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06 Sep 2025

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10 Best Places for Romantic Weekend Getaway from Detroit, MI

Romantic Weekend Getaways from Detroit: Itinerary Overview

Escape the hustle and bustle of Detroit and whisk your loved one away to one of the region’s most enchanting romantic destinations. Whether you dream of strolling hand-in-hand along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, exploring car-free island streets by horse-drawn carriage, enjoying renowned wineries and spectacular sunsets, or immersing yourselves in vibrant local culture, there’s a perfect spot for every couple. From the timeless charm of Mackinac Island to the scenic vineyards of Traverse City, the quaint streets of Holland, and the captivating sights of Niagara Falls, each location offers a unique blend of beauty, romance, and adventure. Discover delightful dining, cozy accommodations, and activities designed for making lasting memories with your significant other. Choose your ideal retreat and enjoy a rejuvenating escape just a short drive from Detroit!

Recommended Activities

1
Mackinac Island, MI
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Mackinac Island offers a charming, car-free environment with horse-drawn carriages, historic landmarks, beautiful natural scenery, and delightful fudge shops, making it perfect for romantic strolls and experiencing a timeless getaway.
2
Traverse City, MI
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Traverse City is known for its stunning Lake Michigan shoreline, vibrant culinary scene, world-class wineries, and outdoor activities like hiking, making it a wonderful destination for couples seeking romance, relaxation, and adventure.
3
Frankenmuth, MI
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Frankenmuth, Michigan’s ‘Little Bavaria,’ captivates visitors with its charming German-inspired architecture, unique shops, world-famous chicken dinners, and cozy ambiance, providing a picturesque setting for a memorable romantic escape.
4
Ann Arbor, MI
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Ann Arbor combines a lively arts and cultural scene with beautiful parks, exceptional dining, and unique shops, creating a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere that's perfect for couples looking for a romantic and enriching getaway.
5
Saugatuck, MI
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Saugatuck is a picturesque lakeside town famed for its sandy beaches, art galleries, quaint boutiques, and cozy bed-and-breakfasts, making it an ideal spot for couples to relax and enjoy each other's company.
6
Niagara Falls, ON
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Niagara Falls offers a mesmerizing natural spectacle, luxurious hotels with breathtaking views, vibrant nightlife, and a variety of romantic activities like wine tours and boat cruises, creating an unforgettable couple’s escape.
7
Holland, MI
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Holland impresses with its charming downtown, beautiful beaches on Lake Michigan, and vibrant Dutch heritage, especially during tulip season, creating a picturesque and romantic setting for couples.
8
Bay City, MI
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Bay City offers couples scenic riverfront views, historic architecture, romantic dinner cruises, and unique shops, making it a great spot for a relaxed and memorable weekend escape.
9
Grand Rapids, MI
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Grand Rapids is known for its lively arts and craft brewery scene, excellent dining, and beautiful gardens, giving couples plenty of options for cultural exploration and intimate experiences.
10
Charlevoix, MI
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Charlevoix enchants visitors with its picturesque waterfront, unique stone 'mushroom' houses, charming downtown, and stunning sunset views over Lake Michigan, making it a dreamy and tranquil spot for couples seeking a romantic retreat.

Restaurants

The Whitney
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8.1
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The Whitney
Located in a stunning historic mansion in Detroit, The Whitney offers fine dining in an elegant, romantic setting with a unique ghostly reputation.
8.1
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The Old Goat
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4.5
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The Old Goat
Set in Grand Rapids, this eclectic eatery offers imaginative comfort food in a quirky, artsy atmosphere, making for a fun and unusual dining experience.
4.5
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The Pink Pony
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7.7
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The Pink Pony
A famed Mackinac Island spot, The Pink Pony features creative cocktails and lakeside dining with vibrant decor and nightly live music.
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Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn Restaurant
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4.3
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Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn Restaurant
Step into a miniature Bavarian world with traditional German fare, costumed staff, and immersive themed décor in charming Frankenmuth.
4.3
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Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant
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Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant
Located in Holland, Boatwerks pairs fresh cuisine with unmatched waterfront views of Lake Macatawa, perfect for a romantic and unusual meal.
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Hotels

Grand Hotel
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8.2
Grand Hotel
An iconic hotel on Mackinac Island, known for its world’s longest porch, historic charm, and sweeping views—a true step back in time with elegance.
8.2
The Henderson Castle
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8.2
The Henderson Castle
Stay in a real castle in Kalamazoo, complete with themed rooms, a historic ambiance, a rooftop hot tub, and even its own ghost stories.
8.2
CityFlatsHotel Grand Rapids
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4.2
CityFlatsHotel Grand Rapids
A boutique eco-friendly hotel in a historic former bank building, featuring modern, unique interiors and sustainable design right in downtown Grand Rapids.
4.2
The H Hotel
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4.6
The H Hotel
This Midland hotel boasts contemporary luxury, a signature H sculpture, impressive art, and stylish lounges for a striking and memorable stay.
4.6
Stafford’s Perry Hotel
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4.6
Stafford’s Perry Hotel
A beautifully preserved 1899 hotel in Petoskey offering Lake Michigan views, Victorian elegance, and a storied history—perfect for a romantic escape.
4.6

Local Events & Happenings

Leslie Jones: Live!
Leslie Jones: Live!
The event will take place at Temple Theatre in Saginaw.
Temple Theatre in Saginaw (25.2 mi)
19 Sep 2025
Visit Website
SBSO: Lights, Camera, Orchestra
SBSO: Lights, Camera, Orchestra
The event will take place at Temple Theatre in Saginaw.
Temple Theatre in Saginaw (25.2 mi)
27 Sep 2025
Visit Website

A Taste of Ireland
A Taste of Ireland
The event will take place at Temple Theatre in Saginaw.
Temple Theatre in Saginaw (25.2 mi)
24 Oct 2025
Visit Website
Wicked Sing-Along
Wicked Sing-Along
The event will take place at Temple Theatre in Saginaw.
Temple Theatre in Saginaw (25.2 mi)
26 Oct 2025
Visit Website
Blackberry Smoke
Blackberry Smoke
The event will take place at Temple Theatre in Saginaw.
Temple Theatre in Saginaw (25.2 mi)
10 Nov 2025
Visit Website
Gabby's Dollhouse Live! Presented by Walmart
Gabby's Dollhouse Live! Presented by Walmart
Terrapin Station Entertainment and TEG Life Like Touring, in association with Universal Destinations and Experiences, present Gabby's Dollhouse Live! Presented by Walmart on tour from September 2025. In this a-MEOW-zing new live show, Gabby unboxes a...
Temple Theatre in Saginaw (25.2 mi)
14 Nov 2025
Visit Website
The Nutcracker By International Ballet Stars
The Nutcracker By International Ballet Stars
The event will take place at Temple Theatre in Saginaw.
Temple Theatre in Saginaw (25.2 mi)
16 Nov 2025
Visit Website

Travel Gems from Reddit

23 votes, 31 comments. Im getting married at the end of May and Ive been wanting to visit Mackinac Island since I was 14. I live in Texas and the
Honeymoon in Mackinac
23 votes, 31 comments. Im getting married at the end of May and Ive been wanting to visit Mackinac Island since I was 14. I live in Texas and the
/r/mackinac
View on Reddit
For you, contact the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau with your acceptable price range and what you are looking for in a hotel. They will be of immense help and direct you to wh...
Where to stay ON Mackinac Island
For you, contact the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau with your acceptable price range and what you are looking for in a hotel. They will be of immense help and direct you to wh...
/r/Michigan
View on Reddit

I guess Mackinac Island is the UP but talking about the up north experience does not include Mackinaw City. ... Ah, the age old debate of Michiganders...lol! It may not be "Up...
Mackinac Island trip!?!?
I guess Mackinac Island is the UP but talking about the up north experience does not include Mackinaw City. ... Ah, the age old debate of Michiganders...lol! It may not be "Up...
/r/upperpeninsula
View on Reddit
My fianc and I are planning a honeymoon in Mackinac! We have booked a hotel in St Ignace and plan to stay for just under 1 week. Are there any
Honeymoon
My fianc and I are planning a honeymoon in Mackinac! We have booked a hotel in St Ignace and plan to stay for just under 1 week. Are there any
/r/mackinac
View on Reddit
Hello! Later this month my fianc (soon-to-be-husband) and I are spending about 4 days on Mackinac Island for part of our honeymoon. I vacationed
Mackinac Island Recommendations
Hello! Later this month my fianc (soon-to-be-husband) and I are spending about 4 days on Mackinac Island for part of our honeymoon. I vacationed
/r/upperpeninsula
View on Reddit
I am looking for a decently affordable place to stay on the island. My partner and I would like to go for our first anniversary, but we are both
looking for affordable places to stay on Mackinac island
I am looking for a decently affordable place to stay on the island. My partner and I would like to go for our first anniversary, but we are both
/r/mackinac
View on Reddit
Greetings from Central California (the red-headed stepchild of the state). Weve always wanted to visit Mackinac Island so next summer thats where
Mackinac Island trip advice
Greetings from Central California (the red-headed stepchild of the state). Weve always wanted to visit Mackinac Island so next summer thats where
/r/upperpeninsula
View on Reddit
Were okay with chilly weather ... and drop any recommendations for Mackinac/ surrounding areas that you think are romantic!! :) TIA Share ... September is beautiful on Mackina...
Mackinac during September
Were okay with chilly weather ... and drop any recommendations for Mackinac/ surrounding areas that you think are romantic!! :) TIA Share ... September is beautiful on Mackina...
/r/mackinac
View on Reddit
My wife & I are planning a trip to Mackinac to stay at an AirBnb on the island - were celebrating her birthday along with our wedding anniversary
First Time - activity suggestions?
My wife & I are planning a trip to Mackinac to stay at an AirBnb on the island - were celebrating her birthday along with our wedding anniversary
/r/mackinac
View on Reddit
1.3K votes, 102 comments. 468K subscribers in the Michigan community. A heavily moderated and family-friendly subreddit dedicated to the latest news and happenings in the grea...
The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island
1.3K votes, 102 comments. 468K subscribers in the Michigan community. A heavily moderated and family-friendly subreddit dedicated to the latest news and happenings in the grea...
/r/Michigan
View on Reddit

Music for Your Journey

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home
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Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home
An uplifting and warm song that sets the tone for a road trip, celebrating togetherness.
WALK THE MOON - Shut Up and Dance
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WALK THE MOON - Shut Up and Dance
A catchy, energetic hit perfect for singing along and keeping spirits high on the road.
The Lumineers - Ho Hey
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The Lumineers - Ho Hey
A lighthearted folk tune with sweet lyrics, great for romantic travelers.

The Proclaimers - I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)
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The Proclaimers - I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)
An upbeat classic about going the distance for someone you love; fun and iconic for any journey.
Ray LaMontagne - You Are the Best Thing
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Ray LaMontagne - You Are the Best Thing
A soulful, romantic ballad celebrating love, ideal for couples.
Incubus - Drive
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Incubus - Drive
A moody, mellow track for reflective moments while enjoying scenic views.
The Temper Trap - Sweet Disposition
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The Temper Trap - Sweet Disposition
A soaring, atmospheric song that pairs perfectly with open roads and beautiful landscapes.
Imagine Dragons - On Top Of The World
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Imagine Dragons - On Top Of The World
A joyful anthem that captures the sense of freedom and adventure on a getaway.
George Ezra - Budapest
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George Ezra - Budapest
A melodic, whimsical tune about traveling for love and seeing new places together.
Weezer - Island In The Sun
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Weezer - Island In The Sun
A breezy, carefree song fitting for a peaceful escape, especially to scenic places like Mackinac Island.

Your Trips Will Appear Here

10 Best Places for Romantic Weekend Getaway from Detroit, MI

Romantic Weekend Getaways from Detroit: Itinerary Overview

Recommended Activities

Mackinac Island, MI

Traverse City, MI

Frankenmuth, MI

Ann Arbor, MI

Saugatuck, MI

Niagara Falls, ON

Holland, MI

Bay City, MI

Grand Rapids, MI

Charlevoix, MI

Restaurants

The Whitney

The Whitney

The Old Goat

The Old Goat

The Pink Pony

The Pink Pony

Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn Restaurant

Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn Restaurant

Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant

Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant

Hotels

Grand Hotel

Grand Hotel

The Henderson Castle

The Henderson Castle

CityFlatsHotel Grand Rapids

CityFlatsHotel Grand Rapids

The H Hotel

The H Hotel

Stafford’s Perry Hotel

Stafford’s Perry Hotel

Local Events & Happenings

Leslie Jones: Live!

Leslie Jones: Live!

SBSO: Lights, Camera, Orchestra

SBSO: Lights, Camera, Orchestra

A Taste of Ireland

A Taste of Ireland

Wicked Sing-Along

Wicked Sing-Along

Blackberry Smoke

Blackberry Smoke

Gabby's Dollhouse Live! Presented by Walmart

Gabby's Dollhouse Live! Presented by Walmart

The Nutcracker By International Ballet Stars

The Nutcracker By International Ballet Stars

Travel Gems from Reddit

Honeymoon in Mackinac

Where to stay ON Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island trip!?!?

Honeymoon

Mackinac Island Recommendations

looking for affordable places to stay on Mackinac island

Mackinac Island trip advice

Mackinac during September

First Time - activity suggestions?

The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island

Music for Your Journey

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

WALK THE MOON - Shut Up and Dance

WALK THE MOON - Shut Up and Dance

The Lumineers - Ho Hey

The Lumineers - Ho Hey

The Proclaimers - I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)

The Proclaimers - I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)

Ray LaMontagne - You Are the Best Thing

Ray LaMontagne - You Are the Best Thing

Incubus - Drive

Incubus - Drive

The Temper Trap - Sweet Disposition

The Temper Trap - Sweet Disposition

Imagine Dragons - On Top Of The World

Imagine Dragons - On Top Of The World

George Ezra - Budapest