Looking for the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury for your next girls' weekend? Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP) offers everything you need for a memorable escape, from stunning natural landscapes to spa-like comforts and unique local experiences. Whether you're seeking to unwind in the serene beauty of a luxurious lodge, explore historic towns, or indulge in fine dining and pampering, the UP is an ideal destination.
The region is a hidden gem for those looking to get away from it all, without sacrificing convenience. A scenic drive from major Midwest cities such as Chicago, Milwaukee, Detroit, and Minneapolis makes it easily accessible while offering a true retreat from the hustle and bustle. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, lush forests, and an array of activities that cater to every taste—from hiking and sightseeing to casino entertainment and spa treatments.
Start with the Perfect Location: The Kingfisher Lodge
The Kingfisher Lodge in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is the ultimate retreat for your girls' weekend. Nestled along a peaceful river and surrounded by stunning natural beauty, this luxurious lodge combines spa-like comforts with a cozy, relaxing atmosphere. Its fully equipped kitchen, hot tub, fire pit, bar, and shuffleboard offer everything you need to unwind after a day of exploring the UP. Whether you’re indulging in local dining, sipping cocktails by the fire, or pampering yourselves with a day at the nearby casino spa, The Kingfisher Lodge provides the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, all within a short drive from Escanaba. With its modern amenities and serene location, it’s the ideal spot for reconnecting with friends and creating unforgettable memories.
Getting There: A Scenic Drive Away
Planning the perfect girls’ getaway starts with a scenic drive to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP), known for its breathtaking natural beauty. Depending on where you're coming from, the drive is part of the adventure:
- Chicago: 370 miles (~6-hour drive) — Head north and cross the Mackinac Bridge for beautiful views along the way.
- Milwaukee: 330 miles (~5.5-hour drive) — Take in the lakeshore views as you drive through Wisconsin before entering the U.P.
- Detroit: 470 miles (~7-hour drive) — Travel through Michigan’s lower peninsula, and then head north for an easy journey.
- Minneapolis: 400 miles (~6.5-hour drive) — Traverse the scenic northern landscapes of Wisconsin into Michigan.
Once you arrive, you’ll find yourself in a true wilderness retreat, perfect for relaxing and unwinding.
Relax and Unwind at the Lodge
Your home base for the weekend will be the luxurious Kingfisher Lodge, nestled along the river and surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Here, you can relax with all the comforts of home and the elegance of a five-star resort:
- Scenic Beauty: Located in Cornell, MI, just 20 minutes from Escanaba, this lodge offers the perfect balance between seclusion and convenience.
- Spa-like Luxury: Take full advantage of the hot tub after a day of hiking, or sip cocktails by the fire pit under the stars.
- Cozy Furnishings: The beautifully designed interiors are perfect for lounging and catching up with friends.
- Bar and Shuffleboard: After dinner, gather around the bar or challenge your friends to a round of shuffleboard.
- Fully Equipped Kitchen: Prepare meals with ease, or better yet, organize a group cooking experience using local ingredients.
Pampering and Fun
When planning a girls' weekend, pampering and indulgence are essential elements. Fortunately, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula offers a range of activities that allow you to unwind, get glam, and experience local entertainment.
Casino Fun and Spa Relaxation
Start your weekend off by heading to Island Resort & Casino in Harris, MI, just a 30-minute drive from Kingfisher Lodge. The resort features not only exciting slot machines, table games, and live poker but also a fantastic spa experience that’s perfect for a relaxing start to your getaway. The Drift Spa offers luxurious services like deep tissue massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures, allowing you and your group to feel completely refreshed.
For evening entertainment, the casino also hosts live shows featuring everything from big-name musicians to comedians. Imagine winding down the evening by enjoying a show with your friends while sipping cocktails—truly the perfect start to your weekend.
Nail Salons for a Little Extra Glam
If a day of casino fun isn’t quite your style, or if you’re looking to complete your spa day, several nail salons in Escanaba offer top-tier services. Lakeshore Nail Spa and Infinity Salon & Spa are both highly recommended for their friendly service and quality work. Whether you’re after intricate nail art, classic manicures, or relaxing pedicures, these salons provide an excellent way to bond while indulging in some much-needed self-care.
Day Trip to Marquette
A visit to Marquette—about an hour’s drive from Kingfisher Lodge—makes for a fun day trip if you're looking for a combination of pampering and exploration. While in town, be sure to:
- Visit The Vierling: Located downtown, this historic saloon is not only a great spot for lunch but also boasts an in-house brewery. Take in views of Lake Superior while sampling local craft beers and enjoying a meal(Roadtrippers).
- Explore Blackrocks Brewery: If your group enjoys local brews, Blackrocks is a must-visit. The brewery has an outdoor patio that is perfect for a casual, laid-back atmosphere—ideal for relaxing after a day of exploration.
- Hit Up the Shops: Marquette’s quaint shops and boutiques make it easy to find unique gifts or souvenirs to commemorate your girls' weekend. From handcrafted goods to trendy clothing, Marquette’s downtown offers something for every taste.
By combining casino entertainment, spa treatments, and charming day trips, your girls' getaway will have the perfect mix of indulgence, fun, and bonding.
Dining Out
Dining out is always a highlight of any girls’ trip, and the Upper Peninsula doesn’t disappoint. From fine dining to casual eats, the local culinary scene offers something for every palate.
Freshwater Tavern
Located in Gladstone, the Freshwater Tavern offers more than just a meal—it’s a dining experience. Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, this tavern provides panoramic views of the lake, making it an ideal spot for a sunset dinner. The restaurant’s menu blends comfort food with creative, Asian-inspired flavors. Popular dishes include the Korean BBQ ribs, seared ahi tuna, and Thai curry shrimp. Pair your meal with one of the tavern's signature cocktails made from locally distilled spirits, and you’ve got the recipe for a memorable night. The lakeside views, combined with an expertly crafted menu, make Freshwater Tavern an essential stop for your weekend.
The Stonehouse
For a more upscale dining experience, The Stonehouse in Escanaba is a must-visit. Known for its wood-fired steaks, fresh seafood, and extensive wine list, this restaurant is perfect for a celebratory girls' night out. Whether you're craving prime rib, grilled chops, or lobster, the Stonehouse has something to satisfy every craving. Don’t forget to stop by the Carport Lounge inside the Stonehouse for a pre-dinner cocktail or a post-dinner nightcap. This elegant lounge offers a cozy setting to unwind and recap the day’s adventures with your group.
By exploring these varied dining options, your group will have plenty of delicious memories to savor throughout the weekend.
Sightseeing
The Upper Peninsula is filled with stunning natural landscapes and unique historical sites, making it the perfect destination for a sightseeing adventure. Whether your group enjoys hiking, history, or simply taking in scenic vistas, there’s something for everyone.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Located near Munising, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the Upper Peninsula's most iconic landmarks. With its colorful cliffs, scenic hiking trails, and boat tours, it’s a must-see for any visit to the UP.
After a day spent exploring Miner’s Castle or kayaking along the lakeshore, your group can head into Munising for some local dining. For a more upscale experience, Tracey’s at Roam Inn offers excellent steak and seafood options, perfect for a celebratory meal. For something more laid-back, The Falling Rock Café and Bookstore serves coffee, sandwiches, and soups in a charming, cozy setting. It's the perfect spot to unwind with a good book or enjoy local art. If you're up for a short drive, Dunes Saloon and Lake Superior Brewing Company in Grand Marais serves hearty burgers and ribs, alongside craft beers brewed on-site, making it an excellent stop to wrap up your Pictured Rocks adventure.
Kitch-iti-kipi
wonders and the largest freshwater spring in the state. Located in Palms Book State Park near Manistique, this spring spans over 200 feet in diameter and reaches a depth of about 40 feet, offering a stunning display of crystal-clear turquoise water. What makes Kitch-iti-kipi so unique is its visible bubbling spring bed, where over 10,000 gallons of water per minute flow up from the limestone beneath, creating a mesmerizing underwater ballet of shifting sands and swaying plant life.
Visitors can enjoy the spring by boarding a self-operated observation raft that glides across the serene waters. From the raft, you can peer down into the depths, where trout and other fish swim lazily in the translucent waters, and the intricate patterns on the spring bed are in full view. The peaceful atmosphere makes Kitch-iti-kipi a perfect spot for relaxation, nature photography, and group bonding.
After exploring this serene oasis, head over to Clyde’s Drive-In in Manistique. This retro diner, known for its juicy burgers and creamy milkshakes, is a local favorite and a great way to top off a day of sightseeing. For those seeking a more scenic dining experience, consider packing a picnic to enjoy along the shores of nearby Indian Lake, just a short drive away from the spring
Fayette Historic State Park
Fayette Historic State Park is a haven for both history buffs and nature lovers, offering a rare chance to explore a 19th-century ghost town set against the stunning backdrop of Big Bay de Noc. The park’s limestone bluffs and the serene waters of Snail Shell Harbor create a breathtakingly scenic setting, making it an ideal place for photography and quiet reflection. Visitors can wander through more than 20 preserved buildings, including furnaces, homes, and the hotel, all while soaking in panoramic views of the bay and surrounding cliffs.
Beyond its historical significance, Fayette’s natural beauty is showcased through its hiking trails, which meander through forests and along the shoreline, offering spectacular vantage points. After taking in the scenic splendor of the harbor and its towering limestone cliffs, enjoy a relaxing meal at Sherry’s Port Bar in nearby Garden, or sip wine at Threefold Vine Winery, both offering a perfect end to your visit in this picturesque setting.
Lighthouses
The UP is home to numerous lighthouses, each with its own story to tell. The Sand Point Lighthouse in Escanaba is one of the most accessible and well-preserved. If your group is up for more exploration, consider making a day of it by visiting multiple lighthouses along the Lake Michigan or Lake Superior shoreline. Each stop offers a unique view of Michigan’s maritime history as well as excellent photo opportunities. When exploring these sights, make sure to plan some delicious pit stops along the way. Clyde’s Drive-In in Manistique is a retro, must-visit spot known for its burgers and shakes.
Book Now and Save 15%
Plan the perfect girls' getaway at Kingfisher Lodge and immerse yourself in the beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Whether you’re relaxing in the hot tub, exploring nearby hiking trails, or enjoying a night out at local restaurants like Freshwater Tavern and The Stonehouse, our luxurious lodge offers the ultimate retreat. Gather your friends for an unforgettable weekend filled with scenic views, cozy amenities, and adventure.
Book directly with us and save 15% compared to Airbnb or Vrbo. Contact us today for help planning your stay, or reserve online to take advantage of our best rates!