This blog post may contain affiliate links, which may reward me in the event of a sale. I use these funds to reinvest in my blog and to create more great content like this article to share with you! My stay at Hotel Walloon was sponsored, however all thoughts & opinions are my own. Disclaimer here.
Imagine cozying up by a crackling fire, snowflakes gently falling outside, with a steaming mug in hand. Sounds idyllic, right? That’s the magic of a winter getaway to Walloon Lake Village and a stay at the luxurious Hotel Walloon. While this charming Northern Michigan destination is known for its vibrant summers, it transforms into a winter wonderland that offers a unique blend of tranquility and exciting activities. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, Walloon Lake in the winter provides a refreshing change of pace from the everyday hustle.
From the moment we arrived for our staycation at Hotel Walloon, my family was greeted with the warmth and elegance that define this award-winning resort. In addition to hospitality, we noticed right away we were in for a luxury retreat with breathtaking lake views, four food presentations, and exclusive guest-only access to the Hearth Room Bar.
But the experience extends beyond the hotel’s walls. Venture into Walloon Lake Village and discover charming shops, cozy restaurants, and opportunities for outdoor adventures, such as ice skating in the Village Green Park. Plus, this small town contains fascinating history, with connections to legendary author Ernest Hemingway.
So, grab your warmest coat (and swim suit!) and let’s discover the hidden charms of Hotel Walloon and Walloon Lake Village.
About Hotel Walloon
Hotel Walloon, which opened its doors in 2015, is a beautiful, relatively new addition to Walloon Lake Village. It’s a 32-room boutique hotel that perfectly blends the area’s fascinating history with modern comforts and stylish design. Think of it as stepping back in time but with all the perks and amenities you expect from a top-notch modern resort. Its location is perfect, too, putting you within easy reach of Petoskey, Charlevoix, and Boyne City.
This year-round hotel aims to provide the “Gold Standard of hospitality,” offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere and unparalleled service. It’s all about creating that classic early 20th-century charm with all the modern conveniences. You’ll find spacious rooms, elegant décor, and a focus on making your stay truly special. Whether you’re enjoying the complimentary snacks and drinks offered throughout the day, warming up by the fireplace, or taking a relaxing dip in the heated outdoor spa, Hotel Walloon is designed for both relaxation and adventure, allowing you to fully experience the stunning natural beauty that surrounds it.
What’s particularly inspiring is how Hotel Walloon played a key role in revitalizing Walloon Lake Village. After facing years of decline, one determined developer from Grand Rapids teamed up with local residents and officials to give the village a new lease on life. The hotel’s arrival was a turning point, drawing in new visitors and investment and helping Walloon Lake reclaim its status as a sought-after destination in Northern Michigan.
Now Let me Rave About the Our Room
My family and I stayed in one of the Lakeside Double Queen rooms, and it was just perfect for our winter getaway. We woke up to a view of an expansive frozen Walloon Lake —it was absolutely breathtaking! The room itself was so spacious, with two plush and comfy queen beds, so there was plenty of room to spread out. We even had our own private balcony, which I can only imagine is amazing in the warmer months, but it was still nice to step out for a crisp breath of fresh air.
They really thought of everything when designing these rooms. We had a mini-fridge to store our leftovers and drinks, a coffee maker for our morning caffeine fix, and a nice workspace with a desk. Of course, there was a big, high-definition flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi, which are always must-haves! I also appreciated the little touches, like the nightly turndown service with hand crafted chocolates dropped off on our night stand along with a self care item like lip balm or hand cream plus a short, historic bed time story about Walloon Lake.
But the bathroom was a real highlight. It was so luxurious, with heated floors (a lifesaver in the winter!), plush terry cloth robes, and high-end toiletries. There was also a combination bathtub, a hairdryer, and a lighted makeup mirror—everything you could possibly need. It really felt like a home away from home, but with an extra touch of pampering. I highly recommend booking one of the Lakeside roms if you’re planning a visit!
What You Can do at Hotel Walloon in Winter
From the moment we arrived, we were enveloped in cozy luxury. As someone who doesn’t ski, I often find winter getaways limiting, but Hotel Walloon proved me wrong. The fireplace in the lobby was a constant source of warmth and ambiance, perfect for reading a book or just enjoying the snowy views.
And the heated outdoor spa? Absolutely divine after a brisk walk or shopping in town.
Even though I wasn’t hitting the slopes, I still found plenty to enjoy. They even have complimentary boot warmers for guests who do ski, which I thought was a thoughtful touch, and the 24-hour concierge was amazing at arranging anything from snowshoe rentals to shuttles to nearby ski resorts for those who were interested. It really caters to both skiers and non-skiers alike.
The included food presentations throughout the day were a real treat, too. I’m talking about everything from a proper breakfast to afternoon snacks, pre-dinner hors d’oeuvres, and then a decadent dessert spread in the evening – all included with the room rate! It made everything so easy and convenient, not to mention delicious.
For those who do want to take advantage of the winter sports scene, they offer special winter packages, like the “Stay, Ski, and Skate” deal that includes discounts and other perks. I also noticed that they have travel specials throughout the winter and into the shoulder season – I know there are discounts for AAA and AARP members, plus specific promotions in the spring for those looking for a less expensive getaway during the beautiful Michigan spring.
History of Walloon Lake Village and Why You Need to Visit Here
Walloon Lake Village has a rich history as a Midwest tourist destination, drawing visitors by train and steamer at the turn of the 20th century. The area’s natural beauty, combined with opportunities for fishing and boating, made it a popular retreat from urban life. Early visitors relied on boarding houses and hotels before building their own cottages along the lakeshore. Among these early vacationers were the Hemingways, with a young Ernest spending summers at the family’s Windemere cottage. This connection to the famed author has become a significant part of Walloon Lake’s identity.
However, by the early 2000s, the village faced a steep decline. Years of neglect and economic hardship left Walloon Lake on the brink of becoming a ghost town. This once-thriving resort community struggled, losing the vibrant atmosphere that had defined its past. The future of this historic village seemed uncertain until a significant turning point in 2015.
The construction of Hotel Walloon marked a major revitalization effort. This new development breathed life back into the village, reversing its decline and reestablishing Walloon Lake as a desirable destination. The hotel’s vintage-inspired design pays homage to the area’s history, creating a connection to its storied past while offering modern amenities. With this renewed focus on tourism and hospitality, Walloon Lake once again welcomes visitors, offering a charming blend of history, natural beauty, and modern comfort.
Activities Available In and Near Walloon Lake in Winter
Walloon Lake Inn
A restaurant you need to eat at during your stay is Walloon Lake Inn. Originally opened in 1891 as Fern Cottage, this historic inn has been meticulously renovated, offering a fine-dining experience with locally sourced cuisine and breathtaking lake views—it’s a truly special place for a memorable meal.
My husband and I ordered the 3 course meal for $60, which includes an appetizer or salad, entree, and dessert. Even if you’re not a seafood person, you need to try the mussels – mussels take on the taste of what they’re cooked in. My husband tried them for the first time since the menu noted they’re cooked in coconut and savory spices and raved about them – a great choice! And everything else we tried was unbelievably delicious and cooked to perfection.
Reservations to dine here are recommended. And while you may easily snag a table at your ideal time during the winter, plan ahead if you want to visit in the summer.
Vilah Bloom
Vilah Bloom was a lovely surprise of a boutique to shop at. More than just a store, it sells an experience with its very own design your own “bag bar” and/or charm necklace and bracelets. I decided to design a charm necklace in a way that’s personalized to me and my history with charms such as a giraffe to represent my connection to the country of Kenya, airplane and butterfly to represent my son, and a compass in the center that signifies my thirst for adventure.
As I designed my necklace, I got to chat with the store’s founder. Her name is Jackie – just like mine! Before the bag and charm bar’s, she designed her initial product more for her personal convenience around always forgetting diaper wipes for her daughter when on the go. Since then, her line has expanded and she designs both diaper bags and purses with a built in wipe holder and bags without.
Sweetwater Floral
Next to Vilah Bloom is Sweetwater Floral, which sells both fresh cut flowers and unique gifts. Another fun activity families are bound to love (especially in winter) is the build your own terrarium activity. They carry plastic terrarium pots specifically for kids so they don’t break if they drop them, then you add your drainage filler, soil, pick out a plant, add soil and any decorative extra’s before sitting down to plant and decorate.
Vintage Mercantile
Another must visit shop is the Vintage Mercantile. In the front, is an antique store with thoughtfully collected pieces while in the back is a coffee shop. You may also get a glimpse and pet of the shop dog named Otis.
Walloon Village General Store
If you get hungry or are looking for a snack or souvenir, venture over to the Walloon Village General Store. This local grocery store has been in business for over 100 years and while they carry familiar favorites found in many bigger grocery stories, they also carry a lot of local Northern Michigan products too. They have a variety of groceries and beverages. Plus, a delicious deli with daily specials and meal deals. All meals can be enjoyed ‘to go’ or you can sit at the tables in the store and dine in.
If you venture further to the back of the store, there are some souvenirs available for purchase.
Free Ice Skating at the Village Green Park
An extra special activity to do in Walloon Lake in winter is borrowing ice skates from Legacy Water Sports to ice skate for free at the Village Green Park. The park’s circle transforms into a massive ice rink. Both figure skating and ice hockey skates are available to use.
Barrel Back Restaurant
Barrel Back, located next to Hotel Walloon, offers a casual yet top-notch waterfront dining experience with house-smoked meats, wood-fired pizzas, and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. With an expansive bar featuring 23 beers on tap and a welcoming atmosphere complete with a fireplace and outdoor patio, it’s a great spot for a delicious and relaxed meal. Open since 2013, Barrel Back seats guests on a first-come, first-served basis for lunch and dinner.
Hiking & Nearby Trails
In addition to ice skating, Legacy Water Sports let’s guests borrow snowshoes and cross country skis too to take out on nearby trails during the winter. Some of the closest trails to Walloon Lake Village include the Postle Farm Preserve with a 1.6 mile loop and Wildwood Harbor Preserve with a 1.7 mile loop.
Tip of the Mitt AVA
Try out some delicious local wine made out of mostly cold hardy grapes such as Marquette and Frontenac by stopping at a couple of the Petoskey Area Wine Region wineries. One of our final stops before we headed back home was to the aptly named Walloon Lake Winery. In total there are about 15 wineries currently within this AVA.
Itinerary of Our Walloon Lake Winter Getaway
Day One:
5:00 pm: Arrive at Hotel Walloon, check in and unload the car.
5:30 pm: Drive over to Walloon Lake Inn to enjoy a delicious three course dinner while watching the sunset over the lake.
7:30 pm: Head back to Hotel Walloon where the car is valet parked complimentary. After exploring all the glamorous perks of the room including the robes, hand crafted chocolates, heated bathroom floors and more, wander down to the Hearth Room Bar for a nightcap.
Day Two:
9:00 am: Once you’re up and ready, head downstairs for a complimentary light breakfast consisting of delicious pastries, yogurt parfait and a latte.
10:00 am: Head out on the town to visit the local shops across the street such as Vilah Bloom to make your own custom handbag or charm necklace, craft your own terrarium at Sweetwater Floral and see what treasures you can find at Village Mercantile.
1:00 pm: Grab a light lunch at Walloon Lake General Store with a selection of freshly made hot sandwiches.
2:00 pm: After stopping to read the Ernest Hemingway historical markers at both the playground next to the General Store and across the road in the Village Green Park, pop into Legacy Water Sports to borrow ice skates and enjoy ice skating on the free Walloon Lake Village ice rink.
3:00 pm: Warm up with snacks and a hot cocoa back at the Hearth Room Bar at Hotel Walloon.
4:00 pm: Warm up more by going for a dip in Hotel Walloon’s outdoor whirlpool hot tub.
6:00 pm: Head to dinner at the Barrel Back restaurant next door!
8:00 pm: Before changing into PJ’s to relax in your room, pick up a dessert from the Hearth Room Bar.
Day Three:
9:00 am: Grab breakfast downstairs to kickstart your day.
10:00 am: Enjoy a leisurely game of billiards on the main floor before checking out by 11:00 am.
11:00 am: After checking out, go for a hike at one of the nature preserves around Walloon Lake. We recommend the Bubbling Springs Nature Preserve if traveling with young kids.
12:00 pm: Make a final stop at Walloon Lake Winery for wine tasting before carefully heading back home, taking care to stop at any other pitstops and roadside attractions along your way.
Map of the Walloon Lake Winter Getaway
Walloon Lake Winter Getaway Packing List
Here’s what you and your family should pack for your winter getaway to Walloon Lake if you plan to follow our trip itinerary:
- Two to three outfits each
- PJ’s
- Flip Flops to walk to and from the Outdoor Spa
- Swimming Suits
- A couple warm hats- you might want to wear one out in the whirlpool if it’s windy to protect your ears
- Base layers for ice skating and hiking
- Heavy, wind and water resistant winter coat
- Warm mittens or gloves
- Waterproof boots
- Snow pants if you plan on going hiking and possibly for ice skating
Walloon Lake Winter Getaway Budget
And for your budget, plan on the estimated expenses:
- Food and drinks: $300-$400 for a family of 3-4 people
- Souvenirs and shopping: $100+ depending on if you create any bags, charm goodies, or terrariums or find any Walloon Lake Merch
- Free activities to enjoy:
- Relax in the hot tub at Hotel Walloon
- Indulge by taking advantage for the four daily food presentations at Hotel Walloon
- Play a game of billiards or exercise in the fitness center – there are a couple Peloton bikes, treadmills, weights and yoga equipment
- Bottomless gourmet coffee and lattes for all Hotel Walloon guests
- Take advantage of free ice skate, cross country ski and snowshoe rentals to use in the area
So, there you have it—a glimpse into the magic of Walloon Lake in winter. It’s a place where cozy moments by the fire meet crisp adventures on the ice, where history whispers from charming storefronts, and where the warmth of a welcoming community embraces every visitor.
Whether you’re drawn by the promise of a luxurious retreat at Hotel Walloon, the allure of exploring quaint shops and local eateries, or the simple joy of skating beneath a winter sky, Walloon Lake offers a unique and unforgettable experience. It’s not just a destination; it’s a feeling—a sense of peace, connection, and the simple pleasures that truly matter.
If you’re looking for a winter getaway that combines comfort, adventure, and genuine charm, look no further than Walloon Lake. Come discover its hidden wonders and create your own winter memories that will last a lifetime.
from Michigan with Love,
Jackie
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