Sunny suite w/ private entrance; view of Betsie Bay one block from Lake Michigan
Serendipity House is a one-of-a-kind inn designed for vacationers who want a unique experience. Situated on Main Street two blocks from Lake Michigan and at the edge of Frankfort's charming downtown district, the inn recalls an earlier time when residents would call out greetings from their front porch to passersby. Serendipity has a big front porch, spacious backyard with firepit and updated living space with all the amenities. Pack your beach gear and turn right to enjoy Lake Michigan's beaches and spectacular sunsets. Cross the street to start biking the 26-mile Betsie Trail. Or turn left to enjoy downtown Frankfort's unique shops and restaurants. With five suites, we're especially well-suited for wedding parties, family reunions, or for sharing vacations with friends. Special weekly and off-season rates. Serendipity House offers four-season lodging in 5 suites at the water's edge. Pack your beach gear and turn right to enjoy Lake Michigan's beaches and spectacular sunsets. Cross the street to start biking the 26-mile Betsie Trail. Or turn left to enjoy downtown Frankfort's unique shops and restaurants. Then come back for fall colors. winter skiing and spring awakenings. With five suites, we're especially well-suited for wedding parties, family reunions, or for sharing vacations with friends. Special weekly and off-season rates.
We're listing the Lakeview Suite, but if the dates you'd like are not available, please go to one of our other suites: Betsie (#195186); Manitou (#180215); Nannybird (#186194); or Sandune (#4635922).
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available
Beach view
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Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Weddings parties and family reunions welcomed.
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Pets
No pets allowed
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
All suites are smoke-free
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Turn off fans, ceiling fans and air conditioner. Close blinds.
Leave keys on counter. Do dishes.
Sweep sand off floor.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Pull out sofa is in living room so it's best for families with kids under 12.
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 4
Note from host: Weddings parties and family reunions welcomed.
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
We should mention
This property does not have any lifts
A car is not required for transport to and from this property
About the area
Frankfort
Located in Frankfort, this holiday home is in the city centre and near the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lake Michigan and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Elizabeth Lane Oliver Center for the Arts - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
Frankfort Light - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
Crystal Mountain - 23 min drive - 33.9 km
Getting around
Manistee, MI (MBL-Manistee County-Blacker) - 48 min drive
Restaurants
A&W Restaurant - 20 min walk
Stormcloud Brewing Company - 2 min walk
Petals & Perks - 4 min walk
Stormcloud Brewing Parkview Taproom - 3 min drive
Villa Marine Bar & Grill - 1 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Sunny suite w/ private entrance; view of Betsie Bay one block from Lake Michigan pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Sunny suite w/ private entrance; view of Betsie Bay one block from Lake Michigan?
As of 27 Mar, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Sunny suite w/ private entrance; view of Betsie Bay one block from Lake Michigan on 25 Jun, 2026 start from S$329, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Sunny suite w/ private entrance; view of Betsie Bay one block from Lake Michigan?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Sunny suite w/ private entrance; view of Betsie Bay one block from Lake Michigan?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Sunny suite w/ private entrance; view of Betsie Bay one block from Lake Michigan?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Sunny suite w/ private entrance; view of Betsie Bay one block from Lake Michigan located?
Located in the heart of Frankfort, this holiday home is within 1 mi (2 km) of Betsie Lake and Lake Michigan. Frankfort Beach and Elizabeth Lane Oliver Center for the Arts are also within 5 minutes.
Reviews
9.2
Wonderful
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Place is an older house. Neat and clean and had a great front porch. Location was walking distance to beach and to the beautiful downtown area. Parking was great. Saw many beautiful sunsets. Would definitely stay again.
Bonnie W.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Oct, 2025
Bonnie,
Thanks for your review, we're glad we met your needs for the Ironman race and welcome your return.
Sarah
Great stay! Great location and nicer than the listing photos. One of the most comfortable vacation rental mattresses I’ve ever slept on. Appreciated the folding table and chairs. As some other reviews mention, the shower is tiny (a handheld sprayer would help). Will very likely return.
Stephan B.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Sept, 2025
Thank you, Stephan. We agree with you about the bed. All of our mattresses are top of the line, made in Grand Rapids. We would welcome your return and will look into a hand-held sprayer for the stall shower. Best, Sarah
Great location for a vacation. Centered in the middle of it all. Maybe a little tight for 4 people but, with so much to do in the area, we were hardly in the room at all. Beds were comfy which is important when traveling and all you want to do is pass out after a long day.
Caroline G.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept, 2023
We couldn't agree more regarding our location... just steps from the beach and downtown. Glad to hear you enjoyed your stay. We welcome your return!
The location of this property is perfect for walking to the beach, downtown shops and restaurants, or biking over to hop on the Betsie River Trail. We had everything we needed, just might bring flannel sheets and an extra blanket next time for the blow up mattress that’s in the pull out couch. It truly was a great spot for our weekend up north!
Kirstin P.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept, 2023
Thanks Kristin we agree that our location cannot be beat. We have a brand new sofa bed with a very comfortable inflatable mattress in the living room as well as a queen size bed in the bedroom. We’ll also make sure that we put the blankets and heavy comforters on in the fall in case it gets chilly. We always have space heaters and a wall heater available so next time you come please let us know if you have trouble locating those items or turning on the heater.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Sheri P.
25 Jun, 2018
Serendipity House
We had so much fun in Frankfort staying at the Serendipity House! The location is perfect, right near our favorite places to eat, The Coho and Stormcloud microbrewery and just a 1-minute walk to the beach! The rooms were spotlessly clean, owners were friendly and easy and the beds were comfy!!! We loved it and will always stay at Serendipity if we can!
Sheri P.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept, 2023
Dear Sheri,
Thank you for your nice comments, we enjoyed having you and you’re welcome anytime!
Sarah Bannister
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Heidi L.
8 Oct, 2016
Wonderful place! The owner, Tim, was great and the unit had everything we needed.
Clean and close to everything. The lake was just a block away and shops and restaurants were in walking distance. Great brewery with tasty pub food selections, just a few blocks away. Wonderful experience. We stayed because it was a short drive to Arcadia Bluffs golf course.
Heidi L.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept, 2023
We should hire them to produce our next brochure! The review captures everything that makes us a great choice for a Northwest Michigan vacation getaway. And we're open year-'round.
This place is close to the beach, restaurants, shops, bike rentals, etc. Had a little trouble checking in as the keys weren’t where they were supposed to be, but got a quick response from the owner/manager. Loved being able to sit on the front porch to read and just watch the world go by.. The porch was a popular place with everyone saying there .
Megan H.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept, 2023
Thanks Megan! We're glad you enjoyed your and have since fixed the lock box which was malfunctioning prior to your arrival. We agree that the front porch is the best spot in town to people watch!
The upstairs rooms were comfortable, the TV had a cable connection and the wifi worked. It was perfect for a couple day- stay. For our 2-week stay, the mini fridge was too small, the shower stall (like a phone booth) was too small, and the single-ply toilet paper was disappointing. There were lots of nice towels. And Sarah was always available if there was any questions or issues. The need was comfortable. We would definitely come back for a short stay.
DOUG R.
Stayed 13 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept, 2023
Doug, it was very nice to meet you and we're glad you enjoyed your stay. We switched back to higher quality tissue after trying a septic safe variety that left much to be desired! Maybe you stay you could try the Manitou Suite, which has a full-kitchen and large soaking bathtub.
The location is the selling point. Could not be better. The listing says it can sleep 4 which is true, but I would not put more than three in there. Also, the kitchen has everything you need for a short stay. Just do not plan on cooking alot of meals in the kitchen. It is not that well appointed. Better to go out and enjoy the local restaurants. Overall we were very pleased and plan to rent again next year.
Steve S.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept, 2023
We agree our location can't be beat. Many of guests are families with young children and the pull-out sofa and private bedroom suits a family of four perfectly. The Lakeview offers a kitchenette which is a wee bit smaller than a full kitchen but has everything you need to prepare a meal if you choose.
We're glad you enjoyed your stay!
The location of this property is fantastic - it's right across the street from the bay, two blocks from the beach, and steps to restaurants. The space itself is clean and very basic. A few things that weren't necessarily noted in the VRBO description - there are zero toiletries provided - no soap, no shampoo, etc. We didn't bring any so the first day we had to make do until we made a trip to the store. The molded stand up shower is tiny - an average person can barely turn around in it. The compact fridge has no ability to keep a bag of ice. It's a second floor walk up - no elevator (important to me as I was carrying my bike). None of these things were a major issue for us or hindered our stay, but important to note for other renters. Overall the stay was very enjoyable and would recommend the apartment to others.
Katherine L.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept, 2023
Dear Katharine,
We agree that our location is the best. We're sorry you didn't know we don't provide bath soap, shampoo or conditioner - that information was listed on the welcome letter I emailed you prior to your stay. We do provide our guests with liquid soft soap and dish soap but not bar soap for the bath.
The Lakeview Suite has a beautiful view of the Betsie Bay as noted on the listing. It also has a full kitchenette with sink, disposal, toaster, coffee, sugar, napkins, paper towels, coffee maker, microwave, over, cooktop and mini-fridge. We also provide linens and towels for our guests. Thanks for booking with us and we hope to see you again.
The rooms were very clean, the view was great, the house had very little noise from other guests, the kitchen was stocked well.
We really enjoyed our stay and will stay there again in the future.
Loved landing at the Serendipity House just as the summer arrived. Never got back into the car, everything is walking distance. Definitely will return.
Verified traveller
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept, 2023
Thanks John! We’re glad you enjoyed your stay & welcome your return!
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay for an anniversary weekend. The location — two blocks to the beach one direction, and two blocks to the brewery and restaurants in the other is ideal. It is a bit noisy from the other guests, but that is to be expected in a house of this age. All-in-all, we had a wonderful weekend, and will be back. I’d recommend adding a guestbook of some sort, so visitors can leave their notes and impressions for the next guests. It’s always nice to see how far people have travelled to get there!
Stephen M.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept, 2023
We're glad you enjoyed your anniversary weekend Stephen and appreciate the suggestion about the guest book, we will look into making one available for our guests. Thank you and we look forward to your return!
The overall experience was good. There was a discrepancy between the listing and what was actually in the unit. When you search for 2 bedroom 1 bath this listing comes up. There is one bedroom and a living room with a pull out couch. The matress on the pull out couch is an air matress. It was very comfortable. Better than your standard pull out couch mattresses. The online description says there is shampoo and standard soaps, the detailed description after you have paid for the property says no bath soap and no shampoo. Anyway just FYI, the owners are aware and are going to change the online details.
Other than that we had a great time. Wish we had another day to really wonder around town.
Kay T.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept, 2023
Thank you for your comments, we’re glad you enjoyed yourself. We provide dish soap, sponges and soft soap in each suite. Typically guests prefer to bring their own shower amenities so we do not provide bath soap, shampoo or conditioner.
We have updated the listing on VRBO to reflect this. Thank you again and we welcome your return to Serendipity House!
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Michelle T.
8 Jul, 2019
Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy
Pleasant stay.
Our stay was short just overnight. The door between the two rooms ended up coming off its hinge at the top. But other than that it was a lovely spot.
Michelle T.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept, 2023
Dear Michelle,
thank you for your review. As we discussed, the door was intact prior to your arrival. We were able to replace the screws with longer ones and secure the door to the hinge after you left. So glad that you enjoyed your stay and had fun at the wedding! We welcome your return.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Sarah M.
18 Aug, 2017
Beautiful home and great lication!
Gorgeous grpunds, loved the fire pit and beautiful flowers on the front porch. Steps from the beach, lighthouse & sunset!
Sarah M.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept, 2023
Thanks for the kind words and your awareness of the little touches we've incorporated to make your stay more pleasant. -Tim Bannister, Host
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Gwenn K.
4 Aug, 2017
Great View!
The view was great and we loved how close we were to the beach, shopping and marina! We would stay again
Gwenn K.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept, 2023
Thanks Gwenn. Come back and visit us again!
Archival
8/10 Good
Emily P.
5 Aug, 2014
Great location, good amenities, on its way up
We stayed in the Lakeview Suite for three nights. We had two adults, a five year old and a baby. Some of the decor has been updated from the pictures shown.
Location: Excellent. 1 block to beautiful beach, go the other way for shopping and restaurants. Can even walk to grocery store (>1mile) if needed. Tiny view of lake Betsy though the windows, best view is from the toilet - not kidding.
Space: good space for two adults plus pack-n-play (provided by Serendipity house) in the bedroom, especially if you block off the internal entry door and just use the external door as we did. May not be so pleasant in the winter. Living space had a sleeper sofa, but it takes up all available room so we used a small inflatable bed (we brought our own) for our 5yo and then propped it in the corner so we had living space during the day. Bathroom is ample, though shower is small.
Amenities: Kitchenette had all appliance, pots, pans, etc. Including dish soap. Need to bring your own salt pepper and other condiments. Bathroom had plenty of towels though some were slightly stained (not gross - just showing wear). No shampoo or shower soaps provided. Enough space and hooks for storage of clothing, gear, and food supplies. Clothesline in back for drying suits was very helpful. We didn't use the picnic table, backyard chairs, or fire pit, but they were all there. "Grill" is a tiny webber charcoal camp grill. Will do the trick if you're desperate, but too fussy for our needs. Peaceful backyard setting with just other home noise, not business noise. Nice front porch to people watch or read. Beach chairs provided in the bedroom. Owner appeared to be working in grounds and doing other maintenance while we were there - I took that as a good sign. Good service interactions.
Cleanliness: Average. This is the one that will keep me from letting my mom stay here. Carpets were worn and had stains and there were stains on the couch. We found earrings in the floor when we arrived which made me question the vacuum job. Linens were clean, but bedcover did not appear to be made of a washable material. Perhaps they switch them out and get them laundered - otherwise... Dust on pictures and flat surfaces, sand in drawers. Looks like they weren't wiped out between guests. Kitchen was clean as was the bathroom. Honestly, I think it just might be too much for one housekeeper to handle during peak season. Nothing gross - just not as nice as it could have been.
We had a great time.
Emily P.
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept, 2023
Thanks for your review, since your stay five years ago we have a new housekeeper who is excellent and we have no problems with cleanliness. Carpet has been removed and we have all new wooden floors. New couch and washable, cotton quilts on all beds. New towels and linens. We also have a larger Weber grill. We welcome your return!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
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25 Aug, 2010
Outstanding Location and Classic Charm
We have stayed at Serendipity House several times since it opened and have always found it to be charming and very centrally located. Each time we've visited we've seen a constant improvement in upkeep and renovations. Very laid back atmosphere with an inviting front porch where we have met other guests from Germany, Washington State and Japan. We've never looked for a hotel when staying in Frankfort and this fits the bill. 2 blocks from the beach and 1 block to town. The rooms are well kept and clean. Bathrooms are stocked with towels and chairs are provided for the beach. It's nice to be able to take our dog with us and have never had a problem with noise.
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About the host
Hosted by Sarah Bannister McCallum
The Bannister got into innkeeping accidentally, when his stepfather surprised his mother with the purchase of a resort with 12 cottages and a motel in nearby Arcadia. It was a long, colorful and rocky road until the resort was sold off in 2007, but Tim learned a great deal as an innkeeper and decided to build off that experience.
Why they chose this property
Pierside Lodging had been a bed-and-breakfast that had been closed and mothballed for 4 years when Tim purchased the property and renamed it 'Serendipity House.' Built in 1890, the house had started out as an inn, going back to hosting the workers who built the Frankfort Pier.
What makes this property unique
Today, Serendipity House is a one-of-a-kind inn designed for vacationers who want a unique experience that includes their accommodations. Situated on Main Street a block from Lake Michigan and at the edge of Frankfort's charming downtown district, the inn recalls earlier times when residents would call out greetings and exchange gossip from their big front porch to passersby. Serendipity has the big front porch and updated living space with all the amenities for vacationers who enjoy something unique.