- Grand Traverse Lighthouse, Lake Michigan - Sallie Borrink
Lighthouses have a delightful romance all their own. Due to their increased popularity in recent years, many lighthouses now offer the opportunity to stay overnight. For those who have dreamed of spending time in a real lighthouse, there are several opportunities in Michigan on three of the Great Lakes. These lodgings range from actively working on the lighthouse to escaping to a quiet and restful place in the Upper Peninsula.
Work-for-a-Bed Lighthouse Lodging
The Grand Traverse Lighthouse on Lake Michigan in northwest lower Michigan near Traverse City offers the opportunity to stay in the lighthouse for one or two weeks as a volunteer Lighthouse Keeper. The volunteers assist with various duties at the Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum. This includes greeting guests, providing historical information to guests, working in the gift shop, and other activities as the need arises. In exchange, the volunteers are provided with a very up-to-date suite in which to stay. The accommodations include two bedrooms, one and a half baths, a living room, and a small kitchen. For information, call 231-386-7195.
Another option for those interested in being a short-term lighthouse keeper is the DeTour Reef Lighthouse at the northwest head of Lake Huron. Known as the DeTour Reef Light Preservation Society’s Keeper’s Program, guest keepers are at the lighthouse from Friday through late Sunday and perform various duties around the lighthouse. In exchange, the keepers stay in the lighthouse which offers modern amenities. One of the unique features of this lighthouse is that it is completely offshore and sits on a 60’ x 60’ crib, surrounded by the waters of Lake Huron and still guiding dozens of ships each day.
Big Bay Point Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast for Movie Fans
Big Bay Point Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast is located on Lake Superior. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, this seven bedroom inn offers a quiet getaway complete with massage services during the peak season from late spring to early fall. This bed and breakfast would be of particular interest to movie buffs. The little town of Big Bay (population 320) is the home of the infamous Lumberjack Tavern of Hollywood fame in the movie Anatomy of a Murder. Rates vary by season and range from $125-$190 per night. For availability, call 906-345-9957.
The Ultimate Romantic Lighthouse Inn Lodging
And for the person who desires to stay in a lighthouse and wants it to be extra special, there is the Sand Hills Lighthouse Inn. Also located on Lake Superior in Ahmeek, this adults-only inn is also smoke and pet-free in order to promote a delightful and restful stay for all guests. The rooms are decorated in a lavish Victorian style with various amenities in different rooms including fireplaces, whirlpool bathtubs, and balconies with views of the lake.
The Great Lakes lighthouses have much to offer for their overnight visitors. The beauty of the water, the uniqueness of the architecture, and the romance of their stories are just a few of the many benefits of staying in a Michigan lighthouse bed and breakfast or inn!
Sallie Schaaf Borrink - Sallie Borrink is a professional writer with extensive experience with business clients, the consumer market, and online destinations.
