This original blog was written over three 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 that have recently joined or changed ownership in 2022/2023. 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 a quality-assured Michigan Bed and Breakfast. Follow along and decide which Michigan Bed and Breakfast is the perfect one for you.
Twelve New MBBA Members Over the Past Year
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 at the Castle in the Country & staying in the gorgeous Kingdom suite room. The castle was so very clean, smelled wonderful & the friendly kind staff really 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 story’s & 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!!”
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 fashion 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 play time 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.”
Frederick K Stearns Bed and Breakfast, Detroit
The revived urban city of Detroit, Michigan, is a great place to visit. Whether you are going to see a sports game, the theatre, visit a museum or walk the river boardwalk, the Frederick K Stearns House is a great place to call home during your Detroit Getaway. The inn has been totally refurbished and includes a fun Speak-Easy pub where you can order a fun house-made artisan cocktail. The inn is in a quiet historic neighborhood with plenty of fine dining nearby. Check out this blog that includes- 12 Top Places to Visit in Detroit.
A recent business traveler had this to say about their stay at the Stearn House- “I stayed at the Frederick Stearns House when I was in Detroit for a conference at the convention center. It’s a historic mansion that was transformed into a boutique hotel. My room was recently remodeled and the trim and bathroom were excellent. The room was also huge with a king bed. The main staircase is beautiful and the art is all period. They also have an incredible full bar in the basement. It’s an honor bar where you write down what you drank in notebooks tied to your room.Breakfast is freshly made and served in a formal dining room. Highly recommend this place and will stay here next time I’m in town.”]
Garden Grove Inn, Union Pier
For those that 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 Lavendar Room in the Carriage House this time). Hillary’s hospitality is kind, warm, and attentive. Her breakfasts are homemade and delicous, 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.”
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 sand 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 cyclists 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.”
Greenleaf Mansion Bed and Breakfast, Onsted
The Greenleaf Mansion Bed and Breakfast is nestled in Onsted, Michigan, in the green rolling Irish Hills. This glorious Victorian home was built in 1873 by Charles Greenleaf. Innkeepers Diane and Steve are both Master Gardeners and Diane is a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu and has studied culinary arts in France and Italy. Guests enjoy meandering on the three acres of beautifully manicured gardens and feasting each morning on delicious homemade breakfasts.
Sometimes, it’s all about the food- “We really enjoyed our two-night stay at Greanleaf. Steve and Diane were great to talk to, and the food was absolutely the best! We left each breakfast with a smile on our faces and completely full! We also arranged for Diane to make an anniversary dinner for us that was out of this world! Loved every bite!
The house is really neat and has many restored antiques. Our room was very nice, the beds comfortable, and the bathroom clean. We plan on coming back often! I highly recommend Greanleaf Mansion!”
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 calibre. 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 lovey innkeepers Cathy of fruit, danishes, breakfast sausages, hash browns, and broccoli quiche. We walked around the quiet neighbourhood and there were many other nice houses in the area too!”
Newton of Ypsilanti Bed and Breakfast, Ypsilanti
Calling all foodies! This bed and breakfast is owned by a culinary chef that 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 that 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!”
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 really 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 and quiet. There are no kids running up and down the halls and no one bothers you. We were celebrating our 40th anniversary so the first day after a lovely breakfast of quiche, potatoes and fruit in our room we splurged on a relaxing couples 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.”
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.
And this review describes what separates a MBBA inn from all other lodging – “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 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.”
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 wine 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 🙂
Wickwood Inn, Saugatuck
Located in the charming Art Coast of Michigan, in the heart of downtown Saugatuck, you will find the luxury lodging of the Wickwood Inn. Guests enjoy the charming decor, delicious food that includes Farm-to-Table breakfasts, Afternoon Sweets, and Social Hour-all complimentary. Each uniquely decorated room features marble en suite bathrooms, luxurious amenities, sumptuous bedding, antique furnishings, and original art. Ideally situated in the heart of downtown Saugatuck, we’re nestled among boxwoods and ivy – and are mere steps away from the many charming shops, galleries, and tasting rooms just outside our door.
This review from Trip Adviser was titled- Absolute Gem- “The Wickwood was incredible. Newly decorated with very good taste, great room that are sizable but cozy and still convey the character of the building. Excellent service by everyone, including the host and GM Jeff, who is there every day and can get you into any restaurant in town (and has great stories from his Hollywood past). Convenient location, go to Wick’s Bar and Grill down the block for their chicken sandwich. We had an amazing stay and can’t wait to go back.”
New Members from Three Years Ago Still Going Strong
This seemed worth celebrating, so here we go, in alphabetical order, starting with Goldberry Woods B&B. Don’t you love their photo (top) of a kayaker on their property?
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.
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 a 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 own 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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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 improve their hospitality and home, such as sidewalk and patio pavers in 2019 and adding two more guest bathrooms in early 2020.
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.
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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