Stafford's Bay View Inn, Petoskey

Stafford's BayView is one of Michigan's finest establishments. We have been guests for close to 40 years and just were there again last weekend. Clearly the young people who wrote the poor review below did not do their homework beforehand. The reason for choosing Stafford's is for this high level of experience; we do not want phones, TVs, etc.; if we did, we'd go to a modern hotel. A Stafford's visit is to relax and enjoy life, as in a more genteel time, when people were softer and kinder. Guests are polite. Some of the guests are in their 50s and 60s, but that's likely largely because they have the time, may be retired and/or can afford it. The food and service at Stafford's is excellent. Whether you are having Sunday brunch, a midweek breakfast or a relaxing lunch or dinner, the quality and service are consistent and the view of the bay while dining is beautifiul. This is a Victorian inn dating back to the 1880s. It is well maintained. There are some "quirks" inherent to buildings of this age, but they all are part of the charm. If you're looking for high-speed Internet access, this probably is not your best choice (unless you BYO). If you are here to enjoy the experience, this is for you. Younger people: yes, this is a fun resort town with many nice dining & drinking establishments. You also can take great walks at the marina a mile or so down the road; and through the adjacent "BayView" historic area directly across from the Inn. Downtown, there is tons of shopping. There are all kinds of "activities" for those who like outdoor sports and such. Fine music concerts are offered at select days/times at the BayView complex across the street (check a schedule). You are close to both Harbor Springs & Charlevoix and all their attractions, too; as well as not far from Mackinac City/Island. Best of all, Stafford's is right on the water, so you can sit on a bench or swing and enjoy the view or read a book in the cool bay breezes. If you can't find something to do, you're in the wrong place.

This hotel is great and is a quality B&B. Every morning we had breakfast and the quality was outstanding. It was the best way to start the morning. We found the Dining and Hotel staff was great and was always trying to help and asking to see how they could help and provide superior service. We are new to this area and thought that the Bay Harbor area would be the place to stay but found this location to be a better location for our view and sightseeing. We loved the area and believe that staying at the hotel to be the reason.

My hausband and I have been stayin at the Inn for about 2 years now. We have gotten to know the staff well and Stafford and his wife are as charming a couple as you could hope to meet. Their views on business and hospitality have made this Inn what it is today. It is lovely, it is in very good shape being that it was built in 1886. My husband and I enjoy that there are no televisions. We don't have to worry about noise from the next room. We get a very good nights rest on what I found out are hand made matresses from right down the road on M-119. You really can't get better than that and the Sunday Brunch Buffet's are deicious! It is complementary with your stay and there is something on there for everyone! As for the hideous comments below, class and elegance, I can guess are not your up of tea. The Econolodge would have been more your style. My husband and I are a young couple (late 20's) and we found nothing "nursing homish" about this beautiful place. Come back in 40 years maybe you'll appreciate its elegance then! I say thank you to all the employees there! You always make our stay special!

My family stays at Bayview every year around the Holidays and it has always been incredible. What sets it apart is the quiet and cozy ambiance. It's perfect for a break from busy, hectic life. A perfect place to unwind. The breakfast is amazing as well- sticky buns to die for!

I work at Stafford's Bay View Inn, and have also been a guest here. I'm sorry to hear that some guests have had an unpleasant stay. I'd just like to clear a few things. Keeping with a traditional Victorian-style inn, we do not have televisions or phones in guest rooms. We do have phones on every floor and TVs in our Sunroom and library for guests to use. Clock radios are found in every room. Breakfast, included with your stay, is served from 8 am daily and for guests that need to eat before then, we can put together a cold breakfast on request. Coffee is always available in the library and also in the Sunroom at 6 am. Guests are welcome to bring their own alcohol and, we now have a liquor license to better serve the them. Again, it is unfortunate that some guests had an unpleasant stay. I would remind folks that this Inn was established in 1886. We strive to preserve the charm of our country inn that most hotels miss this day and age. Thank you.

My husband and I spent our 1st year wedding anniversary at Stafford's Bayview Inn. This hotel is a nightmare. This place has no modern conveinces, i.e, phone, t.v., radio, or fridge. We missed our ferry to Mackinac Island b/c the hotel does not provide phones to each room(or t.v.'s or radios, for that matter). Also, we paid for breakfast, but did not get it b/c breakfast is not served until around 9am, and coffee is not even available. Also, do not go to Stafford's Bayview Inn if you plan on having even one glass of wine because this hotel is a dry establishment. Furthermore, the crowd is about as lively as a nursing home. In fact, the entire hotel has a nursing home smell and feel. The positive critiques on this place must have been put their by Bayview's staff. I highly recommend avoiding this place, unless you want to make a costly ($300) mistake like we did.

We have stayed at Stafford's Bay View Inn on many occasions. And we will be back. Although the rooms are beautiful and the food outstanding, the staff is what truly sets Stafford's apart. Every time we return we feel like family. A night at Stafford's is a wonderful experience, no matter the time of year.

I felt like a stepped back in time when I entered the Bayview. It was cozy, romantic and friendly not to mention located in Michigan's beautiful Traverse Bay area! I can't wait to go back in the fall to sit on the big porch sipping hot cocoa and watching the sunset over the bay!