Michigan’s Best Travel Deals: Golf specials, alpacas and a Labor Day pool party

Michigan loves to travel during the summer holidays, so it’s no surprise we are already seeing Labor Day travel deals popping up. Add into that the season-long golf specials on tap at the Gaylord Golf Mecca courses, and August’s lowest prices at Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, and that means we’ve got some fun details to share.

Let’s dive in:

#1 Crystal Mountain’s Labor Day Live celebration runs Aug. 30 to Sept. 2. It includes a big outdoor pool party, a tent sale, a 5K and a Fun Run.

The resort in Thompsonville is running a weekend special for those who book for the holiday. Save 30% on lodging when staying Friday, Aug. 30 to Monday, Sept. 2. The deadline for making this reservation is Aug. 7. You can reserve your stay online here, or call 844-521-7795. Check here for a listing of all the weekend events.

“This four-day weekend extravaganza is all about celebrating summer’s grand finale while giving a sneak peek of what’s to come – winter,” Crystal Mountain staff said. “Expect live music, a Labor Day 5k and Fun Run, adorable alpaca encounters, delicious food, and lawn games galore. But the real star of the show is the epic tent sale. Score huge discounts on last season’s ski and snowboard gear, plus get a first look at the hottest new equipment for the 2024-25 winter season.”

The weekend will include:

Alpaca encounters: Say hello to the furry friends from Cotton Creek Farms. Saturday, Aug. 31 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Party at the Outdoor Pool & Water Playground: Sunday, Sept. 1 from 3-6 p.m. Complimentary for Crystal Mountain lodging guests.

Mackinac Island’s Grand Hotel: This iconic hotel is offering some of the lowest prices for August with this deal.

“We have an exclusive offer for guests who are looking for an affordable room-only rate from $299 or an inclusive couples package with daily breakfast and dinner for two from $450 per couple,” the hotel’s marketing staff said. “With the most affordable rates of the season, beat the summer heat and return to Mackinac Island to experience the magic of Grand Hotel. Lounge or play at the newly renovated Esther Williams Swimming Pool, play lawn games or picnic on the front lawn, or take a bicycle trip around the island. There are so many things to see and do! This discount is only available for select August dates so be sure to book your room before rooms fill up.”

Gaylord’s Golf Mecca: This collection of 16 courses draws golfers from across the U.S. and beyond. And there is a running list of golf specials and packages that allow visitors to pick where they’d like to stay and play. See the list here.

“Located in the heart of the Northern Lower Peninsula off Interstate-75, the Gaylord Golf Mecca is a beautiful, rustic woods and lakes paradise where long, warm summer days continue into early evening, allowing extended play on 16 of the finest golf courses in Northern Michigan,” Gaylord tourism leaders said.