This Peaceful Gem in Michigan Is the Next Big Thing in Slow Travel

On the Mitten side of the Michigan-Indiana border, Grand Beach has been a getaway destination for decades. From Chicagoans looking to get out of the city to Michiganders wanting an easy escape, Grand Beach delivers a classic resort town experience. With the rise of remote work and more flexible time off, many travelers are looking for a way to dive deeper into a destination. Enter The Neighborhood Hotel Grand Beach. This peaceful gem is the perfect way to enjoy an extended stay on the shores of Lake Michigan.

What exactly is slow travel? This growing trend has revolutionized the way people approach their trips. The concept emphasizes longer stays in a single location rather than hopping between destinations every few days. It allows travelers to truly connect with a place instead of just skimming the surface.

The Neighborhood Hotel Grand Beach is an ideal answer to the slow travel concept. It offers 14 apartment-style suites and cottage homes. Each suite includes one to three bedrooms, a full kitchen, a coffee machine, and a smart TV. Free communal laundry facilities are available, as well as a shared pool, grills, kitchen, living space, fire pits, and more. The wide variety of amenities makes a lengthy stay not only possible but extremely comfortable. Plus, a special rate is available for anyone who books a stay for 30 nights or more.

You’ll notice a sporty feel to this property. Before the hotel existed as it is today, the site was home to The Pinewood Lodge. The old lodge frequently hosted heavyweight boxers, including the famous Cinderella Man. As a result, you’ll notice a nostalgic nod to boxing scattered throughout the common areas.

If you’re an introvert, you’ll appreciate that the check-in process is completely contactless. Rather than waiting in line to get your keys at a front desk, you’ll be emailed a code with specific instructions before your arrival. Of course, the team is still available should you need anything during your stay.

The Neighborhood is also centrally located. It's less than a five-minute drive to downtown Grand Beach. Be sure to swing by the neighboring town's iconic Stray Dog Bar & Grill. Alternatively, visit one of the area's many wineries, like Hickory Creek. Finally, no trip to the Wolverine State is complete without spending a day on Lake Michigan.  

If you fall in love with the resort like I did, you’ll be happy to know that there are three other locations. Currently, you can visit The Neighborhood down the street in New Buffalo, Michigan. Chicago is home to their Lincoln Park and Little Italy locations, with a West Loop location set to open in 2026. 

The Neighborhood Hotel Grand Beach is an ideal way to spend some extended time on the lakefront. With its wide variety of accommodations and amenities,  this resort is sure to please anyone from a weekend warrior to a digital nomad. What other spots in Michigan are perfect for slow travel? Let us know by filling out our nomination form. 

Cait was hosted by The Neighborhood Hotel Grand Beach as part of their trip to Grand Beach. All opinions and thoughts expressed in this content are their own.