Lake Vacations in North America
I found lake vacations in North America to be endlessly inspiring, offering a mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and peaceful relaxation. From crystal-clear alpine lakes tucked into mountain ranges, to vast inland waters perfect for boating and fishing, to charming lakeside towns with inviting restaurants and shops, there’s something for every traveler’s pace and style.
One of the best parts is finding that perfect lakeside cabin, family-friendly resort, or hidden boutique lodge to make your home base while you explore. Here are some unique accommodations I came across that I think you’ll enjoy for your next North American lake getaway.
1. Michigan - The Inn at Bay Harbor
We drove about 1 hour north from Traverse City along US-31. The road traced the Lake Michigan shoreline past cherry orchards, forests, and glimpses of sparkling blue water.
The Inn at Bay Harbor in Michigan is easily one of my favorite weekend getaways in the Midwest.
Nestled along the stunning shores of Lake Michigan, this lakeside gem feels both grand and intimate at the same time.
I love how it combines classic charm with modern luxury—making it perfect whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a family-friendly trip.
From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the breathtaking views of Little Traverse Bay.
The sunsets here are simply magical, and sitting out on the patio with a glass of wine quickly became one of my favorite parts of the stay.
The grounds are immaculate, with winding paths, lush gardens, and cozy fire pits that make it easy to slow down and savor the beauty around you.
The rooms themselves are spacious and elegant, many with balconies overlooking the lake.
I thought the decor struck the right balance of warmth and sophistication, with plush bedding and thoughtful touches that made it feel special. Whether waking up to sunrise views or winding down with the sound of the waves, it felt like the perfect escape.
What makes this place so underrated is how versatile it is. For a romantic weekend, you can indulge in spa treatments, fine dining, and quiet lakefront strolls.
But for families, there’s golf, bikin g, and plenty of nearby activities in Petoskey and Harbor Springs. To me, The Inn at Bay Harbor is more than just a hotel—it’s an experience, a hidden Michigan treasure that always leaves me wanting to return.
To book, check availability or prices for The Inn at Bay Harbor in Michigan.
2. Minnesota - Grand View Lodge
We drove about 2 hours north from Minneapolis along Highway 371. The road rolled past farmland, forests, and a patchwork of lakes.
Set on Gull Lake, Grand View was everything summer camp used to feel like, if summer camp had cozy cabins, a spa, and a world-class wine list.
Grand View Lodge in Minnesota is one of my favorite hidden gems for a weekend getaway.
Nestled in the Brainerd Lakes area, this historic lodge has been welcoming guests for over a century, and it still feels like a timeless retreat.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a family vacation, Grand View really delivers on both charm and variety. I loved how the property balances rustic coziness with upscale comfort.
The main lodge has that classic Northwoods character with log beams and stone fireplaces, while the modern cabins and suites give you plenty of space to relax.
My room was warm and inviting, complete with a fireplace and lake views—it was the perfect spot to unwind after a day outdoors.
What stood out to me most was how much there is to do. For families, there are endless activities: a waterpark, biking, fishing, golf, and winter fun like ice skating and cross-country skiing.
For couples, the spa and wine tastings are such a treat. My favorite part, though, was simply strolling along the shoreline of Gull Lake at sunset—it felt so peaceful and romantic.
The dining options also impressed me, from casual lakeside bites to elegant dinners that made each night feel special.
For me, Grand View Lodge isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a destination where every visit feels like a true getaway.
It’s one of those underrated Minnesota treasures that keeps you coming back year after year.
To book, check availability or prices for Grand View.
3. Washington State - Lakedale Resort
I drove about 2 hours north from Seattle to Anacortes, then caught the ferry across the Salish Sea to San Juan Island. From Friday Harbor, it was a short drive inland to the resort.
Lakedale felt like a retreat into the woods with just enough luxury to make it indulgent. I stayed in a canvas glamping tent with a fire pit just steps from the lake.
Lakedale Resort in Washington State is one of my favorite hidden gems for a weekend getaway.
Nestled between three peaceful lakes and surrounded by tall evergreens, it feels like a true escape into nature.
What I love most is how versatile the resort is. It’s perfect whether you’re planning a romantic retreat or a fun family trip.
The property offers a wide range of accommodations, from cozy log cabins to luxury yurts and even canvas glamping tents.
I stayed in one of the canvas cabins, and it was the best mix of rustic charm and modern comfort.
Picture waking up to the sound of loons calling across the lake, stepping outside to sip coffee by the water, and then spending the day kayaking, fishing, or hiking nearby trails.
For families, there are endless activities—canoes, paddleboards, games, and even arts and crafts for kids. Couples, on the other hand, will love the romantic lakeside views, evening campfires, and the sense of privacy the resort provides.
I especially enjoyed ending the night by the fire pit, roasting marshmallows under a star-filled sky—it felt underrated compared to more crowded resorts in the area. Located on San Juan Island, Lakedale also makes it easy to explore Friday Harbor’s charming shops and restaurants or head out on a whale-watching excursion. For me, it’s the kind of place that turns a simple weekend into a lasting memory.
Lakedale Resort is truly a Washington gem, and I can’t wait to go back.
4. Minnesota - Northern Lights Resort
We drove about 3 hours north from Duluth along Highway 61. The road hugged the wild shoreline of Lake Superior before turning inland through pine forests and winding lakeside byways.
Up near Voyageurs National Park, the Northern Lights Resort was a true cabin-in-the-woods stay, quiet, pine-scented, and under a sky full of stars.
I love how the resort blends clean lakeside cabins and seasonal RV sites, offering both comfort and rustic charm to suit any travel style.
I stayed in a lakeside cabin and instantly fell in love with the gentle lake views, air-conditioned interiors, and fully equipped kitchen—it felt just right as a romantic retreat or family escape.
I especially appreciated that every cabin reservation came with a dock slip and access to incredible amenities like paddle boards, kayaks, a water trampoline, game room, sandy beach, and even a bait barn and snack store—so much fun at my fingertips.
For families, having the game room, playground, and water toys made it feel like a weekend tailor-made for kids and adults alike.
I'm always drawn to resorts where peace and activity coexist, and Northern Lights delivers with wildlife sightings, top-notch fishing, and quiet decks for soaking in sunsets.
There’s also a deep heritage here—the resort’s roots stretch back to 1946 when it began as a rustic fishing spot, evolving through the decades into the welcoming lakeside haven it is today.
I can’t get over how this place is both unpretentious and unforgettable—a real Minnesota weekend escape that feels personal, cozy, and timeless.
5. New York - Belhurst Castle
We drove about 1 hour south from Rochester through rolling farmland and vineyard-lined hills.
Belhurst Castle in New York is one of my favorite romantic getaways, and it truly feels like a hidden gem in the Finger Lakes region.
Set right along Seneca Lake, this historic castle is both enchanting and underrated—it’s the kind of place where every corner feels like a storybook escape.
I loved wandering the castle grounds, with their manicured lawns, cozy stone walls, and sweeping lake views that made me feel like I had stepped back in time.
My room was elegant and charming, with antique furnishings, stained glass accents, and a warm, welcoming vibe that made it perfect for a weekend retreat.
What stood out most to me was the wine and dining experience—Belhurst has its own winery, plus Edgar’s Restaurant in the Castle, where I enjoyed one of the best candlelit dinners with a glass of local Riesling.
There’s also a relaxing spa on-site, which made it easy to balance romance and relaxation in one place.
For families or groups, the castle offers a variety of accommodations and plenty of space to explore, making it more versatile than I expected.
I especially loved ending the evening by the lake, watching the sunset reflect across the water while the castle glowed in the background—it felt magical and unforgettable.
Belhurst Castle is more than just a hotel—it’s an experience, a true New York treasure that’s perfect for a weekend getaway you’ll always remember.
6. Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa
I drove about 1 hour and 30 minutes east from Los Angeles, climbing Highway 18 as it wound through canyons and switchbacks into the San Bernardino Mountains.
Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa is one of my favorite California escapes, a hidden gem tucked into the San Bernardino Mountains that feels like the perfect weekend getaway.
Set right on the shores of beautiful Lake Arrowhead, the resort blends rustic mountain charm with modern luxury in a way that feels both cozy and upscale.
I loved waking up in my spacious guest room with a private balcony overlooking the lake—it was the best way to start the morning with coffee in hand and fresh mountain air.
The spa was a highlight for me, offering relaxing treatments, a steam room, and a serene atmosphere that made it easy to unwind and reset.
Couples will love how romantic it feels here, especially with lakeside dining, evening fire pits, and the quiet, natural beauty surrounding the property.
For families, there are plenty of activities nearby, from hiking and boating to exploring the charming Lake Arrowhead Village just steps away from the resort.
I especially enjoyed lounging by the outdoor pool and hot tub, where the mountain views created a peaceful and scenic backdrop.
Dining at the resort was also memorable—seasonal menus paired with lake views made every meal feel special and indulgent.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat or a fun family weekend, Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa is an underrated mountain treasure that captures the very best of California relaxation.
To book, check availability or prices for Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa.
7. Oregon - Crater Lake Lodge
My husband, son and I drove about 2 hours northeast from Medford along winding mountain roads. The forest thickened and the air grew cooler before opening to the rim of Crater Lake National Park.
Crater Lake looked unreal at first, so deep blue it seemed digitally rendered. From the lodge’s stone terrace, I could see the entire caldera stretching wide and still. I ordered a bison burger that arrived perfectly charred and smoky, paired with fries dusted in rosemary salt. As I ate, the lake changed color with the clouds. It felt like watching a slow, quiet symphony.
Crater Lake Lodge is one of my favorite underrated gems, a destination that turns any weekend getaway into something truly unforgettable.
Perched right on the rim of Crater Lake, the lodge offers some of the most breathtaking views I’ve ever experienced—it honestly felt like waking up inside a postcard.
I loved how the lodge kept its historic charm, with rustic stone walls, a grand fireplace in the lobby, and cozy wood accents that made it feel both timeless and welcoming.
My guest room was simple yet comfortable, the kind of place where the view out the window became the star of the stay.
One of my favorite moments was sitting on the back patio in a rocking chair, sipping coffee while staring out at the impossibly blue water of the lake—it was pure serenity.
For couples, this is a wonderfully romantic setting, especially at sunset when the sky glows behind the crater rim.
Families will also find plenty to love, with hiking trails, ranger programs, and boat tours that make exploring the park exciting for all ages.
I especially enjoyed gathering in the lodge’s dining room, where hearty meals paired perfectly with panoramic lake views—it felt cozy and special all at once.
Staying at Crater Lake Lodge is more than just a night away—it’s an experience steeped in natural wonder, history, and the kind of beauty that makes Oregon unforgettable.
8. Ohio - The Lodge At Geneva-On-The-Lake
The Lodge at Geneva-On-The-Lake in Ohio is one of my favorite lakeside getaways, a hidden gem along the southern shore of Lake Erie that feels perfect for a weekend escape.
I loved how the lodge blends modern comfort with a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both a romantic retreat and a fun family vacation.
My room came with cozy furnishings and a view of the lake, and waking up to the sight of the sunrise over the water quickly became my favorite part of the stay.
One of the highlights for me was taking a stroll along the lakeside trails that connect directly to the property—it felt peaceful, scenic, and wonderfully underrated compared to more crowded destinations.
The lodge also offers wine shuttle tours through Ohio’s Wine Country, which I found to be one of the best and most unique experiences in the area.
Couples will love enjoying dinner with lake views, sharing a bottle of local wine, or relaxing by the fire pits under the stars—it’s effortlessly romantic.
For families, the indoor and outdoor pools, bike rentals, and nearby adventure park make it easy to keep everyone entertained.
I especially enjoyed the outdoor terrace, where I could sip a cocktail, watch the sailboats, and take in the calm beauty of Lake Erie—it felt like a true escape.
The Lodge at Geneva-On-The-Lake is more than just a place to stay—it’s an Ohio treasure that combines nature, comfort, and memorable experiences all in one.
To book, check availability or prices for The Lodge at Geneva-On-The-Lake.
9. West Virginia - Stonewall Resort
I drove about 2 hours south from Morgantown along I-79. The road wound past rolling farmland and forested hills.
Surrounded by forested hills and a winding lake, Stonewall was the kind of place where you want to do less.
Stonewall Resort in West Virginia is one of my favorite hidden gems, a lakeside retreat that feels both peaceful and inviting for a weekend getaway.
Nestled inside Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park, the resort is surrounded by rolling hills, calm waters, and endless natural beauty—it instantly put me in relaxation mode.
I loved how the property combines rustic lodge charm with modern comforts, making it equally perfect for a romantic retreat or a family escape.
My room was cozy and welcoming, with warm wood accents and a balcony overlooking the lake that quickly became my favorite spot for morning coffee.
One of the best highlights for me was the variety of activities—from kayaking and fishing on the lake to hiking the park trails right outside the resort doors.
Couples will especially enjoy the spa, lakeside dining, and evening fire pits that make the whole atmosphere feel romantic and serene.
For families, there’s a pool, golf course, and plenty of outdoor adventures to keep everyone entertained all weekend long.
I especially enjoyed the Stillwaters Restaurant, where local flavors were paired with lake views—it made every meal feel special and connected to the setting.
What stood out most was how underrated the resort feels—it offers so much beauty and activity without the crowds, making it feel like my own private escape.
Stonewall Resort is truly a West Virginia gem, a place where nature, comfort, and relaxation come together to create lasting memories.
My personal highlights:
Some of my favorite North American lake vacations include Lake Tahoe for its alpine beauty and year-round adventure, Lake Michigan for its unique mix of beaches and vibrant towns, and the hidden tranquility of Lake Louise in Canada’s Rockies. Each one offers the best combination of scenery, relaxation, and outdoor fun.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
