10 of the best Airbnbs in Michigan from cities like Detroit and Traverse City to charming towns dott

Publish date: 2024-07-21
2021-05-13T15:32:27Z

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Now that Michigan is open and welcoming visitors back without restriction, a Michigan summer sounds better than ever.

I called Detroit home for many years and think everyone should spend time in this historic, cultural city. Yet I am also a forever fan of the Great Lakes and the charming towns that dot the coastline, as well as agricultural hubs like Leelanau, Saginaw, and Roscommon counties. Nothing says wide-open space like a scenic road trip along Michigan's byways, stopping at a farm stand to sample fresh-picked Traverse City cherries, and scoping out fresh fish dinners.  

Of course, you'll need somewhere to stay. A vacation rental such as those on Airbnb not only offers added private space but helps save money. Michigan summers are especially busy and hotels can become quite pricey and often sell out. 

If you're ready to explore the Michigan mitten, our top Airbnb picks will lead you to sandy beaches, through wine country, along scenic routes, and into thriving cultural centers. 

We selected the best Airbnbs in Michigan based on the following criteria:

  • The Airbnb listing is for the entire home or a separate private space with its own entrance, in line with expert recommendations for safe social distancing. 
  • We kept affordably top of mind, and listings are priced to start between $73 and $360 per night.
  • Every listing is rated with a 4.73 review score or higher and hosted by an Airbnb "Superhost," meaning it has an experienced host that provides exceptional service.
  • Every listing participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
  • Each Airbnb offers amenities to enjoy surroundings such as modern lofts with terraces to take in city views, cottages with private yards for fresh country air, and lake homes with easy access to the waterfront.
  • The Airbnb listings have availability to book in the coming weeks and months, as of publishing. For additional Airbnbs in Michigan, click here.
  • Browse all the best Airbnbs in Michigan below, or jump directly to a specific area here:

    These are the best Airbnbs in Michigan, sorted by price from low to high.

    Historic apartment with parking

    Airbnb

    Book this Detroit apartment on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $81

    Town: Detroit

    Sleeps: 2 guests/1 bedroom

    Rating: 4.73

    This historic downtown apartment is absolutely stunning with a true Detroit renaissance vibe thanks to pristine parquet flooring and detailed crown molding. The city has been through numerous booms and busts, and its architecture reflects how the city is always evolving. This towering art deco marvel built in 1931 is a prime example.

    Inside, modern stainless appliances pop in contrast to richer details such as striking forest green walls and a camel tone sofa under large scale windows. The bedroom has a brass midcentury lamp alongside the bed, plus built-in bookshelves, which are a nice touch if you end up reading before nodding off. There is also Wi-Fi and a dedicated workspace.

    If staying in the summer, you'll be grateful the apartment has air conditioning as well as free parking and elevator access.

    Super sleek condo

    Airbnb

    Book this Michigan condo on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $153

    Town: Traverse City

    Sleeps: 4 guests/1 bedroom

    Rating: 5.0

    This spacious and bright condo is located on 8th Street in downtown Traverse City, with an amazing assortment of local eateries and brewpubs within walking distance. Front Street and the waterfront are a short stroll away, and this is the city to be in for the annual cherry harvest and the town's legendary pies. 

    Wonderful natural light beams through the living and dining area, kitchen, and bedroom of this condo. A sleek grey sofa transforms into a second bed and a modern kitchen is outfitted with stainless appliances and a glass and metal bar with stools for sampling local Leelanau County wine and a charcuterie board.

    Open up the Juliet balcony off the living room for fresh air while you work at the provided desk or sink into the couch to stream shows off the smart TV. 

    There's no elevator, but parking, Wi-Fi, and a washer and dryer are all provided.

    Cottage with lake views

    Airbnb

    Book this Michigan cottage on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $169

    Town: Houghton Lake

    Sleeps: 4 guests/2 bedrooms

    Rating: 4.88

    To get away from it all, this charming cottage in Roscommon County offers a rustic sensibility with the benefit of modern amenities.

    Guests have the full cottage to themselves including a backyard, screened-in porch, and outdoor furniture, and a grill. Access the lake easily down a short path, where you'll have access to a lakeside dock for watching stunning sunsets or taking a cool dip. However, plan to bring your own floaties or kayaks. 

    The open floor plan features a wood-burning fireplace, a plush sofa, and lake-inspired decor such as wood oars adorning the wall, while hurricane candle holders provide a soft glow. 

    There's also a full kitchen, charcoal tile walk-in shower, two Queen bedrooms, and a bonfire pit for evening s'mores. 

    Loft with a private rooftop terrace

    Airbnb

    Book this Michigan loft on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $175

    Town: Detroit

    Sleeps: 4 guests/1 bedroom

    Rating: 4.91

    Detroit was built on global influences so it's no surprise to learn that the neighborhood Brush Park was known as Little Paris in the 19th century.

    That's exactly where you will find this charming loft apartment, centrally located between the coney dogs of Downtown and the tacos and craft beer of Eastern Market. 

    This trendy loft is big on style while letting historic features such as exposed brick walls and silver ductwork shine through. Clean design showcases CB2 furniture, hardwood floors, crisp white walls, and soothing blue cabinetry. Climb a sturdy ladder to reach the lofted sleeping nook.

    There is also an updated retro bath, a daybed for extra sleeping space, smart TV, stainless appliances, and local touches like Detroit-made coffee mugs and fresh java from Great Lakes Coffee. But perhaps the standout feature is a large private terrace that offers a prime perch overlooking the city skyline.

    Modern midcentury bungalow

    Airbnb

    Booking this Michigan bungalow on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $192

    Town: Royal Oak

    Sleeps: 4 guests/2 bedrooms

    Rating: 4.98

    Royal Oak has always been one of the coolest towns in Oakland County thanks to its Main Street packed with sidewalk cafes, funky boutiques, and a thriving live music scene. Weeknights are a mix of lattes and taco takeout, while weekends mean a trip to the Farmers' Market and local whiskey distillery.

    Book this bungalow and you'll be within reach of all that and more, while Detroit's downtown Riverwalk is just 17 miles away, and DTW airport is between a 40-60 minute drive. 

    The open floor plan home has an artsy appeal with local art adorning the walls and a minimalist approach to the design. There's also a fully fenced yard, basement with laundry, and a nice stash of board games. The updated bath comes stocked with all the toiletries you could need, as does the white and blonde wood kitchen, loaded with goodies including bottled water, snacks, and Ben and Jerry's. 

    Stretch out on the provided yoga mat or settle in for TV time with two flat screens and HBO at your disposal.

    Spacious home just steps from the beach

    Airbnb

    Book this Michigan home on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $232

    Town: South Haven

    Sleeps: 8 guests/3 bedrooms

    Rating: 4.92

    This SoHa — South Haven — home is a short walk to South Beach on the Lake Michigan waterfront. Kids will love the included beach toys, while beach chairs and umbrellas are also provided. The cottage is also only a 10-minute walk to downtown restaurants and cafes. 

    The cottage's look is impeccably curated with a classic white interior, arched entryways, and strategically placed furnishings to maximize space. A crisp kitchen is accented by scallop wood trim and plenty of counter space for cooking up dinners to be enjoyed at the large dining table or out on the furnished deck with a fire pit and grill. Bedrooms include a mix of Queen and bunk beds.

    Lounge around the smart TV stocked with an assortment of DVDs while feeling cool lake breezes. On chilly nights, fire up the electric fireplace for a cozy night in.

    Downtown apartment over a coffee house

    Airbnb

    Book this Michigan apartment on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $250

    Town: Frankenmuth

    Sleeps: 6 guests/2 bedrooms

    Rating: 4.95

    Frankenmuth is one of Michigan's most popular inland vacation destinations in Saginaw County. This Bavarian town is a favorite among locals who come to dine on famous chicken dinners and wiener schnitzel. It's also home to the oldest brewery in the state, and the world's largest year-round Christmas store. 

    Frankenmuth's Main Street is a hub of horse carriages and pedestrian activity, and you can spend your mornings people watching with a fresh cup of coffee from this apartment's balcony. If you'd rather not make your own coffee, you can head downstairs to the on-site coffeehouse.

    Inside the apartment, the spacious rental includes two Queen-size bedrooms, a tiled bathroom, sofa bed, and a galley kitchen, all accented by high-vault ceilings with wood beams and exposed brick. A private parking space is an extra treat as it's usually quite difficult to find a spot in this thriving town. 

    Contemporary downtown loft

    Airbnb

    Book this Michigan loft on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $264

    Town: Holland

    Sleeps: 5 guests/2 bedrooms

    Rating: 4.98

    Early summer in Holland marks the celebration of a tulip festival, with a nod to the town's Dutch roots. The city brightens with these blooms, and guests from around the country flock to see cheerful buds and windmill gardens and enjoy award-winning brewpubs. Year-round, Holland attracts outdoors enthusiasts with trails and paths aplenty in the surrounding countryside. 

    Enjoy an easy walk to local bakeries and bistros from this dramatic downtown loft. Housed within a building from the 1890s, the loft has been fully updated while retaining original character including natural wood floors and exposed brick walls. The cozy fireplace is a prime spot for socializing on mod chairs or take a glass of wine upstairs to the library in the loft. 

    Updated bathrooms feature glass block walls and stone, while two full-size bedrooms feature more exposed brick and funky art.

    Remodeled home on the northern coastline

    Airbnb

    Book this Michigan home on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $300

    Town: Frankfort

    Sleeps: 4 guests/2 bedrooms

    Rating: 5.0

    Frankfort is a Michigander favorite along the northern coastline, which typically balloons in population during the peak summer season as families enjoy nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Main Street is home to microbreweries and fish fries, bakeries, and sidewalk cafes. 

    The home has two furnished covered porches, a gas grill, and an open concept kitchen with a farmhouse vibe. Dine at the custom bench dinette or at the bar with two cozy barback chairs. 

    Tall ceilings let natural light fill the spacious rooms and cheery bathrooms have custom painted floors. Queen-size bedrooms come with Casper memory foam beds and other perks include high speed Wi-Fi, a washer and dryer, and plenty of puzzles and games.

    Downtown loft with impressive water views

    Airbnb

    Book this Michigan loft on Airbnb

    Typical starting price: $400

    Town: Petoskey

    Sleeps: 6 guests/2 bedrooms

    Rating: 4.98

    Petoskey is a welcoming lakeside community with gorgeous Victorian architecture and a Gaslight District that is home to an assortment of cafes and boutique shops. This is also where visitors can pick up famous Petoskey stones, which are fossilized rugose coral unique to the area. 

    With a hub of activity around the waterfront, this downtown loft is a great spot to take in views. An updated kitchen with stainless appliances retains charming characteristics like original tin ceilings and brick walls. Bedrooms offer King and Queen-size beds while another Queen-size bed is found within a private space in the common area. Other decor includes an artsy world map to inspire future travels. 

    FAQ: Michigan Airbnbs

    What is the best part of Michigan? 

    Michigan has a little something for everyone.

    The surrounding Great Lakes means there's a leisurely beachfront always within reach, while smaller inland lakes are popular for boating, fishing, and paddleboarding. In between these fresh bodies of water are artsy villages, bustling college towns, and big cities full of major museums and attractions.

    Everyone should visit downtown Detroit at least once to experience an incredible blend of old-meets-new, while also town hopping to taste fresh fish like Michigan's whitefish or perch. Head up north to savor wine tastings, brewpubs, and award-winning cherries. 

    What is the best month to visit Michigan?

    July and August are the hottest months, and much of the state can creep into the mid-90s on a hot, humid day. Do as the locals do and head to one of the amazing Great Lakes for a quick dip to cool down.

    Spring and summer months can present moderate temperatures ideal for kayaking, fishing, and town hopping. 

    Outdoor recreation in Michigan is popular year-round, and cold winter months offer snowy trails to hike and slopes to ski. The coldest month in Detroit is January, so you'll probably want to spend those days inside exploring museums to avoid the chill.

    In the fall, be sure to visit a local apple cider mill for melt-in-your-mouth cider donuts. 

    When are the best deals?

    For warm weather travelers, good deals can be found throughout late spring, from mid-April to early May. Once the busy summer season begins, better deals will follow once the August back-to-school rush wraps up.

    September and October offer a bit of off-season pricing but watch out for prices rising again for the holidays and winter breaks. 

    How much does it cost to visit Michigan?

    It's common for Detroit and other city lodgings to range between $200-$300 per night, though prices can increase with sporting and special events. As we approach summer, Traverse City hotels are nearing $300 per night, so that should give an idea of what it's like in popular waterfront towns.

    An Airbnb, however, can help trim the accommodations budget with smaller cottages and condos ranging between $100-$150 per night, though sleeping more than four guests in a well-appointed home enters the $200+ range in popular summer destinations. 

    Can you stay in an Airbnb in Michigan right now? 

    Michigan is open for travelers and there are no restrictions or testing requirements presently in place.

    The Pure Michigan website does share helpful tips for travelers, including reminders to distance yourself from those you are not traveling with, along with continued use of sanitizer and hand washing. Even when vaccinated, it's a good idea to wear your mask when around others. 

    If you're wondering if staying at an Airbnb right now is safe, experts largely agree that vacation rentals are safer than hotels due to the lack of interactions with other guests or staff. Airbnb also implemented reassuring new policies, including the Enhanced Cleaning Initiative, which includes new safety guidelines for hosts, as well as optional booking buffers.

    More of the best Airbnbs in the US

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    spanLori A. May is happiest when surrounded by palm trees and ocean waves. As an avid traveler and photographer, Lori shares her expertise with a variety of publications including Best Life, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, and Time Out. Bicoastal and ever in search of the perfect cup of coffee, Lori also teaches in the creative writing MFA at University of King's College-Halifax. Find her online at a href="http://www.loriamay.com"www.loriamay.com/a and a href="https://twitter.com/loriamay"@loriamay/a./span Lori A. May Freelance Reporter Lori A. May is happiest when surrounded by palm trees and ocean waves. As an avid traveler and photographer, Lori shares her expertise with a variety of publications including Best Life, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, and Time Out. Bicoastal and ever in search of the perfect cup of coffee, Lori also teaches in the creative writing MFA at University of King's College-Halifax. Find her online at www.loriamay.com and @loriamay. Read more Read less

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