Growing up in Chicago, going “Up North” to the lake was a summer tradition. There was just something completely relaxing about disconnecting at a lake house. Taking out the row boat. Fishing from the dock. Renting a pontoon or jet skis. Cooking out. Enjoying drinks under the stars. Vacations at the lake were just…soothing.
We have searched and searched to find some of the best and coolest lake homes across the northern United States. We will be listing the home below. These are all midwest lake homes that are able to be reserved for you and your family or friends to enjoy!
Red Cedar Lake– Barron County, WI
This luxury vacation rental has some pretty amazing features. The home boasts 5 bedrooms spread across its massive 6000 square feet of living space. The log and stone home features heated floors which is a nice perk during the cold Wisconsin winters. There is a home gym, a game room with ping pong and pool table, and fast wifi. Head outside and guests get to enjoy a large deck, covered patio, fire pit, and a private dock for boats up to 23′ long. This home is stunning to look at. In addition to fishing and boating, the area also offers off-roading, hiking, mountain biking, and golfing.
Click here for more info on this Red Cedar Lake vacation rental.
Hayward Haus– Hayward, WI
Check out this modern take on a rustic vacation! This two bedroom vacation rental was just completed in August 2021. The home looks to combine modern design and amenities for maximum comfort with the classic Northwoods vacation experience. This home is designed to used year round, so regardless of season, Hayward Haus would make an excellent choice for a small family or a couples getaway. A canoe is included to allow guests to enjoy Upper Twin Lake. In winter, snow shoes are included. Head out on the lake for some great ice fishing!
Click here for more info on Hayward Haus.
Pelican Lake Lodge– Crosslake, MN
This amazing 5100 sq/ft vacation rental was voted one of the best VRBO homes by Minnesota Monthly magazine. It is easy to see why! The home features 5 bedrooms plus a bunkhouse, so it will comfortably sleep 14 adults. The home is beautiful to look at. It is owned by an interior designer. Those that book the home also get 100′ of shoreline, a sugary sand beach and swimming area, 100′ dock with sundeck, kayaks, sports equipment for soccer, volleyball and basketball, and so much more. This home is perfect for multiple families vacationing together, reunions, or guys or girls trips. There are things to do year round!
Click here for more info on Pelican Lake Lodge.
Luxe House– South Haven, MI
This home is stunning in every sense of the word. Luxe House is a new 5 bedroom home that will sleep up to 20 guests. It sits on a rare low bluff on Lake Michigan and provides guests will 200 feet of private beach. A spring-fed trout stream flows through the property as well. There are two items that REALLY stand out. The massive 360 degree fireplace that sits in the middle of the main living area is so unique. The second being the spiral staircase that climbs five stories to give some of the best views on the shores of Lake Michigan. The interior of the home is modern but modest. And the location couldn’t be better! You are only 15 minutes from Saugatuck and 20 minutes from South Haven. Both of this towns are known for their shopping, dining, farmers markets, and more!
Click here for more info on Luxe House.
The Pumphouse– Duluth, MN
Originally built in 1860 to serve at the water pumphouse for the city of Duluth, it was abandoned when the new pumphouse was built in 1897. It was then purchased and renowned architect Harold Starin converted it into the French-style home that it is today. It is now available as a vacation rental. The home has 2 bedrooms and will sleep up to five guests across its sprawling 3100 sq/ft of living space. The house couldn’t be any closer to Lake Superior! Outside of this beautiful home, you will find a fire pit and small patios for enjoying the sights on sounds of the lake. Downtown Duluth with its dining and entertainment options are just a short drive away.
Click here for more info on The Pumphouse.
Burt Lake– Indian River, MI
When I think of a typical lake house, this Burt Lake vacation rental is pretty much EXACTLY what comes to mind. Nestled amongst 2 acres of trees, this 3 bedroom home will sleep up to ten guests. Recently renovated throughout, the home retains the rustic lake house look while adding some modern appearances. But you don’t come to the lake house to spend all your time indoors. Check out that expansive double deck that leads down to the private pier! This portion of Burt Lake has a 100 yard sandbar, which makes it perfect for summer time swimming and playing in the lake! This home is where memories are made!
Click here for more info on this Burt Lake vacation rental.
Historic Minocqua Lake Home– Minocqua, WI
How can you not fall in love with this nearly 120 year old four bedroom lake home! Beautifully restored and updated, this vacation rental has so much old-world charm! The reasons to want to rent this home are many! The four lakes that make up the Minocqua chain of lakes are known for their exceptional fishing. Lake Minocqua is just outside your door along with your own dock. You can walk to downtown Minocqua with its adorable small town shopping and dining. The home comes with two bikes and two kayaks for guest use during their stay! If you are looking for an amazing lake vacation, a stay in the historic home will exceed your needs!
Click here for more info on this Minocqua vacation rental.
Lakefront Luxury– Lake Minnetonka, MN
You will fall in love with this modern lakefront vacation rental! With four bedrooms, five baths, and an amazing open concepts throughout this home’s three levels, there will be plenty of room for you and your guests to enjoy your vacation at the lake! Features include a private dock with space for one boat, an outdoor fire pit, lower level patio that leads to the lake, and main floor deck that offers amazing lake views. Wait until you see the sunsets!
Click here for more info on Lakefront Luxury.
Waterfront Retreat– Lake Minnetonka, MN
Looking to take a family vacation, girls weekend away, or guy’s fishing trip, then Waterfront Retreat on Lake Minnetonka may be the vacation rental for you! This 4 bedroom home provides plenty of space for everyone. It also features a large yard, deck, patio, fire pit (wood provided), and a dock that can accommodate a boat up to 26′. Bring your golf clubs, as there are several golf courses in the area. For those that want to do some urban exploring, Minneapolis and St Paul are only about a half hour drive away!
Click here for more info on Waterfront Retreat.
Red Head’s Cove– Osage Beach, MO (Lake of the Ozarks)
If you love spending time on or in the water, then you probably need to head to Lake of the Ozarks for your next vacation. And we all know that great lodging helps make a great vacation. So check out this 5 bedroom stunner! Sitting on a rare flat lot, you have very few steps to get down to your oversized private dock (large enough for a boat AND wave runners). The home also boasts a large game room, huge decks for outdoor dining or laying out, and enough parking for 5 cars plus trailers. Plan your lake getaway TODAY!
Click here for more info on Red Head’s Getaway.
Sunrise Beach Getaway– Lake of the Ozarks, MO
If you love spending time on or in the water, then you probably need to head to Lake of the Ozarks for your next vacation. And we all know that great lodging helps make a great vacation. This 3 bedroom home will certainly meet your family’s vacation needs! This home features three different decks with plenty of seating, a grill, a fishing dock, a swimming pad, and two kayaks. The home features a charming rustic look in the main living area with plenty of windows to view the lake outside. *NOTE* While the dock is available for guest use, the boat slip is NOT*
Click here for more info on Sunrise Beach Getaway.
We will be continuously adding to this list as we find more amazing Midwest lake homes. If you are looking for other vacation ideas, feel free to check out our extensive list of vacation blogs and articles HERE.
