5 Ways to Enjoy a Rainy Day at the Lodge

When the Rain Moves In, Slow Down

Not every vacation day needs sunshine to be special. At Lakemore Lodge, a rainy morning can feel like an unexpected gift. The sound of raindrops on the lake, the sway of tall trees just outside the window. It’s the kind of weather that tells you to pause, breathe, and stay in your slippers just a little longer.

Forget rushing into town. A rainy day permits you to linger. To pour a second cup of coffee, curl up on the couch, and watch the mist roll across Arbutus Lake. And with just a little creativity, this quiet kind of day can become one of your favorite parts of the trip.

Looking for ways to make the most of a cozy, gray-skied afternoon? Here are five simple, stay-in activities perfect for a rainy day at the Lodge.

1. Bring Out the Games

Rainy days and board games go hand in hand. At Lakemore Lodge, you’ll have plenty of room to gather. Whether it’s around the big dining table upstairs or down in the walkout basement.

Guests often come prepared with a few go-to favorites: fast-paced games to make everyone laugh, long strategy rounds for the competitive types, or maybe a giant puzzle that slowly takes shape throughout the day.

The best part? There’s no rush, or screens needed. You only need a little friendly competition, some snacks, and a relaxed pace that lets you reconnect. Play for the win or don’t keep score at all. Sometimes the best memories are made when the power goes to the person holding the snacks, not the highest score.

2. Movie Night, Rain Edition

Rainy days are great for slowing down, and this could include a laid-back movie night. At Lakemore Lodge, there’s plenty of room to spread out and watch something together. Some people take over the great room, others head to the walkout basement.

You can stream shows and movies using YouTube TV or log in to your apps. Or else, you could bring an HDMI cord to plug in a laptop or a second screen. It’s easy to set up a low-key movie marathon without leaving the house.

Grab some blankets, pop some popcorn, and let the sound of rain in the background turn a regular night into something kind of special.

3. Get Creative with a Craft

Rainy days leave a little extra space in the schedule, which can be a great excuse to do something creative. Some guests bring art supplies, while others use what’s readily available: pens, paper, maybe a notebook.

Coloring with kids, doodling a lakeside scene, or even jotting down a few vacation memories can be a fun way to pass the time.

The dining table works well for this, and there’s good light near the windows. No need to finish anything. Sometimes it’s just nice to sit and make something for a bit.

4. Order In and Stay Cozy

If you’re already comfy and the rain’s coming down, heading back out for dinner might not sound so fun. This might be a good time to keep it easy and grab takeout instead.

Peegeo’s Pizza & Pub is only about 12 minutes away. They’ve got solid pizzas, sandwiches, and wings, which are easy crowd-pleasers. Another great option is The Filling Station. It’s a bit farther, maybe 20 minutes, but they do wood-fired flatbreads and craft sodas that are worth picking up.

Bring it back to the Lodge, plate it up, and dig in. Eat around the table or out on the covered porch if it’s not too chilly. Rain in the background, warm food in front of you, something simple and good.

5. Catch Up on a Bookstore Find

If you picked up a book earlier in the trip, now’s the time to open it. Rainy days are excellent for reading, especially somewhere quiet with a view of the lake.

Maybe it’s something new from Brilliant Books, or a secondhand pick from The Bookie Joint. Doesn’t matter. You can find a cozy spot by the window, on the couch, under a blanket, and settle in.

There’s no schedule to keep, but a story you’ve been meaning to read and finally have the time for.

Let the Rain Slow You Down

At Lakemore Lodge, rainy days don’t interrupt the trip; they shape it. They invite you to pause, make space for slower moments, and enjoy the comfort of staying in. Whether you're playing cards around the table, reading by the window, or just listening to the lake settle under the clouds, there’s no rush to do anything more.

Some of the best travel memories don’t come from packed schedules, but from the days that feel like a deep breath.

Ready for a getaway that lets you slow down, rain or shine? View availability and start planning your next cozy escape at Lakemore Lodge.

Person holding a clear umbrella on a rainy day, surrounded by greenery and stone steps—perfect for a quiet-weather escape at Lakemore Lodge.

  • Families often enjoy simple card games, craft time, or a group movie in the main living area or walkout basement. There’s plenty of space to spread out and relax together.

  • While delivery is limited, takeout from nearby spots like Peegeo’s Pizza & Pub and The Filling Station Microbrewery is a great option. Both are within 15–20 minutes of the Lodge.

  • Yes. The Lodge has WiFi and access to YouTube TV, making it easy to stream movies or shows during your stay.

  • Guests often bring crafts, board games, or puzzles for quiet time inside. Cooking, journaling, or just enjoying the view from the porch are also perfect ways to spend a rainy afternoon.

Traverse City Foodie Paradise: Exploring the Culinary Scene

Traverse City's culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, showcasing the region's rich agricultural heritage and innovative culinary talent. From farm-to-table restaurants and artisanal bakeries to bustling farmers markets and gourmet food trucks, Traverse City offers a diverse array of dining experiences to satisfy every palate. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you on a culinary journey through Traverse City's foodie paradise, where you can indulge in farm-fresh cuisine, sample local delicacies, and discover hidden culinary gems.

1. Farm-to-Table Dining Experiences: Immerse yourself in Traverse City's farm-to-table dining scene, where fresh, seasonal ingredients take center stage in creative and flavorful dishes. From cozy cafes and bistros to upscale restaurants and waterfront eateries, Traverse City's farm-to-table establishments source their ingredients from local farmers, fishermen, and artisans, ensuring a truly authentic and sustainable dining experience. Indulge in farm-fresh salads, artisanal cheeses, and locally sourced meats at acclaimed restaurants like The Cooks' House and Farm Club, where every bite tells a story of the region's agricultural bounty.

2. Farmers Markets and Local Producers: Experience the vibrant energy of Traverse City's farmers markets, where you can browse an abundance of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and locally made products. From the bustling Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market to the quaint Village at Grand Traverse Commons Farmers Market, these lively gatherings offer the perfect opportunity to connect with local farmers, artisans, and food producers while stocking up on seasonal ingredients and gourmet treats. Sample handcrafted cheeses, artisanal breads, and farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, and discover the true flavors of Northern Michigan.

3. Food Trucks and Street Eats: For a taste of Traverse City's culinary creativity on the go, be sure to visit one of the city's gourmet food trucks and street eats. From gourmet tacos and wood-fired pizzas to artisanal ice cream and handcrafted pastries, Traverse City's food trucks offer a deliciously diverse array of street food delights to satisfy every craving. Don't miss the chance to sample mouthwatering dishes from local favorites like The Little Fleet and Roaming Harvest, where innovative flavors and fresh ingredients are the stars of the show.

4. Culinary Events and Festivals: Throughout the year, Traverse City hosts a variety of culinary events and food festivals celebrating the region's vibrant food and beverage scene. From the Traverse City Food & Wine Festival to the Taste of Traverse City and TC Burger Week, these events offer the perfect opportunity to sample the best of Traverse City's culinary delights while mingling with local chefs, farmers, and artisans. Enjoy live music, cooking demonstrations, and tastings from top restaurants and wineries, and immerse yourself in the dynamic flavors of Traverse City.

5. Artisanal Bakeries and Sweet Treats: No visit to Traverse City would be complete without indulging in the region's irresistible array of artisanal baked goods and sweet treats. From flaky croissants and decadent pastries to handmade chocolates and gourmet desserts, Traverse City's artisanal bakeries and sweet shops are a paradise for those with a sweet tooth. Treat yourself to a slice of cherry pie from Grand Traverse Pie Company, or satisfy your craving for something sweet with a scoop of homemade gelato from Moomers Homemade Ice Cream.

Traverse City's culinary scene is a true foodie paradise, offering a tantalizing array of flavors, ingredients, and dining experiences to suit every taste and preference. Whether you're savoring farm-to-table cuisine at a local restaurant, browsing the stalls of a bustling farmers market, or sampling street food delights from a gourmet food truck, Traverse City promises a culinary adventure like no other. Plan your foodie getaway today and discover the mouthwatering flavors of Traverse City's culinary scene. Book your stay at Lakemore Lodge HERE.

Sip and Savor: A Guide to Traverse City Wine Tasting and Tours

Traverse City's picturesque landscapes, fertile soil, and favorable climate make it an ideal destination for wine enthusiasts seeking unforgettable vineyard experiences. With over 40 wineries scattered throughout the region, Traverse City offers a diverse array of varietals and tasting experiences to suit every palate. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you on a journey through Traverse City's wine country, where you can sip, savor, and discover the rich flavors of Northern Michigan's finest wines.

1. Traverse City Wine Trail: Embark on a wine tasting adventure along the Traverse City Wine Trail, a scenic route that winds through the rolling hills and lush vineyards of the Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula. This self-guided tour allows you to explore multiple wineries at your own pace, sampling a variety of award-winning wines while enjoying panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding countryside. Be sure to visit iconic wineries like Chateau Grand Traverse, Black Star Farms, and Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery for unforgettable tasting experiences.

2. Guided Wine Tours: For a more immersive and educational wine tasting experience, consider booking a guided wine tour with a local tour operator or winery. Sit back, relax, and let knowledgeable guides take you on a journey through Traverse City's wine country, providing insights into the region's terroir, winemaking techniques, and tasting notes. Whether you prefer a private chauffeured tour or a group excursion, guided wine tours offer a convenient and informative way to discover new wines and vineyards.

3. Vineyard Dining Experiences: Indulge in the ultimate wine tasting experience with vineyard dining at Traverse City's wineries and estate restaurants. Many wineries offer gourmet dining experiences amidst the vineyards, where you can savor farm-to-table cuisine paired with their finest wines. Enjoy al fresco dining overlooking the vines, participate in wine and food pairing events, and savor the flavors of Northern Michigan in a truly unforgettable setting.

4. Wine Festivals and Events: Immerse yourself in Traverse City's vibrant wine culture by attending one of the region's wine festivals and events. From the Traverse City Wine & Art Festival to the Harvest Stompede and Spring Sip & Savor, these annual celebrations showcase the best of Traverse City's wineries, wines, and culinary delights. Sample wines from local producers, meet winemakers and vineyard owners, and enjoy live music, art displays, and gourmet food offerings at these festive gatherings.

5. Wine Tasting Tips and Etiquette: Make the most of your wine tasting experience with these helpful tips and etiquette guidelines. Start by pacing yourself and savoring each sip to fully appreciate the flavors and aromas of the wine. Ask questions and engage with tasting room staff to learn more about the wines you're sampling. And remember to drink responsibly and designate a driver or arrange for transportation if you plan to visit multiple wineries.

Traverse City's wine tasting and tours offer a delightful blend of scenic beauty, gourmet cuisine, and world-class wines, making it a must-visit destination for wine lovers from near and far. Whether you're exploring the Traverse City Wine Trail, embarking on a guided wine tour, or dining amidst the vines, Traverse City promises unforgettable vineyard experiences that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Plan your wine tasting getaway today and discover the enchanting flavors of Traverse City's wine country. Book your stay at Lakemore Lodge HERE.