Hotels in Indian River

Indian River: Where Lush Forests Embrace Serene Shores

Nestled in the heart of Michigan’s natural splendor, Indian River is a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Surrounded by lush forests and pristine waters, this enchanting destination offers endless outdoor activities, from kayaking along the scenic Indian River to exploring nearby natural parks. Visitors can unwind on tranquil beaches or hike picturesque trails, immersing themselves in the area's breathtaking landscapes. With its small-town charm and vibrant community, Indian River invites you to relax, explore, and reconnect with nature, making it the perfect spot for a serene getaway or a romantic escape. For the best hotel rates in Indian River and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Indian River

Some of the best places to stay in Indian River are Birchwood Farms, Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island. Birchwood Farms, Mackinaw City, and Mackinac Island each offer unique experiences for travelers. Birchwood Farms is perfect for nature lovers, featuring beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Mackinaw City serves as a gateway to Mackinac Island, known for its stunning views and historic charm. For accommodations, expect a range of options from cozy lodges to family-friendly hotels. For first-time visitors, Mackinaw City is ideal, providing easy access to attractions and stunning waterfront views. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Indian River:

1. Birchwood FarmsOpens in a new window: This beautiful area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring attractions like the Tunnel of Trees and skiing at The Highlands and Nub's Nob Ski Area. Birchwood Farms offers a serene escape with easy access to both cultural and sports activities. For accommodations, consider Odawa HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel with casino amenities and business facilities, ideal for travelers looking for a blend of work and play. Another excellent choice is The EarlOpens in a new window, also a 3.5-star hotel, which boasts direct beach access and various adventure sports nearby, making it perfect for thrill-seekers. Lastly, Inn at Bay Harbor, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, offers a mix of business and adventure with beach access and numerous recreational activities on-site.
2. Mackinaw CityOpens in a new window: A gateway to stunning natural landscapes, Mackinaw City is rich in outdoor activities and cultural sites like the Mackinac Bridge and Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and history. For lodging, Secrets on Main Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window is a cozy 3.0-star bed and breakfast that offers complimentary breakfast and entertainment options like Netflix for a comfortable stay. If you’re traveling with pets, Best Western River TerraceOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel, welcomes your furry friends with specific pet amenities. Another option is Roberts Landing CampgroundOpens in a new window, which also accommodates pets, allowing for a stress-free vacation.
3. Mackinac IslandOpens in a new window: Known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history, Mackinac Island offers a range of outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions like Fort Mackinac. This picturesque destination is great for adventure seekers and families alike. For accommodations, Mission Point ResortOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star resort, provides excellent business amenities and family-friendly activities like mini golf. Island House HotelOpens in a new window, another 3.5-star hotel, is located in a historic building and offers various adventure sports, perfect for those looking for excitement. Lastly, Metivier InnOpens in a new window, a charming bed and breakfast, offers free breakfast and nearby golf, making it a cozy option for travelers.

Things to do in Indian River for first time

A three-day getaway to Indian River offers travelers a chance to immerse themselves in stunning beaches, lush forests, and serene natural parks. Enjoy activities like hiking through scenic trails, relaxing at spas, or boating along tranquil waters, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Indian River:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Burt Lake, where you can relish the serene beauty of the waters and perhaps enjoy some recreational activities like kayaking or fishing. After soaking in the natural surroundings, head to the Melvin Family Hiking and Biking Trails. This scenic trail offers a wonderful opportunity to stretch your legs and appreciate the lush landscapes of the area. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Mullett Township Library, where you can delve into local history or simply unwind with a good book in a cozy atmosphere.
• Day 2: Start your day at Pickerel Lake, known for its tranquil setting and excellent fishing spots. Enjoy the peaceful environment before making your way to Crooked Lake, where you can take in stunning views and possibly enjoy a picnic by the shore. Conclude your day with a visit to the Oden State Fish Hatchery Visitor Center, where you can learn about fish conservation and the local ecosystem, making for an educational and enjoyable experience.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at the Agnes S. Andreae Nature Preserve, a perfect spot for nature lovers to explore diverse wildlife and scenic trails. Next, visit the Michigan Central Depot Historical Marker, where you can immerse yourself in the region’s rich transportation history and take some memorable photos. Finish your day at the Boyd B. Banwell Nature Preserve, where you can enjoy a peaceful hike and perhaps catch sight of local flora and fauna, rounding out your trip with a deep appreciation for Michigan’s natural beauty.

5 tips to find a great Indian River hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Indian River is during April, November, and December, when hotel prices are at their lowest. For a great value for your money, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the area's main attractions, including beautiful beaches and scenic natural parks. This budget-friendly destination offers plenty to explore without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Indian River, Hotels.com offers a variety of options that you could find appealing. To explore these offers, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you may discover great availability and discounted rates on nearby hotels. To maximize your savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep updated on flash sales and special promotions. Book today and take advantage of these opportunities for an unforgettable stay in Indian River!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Thus, if you remain flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Indian River.
4. Consider your location: When booking your stay on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Choosing a hotel closer to major attractions or downtown areas may offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the places you want to explore.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Indian River. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

Best time to go to Indian River

Indian River experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 19.6°F (-6.9°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 66.7°F (19.3°C). October tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Indian River are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.