The 10 best Airbnbs near Traverse City for a memorable lakeside stay

Area: Lake Leelanau, Cedar 

This pristine white lakehouse cottage lies in Cedar, less than 30 minutes from TC. The two bedrooms come with queen beds, the bathroom is spa-style and stunning, and its decor matches the full kitchen, filled with space to cook up a feast. When paired with the natural beauty it’s surrounded by, you’ve got an Airbnb that you can’t go wrong with. The fashionable interiors are sure to suite everyone’s taste, and there's not a pillow out of place. 

Time Out tip: Take a five-minute drive (or 20-minute walk) to Bel Lago Vineyard and Winery for great local wine and taste room experiences with a lakeside view. 

Sleeps: Four. 

Perks: The outdoor area offers up a private dock, fairy-lit patio, a BBQ, vast greenery and lake views. 

Price: From $391 per night. Two-night minimum. 

Area: East Side Traverse City 

A lovely little loft on Hastings Street, this Airbnb suits couples or solo travellers, but we recommend keeping it for one. You’d get a bright, stylish space all to yourself, where the first floor offers a compact, but nifty kitchen, and a cozy living space to spread out for a Netflix watch or for post-exploring nap. Upstairs is the bedroom with a four-post bed and canopy to block the flood of light that comes in—which is fantastic unless you plan on sleeping in. With wall decor of the world map, we think it’s a sign that this place best fits wandering digital nomads. 

Time Out tip: Order up some burgers to go from Oakwood Proper Burgers (a five-minute walk), then chow down at scenic Bryant Park, just a 15-minute walk away.

Sleeps: Two. 

Perks: You get all the shops and restaurants from town, but are still within walking distance from the shore. 

Price: From $222 per night. 

Area: Grand Traverse Commons

Every detail of this third-floor loft was carefully thought of when the host designed this chic yet comfortable space. Set in Grand Traverse Commons, you’re a stone’s throw from all the nearby cafes, shops and restaurants. Inside, there’s a fully-stocked kitchen, a warm yet modern living room with TV, and high-ceilings with wooden beams and windows that provide for some glorious lighting. The coolest part, however, is the spiral staircase to the mezzanine, where you’ll find a workspace so nice, you almost wish your boss would bug you for the simplest task. Then there’s the bedroom, chic, understated and comfortable AF. 

Time Out tip: Try the crab benedict or homemade cinnamon roll from Red Spire Brunch House, just next door. Divine. 

Sleeps: Four. 

Perks: You get all the city conveniences and ambiance while being within walking distnace to some excellent hiking trails. And did we mention the balcony?

Price: From $262 per night. Two-night minimum. 

Area: West Arm Grand Traverse Bay, Suttons Bay

This is the ideal getaway for friends or family looking to vacay at their own private beach. The cottage has been recently renovated to the height of homey luxury, and inside, amenities include a fully equipped kitchen, new beds across the three bedrooms, and two well-sized bathrooms. Spend your days on the water with the provided kayaks before relaxing around the beachside fire pit—s’mores and all. 

Time Out tip: Pets are allowed to frolick here for a fee.

Sleeps: Seven. 

Perks: You’re minutes from your own private beach, a 10-minute drive from Veronica Valley County Park, and close to all the nearby wineries. 

Price: From $746 per night. Two-night minimum.

Area: Grand Traverse Commons, Traverse City 

This stunning and spacious condo is surrounded by woodlands and some equally stunning hiking trails. Featuring two porches, with one above the forest, the property sleeps up to four guests in a king-sized bed and a sofa bed, ideal for small groups, families or couples. The interiors is industrial with the exposed pipe and ceiling framing, bringing a bit of urban living to a simplistic and cozy space. It has everything you need, including a fully-equipped kitchen, living area and outdoor furniture for alfresco dining and morning brews.

Time out tip: Hike the Cathedral of Trees trail to find the Hippie Tree, a technicolor-painted tree and local landmark.  

Sleeps: Four. 

Perks: You’re in the heart of The Commons and above a forest, with stunning local trails to explore.

Price: From $203 per night. 

Area: Suttons Bay

This renovated luxury barn in Suttons Bay makes for a great gathering space for large groups and families who are looking for a weekend of forest fun. Situated over a peaceful creek, this Airbnb has three floors of space including four bedrooms and bathrooms, an open-plan living room, and a basement games room. The location is super central, too. 

Time Out tip: You’re in the heart of Leelanau Wine Country, so get ready for multiple tastings. 

Sleeps: 14. 

Perks: Overlooking a tranquil creek with all the nature to absorb as you please.

Price: From $1,076 per night. 

Area: North Lake Leeanau

A short walk from Lake Leelanau, this elegant home boasts both, rural solitude and the comforts of modern living. Equipped with Wi-Fi and smart TVs, contemporary decor, a walk-in shower, and a stunning wooden kitchen island, the Sweetbriar is nothing short of chic. We’re most enamored by the screened-in porch – equally ideal for curling up with a book on a rainy day and for cocktail hour with friends. The Sweetbriar comfortably sleeps five guests (with two queen beds and an additional twin top bunk).

Time Out tip: No need to pack multiple beach towels, chairs and umbrella. The host has them available, along with a pack-n-play kit for those traveling with kiddos. Just ask! 

Sleeps: Five. 

Perks: Did we mention the private beach?

Price: From $456 per night. Two-night minimum. 

Area: Northeast Lake Leeanau

This elegant refurbished farmhouse just might make you forget about city life altogether. Fixed on a 135-acre farm in Leelanau County, this six-guest sleeper once functioned as a grain storehouse—and even still features a cargo elevator. While it retains the old-school charm, this home is far from Jurassic: Wi-Fi, a television, a washer/dryer, and modern kitchen appliances are all included. Cook a big meal with friends in the airy, sun-soaked kitchen, and curl up in the elegant A-frame master suite on the second floor.

Time Out tip: We highly recommend a winter stay, when a blanket of snow covers the grounds. Stunning. 

Sleeps: Six.

Perks: The farmhouse lives on an active farm so there are endless things to see and do on-site.

Price: From $277 per night. Two-night minimum. 

Area: Greilickville

Built as a farmhouse in the early 1900s, this gorgeous, renovated pad boasts proximity to all the best things about the Traverse City region. It’s based in Gerilickville, a 15-minute drive from TC, and it’s five minutes from public boat launches. The house also features a private entrance to the 17-mile Leelanau Trail. With two stories, three bedrooms, five beds (including a daybed and a trundle), and one-and-a-half baths, the Martin House comfortably sleeps six guests. 

Time Out tip: Don’t miss the tiny cottage that now functions as a bar/game room.

Sleeps: Four. 

Perks: You’re give minutes from Cedar and South Lake Leelanau, and 10-15 minutes from the beaches of Traverse City.

Price: From $493 per night. Two-night minimum. 

Area: Traverse City

This condo is among the best cheap Airbnbs in Traverse City, and a great choice if you prioritize staying on-trend with interior design. The sleek furniture and beige color scheme add to the contemporary feel, along with modern conveniences, from a Smart TV to the latest kitchen amenities. King-sized beds will have you sleeping like royalty, and the hot tub is the perfect place to spend an evening under the stars.  

Time Out tip: Vegans and gluten, soy and dairy-free people, rejoice! Third Coast Bakery is a 10-minute walk, and offers coffee and treats that cater all the above. 

Sleeps: Six. 

Perks: A short drive from downtown and the famous wineries of Old Mission Peninsula. 

Price: From $221 per night. Two-night minimum (varies through the year). 

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