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1894
Colonial Inn
Harbor Springs, Michigan
210 Artesian Avenue, Harbor Springs, Michigan 49740
Original Property Opened in 1894
Historic Hotels of America member since 2025
For more than 130 years, the Colonial Inn has stood as an award-winning haven, nestled in the charming historic neighborhood of Harbor Springs. Just steps from the shimmering shores of Lake Michigan, it offers timeless hospitality and an unforgettable escape. Opened from May- October, the hotel invites guests to unwind, unplug for the season and enjoy a little needed vacation time. With 42 restored rooms, in-room fireplaces, an outdoor pool, jacuzzi, gym, and peaceful grounds rich with history, the Colonial Inn offers a refreshing escape where charm meets modern comfort.
Discover
- Discover the brilliant blend of Colonial Revival-style architectural motifs at Colonial Inn. Colonial Revival architecture is the most widely used building form in the United States. The symmetrical designs, brickwork, and pilaster architecture can be seen throughout the inn.
- Learn the history of Colonial Inn, established shortly after the American Civil War in 1894 by Colonel Eaton of the Michigan Wolverines, Cavalry Division. The inn was run by his widow after his passing in 1904, defying the societal norms in that era for women. After her passing, the inn was acquired by different prominent figures such as John R. Davis, Vice President of the Ford Motor Company in 1955.
- The hotel is located in the Harbor Springs neighborhood named Wequetonsing and is surrounded by turn-of-the-century cottage style homes. Town and Country magazine described the area as “top drawer” and highlighted this neighborhood as an exclusive summer retreat in its 1958 issue.
Explore
- Explore Pond Hill Farm, a family-friendly farm that offers hiking trails, craft beer tastings, and seasonal activities. During the summer season, guests can walk the vineyards or trails and see the friendly farm animals like goats and sheep. There is a playground for kids, a gnome hunting activity, and an animal/trout pond. Guests can enjoy the café for lunch with homemade pizzas, farm-fresh salads, and live music.
- Drive to the Harbor Spring landmark, the Tunnel of Trees. This scenic heritage route is just a few minutes from the hotel and is famous for its winding curves and stunning views of Lake Michigan. The journey through the Tunnel of Trees is approximately 20 minutes and drivers will see the towering trees above form a natural tunnel making a landmark for the area.
- Beachcomb Lake Michigan for Petoskey Stones, Michigan’s state stone that is unique to the Great Lakes. These exclusively Michigan stones can be found along the shore of Michigan’s lower peninsula. They are beautiful natural fossils and it’s quite common to see people beach combing. Some areas prohibit the removal of these stones, so be sure to research the area’s rules before starting the Petoskey Stones quest.
Experience
- Experience the beauty of Lake Michigan with its crystalline waters. Visitors to the Great Lakes can participate in water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, sailing, and more. For those with a need for speed, there are guided jet ski tours available for guests to uncover secret beaches and shoreline vistas that cannot be accessed by land. There are special yoga experiences with stand-up paddle yoga sessions to practice balance and mindfulness. Inquire with the hotel receptionist or visit the hotel website for reservations.
- Play golf with the backdrop being the Little Traverse Bay and rolling terrain of Boyne County. Harbor Springs is celebrated as one of Northern Michigan’s premier golf destinations with courses for players at every level. The Heather at Boyne Highlands is an Arnold Palmer designed golf course that weaves through the hills and hardwood forest. The other golf course in Harbor Springs is the Harbor Point Golf Club that overlooks Little Traverse Bay on Lake Michigan and offers breathtaking water views.
- Take an adventurous self-guided scavenger hunt in Downtown Harbor Springs. Explore the historic streets, stunning murals, and all that downtown has to offer with this seasonal activity. In addition, Downtown Harbor Springs is home to the city’s historical museum that offers hands-on exhibits, Native American heritage, and much more.
Taste
- Taste a true Artisan style breakfast at the Colonial Inn. From freshly baked breads and homemade jams to savory breakfast meats, the Colonial Inn offers a delicious breakfast. Breakfast is in the dining room of the Main Inn and is open from 6:30-11:00 am.
- Visit one of Harbor Springs' most popular restaurants, the Pier Restaurant. This restaurant offers waterfront dining and was originally built over the harbor. The restaurant invites guests to indulge in fresh seafood of Great Lakes fish and authentic Northern Michigan favorites.
- Embrace the elegance of Northern Michigan’s wine country. Nestled among the slopes of farmland, the many award-winning estates offer tasting rooms and local hospitality. Inquire about the vineyard and reservations with Colonial Inn.
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