We’ve long been sold the idea that lake vacations are low-budget versions of a beach getaway. But that outdated stereotype misses what savvy travelers already know: America’s best lake destinations offer spa resorts, stylish stays, gorgeous scenery, and rich cultural history. Sometimes the best escapes for sun-seekers aren’t at the ocean’s edge, but just a few hours away by car. For travelers who prefer a road trip to a plane trip, lake getaways offer comfort, ease, and plenty of charm. From glamorous waterfront resorts to peaceful wellness retreats and destinations steeped in Black history, these lakes may be exactly the kind of escape you need.
Luxe & Elevated Lake Escapes
Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada
Why We Love It: Glamorous but active nature escape
Where to Stay:
Elevated: Edgewood Tahoe Resort, The Landing Lake Tahoe Resort & Spa, Desolation Hotel, South Lake Tahoe
Affordable: The Bluelake Inn, Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge & Spa, Beach Retreat & Lodge
Family-Friendly: Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino, Marriott’s Timber Lodge, Fireside Lodge
Amenities: Spa, beach, swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, golf, lakefront dining
Known For: Crystal-clear water and beautiful mountain views.
Main Attraction: Emerald Bay State Park. “All of Lake Tahoe is beautiful, and Emerald Bay is the cherry on top,” said one Tripadvisor reviewer.
Cultural Comfort Factor: Popular with diverse West Coast travelers and wellness seekers.
Website: visitlaketahoe.com
Lake Oconee, Georgia
Why We Love It: Upscale yet understated, serene luxury
Where to Stay:
Elevated: The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Reynolds Lake Oconee Cottages & Residences, The Lodge on Lake Oconee
Affordable: Upscale cottages, inns and villa rentals
Family-Friendly: Lake house short-term rentals
Amenities: Golf, spa, pools, lake activities, fine dining
Known For: An elegant grown-woman escape.
Main Attraction: The Oconee Golf Course at Reynolds Lake Oconee, as well as six other championship golf courses. “This is a fun golf course with some hard and easy holes. You are surrounded by water throughout many holes, which makes the aesthetics fun and the challenge more so,” said a Golf Digest reader.
Cultural Comfort Factor: Popular Atlanta-area retreat for Black professionals.
Website: visitlakeoconee.com
Lake Michigan - Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana
Why We Love It: It’s coastal beach-vacation feel
Where to Stay:
Elevated: The Inn at Bay Harbor, The Inn at Harbor Shores, The Harbor Grand.
Affordable: Look for hotels, inns and boutique motels in the St. Joseph, Benton Harbor, South Haven and Stevensville areas.
Family-Friendly: Great Wolf Lodge, Traverse City; The Homestead Ski Resort, White Birch Lodge
Amenities: Spectacular views, miles of sandy beaches, fishing, sailing/cruising, water sports, wineries, sunsets, fine waterfront dining, dinner cruises
Known For: Wide sandy beaches that feel surprisingly coastal with city energy.
Main Attraction: Mackinac Island is a car-free escape where bicycles and horse-drawn carriages set the pace. One TripAdvisor reviewer said, “Truly a treasure. Such a unique community, and so friendly everywhere we went. Everything about our day trip was wonderful.”
Cultural Comfort Factor: Rich Black cultural legacy and closeness to Chicago.
Websites: michigan.org, travelwisconsin.com, choosechicago.com, newbuffaloexplored.com
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Why We Love It: Classic, elegant lakefront charm
Where to Stay:
Elevated: Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, The Abbey Resort, Destination Geneva National
Affordable: Harbor Shores on Lake Geneva, The Cove of Lake Geneva, Mill Creek Hotel
Family-Friendly: Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark, or Lakefront home rentals
Amenities: Spa, golf, lake cruises, water sports, pools, upscale and affordable dining
Known For: Historic resort glamour mixed with low-key Midwest ease.