Dream Spring Break in Michigan: Where I’d Go if Money Was No Object

Money being no object is one of my all-time favorite fantasies and one that I spend quite a bit of time dreaming about. If I had an unlimited budget, planning a killer vacation would be easy. No checking bank accounts, no bargain hunting, no low-level stress about whether I can afford the “fun” add-ons. Just me, my friends, and a luxurious, full-throttle escape into pure relaxation and adventure.

I know, I know - I’m getting carried away. But hear me out, because this fantasy vacation? It’s about to be legendary.

First up, we need a destination. And since I’m all about spreading the good word of the Mitten State, we’re staying in Michigan. Not Detroit (love it, but this trip is about getting away). Not Traverse City (gorgeous, but a little too expected). No, for this ultimate spring break, I’m taking my friends up north to Gaylord.

If you’re not from Michigan, you might be thinking, What’s in Gaylord? And the answer is: a whole lot. They don’t call it Michigan’s Little Switzerland for nothing. Picture rolling hills, charming Bavarian-style architecture, and some of the best outdoor recreation in the state. It’s a small town with big energy... like if Aspen and a cozy Hallmark movie had a baby, but way more affordable (and with a Meijer nearby).

But, of course, we’ll need a place to stay. And if money’s no object, we’re going big.

I stumbled across this Mitten State vacation rental that basically screams “rich people having the time of their lives.” It’s called The Northway, and it’s a 4,481-square-foot private estate sitting on 10 secluded acres right in Gaylord. Imagine rolling up to a massive home with its own indoor pool, game rooms, a fire pit, and more bedrooms than my entire friend group needs - but hey, extra space never hurt anyone.

The house sleeps 19 people comfortably, meaning I can invite my entire inner circle and those random acquaintances who always comment “take me with you!” on my travel posts. There’s a fully stocked game room with arcade machines, a pool table, and shuffleboard: everything we need to turn a casual night into a full-blown, laugh-until-you-cry tournament. And did I mention the private heated indoor pool? Because if we’re being honest, that alone sealed the deal.

There’s also a giant deck with a grill, a fenced-in backyard (perfect for any overly enthusiastic friends who might wander after a few drinks), and a fully remodeled kitchen that I’ll pretend we’ll use for gourmet meals but will mostly serve as the late-night frozen pizza station.

The location? Perfect. The house is near some of Michigan’s best ski resorts - Boyne Mountain, Treetops, and Shanty Creek - and just a short drive from cute Up North towns like Petoskey and Charlevoix. There’s also a Tesla Supercharger and Electrify America station right across the street at Meijer, which means my eco-conscious friends can roll up in their electric cars without stressing about where to plug in.

Here are my dream luxury spring break plans:

• Mornings start slow with coffee on the deck, someone flipping pancakes in the kitchen, a few of us sneaking off to soak in the indoor pool before the chaos of the day kicks in.
• Afternoons are for adventure with skiing or tubing down the slopes at Otsego Resort, maybe taking a scenic hike (and definitely making at least one poorly thought-out snow angel).
• Evenings? That’s when the real fun starts. A huge dinner at The Sugar Bowl, where we order way too much and argue over who gets the last bite of pie. Then, back to the house for drinks, games, and some questionably good karaoke.
• Late nights? Floating in the indoor pool, a bonfire under the stars, or watching a hilariously bad movie in the massive living room.

And the best part? No stressing over flights or pricey all-inclusive resorts. Gaylord gives us all the luxury vacation vibes - without the five-figure price tag of Aspen or Tahoe.

I know not everyone has an unlimited vacation budget (trust me, same). But the good news? Gaylord is ridiculously affordable compared to other ski-and-adventure destinations - and The Northway is perfect for splitting with friends or family.

If you’re looking for a spring break that’s equal parts luxury, adventure, and pure relaxation, book a stay at The Northway. Trust me, this isn’t just another rental: It’s the kind of place that makes you forget real life exists.

And if you don’t live in Michigan? No worries! Keep an eye on Dollar Flight Club for flight deals to Detroit or Traverse City, rent a car, and head north. Because if you’ve never experienced the magic of a true Up North Michigan getaway, you’re seriously missing out. Don's miss out on anything else by using our Travel Planner to discover nearby attractions!