When fall comes around with its crisp days and golden light, we can’t help but dream about escaping to a cozy cottage or cabin. Whether you’re looking to enjoy some lazy fall color drives, hike through a fall forest, or just explore a new-to-you side of the state, now is a great time to plan a quick getaway.
To help you with your trip planning, we’ve rounded up 10 well-reviewed cabins, cottages and vacation homes across Michigan, all from the vacation rental booking platform Vrbo. Each is located in an area where there’s plenty of fall fun to be had; bookmark them for future travels or let them inspire dreaming of your next escape.
The following listings were active and accepting reservations at the time of publication. Be sure to fully check each listing for any special guidelines and specific policies, especially for pets and kids. More Michigan listings are available at VRBO.com.
The “Scout House” near Otsego Lake: Snuggle up at this updated, cheerful chalet near Gaylord’s Otsego Lake. Amenities like a gas fireplace, vinyl record player, and fire pit amp up the cozy fall vibes. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps 6. Full listing here
Harbor Springs cottage in the woods: This darling cottage sits on 80 acres just minutes from the Tunnel of Trees, easily one of Michigan’s top fall color drives. Perfectly sized for a couples’ or best friends’ retreat. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, sleeps 2. Full listing here
All-season lakefront home in Petoskey: Enjoy the lovely autumnal Crooked Lake waterfront at this spectacular Northwoods retreat, which includes a fire pit for roasting s’mores after a day on the nearby trails. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, sleeps 6. Full listing here
Cozy cabin in the Leelanau woods: Tucked away amongst the trees, this charming studio-style cottage puts you in the heart of all the fall goodness that northwest Lower Michigan has to offer, including a short drive to Traverse City, wineries, trails and much more. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, sleeps 2. Full listing here
Lake Superior home near Paradise: Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a fabulous fall destination, and is just a close drive away when you stay at this stunning home on Lake Superior’s Whitefish Bay. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, sleeps 6. Full listing here
Shadowland River Lodge on the Boardman River: This gorgeous, historic riverfront home sits on 33 acres near Traverse City, affording you plenty of solitude as you soak up the season’s crisp air and blazing color. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, sleeps 6. Full listing here
“Lisa’s Leisure at the Lakes” in Oscoda: This cheerful chalet is walking distance to Lake Huron beaches, boardwalk and trails, and puts you in the heart of the Northeast’s stunning fall color -- just head west on River Road to the Lumberman’s Monument for a beautiful drive. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, sleeps 10. Full listing here
Charming year-round beach cottage in the Keweenaw: Sink into the season’s magic in Copper Country, where this sweet cottage near historic Calumet will keep you cozy after a day on the nature or ORV trails. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, sleeps 6. Full listing here
“On the Rocks” on Lake Huron near East Tawas: Enjoy this Lake Huron gem, which delivers all the Up North charm with its knotty-pine interior. The cottage is close to Tawas Point State Park, a beautiful spot for fall walks and to watch for fall migrations of birds and monarch butterflies. 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, sleeps 5. Full listing here
Secluded cabin in Manistee National Forest with Lake Michigan access: “Little Bear” is a newly built log cabin on a dune overlooking Lake Michigan, with trails practically just out your door into the autumnal magic of Manistee National Forest. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, sleeps 6. Full listing here
RELATED:
The best places to see elk in Michigan this fall
Thousands of these dinosaur-like birds will soon be migrating through Michigan
Fall color seaplane, chairlift and boat tours coming to U.P.’s Keweenaw this season
Why Michigan’s Brockway Mountain Drive should be on your fall travel bucket list
This roadside park is home to the ‘Grand Canyon’ of Michigan
How to see the U.P.’s amazing fall colors from 26 stories high atop a ski jumping hill
Treetops Resort plans culinary color tours with fall dinners atop ski hill
Ad Choices