Women of West Michigan: it's time to gather your BFFs and organize a little vacay! Whether you want to relax and be pampered, get creative or adventurous, shop 'til you should probably stop, or combine a little of everything, one of these destinations is calling you.
The Nordic Pineapple, which got its catchy name by blending one half of proprietors' third-generation Norwegian roots with the international symbol of hospitality, is a charming B&B in the hidden-gem community of St. Johns. Just outside of Lansing, it's close to home and yet feels worlds away; a true haven for escaping the day-to-day. The inn features seven luxury suites and generous common areas, plus a hot, plated breakfast and special packages, including baking, golfing, bridal party, and murder mystery. The innkeepers are eager to cater to your group's interests and will even write a custom "true crime" for you to solve or help you curate any experience you want to a tee. You're encouraged to get comfortable, and are even welcome to spend all day in your PJs if you want!
A bit further afield, but worth the trip, is Mount Bohemia's Nordic Spa located in the U.P. on the Keweenaw Peninsula. You can rent a log cabin or lakeshore unit at Aqua, which is located on Lac Labelle less than a half mile from Mount Bohemia—and access to the spa is free to overnight lodgers. The spa has a variety of environments, with a focus on hot and cold therapy. Saunas, steam rooms, pools, waterfalls, a cool mist rain cave, a salt pod, and relaxation areas are just some of their offerings. There's also the Log Cabin Bar & Bistro for dining and opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing at Mount Bohemia, if you're planning a winter trip. And, on select dates in summer, they also have yoga and wellness retreats.
If hiking, recreation, and scenic views are more to your liking, check out Hocking Hills State Park in Logan, Ohio. Known for its waterfalls, caves, cliffs, rock formations, and gorges, it's teeming with natural beauty. Hiking, ziplining, rock climbing, kayaking, and camping are some of the most popular activities there. Plus, there are plenty of places to stay besides a tent! You'll find an abundance of nearby cabins for rent on VRBO, or check out Box Hop: one-of-a-kind housing made from old shipping containers. One place that gets rave reviews is the new Hocking Hills Lodge & Conference Center, which has 81 hotel-style guestrooms and 40 cabins that include access to all lodge amenities, such as indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, a fitness center, games, and Solo Stoves®.
Next are a couple of hosts who have taken the theme to the next level by creating curated, multi-day events specifically for you and your posse. The first is Camp Newaygo, which holds their "Girlfriends' Get-A-Way" twice a year in early October and early May. Dorm-style lodging is available, as are rustic cabins and private accommodations, and meals and most activities are part of the registration fee. They have a variety of arts, crafts, cooking, and fitness classes, as well as kayaking, hiking, yoga, ladder climbing, fishing, and pontoon boat rides—and that's just a sampling of what's in store. Campfires, entertainment, and socializing take place in the evening, and they typically offer massages, facials, mani-pedis, and other salon care as add-ons you can sign up for.
The other date-specific occasion is "Girlfriends Getaway Muskegon," happening November 14-16, 2025—the start of deer hunting season, incidentally. Tickets are $60 and include a swag bag, VIP access to an exclusive Friday night happy hour (with a cash bar) at the newly renovated Muskegon Museum of Art, and entrance to Saturday's Michigan Makers Market. On Saturday, you can shop and explore, plus add à la carte activities for an extra fee, such as a wreath-making workshop with Kalin Sheick, florist and host of the Lucky Girl podcast, and other fun experiences like a trucker hat bar, permanent jewelry, facials, and chair massages. Definitely plan to book your hotel at the Delta by Marriott, which will offer special rates for this weekend and provide a mimosa and Bloody Mary bar breakfast both Saturday and Sunday. Learn more and register at girlfriendsgetaway.org.
Allison Kay Bannister has been a West Michigan resident since 1987 and a professional writer since 2002. A GVSU alumna, she launched her own freelance writing business in 2017. Allison is a cookie connoisseur, word nerd, aspiring gardener, and metastatic breast cancer thriver who loves traveling in Michigan and beyond, and enjoys art, world cuisine, wine, music, and making homemade preserves.
This article originally appeared in the Aug/Sept '25 issue of West Michigan Woman.
