From the October 2008 Issue

Lake Magazine covers the hottest information on the Lake Michigan area.

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For Romantics

Boyden House: This grand abode features original massive oak doors and paintings complemented by eclectic furniture. In-room massage appointments are all part of the package for your next romantic weekend. Bring your favorite bottle of wine along to share – wine glasses are provided in the room. If you want to make your stay truly unique, innkeepers offer a candlelit gourmet breakfast served buffet-style on the weekends. Best yet – the Lake Michigan shoreline is a short walk from the front door.

301 S. Fifth St., Grand Haven, Mich.; 616-846-3538;

boydenhouse.com

For History Nerds

The Oliver Inn: In 1886, James Oliver (inventor of the Oliver Chilled Plow) built this present-day inn as a wedding gift for his daughter, Josephine, with a small price tag attached: “$1 and love.” The house was turned over to Josephine in 1887. Home to the Oliver family for 101 of its 120-year history, seven single rooms, a two-bedroom suite and a carriage house set the historic scene. The inn is meticulously styled in the era of when prominent families like Oliver and Studebaker took up residence in South Bend. The Oliver Mansion, one of the most historic houses in the United States, is just one block away.

630 W. Washington St., South Bend; 888-697-4466; oliverinn.com

For Foodies

Wickwood Country Inn: You’ll be craving the breakfast more than the bed at this country inn: Gourmet dishes like Roasted Asparagus Frittata drizzled with truffle oil are whipped up by co-owner Julee Rosso, author of The Silver Palate Cookbook. But it doesn’t stop at breakfast: Julee offers complimentary evening hors d’oeuvres like Carmelized Onion Tart and a selection of homemade cheeses. If you prefer to be behind the scenes, sign up for one of Rosso’s three-day cooking workshops where you’ll learn how to cook with local, seasonal ingredients to create your own signature dishes. Stay the night in one of 11 themed rooms (the Picasso suite is a must-see!).

510 Butler St., Saugatuck, Mich.; 269-857-1465; wickwoodinn.com

For Nature Lovers

Sans Souci Euro Inn & Cottages: Fifty acres of nature preserve will surely convince you to kick back and relax during your stay. Fishing, swimming and lush nature trails complement indoor suite amenities like wood-burning fireplaces, private patios, and double whirlpool tubs. Winter is also the perfect time to visit Sans Souci, where the frozen terrain lends itself to a heap of outdoor activities: Cross-country skiing, ice-skating and ice-fishing are just a few. In case you’d like to make it a family affair, vacation homes are available to rent for weeks at a time.

19265 S. Lakeside Rd., New Buffalo, Mich.;

269-756-3141; sans-souci.com

For City Folks

Ray’s Bucktown B&B: If your only getaways are business-getaways, ditch the downtown high-rise for this luxury inn with all the tech-y amenities you’ll need. Nestled in Chicago’s Bucktown neighborhood, these clean, modern suites are equipped with Wi-Fi and satellite televisions with TiVO. A fully operational conference center is just down the hall. Need to ease tense, overworked muscles? A sauna and steam room are just the ticket. For a bite to eat, Bucktown offers dozens of delightful eateries suited for a business lunch or relaxing dinner. The B&B is also a quick walk from shops and neighborhood galleries.

2144 N. Leavitt, Chicago; 773-384-3245;

raysbucktownbandb.com