The Country: Mackinack Island, Michigan
The Grand Hotel
It is perhaps telling that one of the most popular activities at the Grand Hotel is to "walk the porch," as the regulars put it, after dinner. At 660 feet long, it's impressive, to be sure, but the real magic of the Grand is how it makes you appreciate simple luxuries like an evening stroll. A typical day at the 385-room property, which is located on Lake Huron's Mackinac Island, consists of a round of croquet, a dip in the Esther Williams Swimming Pool, and an afternoon trip to one of the local fudge shops. Every night there is a formal dinner dance in the ballroom, where a live orchestra plays big-band music. It's traditional but not stuffy—the Grand has been catering to families since its founding and retains a relaxed air (when 1,000 people are eating together, it's not a mood killer if your toddler has a meltdown). No cars are allowed on the island, and after a week of walking, biking, and taking horse-drawn carriages, you won't miss the fast pace of your former life one bit.
Best for: Horseback riding on the 40 miles of paths; ballroom dancing with the kids; touring the butterfly house. Open May 2 to October 26. From $225 per person for a double room to $2,999 for a four-bedroom cottage (prices include breakfast and a five-course dinner daily), (800) 334-7263.
You May Also Like…
Mohonk Mountain House (1869)
New Paltz, New York
A family-owned Victorian castle overlooking the Hudson Valley.
Best for: Paddleboating; 85 miles of hiking trails; the Victorian Maze. Mohonk Mountain House?s rates for 2008 begin at $240 and continue up to $2000 per person, per night, based on double occupancy, plus/plus., (800) 772-6646.
The Greenbrier (1778)
White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia
The epitome of southern hospitality in the Allegheny Mountains.
Best for: Ballroom dancing; horseshoes on the lawn. From $274 for a double room in low season to $1,358 for a two-bedroom suite in high season, (800) 624-6070.
The Sagamore (1883)
Bolton Landing, New York
An Adirondack setting on a private island in the middle of Lake George.
Best for: Lakeside dinners; the kids' Teepee Club; junior sailing lessons. From $199 for a double room in low season to $4,000 for a six-bedroom house in high season, (800) 358-3585.
