When Bicycle Street Inn & Suites celebrated its grand opening in May of 2013, the property was the first new hotel construction project in more than a decade at this well-known Northern Michigan tourism destination.
Now in its fourth season of operation, Bicycle Street Inn & Suites is a huge hit with guests, and one of only two downtown properties to earn AAA’s 3-diamond designation. Thanks to its outstanding staff and service culture, it has also earned a 2015 Award of Excellence from Trip Advisor, a review and rating website for travelers.
Last year, the owners opened a second hotel, called Waterfront Collection. Situated at the water's edge, directly across the street from the 36-room Bicycle Street Inn & Suites, the Waterfront Collection is also enjoying rave reviews since adding 13 luxurious balcony rooms with direct water front and Main Street views, for a total of 49 rooms and suites.
"There is very little waterfront lodging available on the island, and with the opening of Waterfront Collection we've in essence expanded Bicycle Street Inn's footprint across Main Street to the shore line. There's tremendous appeal and marketing value in that,” said Ira Green, owner and developer of the properties.
"The construction style and workmanship, comfort level, and room decor complements what we did at Bicycle Street Inn & Suites quite nicely,” Green said. “We've created a seamless experience for our guests, with the same high level of comfort and service at both locations. We will do anything to make sure your visit here is extraordinary in every way."
“We’ve gone to great lengths to preserve the feeling of Mackinac while offering modern comfort in our brand new rooms and suites. Today’s travelers demand it, especially in a resort destination,” said Melanie Libby, general manager and partner of Bicycle Street Inn & Suites and Waterfront Collection. "Many guests have already returned to visit us several times and tell us we’re the only place they’ll stay when they come to the island. They’ll book a room for next year while they’re checking out this year. In this business, that’s one of the highest compliments we can receive,” she said.
“Guests love the style and comfort of our rooms, our water front balconies, and downtown location right next to the ferry docks. They’re also surprised to discover what a breeze it is to check in once they arrive. We greet you personally at the dock to carry your luggage and escort you to our lobby. Within minutes of checking in, your bags are brought to your room. There’s no waiting for your luggage here, or for your vacation to begin,” Ms. Libby said.
“Just like Bicycle Street Inn & Suites, the Waterfront Collection has a contemporary design theme, and though the styling between properties is somewhat different, they are built to the same exacting quality standards,” she said. Ms. Libby should know. She personally selected and coordinated the custom built furnishings, fixtures, decor and interior design for both properties, then supervised the work of a multitude of vendors during installation.
The Waterfront Collection is big on creature comforts, including elevator service, air conditioning and heating with digital thermostat, advanced sound suppression, contemporary furnishings with premium beds, baths with granite vanities and walk-in glass showers, fridge, microwave, coffeemaker, 42-inch HDTVs with satellite programming, free wifi connectivity, and top quality amenities from Wolfgang Puck coffee and Paul Mitchell Awapuhi bath products.
Bicycle Street Inn & Suites sleeps up to six people in suites with separate living rooms and walk-out balconies, while the Waterfront Collection of balcony guest rooms sleeps two to four persons.
"The Waterfront Collection is a perfect place for romantic getaways or quiet families seeking more privacy,” said Mark Alexander, manager of marketing and advertising for the properties. “But don’t let the smaller size of this building fool you. Guests can also choose from several adjoining rooms that sleep six to eight persons,” he said.
No matter which location or room style you prefer, there’s plenty of room to spread out and relax in style. At Bicycle Street Inn & Suites, the largest balcony suites are about 725 sq. ft., while the largest balcony rooms at Waterfront Collection are about 500 sq. ft. That’s significantly larger than hotel rooms typically found in newer chain hotels on the mainland and the centuries old properties here on the island.
“Guests do tend to feel spoiled here, and for good reason. There’s nothing else like this on the island,” Alexander said. He has seen his share of wistful expressions when someone stops by for the first time while staying elsewhere on the island. “We want to accommodate everyone and try our best to get the word out.” Then he smiles and says, “Don’t forget to check out bicyclestreetinn.com!”
Alexander’s advice is simple: Visit their website to book your rooms as soon as possible for best availability. According to several sources, 2016 may be one of the island’s busiest tourist seasons ever, and both properties are booking rooms well ahead of last year’s pace.
All guests of Bicycle Street Inn & Street and Waterfront Collection receive a complimentary continental breakfast at Goodfellow's Grill — the hotel's restaurant and bar — along with discount ferry tickets and free baggage handling. A beautiful atrium with skylight brings natural light through all levels of Bicycle Street Inn & Suites to the main floor where the hotel lobby and several shops are located. Current merchants include Goodfellow’s Grill, Sanders Candy, Crazy Horse (Native American jewelry and gifts), Liberty Lego Display, and Haunts of Mackinac.
Seasonal promotions and monthly specials are available. You may also join their free e-newsletter for our monthly specials and a chance to win a free weekend in a luxury suite.
For reservations and information visit www.bicyclestreetinn.com or call toll free,
(855) 560-8005.
