It’s official: Northern Michigan is home to the best wine country hotels in the nation. The Inn at Black Star Farms in Suttons Bay has been named the Best Wine Country Hotel in the U.S. by the 2025 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, while the Chateau Chantal Inn on Old Mission Peninsula earned the number two spot.
The recognition is a major nod to the Traverse Wine Coast, which continues to shine as one of America’s premier wine destinations. Both inns have won national accolades before, but this is the first time they’ve landed together in the top two positions.
“Having both properties from our region voted number one and number two is remarkable,” said Maggie Tyner, Editor of the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. “It’s a testament to the charm of Michigan’s wine country.”
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The Inn at Black Star Farms – Suttons Bay
Set on a 160-acre winery estate in Leelanau County, just 12 miles north of Traverse City, the Inn at Black Star Farms blends rustic elegance with a truly Michigan setting. Rolling vineyards, equestrian barns, and panoramic countryside views surround the property, making it an ideal base for exploring the wine trail, sandy beaches, and charming villages of the region.
Guests are welcomed with a personalized bottle of wine, chef-prepared breakfasts, and nightly hospitality hours featuring small plates and wine pairings. Stays include complimentary tastings, access to the on-site tasting room, and opportunities for vineyard picnics. With an adult-friendly atmosphere, the inn is a favorite for anniversaries, birthdays, and couples’ getaways.
“This award belongs to every one of our team members,” said Sherri Campbell Fenton, Managing Owner. “Our passion lies in sharing the region’s natural beauty and exceptional wines with every delighted guest.”
Book a stay: Call 231-944-1251 or email innkeeper@BlackStarFarms.com
Chateau Chantal Inn – Old Mission Peninsula
Perched high on Old Mission Peninsula, Chateau Chantal offers sweeping views of rolling vineyards, freshwater bays, and the rural landscape north of Traverse City. The inn combines vineyard, winery, and lodging into one immersive Northern Michigan experience.
Accommodations include both cozy rooms and spacious suites, many with terraces or balconies. Thoughtful details such as fireplaces, wet bars, and high ceilings create a sense of comfort. Mornings begin with a chef-prepared breakfast, while the winery and tasting room provide afternoons filled with local flavors.
Chateau Chantal also offers seasonal discounts, from BOGO midweek stays to military and first responder specials, making luxury escapes more accessible. The inn is deeply rooted in family and community, with the second generation of the founding families continuing traditions of sustainable farming and winemaking.
“To stand alongside another incredible Northern Michigan winery inn is a testament to the world-class wine and hospitality our region offers,” said Marie-Chantal Dalese, CEO.
Book a stay: Visit chateauchantal.com or call 231-223-4110
Why Traverse Wine Coast is Shining
Northern Michigan’s wine region has long drawn comparisons to Napa and Sonoma, but its mix of wine, water, and warm hospitality gives it a flavor all its own. Guests here can spend mornings sipping wines, afternoons biking rural trails or relaxing on sandy beaches, and evenings watching sunsets over Grand Traverse Bay.
“Traverse City excels with lodging partners that create incredible travel experiences,” said Trevor Tkach, President of Traverse City Tourism. “Hospitality is a fine art, and these two winery inns consistently give experiences that are remembered for a lifetime.”
With Black Star Farms and Chateau Chantal now topping the list of America’s best wine country inns, there’s never been a better time to plan a vineyard getaway to Northern Michigan.
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