Tucked between Lake Michigan and the Glen Lakes, Glen Arbor is small waterfront village with a big attraction. During the summer, it's a popular base for visitors to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Swathes of buttery sandy beaches line the lakes and promise great fishing, waterskiing, and hiking through the dunes. Within easy reach of 2 bays, Glen Arbor vacation rentals are an ideal base to explore the lakes region. After a day on the beach, check out the quirky village shops and eateries that line the waterfront.
While a visit to Glen Arbor is a water enthusiast's dream, it doesn't have to involve getting soggy all the time. The neighboring historic village, Glen Haven, offers a step back in time. Harking back to the day when the lakeside villages provided fuel to the steamers which passed through, it's now one of the best preserved logging stations in the Great Lakes region. Visit the general store and pick up some cutesy kitchenware, toys, and food. Peek inside a 1920s blacksmith's shop and the Cannery Boathouse Museum, home to a haul of restored fishing boats.
The buttery sandy beaches overlooking Sleeping Bears Bay are a true highlight of any stay in Glen Arbor, and perfect for a teddy bear's picnic. Water enthusiasts will love the choice of 2 lakes - for swimming and boat excursions choose the expanse of Lake Michigan, while Glen Lake is ideal for a spot of fishing. If fishing doesn't float your boat, why not potter around the quirky gift shops in the village center. Grab an artisan coffee and freshly baked cakes at a local coffee shop, or dine out in one of the many family-run restaurants.
Lake Michigan and the Glen Lakes are year-round destinations. In summer, the temperatures peak and the sun shines, drawing the active outdoor crowd. But beware, the sun is a fairweather friend. Winter brings a dusting of snow, and more damp days than dry. The best (and busiest) time to visit Glen Arbor is during the warm summer months, when temperatures can reach 80 degrees. However, spring and early fall are delightful times to stay and there's more choice of Glen Arbor vacation rentals, but rain can make an appearance, so bring your waterproofs.
Tucked between Glen Lake and Lake Michigan, Glen Arbor is surrounded by woodland and beaches. It's famous as the home of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which sits at the southern end of the village. Named after an Ojibwe legend, the dunes sweep for 35 miles along the eastern coast of Lake Michigan. Shaped by glaciers during the Ice Age, its otherworldly appearance is best seen on the various hiking and biking trails over the dunes. For a more leisurely experience, take the 7-mile Pierce Stocking scenic drive that loops around the beech maple forest and the dunes.
The nearest airport is in Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), located 23 mi (37 km) from the city center.
Whether you're looking for an intimate retreat for you and your special someone or someplace spacious to fit the family, you'll find some top vacation rentals in and around Glen Arbor. Here are a couple to get you thinking:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Glen Arbor vacation rental for you.
Punching far above its weight when it comes to charm and innovation, a tiny house vacation rental in Glen Arbor offers a front-row seat to big adventure. Power down your devices and turn your focus to outdoor fun at one of these fun-sized escapes:
Vrbo has some charming log cabins to rent in and near Glen Arbor. Get the rustic cabin experience while staying in Mother Nature at one of these impressive choices:
Forget about catching up on chores, because weekends were made for fun. Escape to one of these weekend getaways in and near Glen Arbor and experience all the terrific things to do close by:
Enjoy the energy and culture of Glen Arbor from the comfort and privacy of a studio apartment. Whether you're eager to escape on your own or paint the town red with pals, we'll help you find the ideal studio apartment for rent in or near Glen Arbor:
There are many highlights around Glen Arbor to put on your itinerary. Satisfy your inner culture fan and visit Kresge Auditorium and Old Town Playhouse.
Whether you're seeking a compact apartment for you and a pal or a condo big enough for the whole family, there's no shortage of short-term rentals in and around Glen Arbor. These properties make the perfect base for a whirlwind visit:
Forget about flowers and chocolates. Sometimes all you need is to get away for a weekend, just you and your honey. At Vrbo, we've got romantic getaways in and around Glen Arbor that would make Cupid green with envy. Here are a few that'll sweep you off your feet:
Big groups mean enormous fun. They also mean finding a place that'll effortlessly fit your whole squad. Browse our large group vacation rentals in or around Glen Arbor and get everyone together under one roof:
A pool is often a nonnegotiable when deciding where to stay, especially if you're taking the kids. Check out these houses with a pool in or near Glen Arbor and fill your days with splashing good fun:
Wondering what the weather is like in Glen Arbor? It has a humid continental climate, with average summertime temperatures ranging from 55 ºF to 70 ºF. If you're chasing a little more inspiration on places to stay in this epic destination, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to browse through our entire selection of Glen Arbor vacation rentals.
The first stage of any great family trip is searching for the ideal place to stay. Whether you're organizing a break with the kids or a multi-generational getaway with relatives, we've got large family vacation rentals in and around Glen Arbor that'll fit everyone. Here are a couple of popular options that are ready to welcome you:
When it's time to do some sightseeing, there are lots of family-friendly attractions in the area to put on your itinerary. Adventure Island Family Fun Park is a great place to start.