Traverse City's Bay Shore Resort

Traverse City is a unique spot within the Midwest where you can blink and feel like you are in a new country. Within this Michigan city is a lake that looks like the Caribbean Sea, so many wineries you will think you are in Napa and a selection of sports (even skiing!) that will make you think you are in Aspen.

Along Traverse City's "ocean" (which is actually Lake Michigan), there are a number of hotels of all sizes that offer varying amenities. I stayed at the Bay Shore Resort, located right on the beach and just a short walk into town. It wasn't anything fancy, but it seemed to offer just what you would need for a weekend getaway, romantic trip or even a long beach vacation.

The Bay Shore in is within walking distance of the boating dock and downtown shopping. Their private beach is in a perfect location for swimming or sunning. For the winter months there is an indoor pool and a whirlpool on the premises, as well as a fitness center. The complimentary high speed internet worked very well.

Rates at the Bay Shore Resort in Traverse City vary depending on the season and the type of room, but remain in the $100-$200 range. From some of the rooms you can actually walk out your back door and be directly on the beach. I had a suite with a whirlpool and fireplace. It also had a refrigerators and microwaves. That room could comfortably fit a family of four for an extended vacation with a pull-out sofa in the living room and plenty of closet space. The view from the balcony of the water, the peninsulas and Traverse City was just amazing.

The one thing that the Bay Shore Resort was lacking was a place that serves food. There is only a room that offers a free continental breakfast to guests. There is no bar or restaurant. It is a short walk to a selection of food and drink options in town and there are places that deliver, but I think the place would really benefit from at least a small coffee shop, especially around the beach area. With all considered, I can't imagine that alone would keep me from returning.

For more about the Bay Shore Resort, which is completely pet and smoke-free, visit their website. A wealth of information about Traverse City is available on their visitor's bureau site.