When life in Chicago gets hectic, a quick family escape can make all the difference. Just a couple of hours away, Southwest Michigan offers the perfect setting for weekend getaways from Chicago. Think lakeside fun, outdoor games, cozy spaces, and nature all around.
At Michigan Family Retreats, we’ve designed our homes with families in mind. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, our retreats in Saddle Lake and Three Oaks offer space, comfort, and activities that make every weekend memorable.
Why Choose Michigan Family Retreats for Your Family Getaway?
Our properties stand out for their thoughtful design and abundant amenities:
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Lakeside Adventures:
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Kayaking, canoeing, and boating on Saddle Lake
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Outdoor Games for All Ages:
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Pickleball
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Beach volleyball
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Basketball
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Bocce ball
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Soccer nets and softball equipment
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Comfortable Accommodations:
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Sleeps up to 17 guests
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En suite bathrooms
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Blackout shades for better rest
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Guest cabin for extra privacy
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Evening Family Time:
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Hot tub
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Fire pit
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Karaoke
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Popcorn machine
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Movie night-ready living spaces
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Family-Ready Amenities:
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Pack ‘n play
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High chair
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Two dishwashers
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EV chargers
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Laundry room with two washers and dryers
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Private Nature Access:
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Wildlife spotting opportunities
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Great for spontaneous nature outings
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Nearby Activities for Families
Explore the surrounding area with activities that complement your stay. From seasonal traditions to cultural gems and outdoor fun, there’s something for everyone in your group—no matter the age or interests.
🌿 Seasonal Favorites
Celebrate each season with classic Michigan experiences that create lasting memories. These are especially ideal for family photos, sensory experiences, and childhood-firsts like picking your own apples or getting lost in a corn maze.
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Pumpkin farms
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Corn mazes
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Scenic drives with changing leaves
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Tulip festivals and holiday events
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Ideal destinations for fall road trips
🌽 Outdoor Recreation
Let your family burn off energy and embrace the outdoors with low-effort adventures or more active excursions. These activities offer a healthy mix of nature immersion and fresh-air fun, perfect for families with kids who love to explore.
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Boating and kayaking on nearby lakes
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River tubing
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Visits to nearby state parks
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Snowshoeing and ice skating in winter
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Horseback riding in summer and fall
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Options nearby for camping at public grounds
🎨 Arts & Culture
Southwest Michigan is home to a thriving creative scene that’s both accessible and family-friendly. It’s the perfect way to blend entertainment with education and support local artists, makers, and community events.
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Family-friendly art galleries
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Local boutiques and markets
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Farm-to-table restaurants
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Historic downtown walks and trolley tours
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Live music events and art fairs
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Occasional ferry rides across nearby rivers and lakes
☕ Foodie Stops
Fuel your weekend with delicious, locally sourced bites. Whether it’s grabbing warm donuts at an orchard or sampling regional wines while the kids enjoy fresh juice, these food experiences bring families together around the table.
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Bakeries with regional treats
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Cafes with kid-friendly options
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Public markets with fresh produce
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Outdoor patio dining experiences
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Brewery hop opportunities in South Haven and Three Oaks
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Distilleries that offer family-safe whiskey tasting events (adults only)
Unique Experiences at Saddle Lake and Three Oaks
Each of our homes offers its own signature experiences designed to help families relax, bond, and fully enjoy their surroundings. Here’s a closer look at what makes each property truly special.
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At Saddle Lake:
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41-foot saltwater pool
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Private dock for lake activities
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Large fire pit for storytelling nights
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Movie night setup with popcorn machine
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Chef’s kitchen and long dining table for large families
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At Three Oaks (Opening Soon):
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32 acres of private protected forest
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Hiking trails along the Galien River
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Spacious open-concept family areas
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Hot tub and large deck for lounging
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Nearby access to South Haven, breweries and state parks
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These amenities offer the perfect mix of fun and relaxation for all age groups.
Sample Itinerary: A Weekend That Works
Not sure how to plan your time? This example itinerary gives you a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation while showcasing just how effortless a weekend away can be.
Friday
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Depart Chicago in the afternoon
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Arrive at Saddle Lake or Three Oaks
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Settle in with dinner and s’mores around the fire pit
Saturday
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Morning kayaking or paddleboarding
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Afternoon visit to a pumpkin farm or orchard
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Optional hiking trail walk or visit to a nearby art gallery
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Consider a quick day trip to a lighthouse or public market
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Evening hot tub soak and family movie night
Sunday
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Easy nature walk through private trails
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Brunch at a local café or home-cooked breakfast
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Pack up and head back to Chicago by late afternoon
Why Families Keep Coming Back
Our guests consistently tell us they love:
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The variety of activities that suit all age groups
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The peace and quiet that comes with a private property
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The ease of planning with everything ready upon arrival
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The comfort of home with room for everyone to spread out
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The personal touches that make every stay memorable
Many families return year after year, choosing Michigan Family Retreats as their go-to spot for holidays, school breaks, or even long weekends where no planning stress is allowed.
Tips for Planning Your Family Road Trip
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Book Early: Fall weekends and holidays fill up fast
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Pack Smart: Bring layers, hiking shoes, and your favorite snacks
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Split Activities: Let teens explore while younger kids enjoy simpler games
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Leave Time to Unwind: Don’t overschedule; enjoy downtime
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Use Our Area Guide: We’ll help you find the best local spots
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Make It a Tradition: Many of our guests make this an annual escape
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Add Learning Moments: Teach kids about local wildlife, agriculture, and history along the way
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Plan for All Ages: Build in flexibility for naps, downtime, and spontaneous fun
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Consider a historical tour or architecture tour in nearby towns for added enrichment
Ready to Plan Your Family Escape?
Skip the hotel hassle and crowded destinations. At Michigan Family Retreats, you get:
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Privacy
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Space
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Comfort
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Connection
Everything you need for an unforgettable weekend getaway from Chicago.
👉 Book your stay now at michiganfamilyretreats.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where to take a weekend trip from Chicago?
Saddle Lake and Three Oaks are short drives from the city with outdoor fun, cozy spaces, and family-ready amenities.
What is within 3 hours of Chicago?
You’ll find beaches, pumpkin farms, nature trails, and peaceful family retreats like Michigan Family Retreats.
Where to go on a road trip from Chicago?
Stay at Michigan Family Retreats and explore hiking trails, art galleries, and local farms—all within a short drive.
Where is the best place to go for a long weekend?
Saddle Lake offers plenty of space for families, with lakeside views, games, and peaceful surroundings.
How can I make the most of a weekend getaway from Chicago?
Choose a central home base, plan a couple of outdoor adventures, and leave time to enjoy evenings around the fire.
When is the best time to plan weekend getaways from Chicago?
Each season offers something special:
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Summer: Lakes and beaches
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Fall: Orchards and pumpkin patches
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Spring: Wildflowers and patio dining
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Winter: Fire pits and quiet walks
