15 lakefront Airbnbs to rent for a summer getaway from Chicago

The fields of lavender surrounding this bright-white modern abode function as a natural form of aromatherapy. The loungers in the backyard would be an ideal spot for an outdoor nap, while the Japanese garden would be a lovely place to get some reading done. Home cooks will love the sleek open concept kitchen and backyard grill, too. From $350 per night

Since it's not far from white-sand Oval Beach, the trail to Mount Baldhead and a plethora of local art galleries, this tiny house would be the perfect home base for a weekend of exploring all Saugatuck has to offer. The candy-apple red cottage might be small, but it has everything you need for a romantic getaway: a screened-in porch, queen-sized bed, kitchenette and outdoor hot tub. From $165 per night

This Door County home has a vintage nautical vibe, thanks to views of Sturgeon Bay, lake-themed decor and a shape that mimics the hull of a ship. Make good use of the rowboat, kayaks and fishing gear at the backyard pier, then bust out the board games after night falls. From $484 per night

Whether you plan to work on your novel or prefer to spend your days boating around Lake Michigan, this peaceful cabin would be a lovely place to spend a weekend. Take advantage of the nearby dock to canoe, kayak, jet ski or boat on the pristine waters, or stay on dry land if you just want to soak up the sunshine. From $59 per night

This contemporary lake house has every creature comfort you can imagine: six bedrooms that can sleep up to 10 people, a great room centered around a fireplace, a sunny outdoor deck, a pool table, a bar, flat-screen TVs, old-school arcade games, a sauna, a fitness room and even a private pier. It sounds like the ultimate set-up for a family vacation, bachelor party weekend or girls’ getaway. From $1,300 per night

If you care just as much about a home’s aesthetic as you do its location, reserve this yellow bungalow outfitted with impeccable mid-century modern decor. One-of-a-kind touches like an antique abacus and sketches of Scandinavian rulers adorn the walls, while vintage velvet chairs and minimalist bed frames fill the rooms. Best of all, you’re just a short bike ride away from Traverse City’s boutiques, restaurants and brewpubs. From $132 per night

For the ultimate rustic getaway, rent this traditional log cabin in northern Michigan. Kids of all ages will love walking into the waters of Grand Traverse Bay from the private sand beach, grilling up some burgers on the deck or roasting marshmallows by the outdoor firepit on the bluff. From $193 per night

You can just barely catch a glimpse of Lake Michigan through the tall trees and lush foliage surrounding this mid-century home. The wooded lot makes this property a magnet for wildlife, though: Visitors might spot deer drinking from the stream behind the guesthouse or meandering through the yard. Borrow a pair of bikes from the owner to ride a nearby trail deeper into the woods and spot even more wild animals. From $73 per night

This charming two-bedroom home boasts both a private beach and lap pool, so you have plenty of options for swimming. A group of friends could while away the hours playing cards by the fireplace, whipping up meals in the open-concept kitchen and sipping drinks on the deck. From $265 per night

Treat your inner child (or little ones of your own) to a stay in a real-life princess castle on the shores of Lake Michigan. Built in 1912, this home was modeled after a Loire Valley chateau—an inspiration that’s easy to see in the leaded glass windows, elaborate crown molding, symmetrical turrets and manicured grounds. You’ll truly feel like royalty when you sink into the chinoiserie-patterned four-poster bed. From $150 per night

Test drive the tiny house lifestyle in this pint-sized cottage from the 1950s. The 329-square-foot home was literally sliced in half years ago to accommodate a changing lot line, creating a funky but charming studio layout. What it lacks in size it makes up for in location: The property offers 480 feet of beach access, plus a floating pier and boat launch. From $125 per night

This cozy one-bedroom hideaway in Union Pier is just a short walk into town, where you’ll find small art galleries, cute cafes, local wineries and a well-loved public beach. After you return home for the evening, you can kick back on the screened-in porch, by outdoor fire pit or beside the wood-burning fireplace. From $133 per night

Two blocks from both the Downer Avenue shopping district and Bradford Beach, this second-story residence has an eclectic vibe to match Milwaukee’s vibrant art scene. (Think palm print furniture, vintage wall art, a spiral staircase and a gorgeous maroon AGA range.) Four beds and a couch can comfortably sleep up to seven people, so you can round up the whole crew for a weekend getaway. From $198 per night

With an in-ground pool, outdoor fire pit and personal theater, this four-bedroom cabin certainly offers plenty of entertainment options. You’re also a short one-mile drive from Lake Geneva, where you can get your fill of sailing, paddle boarding, swimming, jet skiing and other water sports. From $350 per night

This Sturgeon Bay vacation property has not one, not two, but four decks. Massive windows open up the living room to plenty in natural light and waterfront views, while two large bedrooms can comfortably sleep as many as six guests. During your stay, don’t miss the chance to take the ferry across Death’s Door to Washington Island, a tiny community off the northern tip of the peninsula. From $203 per night