Photo by Cory Morse | MLive
The fall colors of Traverse City can be seen from overhead in this file photo taken from aboard a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter.
BY TANDA GMITER | MLIVE
Fall is with us for a few more weeks, and that means we've still got time for some last-minute getaways.
The West Michigan Tourist Association has pulled together a big list of Michigan spots - from beach towns to inland cities, even a couple of our favorite island destinations - that are offering travel deals during this season of autumn leaves and cozy nights.
We're betting you've got some vacation days left at work, or know how to make a last-minute weekend trip fall into place.
So check out the deals and find your favorites. Then pick your people and pack your bags.
There's still time to squeeze more fun into 2019.
Island House Hotel on Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island's oldest hotel has put together a Fall Getaway Savings Package with more than a few autumn essentials.
Included are the overnight accommodations, a slice of limited-edition pumpkin fudge from Ryba’s Fudge Shops, round-trip ferry tickets, and an embroidered Island House Hotel fleece lap blanket.
If you didn't get to see the upgrades the hotel unveiled at the start of the season, now is your chance. Its 94 suites and guest rooms got a fresh look with "coastal casual" decor.
The price is $156 for a one-night stay in a traditional room and $99 for each additional night. Reservations are being accepted for any weeknight in October. It's based on double occupancy.
There are also discounted package rates offered for deluxe and premium rooms.
All Island House Hotel reservations include complimentary luggage transfers to and from the hotel.
IF YOU GO
Island House Hotel
6966 Main Street, Mackinac Island
(800) 626-6304
For more information, check the hotel's website or Facebook page
Photo courtesy of the Island House Hotel
A peek inside the Island House Hotel, which underwent renovations to kick off the 2019 season.
Photo courtesy of Island House Hotel and the West Michigan Tourist Association
Inn at Stonecliffe
Another island favorite, the Inn at Stonecliffe on Mackinac Island is running a 20% off Studio Suites special for the fall.
IF YOU GO
Inn at Stonecliffe
8593 Cudahy Circle
Mackinac Island
(906) 847-3355
For more information, check the hotel's website or Facebook page
Photo by Tanda Gmiter | MLive
Photo by Tanda Gmiter | MLive
The inn is just a short carriage ride from downtown, but it feels like a world away as you head down tree-lined streets to reach your destination.
Mission Point Resort
Fresh off $10 million in upgrades, Mission Point Resort is inviting guests to experience autumn on the island with two distinct packages.
The Fall Foliage, Food & Wine package includes one night's accommodation, 2 glasses of wine per person and 1 appetizer per room from Round Island Bar & Grill, as well as round-trip ferry tickets and breakfast each morning. Prices for this package start at $117.00 per adult.
Or try Mission Point's Bed and Breakfast package, which includes accommodations and all the staples to uniquely experience Mackinac Island, including breakfast at Round Island Bar & Grill and ferry tickets to and from the island.
"The rest is up to you, with deals starting at $176.00 per adult. Picturesquely framed in shades of red and orange, tour the glowing autumn colors of Mackinac by taking your own horse-drawn carriage, biking the perimeter, exploring the 70+ miles of hiking and biking trails, or sailing the Straits at sunset. Experience Mission Point in a new light this fall as leaves are changing, air is cool and crisp, crowds are smaller, and rates are more attractive on Mackinac Island."
IF YOU GO
MISSION POINT RESORT
One Lakeshore Drive, Mackinac Island
(906) 847-3000
For more information, check the resort's website or Facebook page.
READ MORE ABOUT MISSION POINT
Mission Point rolls out custom-built, branded bikes on Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island chef revamps Mission Point's menus with farm-to-ferry flavor
Mission Point's bird-chasing dog is a celebrity on Mackinac Island
Photo courtesy of Mission Point Resort
Mission Point's chef has created new menus for the resort, focusing on farm-to-ferry freshness.
Photo courtesy of Mission Point Resort
Mission Point sprawls across the "sunrise side" of the island.
Photo courtesy of Mission Point Resort
Newly-redone rooms include a fresh color scheme that reflects the island.
Courtesy photo
New, branded bikes made in Michigan made their debut at Mission Point Resort this summer.
Drummond Island Resort
When you drive to the eastern edge of the Upper Peninsula - then take a ferry to Drummond Island, you've reached the very brink of Michigan and the U.S.
Once you're on the island, Drummond Island Resort wants to make sure you stay and play. Staff there have put together some fall specials that allow you to pick your favorite activity, whether it's golf, off-roading or even skeet shooting.
"Drummond Island Resort is home to numerous walking trails boasting all the fall colors to delight your senses. Take advantage of their low fall rates and see for yourself! Pins Bar & Grill is open for lunch and dinner so stop by for some delicious comfort food before hitting the trails at Turtle Ridge Off-Road Park or skeet shooting at The Cedars."
IF YOU GO
Drummond Island Resort
33494 S. Maxton Road, Drummond Island
(906) 493-1000
For more information, check the resort's website or Facebook page
Photo courtesy of Drummond Island Tourism Association
Off-roading is a big draw on Drummond Island.
Photo courtesy of Drummond Island Tourism Association
It's no secret that fall colors last a little longer on Michigan islands and beach towns. It's our awesome marine climate.
Photo courtesy of Drummond Island Tourism Association
Headed to Drummond Island? Bring your clubs so you can hit the links.
Shanty Creek Resort
Fall vacations at Shanty Creek Resort are all about picking your favorite things.
"With more than 400 lodging options, Shanty Creek has lodging for every family size and budget. All of the Stay + Play Packages are 100% customized to fit your needs and interests. When you choose Shanty Creek, you can build a custom package that bundles everyday low rates on lodging with discounted rounds of golf, lift tickets, and more. Visit ShantyCreek.com/Stay to build a custom package or call (866) 695-5010."
IF YOU GO
Shanty Creek
5780 Shanty Creek Road, Bellaire
(231) 533-3000
For more information, check the resort's website or Facebook page
Photo courtesy of Shanty Creek
Fall chairlift rides show off the gorgeous fall colors.
Photo courtesy of Shanty Creek
Black Star Farms
Black Star Farms is rolling out the red-leafed carpet for autumn guests booking rooms at its inn.
Accommodations in the 10-room Inn in Suttons Bay come with a complimentary bottle of Black Star Farms house wine and two NOMI Cherry Sparkling Waters to enjoy as you relax on the front porch rocking chairs.
Other amenities include:
* VIP tasting in the exclusive Barrel Room
* Nightly hospitality hour with wine and hors ‘dourves
* Gourmet farm-fresh breakfast
* Property-wide discounts
* Use of onsite recreation trails
* Use of in-house sauna
Enter promo code FallFab19 for online reservations, or mention this special when booking over the phone at (231) 944-1251. This package cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions. New reservations only.
IF YOU GO
Black Star Farms
10844 E Revold Road, Suttons Bay
(231) 944-1270
For more information, check the Inn's website and Facebook page
Photo by John Gonzalez | MLive
One of Black Star Farms' many award-winning wines.
Photo by John Gonzalez | MLive
Black Star Farms offers sips in its indoor tasting room, as well as its outside patio areas.
Photo by John Gonzalez | MLive
Black Star Farms' grapes are covered with netting to keep the birds away from the fruit.
Petoskey's Tunnel of Trees
Turning your car toward M-119 is pretty awesome any time of year, but a fall drive on the twisty Tunnel of Trees road with spectacular Lake Michigan views is especially magical in the fall.
If you're looking for places to vacation in the Petoskey area - including Fall Flex packages - check the website here. You'll find discounts available near the Tunnel of Trees route beginning in Harbor Springs and throughout Alanson, Boyne Falls, Petoskey, and Bay Harbor.
Image courtesy Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau
Each fall, the Tunnel of Trees puts on a gorgeous show along the curvy stretch from Harbor Springs to Cross Village.
Charlevoix
There are lodging options in Charlevoix offering exclusive savings. Take a look at the complete list of Charlevoix area specials to plan your fall getaway.
Photo by John Gonzalez | MLive
Charlevoix's "mushroom houses" are a must-see when you're in town.
Photo by John Gonzalez | MLive
Charlevoix beaches are great for strolling.
Ludington
Great beaches, a hugely popular state park with a lighthouse, and a bustling downtown corridor make Ludington a must-stop anytime of year.
Area lodging operators have put together a list of fall travel packages and special deals to help you plan your trip.
Photo by Amy Sherman | MLive
House of Flavors might just be the tastiest stop on your vacation.
Holiday Inn Express and Suites in Ludington
Guests booking a room this fall at Ludington's Holiday Inn Express & Suites at the standard rate will receive for just $5 more a lovely Fall Color Tour Gift Basket, filled with sweets, treats, and information needed for a perfect West Michigan Color Tour.
Call the hotel today at (231) 845-7311 for details.
Photo by Amy Sherman | MLive
Ludington's marina is picturesque right through the fall season.
Courtyard by Marriott in Petoskey
Petoskey's newest hotel is expected to open its doors Nov. 4, and is eager to show off its guest perks:
"The carefully crafted property features king rooms, double queen rooms, suites, The Bistro, Starbucks, indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, business center, family zone, and arcade.
"Hand-selected packages allow you to design your perfect Northern Michigan trip exploring the town, working hard in your room, or simply relaxing on property. No matter the purpose of your trip to Northern Michigan, the Courtyard by Marriott Petoskey at Victories Square is your ideal destination.
Image courtesy of the Courtyard by Marriott Petoskey
Mt. Pleasant
Mt. Pleasant is offering Central Swing Fall discount rates.
Guests can choose from 10 champion-style courses and 10 relaxing retreats to create a perfect golf getaway.
Photo courtesy of the Mt. Pleasant Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the West Michian Tourist Association
South Haven KOA
Is fall camping more your style? How about a midweek getaway?
Then check out the Fall Cabin Specials at the Covert/South Haven KOA.
"Stay two or more nights Sunday through Thursday and save up to $25/night. The last weekend of camping is a great time for all things Fall. Leaf peepers will enjoy peak color around this time of year. KOA will be hosting the 13th Annual Chili Cookoff, and Downtown South Haven will be having their annual Haven Harvest Festival. Don't miss out on some amazing fall camping and events October 18th-20th."
Photo courtesy of the Covert/South Haven KOA and the West Michigan Tourist Association
Saugatuck & Douglas
If fall adventures are bringing you to the Saugatuck area, check out the lodging deals from the Saugatuck Douglas Area Convention & Visitors Bureau for a full list of fall getaway packages.
MLive file photo
The dune and forest trails at Saugatuck Dunes State Park are a great place for a fall hike.
MLive file photo
Mt. Baldhead rises several hundred feet above the Kalamazoo River and downtown Saugatuck. The defunct radar tower still stands at the peak of the tall sand dune
Photo courtesy of Drummond Island Tourism Association
Looking for more hotel deals?
Headed off for a vacation, but not finding a deal you like here?
Check to see if any of your favorite hotel chains, Airbnb, HomeAway or VRBO are offering a special deals before you make your plans.
Book your hotel stay with the help of Hotels.com, Expedia, Marriott or Hilton.
Book your rental via Airbnb, VRBO or HomeAway.
More fall vacation-planning stories:
Where and when to drive Michigan's back roads for peak fall color
8 ways to see sky-high fall color in Michigan
Where to stay in the U.P. for fall color season
Michigan's tiniest sandwich shop might be in this U.P. town
Michigan's tiniest wine trail debuts near Sleeping Bear Dunes
Bigger brewery, beachfront treks make Frankfort a great escape
Michigan's Best M-22 road trip, from Traverse City to Suttons Bay
These 10 Michigan wineries should be on your list
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