Summer is in full swing. The lake is busy with laughter. The porch is quiet in the mornings. Families are settling into their stay.
Some are here for the first time. Others know the routine: unpack, unwind, and ease into the rhythm of the Lodge.
We’ve gathered a few stories from guests who’ve stayed at Lakemore so far this season. These are real moments. Short thoughts. Honest answers.
This post shares what they’ve loved, what surprised them, and why some are already planning to return. If you're looking for a place that feels like your own little piece of northern Michigan family resort life, this is a good place to start.
What Brings Families to Lakemore Lodge?
Every family has their reason.
Some want a quiet place near Traverse City. Others are meeting up with relatives from out of town. A few are here just to be near the water.
One guest told us:
“We looked at hotels, but this felt more relaxed. We liked that we could cook and let the kids run around.”
Another said:
“It was a short drive from home, but far enough to feel like a real vacation.”
Lakemore Lodge offers a bit of both space to unwind and room to explore. It’s not crowded. It’s not noisy. And it’s just 15 minutes from town.
Looking for ideas once you arrive? See how families spend a rainy day at the Lodge without ever leaving.
What Do Guests Love Most About the Property?
The answers vary, but a few things come up again and again.
One family mentioned the sandy beach.
“The kids played for hours. We didn’t have to go anywhere else.”
Another loved the view.
“We had coffee on the porch every morning. You can’t beat that.”
Some talk about the layout. The walkout basement gives families space to spread out. The kitchen makes it easy to cook together.
“We took turns making dinner. It felt like a group effort, but in a good way.”
Everything’s close but not crowded. That balance is what guests seem to appreciate most.
Favorite Moments Shared So Far
It’s the little things that tend to stick.
“Pancakes on the porch. Every single morning.”
“The kids called the basement ‘their zone.’ We barely saw them after lunch.”
“My daughter saw a loon for the first time. She still talks about it.”
“We brought too many clothes. Everyone just stayed in swimsuits.”
These are the kinds of memories that don’t need a plan. They happen in between things, after breakfast, before dinner, while the lake stays still.
Why Families Return
For some, it’s the space.
“We’re not on top of each other. Everyone has room to do their own thing.”
For others, it’s the routine.
“We come the same week every summer. The kids expect it now.”
There’s no need to over-plan. The lake is right there. The house is already stocked. The drive to Traverse City is short, but most guests don’t go far.
“It’s calm. We know what to expect. That’s why we keep coming back.”
Want a quieter season? Some guests return in the fall or early spring. Here’s what they read and where they go.
Planning Your Stay
Lakemore Lodge isn’t a typical resort. It’s one home, right on the water, with everything you need to settle in and stay a while.
Families choose it because it’s easy. You can cook meals together. Spread out. Watch the lake. And when you want a short drive into town, Traverse City is just 15 minutes away.
If you’re looking for Traverse City short-term rentals that feel private, quiet, and family-ready, this might be the place.
Check availability here or browse our blog for more stories before planning your stay.
-
No. Lakemore Lodge is a private, standalone home on Arbutus Lake. It offers lakefront access, space for up to 12 guests, and the feel of a retreat, without the crowds or shared amenities of a resort.
-
About 15 minutes by car. It’s close enough for takeout, shops, and beach days but far enough to feel peaceful and tucked away.
-
Yes. Many families return each year. You can even coordinate stays with extended family in nearby homes.
-
Yes. With multiple bedrooms, a walkout basement, and shared gathering spaces, the layout works well for families of different ages.