Cherry Tree Inn & Suites

The hotel makes a cheerful first impression, with red signage and awnings accenting the stone and cream-colored five-story building. Free parking spans the front of the building. The lobby is cozy and welcoming, with a fireplace, book shelves holding books and games, big-screen TVs, lounge seating, and a baby grand piano. The look isn't quite as modern as some chain hotels in the area, but it's warm and homey, with plenty of wood paneling and lots of flavors of free coffee and tea available throughout the day. Guests are also welcomed at the front desk with fresh cookies and fruit. There is plenty to keep guests busy here, from indoor and outdoor pools to a playground and beach. The atmosphere throughout is relaxed and laid-back, attractive to all sorts of guests including families, couples, groups of friends, businesspeople, and individuals visiting the northern Michigan area. 

The hotel is located on a busy street with lots of traffic that's lined with fast food restaurants, convenience stores, other similar hotels, and banks. It sits right on the lakefront and has its own stretch of beach. The hotel is only 5 miles from downtown, a lively area filled with brewpubs, restaurants, shops, and coffeehouses, and where the area's biggest event -- the National Cherry Festival -- takes place. Drives into town take 10 to 15 minutes depending on the destination. Traverse City State Park is only a mile from the hotel, a two-minute drive, and the scenic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a 45-minute drive west of the hotel. Cherry Capital Airport is less than 10 minutes away by car. 

The hotel offers a wide variety of room configurations, but all feature kitchenettes with microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers -- some have extended kitchenettes or full kitchens that add cook tops and cooking supplies. Decor isn't particularly exciting, but it is pleasant enough and homey, with a beige accent wall, beige drapery, patterned carpeting, and light wood furnishings. The charm is upped in certain rooms with carved wooden bed frames and dresser sets, though expect to see dated elements like faded wall art and wicker pieces as well. Burgundy pillows and bed runners add a splash of color. Some room have two-person hot tubs, and others have balconies with nice views of the lake. All rooms also include flat-screen TVs, iHome clock radios, and safes, and many have video-game systems -- a plus for families with kids. Baths are basic and some show signs of wear, but they include shower/tub combos or walk-in showers, toiletries, hairdryers, and small tube-style TVs in some. A few bathrooms have been updated with granite countertops and tile-and-glass rainfall showers.

For a two-and-a-half-pearl hotel, this property offers a nice array of freebies for its guests. A free hot breakfast is served daily in a sunny space, but lunch and dinner are not available on site. The indoor pool and attached hot tub are surrounded by windows, allowing for plenty of natural light. A couple of cafe tables and a few lounge chairs are available for guests who want to relax poolside, and there's a sauna as well. There's also a small outdoor pool and hot tub overlooking East Grand Traverse Bay -- the hot tub is open year round. A putting green on the lawn helps keep the active entertained. The 400-foot beach is sandy and wide and offers lounge chairs, a fire pit with chairs, and a playground. Watercraft are also available for rent. Inside, a computer and printer are set up in the lobby, and shelves flanking the fireplace house videos, board games, and books. A free shuttle takes guests to and from the airport, downtown, and destinations in the local area. A tiny Sweet Shoppe sells candy, beverages, snacks, and travel essentials, and adjacent lounge space gives guests somewhere to sit and enjoy their sweets. Events space is suitable for weddings or business meetings, and coordinators can assist with the details. Wi-Fi and parking are both free.