and has lots of comfortable seating. We look forward to another visit.”

Front view House on The Hill Bed and Breakfast showing Signage and beautiful porch and Gazebo.
House on the Hill B&B

The House on the Hill B&B

The House on the Hill is Northern Michigan’s premier bed and breakfast. Located in the quiet country village of Ellsworth in northwest Lower Michigan, only 15 minutes from picturesque Charlevoix and 45 minutes from Traverse City. Innkeeper Mallery Woodard has perfected the ideal traveler’s combination: elegant country lodging, a beautiful lake setting with the forested countryside, gourmet breakfasts sourced from their seat of agriculture location, and all centrally located to the quaint harbor towns of northern Michigan. Seven rooms have been luxuriously appointed with king beds and serene views of the lake and brook that runs through the property.

Vintage Inn at Veritas Estates Front Entrance in Spring, beautiful lighting
Vintage Inn at Veritas Estate

Vintage Inn at Veritas Estate, South Haven

The Vintage Inn is a five-bedroom bed and breakfast with boutique accommodations and farm-to-table dining in a renovated 1904 farmhouse. The 5-acre estate surrounding the Inn is home to Veritas Estate Winery and vineyard, extensive gardens, a chicken coop, and forest trails. Experience the inn’s upscale farm-fresh breakfasts and luxury amenities for well-deserved relaxation. The new innkeepers form a great duo as one is a chef and the other a sommelier.

Maybe this new inn in South Haven is perfect- “Our stay was perfect from beginning to end. Tim & Sherry were incredible hosts and made our anniversary trip memorable, fun & delicious! Both Tim and Sherry greeted us when we arrived and helped carry our bags to our room. As an experienced chef, Tim made everything from exquisite baked goods to homemade jams & syrup, homemade crackers, and excellent breakfasts both days of our stay.
Sherry is a sommelier and pointed us to some of the best wines around. She even helped us find a new go-to bottle of wine.
We also got great recommendations of what to do and see around town. Since it was our first time in the area, we loved having someone so knowledgeable to give us fun things to see!
My husband and I enjoyed great conversations with the hosts, exploring the beautiful grounds, comfortable and clean rooms, and delicious food. I could not recommend this Bed and Breakfast more and can’t wait to be back 🙂

New Members from Three Years Ago Still Going Strong

This seemed worth celebrating, so here we go, in alphabetical order, starting with Castle in the Country.

Click the links for more info about these outstanding Michigan B&Bs you need to try. Soon.

And please notice how different they all are. That’s part of the fun of choosing B&Bs over cookie-cutter lodging.

Side view of the Canfield House with Porch-grey shingled building with white trim
Canfield House B&B

Canfield House B&B

Known as the inn on two lakes, Canfield House Bed and Breakfast overlooks beautiful Portage Lake, which connects to Lake Michigan in Onekama, 45 miles southwest of Traverse City.  Guests enjoy breathtaking sunsets and water sports galore. Built-in 1900 as the summer home of lumber baron Charles Canfield, Canfield House Bed and Breakfast’s six guest rooms have been completely renovated while retaining the original charm. The new innkeepers are passionate about hospitality and provide farm-to-table breakfasts, that many guests say are the highlight of their day. Onekama is full of history as is the nearby town of Manistee with its historic riverwalk, shops, restaurants, and a turn-of-the-century theater. Little River Casino is seven miles from the Inn.

White Victorian Castle in the Country Bed and Breakfast
Castle in the Country Bed and Breakfast

Castle in the Country, Allegan

Luxury at its finest, this popular bed and breakfast destination in Southwest Michigan is romantic and relaxing. Castle in the Country is known for its romantic bed and breakfast Michigan guest rooms. Many rooms include romantic jacuzzi tubs, fireplaces, and an onsite spa. The inn’s ideal location sits on 65 acres in Allegan, Michigan, with easy access to the Art Coast of Michigan in Saugatuck, the fun town of Kalamazoo, the fun festivals in Holland, and the beach communities of Southwest Michigan. 

A couple celebrating their 45th anniversary had this to say about Castle in the Country “It has always been my dream to visit a B&B & stay in an old big home with so much character! We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to the Castle in the Country & staying in the gorgeous Kingdom suite room. The castle was so very clean, smelled wonderful & the friendly kind staff made you feel special!! We just marveled at all the beautiful wood & original details!! I just kept thinking as I was looking around this beautiful castle that had original door knobs, how many hands touched them & if the wall could talk….just to hear the stories & history!! The grounds & walking around in the woods with all they had to offer….Wow, If we could have given this amazing place higher than 5 stars, we totally would have. Thank You for such an amazing treat!!”

Tree branches form the headboard of a bed at Goldberry Woods, high on our list of Michigan B&Bs you need to try..
Tree branches form the headboard and canopy of a bed at Goldberry Woods B&B.

Goldberry Woods Bed and Breakfast, Union Pier

Staying at Goldberry Woods B&B will be a multi-sensory experience at any time of year. Depending on the season of your visit, you’ll hear birds chirping, leaves crunching under your feet, or experience the near-absence of sound after new-fallen snow. The bed in your sunlit room might have a canopy made of branches by an acclaimed Michigan artisan. Your breakfast is sure to include the tastes of foods grown or produced right there on Goldberry’s micro-farm. They even have their apiary. This 30-acre property features tall trees and a river you can paddle to Lake Michigan, only a mile away. Owner-innkeepers Julie and Eric Haberichter and their three daughters, who first came here on vacation in 2012 and never left, practice sustainable living to the extent possible. As a visitor, you’ll always discover ways in which Mother Nature is unfolding her next chapter.

Myer-Rosa Suite at Himelhoch B&B in Caro has a bathroom with a large heated-tile shower, double sinks and a chandelier. Located in the Thumb it’s among Michigan inns you need to try.
Myer-Rosa Suite at Himelhoch B&B in Caro features an impressive bathroom: a heated-tile shower with four shower heads, double sinks, and (unseen) a clawfoot tub for soaking.

Himelhoch Bed and Breakfast, Caro

One secret to a happy relationship: Take turns surprising each other with romantic getaways. A stay in the spacious Myer-Rosa Suite at Himelhoch B&B will be a wow and a revelation. Less than two hours by car from Detroit or Lansing, Caro is a great location for exploring  Frankenmuth, Bay City, Saginaw, Birch Run, and Midland. Owners Don and Melissa Hall take meticulous care of this Victorian gem and will tell you of its connection to a prominent family in Detroit’s retailing history.

A breakfast at Judson Heath Colonial Inn.
A breakfast entree at Judson Heath Colonial Inn. They call it Galette Complete a la Jenn, featuring dill Havarti and Black Forest ham topped by a farm-fresh egg and served with roasted potatoes and fruit.

Judson Heath Colonial Inn, Saugatuck

People in Saugatuck marvel at the massive restoration that led to the creation of Judson Heath Colonial Inn out of a dilapidated structure that started its life 50 miles away, in 1837, as a stagecoach stop. But Jenn Davenport and Steven Boyd, a builder, saw its potential and proved equal to the task. Now they welcome guests to their eight guest rooms and prepare au courant breakfasts on a 1920s stove that chefs envy. A recent guest wrote: “Probably the best bed and breakfast food I have ever had. Freshly smoked meat and fish integrated into the breakfast fare.”

Park your car and walk to Saugatuck shops and your choice of 17 eateries. Enjoy your favorite beverage on the porch. Or ask Jenn and Steve to direct you to their favorite dunes trail, which offers outstanding Lake Michigan vistas.

View of lighthouses in Grand Haven from the patio of Looking Glass B&B, a Michigan Bed and Breakfasts
Take your coffee out to the patio of Looking Glass B&B and watch the morning sun light up the Grand Haven pier.

Looking Glass Bed and Breakfast, Grand Haven

Our state’s dozens of lighthouses bring many travelers to Michigan. So do Lake Michigan’s sandy beaches and charming beach towns. An experience combining all three interests can be found during a stay at Looking Glass B&B in Grand Haven. Add the fact that shops and eateries are within walking distance and it’s clear why Looking Glass is among Michigan B&Bs you need to try.

Owners Brian and Sarah King understand the needs of families on vacation because they have a young family themselves. A reviewer from Farmington MI described the B&B as “very homey and inviting” and said her family of four “really appreciated the extra amenities that were available,” such as beach chairs, beach towels and a selection of DVDs and family games. “Meals were delicious and there were always snacks and beverages available for us.”

Pineapple upside-down pancakes served at Nordic Pineapple B&B, one of 12 Michigan B&Bs you need to try.
Pineapple upside-down pancakes as served at Nordic Pineapple B&B. In addition to being tasty, pineapples symbolize hospitality.

Nordic Pineapple Bed and Breakfast, St. Johns

Some St. Johns residents still talk about the devastating 1992 fire that almost destroyed the huge Civil War-era mansion that in 2018 became Nordic Pineapple Bed and Breakfast. But innkeepers Kjersten and Greg Offenbecker are replacing that memory with more pleasant ones. The couple donned their Nordic best to pass out candy to trick-or-treaters. They welcome prom kids to take photos with the house as a backdrop. And they make the inn’s large public spaces available for events.

Many guests who stay in one of the inn’s five rooms express a sentiment similar to Teresa D, who wrote this in a review: “So this is the kind of place where you’re driving through a cute neighborhood, trying to find your B&B, and you see this beautiful mansion, and you say, ‘Oh my goodness, could this be where I’m staying tonight?!’” Yes, it is. This interesting article about Nordic Pineapple B&B covers the impressions of first-time B&B goers, a flapdoodle about a flag, and how Scandinavia influences the menu.

A green Victorian home in Grand Rapids
The Parsonage Inn

The Parsonage Inn, Grand Rapids

If it’s called The Parsonage Inn, there must be parsons- two of ‘em. Deb and Steven Koster opened their bed and breakfast in Grand Rapids’ historic Heritage Hill neighborhood in 2017. Stroll to Wealthy Streets shops and restaurants — upscale pub food, Mexican, Eastern European meets Mediterranean… so many good choices. Avoid downtown Grand Rapids parking hassles by walking the mile to cultural and other attractions.

Like most B&B innkeepers, the Kosters continuously improved their hospitality and home, such as sidewalks and patio pavers in 2019 and adding two more guest bathrooms in early 2020. The most recent imporovements include opening the dining room walls to the living room to provide more redirect light for dining.

Steven is an experienced genealogist, so if you’re stuck in tracing your family’s history, stay at The Parsonage Inn, and ask Steven your questions.

Bettina’s Room at Washington Street Inn has a craftsman-style queen bed.
Bettina’s Room at Washington Street Inn works well as a two-room family suite when combined with Sophia’s room but may be booked separately.

Washington Street Inn, Grand Haven

You don’t remain successful in the bed and breakfast business for 32 years, as Tony and Michelle Ciccantelli have, without knowing how to treat your guests well. Grand Haven’s Washington Street Inn, which operates seasonally, has many repeat guests.

A Brooklyn, NY, couple stayed there four years ago and then again for five nights this past July. In a review, Marie N. wrote: “We were visiting our son and wanted to stay in Grand Haven to enjoy the beach and downtown. Tony welcomed us and recalled the stories of our last visit. He is a perfect host, friendly, helpful, and accommodating. The room and bath were clean and comfortable. Breakfast was served with a smile and was delicious. Common areas were also comfortable and welcoming.”

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Can you see why all of these inns more than qualify as Michigan B&Bs you need to try?

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