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01 Feb 2025Updated last time
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10 Best Places for Romantic Getaway from Grand Rapids, MI

Welcome to Your Romantic Getaway Planning Guide

Embark on a journey of love and discovery with your significant other as you explore some of the most enchanting places a stone's throw from Grand Rapids, MI. Every couple needs time away to reconnect and rekindle the flames of romance, and there's no better way to do it than to venture out into new experiences together. Whether you're yearning for quiet beaches, charming towns, or immersive cultural experiences, the destinations on our list will offer you a treasure trove of memories. From the slow-paced, timeless streets of Mackinac Island to the artistic avenues of Ann Arbor, there's a slice of paradise waiting for every type of couple. Prepare to indulge in luxury, unearth hidden gems, and let the scenic beauty of lake shores and dunes captivate your hearts. It's time to pack your bags, hold hands, and set out on a romantic excursion that will deepen your bonds and create stories you'll cherish forever.


Recommended Activities

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    Mackinac Island

    Known for its preserved Victorian era charm, car-free streets, and fudge shops, Mackinac Island offers a step back in time with horse-drawn carriage rides, scenic views of Lake Huron, and the historic Fort Mackinac.
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    Traverse City

    Traverse City is nestled on the shores of Grand Traverse Bay and is famous for its extensive beachfront, vibrant cherry orchards, and the annual National Cherry Festival. The region also boasts award-winning wineries and a thriving culinary scene.
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  • This quaint lakeside town is known for its artistic community, galleries, and unique shops. Saugatuck offers beautiful beaches on Lake Michigan's shoreline, dune rides, and a charming downtown area, making it perfect for a romantic getaway.
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  • Charlevoix is appreciated for its stunning waterfront, picturesque lighthouses, and unique architecture by Earl Young, featuring the whimsical 'mushroom houses.' It’s a great destination for boating, fishing, and enjoying the serene Lake Michigan shoreline.
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  • Petoskey is known for the historic Gaslight Shopping District, the beautiful Petoskey stones found on its beaches, and its panoramic views of Little Traverse Bay. Outdoor activities abound, including skiing, snowmobiling, and golfing in this all-season retreat.
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  • Trip Point Pin6

    Sleeping Bear Dunes

    Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a natural wonder of massive sand dunes that offer spectacular views over Lake Michigan. It has miles of sandy beaches for relaxing, trails for hiking, and is an idyllic spot for nature lovers and photographers.
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    Harbor Springs

    Harbor Springs sits on a picturesque natural harbor and is renowned for its charming downtown, clear blue waters, and outdoor recreational activities such as golfing, sailing, and skiing at nearby resorts.
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  • Bay Harbor is a luxury resort community with upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment. It offers exceptional golf courses, a deep-water marina, and events like vintage car and boat shows, making it ideal for a high-end romantic escape.
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  • Holland, Michigan celebrates its Dutch heritage, especially during the annual Tulip Time Festival. Visitors enjoy the Dutch architecture, the historically authentic Windmill Island Gardens, and the beautiful beaches along Lake Michigan.
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  • Ann Arbor is a vibrant university town that offers a rich cultural scene including museums, galleries, and live music. The city also boasts a variety of restaurants and cafes, numerous parks, and a lively downtown with unique shops and boutiques.
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Restaurants

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    The Gandy Dancer

    The Gandy Dancer

    Situated in a historical and elegantly restored Michigan Central Railroad depot, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its classic seafood and steak menu.
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  • The Earle

    An Ann Arbor staple, known for its cozy and romantic wine bar atmosphere, perfect for enjoying fine French and Italian cuisine accompanied by live jazz.
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    Aerie Restaurant & Lounge

    Aerie Restaurant & Lounge

    Located on the 16th floor of the Grand Traverse Resort, this venue offers a panoramic view of the bay and a creative culinary experience.
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    Chateau Chantal Winery & Inn

    Chateau Chantal Winery & Inn

    Pairing a European vineyard feel with Michigan's natural beauty, this place offers wine tasting, dining, and breathtaking views of the Old Mission Peninsula.
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    Mission Table

    Mission Table

    Enjoy a meal in this historic mansion featuring seasonal, locally sourced dishes, and captivating views of West Grand Traverse Bay.
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    The Cooks' House

    The Cooks' House

    An intimate space that provides a farm-to-table dining experience celebrating the abundance of local produce and the culinary arts in Traverse City.
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    Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant

    Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant

    This waterfront restaurant in Holland offers not only a fantastic view of Lake Macatawa but also a unique dining experience with classic American fare.
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  • Siren Hall

    Set in a renovated historic building in Elk Rapids, this restaurant features fresh seafood, a raw bar, and a modern, nautically-inspired ambiance.
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Hotels

  • Grand Hotel

    A historic hotel on Mackinac Island, known for its striking architecture, the world's longest porch, and its transportive step-back-in-time experience without the presence of cars.
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    Amway Grand Plaza

    Amway Grand Plaza

    Combining historical elegance and modern luxury, this hotel in Grand Rapids offers exceptional service and has a skywalk to nearby attractions.
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    Big Bay Point Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast

    Big Bay Point Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast

    Providing an opportunity to stay in an operational lighthouse, this B&B offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior and unique historical charm.
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    The Henderson Castle

    The Henderson Castle

    Situated in Kalamazoo, this Queen Anne-style mansion turned hotel is a royal retreat with antique furnishings and a French restaurant on site.
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    Chateau Chantal Winery Bed & Breakfast

    Chateau Chantal Winery Bed & Breakfast

    A winery B&B on Old Mission Peninsula offering remarkable vineyard, water views, and wine tasting experiences complemented by European-style accommodations.
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    Detroit Foundation Hotel

    Detroit Foundation Hotel

    Located in the former Detroit Fire Department Headquarters, this hotel combines historic preservation with modern luxury and a vibrant culinary scene.
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Local Events & Happenings

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    Lake Street Dive

    Lake Street Dive

    The event will take place at Kresge Auditorium-MI in Interlochen.
    Map IconKresge Auditorium-MI in Interlochen (30.31 mi)
    Calendar Icon11 Jul 2024
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    Slash

    Slash

    The event will take place at Kresge Auditorium-MI in Interlochen.
    Map IconKresge Auditorium-MI in Interlochen (30.31 mi)
    Calendar Icon24 Jul 2024
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    311 w/ Awolnation

    311 w/ Awolnation

    The event will take place at Kresge Auditorium-MI in Interlochen.
    Map IconKresge Auditorium-MI in Interlochen (30.31 mi)
    Calendar Icon26 Jul 2024
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    Lynyrd Skynyrd w/ ZZ Top

    Lynyrd Skynyrd w/ ZZ Top

    The event will take place at Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mount Pleasant.
    Map IconSoaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mount Pleasant (63.42 mi)
    Calendar Icon10 Aug 2024
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    Jason Aldean

    Jason Aldean

    The event will take place at Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mount Pleasant.
    Map IconSoaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mount Pleasant (63.42 mi)
    Calendar Icon16 Aug 2024
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    Keith Urban

    Keith Urban

    The event will take place at Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mount Pleasant.
    Map IconSoaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mount Pleasant (63.42 mi)
    Calendar Icon25 Aug 2024
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    Robin Thicke

    Robin Thicke

    The event will take place at Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mount Pleasant.
    Map IconSoaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mount Pleasant (63.42 mi)
    Calendar Icon16 Dec 2024
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    Romantic getaway in Michigan? Recommendations please! Hello all, I'm in charge of planning a romantic trip for me and my girlfriend in Michigan. We just moved here, so I don't...

    Romantic getaway in Michigan? Recommendations please!

    Romantic getaway in Michigan? Recommendations please! Hello all, I'm in charge of planning a romantic trip for me and my girlfriend in Michigan. We just moved here, so I don't...

    /r/Michigan
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    Secluded cabins for romantic weekend in Michigan? I am looking to spice things up with the wife and was wondering if any of you guys have any good recommendations for a cabin ...

    Secluded cabins for romantic weekend in Michigan?

    Secluded cabins for romantic weekend in Michigan? I am looking to spice things up with the wife and was wondering if any of you guys have any good recommendations for a cabin ...

    /r/Michigan
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    I'd like to take my SO to a romantic getaway in Traverse City. We live in Grand Rapids but I have never been to the TC area. ... There are no chain hotels, only B&B's and inns...

    Recommendations on Bed & Breakfast/Romantic getaway spots in Traverse ...

    I'd like to take my SO to a romantic getaway in Traverse City. We live in Grand Rapids but I have never been to the TC area. ... There are no chain hotels, only B&B's and inns...

    /r/grandrapids
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    Id say Michigan wine country. Right near the MI/IN border, just a jump from the turnpike. Lots of nice wineries, Lake Michigan is right there for nice scenery, lots of good re...

    Drivable Romantic Getaway Ideas?

    Id say Michigan wine country. Right near the MI/IN border, just a jump from the turnpike. Lots of nice wineries, Lake Michigan is right there for nice scenery, lots of good re...

    /r/toledo
  • Reddit Icon

    Romantic Location Recommendations Taking a long weekend trip to Grand Rapids with my SO in the middle of August and am looking for cute/romantic places to visit. Recommendatio...

    Romantic Location Recommendations

    Romantic Location Recommendations Taking a long weekend trip to Grand Rapids with my SO in the middle of August and am looking for cute/romantic places to visit. Recommendatio...

    /r/grandrapids
  • Reddit Icon

    Weekend getaway recommendations . Discussion My wife and I like to take a small trip every February. Sort of a birthday/valentine's getaway. It's always nice because the place...

    Weekend getaway recommendations

    Weekend getaway recommendations . Discussion My wife and I like to take a small trip every February. Sort of a birthday/valentine's getaway. It's always nice because the place...

    /r/Michigan

Music for Your Journey

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    Elvis Presley - Can't Help Falling in Love

    Elvis Presley - Can't Help Falling in Love

    A timeless and romantic track that's perfect for setting an intimate atmosphere.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Elton John - Your Song

    Elton John - Your Song

    An iconic love ballad that's sincere and heartfelt, ideal for enjoying each other's company.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Grover Washington, Jr. - Just the Two of Us (feat. Bill Withers)

    Grover Washington, Jr. - Just the Two of Us (feat. Bill Withers)

    A smooth, jazzy tune about sharing life's journey together.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Jason Mraz - Lucky

    Jason Mraz - Lucky

    This duet captures the feeling of being in love and grateful for finding 'the one'.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Jack Johnson - Better Together

    Jack Johnson - Better Together

    A feel-good song that celebrates the joy of being in love and spending life side by side.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Zach Bryan - Something in the Orange

    Zach Bryan - Something in the Orange

    A Beatles classic with beautiful guitar melodies that complement any romantic moment.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Adele - Make You Feel My Love

    Adele - Make You Feel My Love

    A soul-stirring song offering comfort and warmth, signaling deep commitment and affection.
    Listen on Spotify
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    The Lumineers - Ho Hey

    The Lumineers - Ho Hey

    An upbeat and catchy song that's perfect for road-tripping couples.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Ed Sheeran - Thinking out Loud

    Ed Sheeran - Thinking out Loud

    An instantly recognizable melody that speaks of everlasting love, great for couples looking into the future together.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Ed Sheeran - Thinking out Loud
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    The Cure - Lovesong

    The Cure - Lovesong

    A hauntingly beautiful track that's calming and captivating, sure to add romance to your trip.
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for The Cure - Lovesong