The vacation of your dreams starts and ends at OTIS Harbor Springs. Think of it as the adult summer camp of your dreams—or rather, the adult multi-season camp of your dreams.
Tell anyone in Michigan that you’re headed “up north,” and they’ll know that you’re headed to one of a few bucolic towns, like charming Harbor Springs. For decades, the city had but a small number of older hotels in which to welcome guests—that is until Israel Hernandez and Ty Humpert burst onto the scene. Together with Daniel Caudill, the former creative director of Detroit’s beloved Shinola, the team has reimagined a nearly 100-year-old property tucked at the end of the famed Tunnel of Trees and turned it into a bastion of modern warmth.
In the early 20th century, OTIS’ sprawling property was initially settled by Chicago banker-turned-farmer Joseph E. Otis, who named his stretch of land the Birchwood Farm Estate. The estate later evolved into an executive retreat, before finally becoming the Birchwood Inn. For decades, the Inn stood as a welcome to weary guests, with a sign that read “Surprisingly Affordable.” But under the care of its new owners, the hotel has maintained the same sense of welcome and affability while adding a bit more sophistication to the mix.
While complementing its natural surroundings, you can’t miss the original stonework and beams of OTIS (one of the few remaining mid-century architectural examples in the area) as you drive along scenic M-119. Once happy hour hours have begun, it’s even harder to look away from the property, as a group of locals and tourists alike will have doubtless gathered on the outdoor patio under bright red umbrellas to indulge in some of the hotel’s expertly crafted cocktails, food, and regional selection of beer and wine.
At the center of OTIS is the Fireplace Lounge, a cocktail lounge with small-town charm and big-city eats and drinks. While the Lounge claims to only serve bites, don’t be fooled – you can more than fill up on this expertly crafted menu. It’s the living room you wish you’d designed, complete with both custom and vintage furniture, a marble-topped bar, and a gallery wall of art.
The warmth of this atmosphere is only reinforced in the lobby, which, thanks to the presence of the on-site shop Birchwood General, is reminiscent of a neighborhood bodega or country general store. There are cases of wine, beer, and, of course, smoked whitefish dip alongside a friendly host to help guests check-in for their stay.
We love the nostalgia of brushed gold keys (rather than key cards) to gain access to one of just a few dozen rooms. Once inside, guests are instantly transported to a simpler time and place; furnishings are simple, unfussy, and distinctly familiar, having stayed true to their mid-century roots. Color palettes are nostalgic, featuring soft pinks, yellows, and blues throughout. The bathrooms are similarly charming and feature found and restored vanities with updated lighting and seriously updated bath products courtesy of Flamingo Estate. Nothing about OTIS tries too hard and helps guests realize that they don’t need to, either.
Rooms feature both front and back doors, which gives the feeling of having a backyard while staying at the property. Given the abundance of land at OTIS, you’ll have plenty to explore, including the courtyard, which features outdoor seating, bocce ball, and stone pits for the evening hours.
OTIS—only a couple of months into its history—plans to expand and improve guest experiences. But in its current state, it’s already worth the trip to Northern Michigan.
Top Takeaways
Location: Harbor Springs, MI
Rating: Five-Star
The Vibe: Your favorite summer camp, all grown up
Food + Drink: Go to the Fireplace Lounge for dinner and drinks (don’t miss the beet hummus), and for breakfast, grab a delightful pastry from Birchwood General and some La Colombe coffee
Amenities: restaurant; bar; outdoor spaces
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: Really and truly, the staff. You’ll never meet a kinder, more sincere group of people (shout-out to Ty, Liam, and Laura in particular!)
5 Nearby Attractions: Downtown Harbor Springs; Thorne Swift Nature Preserve, Tunnel of Trees, Little Traverse Bay Ferry, Petoskey State Park
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs?: In the morning, take a walk to the Thorne Swift nature preserve for a phenomenal start to your day
Rooms: 31 rooms and suites
Pricing: Rooms start at $275/night
Closest Airport: Pellston Regional Airport
