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Harbor Springs Named Best Small Lake Town In The U.S. By Travel + Leisure

Harbor Springs has recently been named the Best Small  Lake Town in the United States by Travel + Leisure . This accolade highlights Harbor Springs as a premier destination for travelers seeking picturesque lakefront experiences and small-town ambiance. The recognition is a part of Travel + Leisure’s featured list of America’s Best Small Towns 2024 .  

“What incredible acknowledgment for our area,” said Jim Powell, executive director of the Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau . “The Harbor Springs community is steeped in rich history, storied hospitality and its location on the shores of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay is unparalleled. We are thrilled to  see this beautiful town honored.” 

Travel + Leisure’s selection was driven by the town’s captivating combination of natural beauty and quaint, eclectic charm. Downtown Harbor Springs boasts locally owned boutiques, restaurants,  museums, art galleries, parks, and the popular Lyric Theatre. Beyond the downtown area, you’ll find nature preserves, beaches, Petoskey State Park, and the famous Tunnel of Trees scenic drive along  M-119.  

Both land and lake can explore Harbor Springs, and at 170 feet deep, Little Traverse Bay is the deepest freshwater harbor on the Great Lakes. Guests can enjoy narrated cruises with both Little  Traverse Bay Ferry and Stafford’s Pointer Boat, highlighting the town’s local lore.  

In addition to its natural allure, Harbor Springs plays host to a range of events throughout the year, from the Holiday Open House in December and Harbor Springs Ice Fest in February to the Blessing of the  Fleet in June, nationally attended Ugotta Regatta sailboat race in July and the Harbor Springs Festival of the Book in September. Weekly events occur throughout the summer, including Farmers' Markets and Street Musique concerts, which further enhance the reputation as a must-visit destination.

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Harbor Springs ranked best small lake town in US by Travel and Leisure

If you're looking to book a relaxing getaway without going too far, look no further. A new national list considers Harbor Springs, Michigan a top destination among America's small towns.

The town won best small lake town in the U.S. in the 2024 ranking of America's best small towns 2024 by Travel and Leisure, a New York-based travel magazine.

“What incredible acknowledgment for our area,” said Jim Powell, executive director of the Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau. “The Harbor Springs community is steeped in rich history, storied hospitality and its location on the shores of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay is unparalleled. We are thrilled to see this beautiful town honored.”

The town was selected for its "captivating combination of natural beauty and and quaint, eclectic charm," according to the West Michigan Tourist Association .

More: Thousands of hawks are taking flight: How to see them

The ranking features 10 U.S. cities broken down by category. Other rankings include best small beach town, best small mountain town, best small desert town, best small arts and culture town, best small food and wine town, best small spa and wellness town, best retirement town, best small college town and best small shopping town.

More: These 3 Michigan cities are among 50 Best Places to Live in US, according to Money

The honor recognizes the thriving small businesses, seasonal activities and natural attractions in Harbor Springs and the surrounding area, according to the association.

The city features restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, is surrounded by the Petoskey State Park, beaches, nature preserves, the Tunnel of Trees, and the Little Traverse Bay. Each year, Harbor Springs hosts seasonal events, including the Harbor Springs Ice Fest, the Blessing of the Fleet and weekly summer farmers markets.

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Group Leisure & Travel Show 2024: meet some of this year’s first time exhibitors

2024-09-11T13:00:00+01:00

From sporty visits to iconic destinations, the Group Leisure & Travel Show has a range of interesting exhibitors that will be at the Marshall Arena on 3rd October in Milton Keynes. Here’s what they’re looking forward to.

Meet a range of new exhibitors at the 2024 Group Leisure & Travel Show, alongside your favourite regulars.

Ever been to Bristol? One of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the  SS Great Britain  will be exhibiting at the Show for the first time. Group travel officer Lucy Grier, who will be on the stand on the day, said: “I’m really looking forward to meeting group travel organisers and chatting through ideas for a day out at Brunel’s SS Great Britain .

“It’s so rewarding to have that chance to talk through ideas that really suit each social club and group, which is when we start to add in ideas for behind-the-scenes tours of the Brunel Institute or a lunch or afternoon tea onboard the ship which is exclusive to group bookings.”

“It’s so rewarding to have that chance to talk through ideas that really suit each social club and group.” Lucy Grier, SS Great Britain

Manchester’s National Football Museum will be there to share its offer with visiting GTOs and coach tour operators. Janine Ross, marketing and communcations director told us: “It’s our first time at the show, so we are really excited about showcasing the National Football Museum and our incredible offer for groups. As one of the must-see attractions in Manchester, we are a memorable addition to any itinerary – and we love a good chat about the beautiful game, so please come and say hello.”

Source: Chris Payne

Staff from the National Football Museum are looking forward to talking about its group offer.

Those looking for long-haul inspiration may want to stop by the Visit Rwanda - Hermosa Life Tours and Travel stand. Travel advisor, Oreste Ntirenganya said: “We’re looking to expand our market to the UK, especially our group safaris package. We are really looking forward to meeting group travel organisers face to face for the first time.”

For inspiration closer to home, Visit Blackpool will be there on the 3rd October to inspire group organisers with a visit to Lancashire. Mandy Tythe-McCallum, tourism services manager, said: “We’re excited to meet new business contacts and share what’s going on in Blackpool. The resort has seen quite a lot of change in recent years, multiple investment projects that are all contributing to and enhancing the visitor experience.

“We also have a year-round programme of events, many of which are free and all family friendly. It’ll be great to get those messages out to a different audience.”

Discover more about Thursford’s offer over the Christmas period.

The team from Thursford Christmas Spectacular will also be available on the day, offering groups an insight into its variety performance every year. Ben Allen from the team added: “It’s always great to speak to new and existing customers and make new or build on those relationships. We’re looking forward to showcasing the Thursford brand and everything we can offer tour and coach operators, hotels and groups.”

First-time exhibitors include: Leeds Museum & Galleries, The Jockey Club, Visit Kent, The Steamship Sir Walter Scott and many more.

To see the full list of exhibitors click here.

You can register to visit the GLT Show for free at  grouptravelshow.com/register

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Harbor Springs named America's Best Small Lake Town by Travel + Leisure magazine

HARBOR SPRINGS — The small-town charm of Harbor Springs has been noticed nationally, with Travel + Leisure naming the city as the Best Small Lake Town in the United States.

The city was celebrated for the beauty, community, history and more that gives the area its small-town charm.

"It is no surprise to see (Harbor Springs) recognized by something like Travel + Leisure for an honor like this," Jim Powell, executive director for the Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau, told the News-Review. "It is a very unique community, it is picture perfect. It's one of those places that falls out of a Hallmark story."

In fact, Harbor Springs has been featured on the Hallmark Channel's Christmas Cam program.

More: Hallmark 'Christmas Cam' approved by Harbor Springs City Council for second year

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Whether it's the access to Little Traverse Bay or a trip through the Tunnel of Trees, Harbor Springs has a wide variety of activities for visitors and residents alike.

Travel + Leisure highlights some of the most popular attractions, like skiing at nearby resorts or making the drive to Cross Village to visit the Legs Inn.

"Summer is our big home run up here, but it really is a true four season destination for people downstate to come visit anytime," Powell said.

The honor was a part of Travel + Leisure's America's Best Small Towns of 2024 series.

— Contact reporter Karly Graham at [email protected].  Follow her on Twitter at @KarlyGrahamJRN .

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The Best Lake Towns in America

These seven destinations are the perfect summer base camps, with plenty of adventure on and off the water

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Nothing screams summer like having a big swimming hole in your backyard. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite lake destinations that pair  water-bound adventures with a getaway-worthy town where you can find a decent bite to eat and a place to rest your head.

June Lake, California

Nicknamed the Switzerland of California, this tiny mountain town five hours from Los Angeles sits on a string of lakes along a 16-mile section of scenic roadway known as the June Lake Loop . Start with coffee and a breakfast sandwich at the Lift , then rent a paddleboard or kayak (from $30 an hour) from Mammoth Kayaks . June Lake Brewing ’s outdoor beer garden offers tasting flights, plus bites served from a rotating cast of food trucks out front. Pitch your tent at Oh Ridge Campground (from $26) or book a room at Lake Front Cabins (from $123), a short walk to the water’s edge, and you’ll score views of 10,908-foot Carson Peak from your door.

McCall, Idaho

Two hours north of Boise, McCall is an under appreciated summer hideaway, with hiking in Payette National Forest , biking at Brundage Mountain , and relaxing at Payette Lake, a glacially carved reservoir that’s minutes from town. Half of the lake is part of Ponderosa State Park , where you can camp (from $37) or book a cabin (from $67). Or stay in McCall at the recently renovated Scandia Inn (from $150). Backwoods Adventures rents canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards (from $30). Afterward, grab an IPA at one of three local breweries , and don’t leave town without a milkshake from My Father’s Place .

Bemidji, Minnesota

An 18-foot-tall statue of famed lumberjack Paul Bunyan, along with his companion, Babe the Blue Ox, greets you when you pull into Bemidji. Located near the headwaters of the Mississippi River, three hours from Minneapolis, the area features hundreds of remote bodies of water scattered throughout the state’s Northwoods. Start at Lake Bemidji, which borders downtown and has plenty of sandy beaches. Rent bikes (from $5 per hour) at Lake Bemidji State Park to pedal the waterfront paths that eventually connect to the 115-mile Paul Bunyan State Trail, the longest paved rail trail in the country. Stay at one of the park’s 95 campsites and four cabins, or reserve a lakefront cottage at Ruttger’s Birchmont Lodge (from $190). End your day with a beer and a soft pretzel from Bemidji Brewing .

Chelan, Washington

Scuba divers, boaters, paddlers, and anglers love Lake Chelan, which runs 50 miles long and plunges to depths of 1,500 feet. Stay at the Lodge at Stehekin (from $154), which is only accessible via ferry boat or hiking trails and adjoins North Cascades National Park . If you have a motorized craft, opt for one of the many boat-in camping spots around the lake. The town of Chelan, at the water’s southern tip, has a year-round population of around 5,000 and a growing wine-tasting scene, with some 20 vineyards.

Wolfeboro, New Hampshire

Lake Winnipesaukee has been a favorite summer resort getaway for generations. The town of Wolfeboro, two hours from Boston or five from New York City, makes for an ideal Winnipesaukee base camp. The ten-room Pickering House Inn (from $455) opened in 2018 in a restored historic building steps from the shoreline. Run or pedal the 12-mile Cotton Valley Rail Trail , and learn the history of the local maritime industry or take a sailing lesson at the New Hampshire Boat Museum . Come dusk, grab a pint at Lone Wolfe Brewing Company and dinner on the deck of  La Boca .

Blairsville, Georgia

In Blairsville, two hours north of Atlanta, you’ll have easy access to several nearby lakes, including Lake Nottely’s 106 miles of shoreline. Also nearby, in  Vogel State Park, the 20-acre Lake Trahlyta is popular for its miles of hiking trails within the Blue Ridge Mountains and its waterfront campsites. Copperhead Lodge (from $109) has cabins for rent and trail access from the property.

Aurora, New York

New York’s Finger Lakes region is packed with options, but the quaint village of Aurora, registered as a national historic district, is just the place to stay while exploring scenic Cayuga Lake. Stay at the palatial Inns of Aurora (from $352), which includes five historic homes. Paddleboards and bike rentals are included in the rate. Farm-to-table dinners are served overlooking the water at the 1833 Kitchen and Bar . Wine production is big here—you’ll find several tasting spots around town—but there’s also a growing number of craft breweries, like Lunkenheimer Craft Brewing Co . in nearby Weedsport or Next Chapter Brewpub in Auburn.

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12 Best Texas Lakes for Swimming, Sun & Shoreline Lounging

Posted by Cindy Brzostowski December 14, 2022 Updated April 10, 2023

We research, evaluate and select travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers’ experience and expertise, user reviews and more. We may earn a commission when you book or purchase through our links. See our editorial policy to learn more.

Texas is known for its hot summers, and there’s no better way to beat the heat than at the lake.

From swimming to boating, hiking, or even just lounging on the shore, Texas’ top lakes offer something for everyone. Every lake has its own personality, from secluded escapes in the wilderness to party-packed hotspots, everyone can find a lake that fits their vibe. Conveniently, many of these lakes are close to major cities, making them easy day trips or weekend escapes.

While the Lone Star State might be more famous for its cowboys and barbecue, it’s a surprisingly great destination for any lake lovers out there. Here are 12 Texas lakes you need to check out!

Related Read:   10 Beautiful Texas Hill Country State Parks You Need to Visit

1. Lake Texoma

Lake living is turned up a notch at Lake Texoma , one of the five largest lakes in Texas. It’s named for its location, straddling the border between Texas and Oklahoma along the Red River. From Dallas, it only takes about an hour and a half by car to reach the lake.

Aside from all the boating, jet skiing, and swimming you can do, Lake Texoma is a fisherman’s paradise because of the millions of striped bass that live in its waters. Some people even refer to it as the “Striper Capital of the World.” There’s RV and tent camping too if you want to extend your visit.

Related read : 11 Best Cabin Rentals Near Lake Texoma for a Relaxed Getaway

2. Lake Travis

Just a 30-minute drive west of Austin, Lake Travis has fun stuff for all ages along its shores and waters. You can watch the first-rate sunsets over the lake from The Oasis , aka “The Sunset Capital of Texas;” you can go swimming from one of the many beaches, including the popular clothing-optional Hippie Hollow ; or, you can set up camp at a waterfront spot like Windy Point Park or Arkansas Bend Park .

There are also tons of yacht charters, scuba diving excursions, fishing trips, and kayaking opportunities. Find your favorite spot among the lake’s many bends and peninsulas, or stay the night (or weekend) at one of the many nearby resorts.

Related read : 12 Refreshing Swimming Holes Near Austin, Texas

3. Caddo Lake

Unlike many of the other lakes on this list, Caddo Lake isn’t a place where you’ll find crowds of beachgoers sunbathing or rowdy folk flying across the water on jet skis. Instead, this lake, located in a swamp, is actually a tangle of bayous and wetlands where bald cypress trees covered in Spanish moss sprout from the water and alligators lurk in the murky waters.

While there’s no right or wrong way to explore Caddo Lake, one of the most popular is to rent a canoe and make your way across the many paddling trails. As you weave your way through the trees, you can fully take in the beauty of the swamp and spot those who call it home, like the endangered American paddlefish and the bright yellow prothonotary warbler, who arrive from South America every spring to make their nests and breed at Caddo Lake.

Related read : The 8 Best Texas Lake Camping Destinations

4. Lake Conroe

Drive about an hour north of Houston and you’ll reach Lake Conroe, right next to the Sam Houston National Forest . The pristine lake offers 157 miles of shoreline along with a bevy of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Thanks to numerous rental companies like Lake Conroe Boat Rentals , you can easily hop on a boat, jet ski, or kayak. You can even partake in a fishing excursion if you want to reel in some bass or catfish.

There are also tons of great restaurants like GuadalaHARRY’s where you can enjoy a mix of Mexican and pub fare, along with terrific lake views. Another unique destination at this lake is  Margaritaville – perfect for anyone who wants a full resort experience with pools, bars, a waterpark, and more.

Related read : 10 Best Camping Spots Near Houston, Texas

5. Possum Kingdom Lake

West of Fort Worth, Possum Kingdom Lake is a beautiful retreat tucked among rolling green hills known for its picturesque rock cliffs (like its iconic Hell’s Gate formation). On land, you can hike or bike the Possum Kingdom Trail, which will definitely get your heart pumping with its 200-foot rise. On the water, boating, fishing, paddling, and swimming options are aplenty.

While there are many places to camp or lodge along the lake’s 310 miles of shoreline, one hotspot is Possum Kingdom State Park , which has sites for both tent and RV campers.

Related read : 12 Unique Places to Stay in Texas

6. Lake Livingston

An hour and a half north of Houston is  Lake Livingston , one of Texas’ largest lakes. It boasts 83,000 surface acres and over 450 miles of shoreline, so needless to say, there’s plenty of room to play.

There’s swimming, great fishing for white bass, paddle rentals, hiking, and mountain biking. Birding is also popular here since the lake is situated along the Central North American Flyway as well as the Mississippi Flyway (keep an eye out for bald eagles!).

There’s so much to do, you might want to book a campsite at Lake Livingston State Park or another campground along the lake’s shores, like Wolf Creek Park , to make the most of your trip.

Related read : The Best Stops on an Epic Dallas to Houston Road Trip

7. Canyon Lake

Nestled in the Texas Hill Country, Canyon Lake sits between Austin and San Antonio, just west of San Marcos. During your visit, be sure to check out Overlook Park where you’ll get excellent views of the lake and a great spot to watch the sunset.

The lake is notable for how deep it is, reaching down 125 feet, so scuba diving is a popular activity here. Many divers are lured by the chance to see remnants of a submerged ghost town that was evacuated when the lake was created. If you’d rather keep your feet on solid ground, check out the Madrone Trail or hike around the nearby Canyon Lake Gorge.

Related read : 8 Awesome Cabin Rentals Near San Antonio for a Country Getaway

8. Lake Buchanan

Tucked right between Llano and Burnet, Lake Buchanan is connected to Inks Lake State Park . A great way to appreciate the flora and fauna of the area is to hop on a cruise with Vanishing Texas River Cruises .

Along with their standard scenic wilderness and sunset cruises, the company does eagle and birding cruises from mid-November through February, since bald eagles spend their winters at the lake.

Fishing for striped and white bass is another popular past-time here, and even if you don’t have your own gear or boat, you can hire a local company like Lake Buchanan Striper Fishing Guide to show you a good time.

Related read : 8 Beautifully Secluded Cabin Rentals in Texas

9. Lake Lewisville

Lake Lewisville  is situated at the northern end of the DFW metroplex, giving all the city folk an easily accessible escape into nature. The lake has earned the nickname “Urban Bass Fishing Capital of Texas,” so if you can’t pass up a good fishing opportunity, you’ll be happy here.

Even if you’re not into fishing, there’s still lots to catch your interest – swimming, beaches, boat marinas, hiking and biking trails, and lakefront golf courses all await visitors.

In the mood to party? Party Cove is the place to go on weekends. Friday through Sunday, this cove comes alive with boaters, tubers, and paddleboarders all listening to music and drinking on the water.

Related read : 9 of the Best Romantic Getaways in Dallas, Texas

10. Lake Granbury

A lake in the Brazos River, Lake Granbury sits southwest of Fort Worth in the town of Granbury. The lake is long, narrow, and winding, and the main access points are Thorp Spring, Hunter Park, City Park, Rough Creek, and De Cordova Bend.

If you don’t have too much time to explore Lake Granbury, aim for City Park since that’s the most popular access point and is just a couple of blocks from the historic Granbury Square . Another focal point of the lake is Lake Granbury Marina where you can rent pontoons and enjoy some good fish tacos at Stumpy’s Lakeside Grill .

Related read : The 11 Best Small Towns in Texas To Visit This Year

11. Lake Whitney

The Dallas area is spoiled with excellent lakes, isn’t it? Here’s another one for you: Lake Whitney , located about an hour and 20 minutes south of Fort Worth. It’s known for being gorgeous, with its combination of clear waters, rock cliffs, and shaded coves. A great place to start your visit is at  Lake Whitney State Park .

There, you’ll have everything at your fingertips, like fishing, swimming, boating, and camping. There are also two easy hiking trails, one that takes you through the forest and another that brings you along the shore for some lake vistas and fantastic photos.

Related read : 12 Relaxing Texas Cabin Rentals with Hot Tubs

12. Lake O’ the Pines

Over in East Texas, Lake O’ the Pines isn’t too far from the borders with Arkansas and Louisiana. Its name is right on the nose since this area of the state is called the Piney Woods , and the area is lush with towering pine trees. If you’re looking to camp out by the lake, Brushy Creek campground on the south shore of the lake is one of the most popular. Another is Johnson Creek Camp on the north shore.

Want to kayak or canoe? Get in touch with Riverbend Outfitters.  They can deliver the boats right to your campsite or predetermined launch location, or take you out on a guided tour. For fans of the paranormal, it should also be mentioned that the Lake O’ the Pines region is the Bigfoot capital of Texas.

Related read : 5 Must-Do Scenic Train Rides in Texas

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Posted by Cindy Brzostowski

Cindy Brzostowski is a freelance writer focusing on travel and other lifestyle content. Originally from Texas, she is currently based in Berlin. Her work has been featured in Travel & Leisure, Thrillist, TripSavvy, Food & Wine, The Infatuation, and more.

When not writing, reading, or eating, you can probably find her making an itinerary for her next adventure or dreaming about pizza.

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Travel + Leisure lists Great Lakes as one of top 50 places to visit in 2020 -- and name drops Cleveland, too

• Updated: Dec. 10, 2019, 3:38 p.m.
• | Published: Dec. 10, 2019, 2:25 p.m.

A Victory cruise ship docks in Cleveland in June 2018.

• Laura Johnston, cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Travel + Leisure has included the Great Lakes as one of its 50 best destinations in 2020.

And the high-end magazine is even giving a shout-out to Cleveland.

“The next hot cruise destination is…The Great Lakes? Believe it. The five lakes collectively offer 11,000 miles of attraction-packed shoreline, and new small ship cruises are making it easier to explore," writes Emma Balter. "Lakeside cities like Cleveland and Milwaukee are drawing new crowds, the former for a thriving creative scene and revived waterfront.”

In 2019, 29 cruises were scheduled to dock at the Port of Cleveland , from May through October. In 2020, the port has 41 scheduled so far.

Most were Victory Cruise Lines , where nine-day tours between Chicago and Toronto start at $4,000, all inclusive. Victory Cruise Lines added Cleveland to its itinerary in 2017, and it ended as guests’ second favorite port, after Mackinac Island.

Each ship carries 80 to 200 passengers, who often board Lolly the Trolley for stops at museums and more. The Port of Cleveland is working on a more permanent U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility to process cruise passengers, which should open next spring.

Here’s how Victory Cruise Lines talks up Cleveland:

“Step off the ship onto what some call America’s “North Coast” and discover why Clevelanders are so fiercely proud of their home. The reinvented city reverberates with vitality and a cool new atmosphere. Expand your mind at the world-class Cleveland Museum of Art, with over 45,000 works to explore. For just the price of admission, you can also feel the backbeat at the museum devoted to one of America’s finest gifts to the world – the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. An optional premium experience to Geauga County offers a glimpse into a simpler way of life with a visit to an Amish home for a traditional wedding feast.”

RECOMMENDED • cleveland .com

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HB 6 demonstrates how the U.S. Justice Dept. in Ohio protects the wealthy and lets bribers go free: Today in Sep. 9, 2024, 9:40 a.m.

What else made the enviable Travel + Leisure list? Boston, Botswana, Maine, Malawi.

Obviously lots more, too. But no where else in the Midwest.

For more Lake Erie news, follow RocktheLake on Facebook.

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Lake Forest's Deer Path Inn named ‘No. 1 Resort Hotel in Midwest' for 2024

The deer path inn in suburban lake forest also ranks among the top 1% of hotels worldwide, according to tripadvisor, by francie swidler • published july 9, 2024 • updated on july 12, 2024 at 9:52 am.

The Deer Path Inn , an English Tudor-style hotel nestled along tree-lined streets of the North Shore was just named the No. 1 resort hotel in the Midwest by Travel + Leisure Magazine, a press release said.

The accolade, part of the magazine's "World's Best Awards" for 2024, marks the fifth time the historic, 57-room Lake Forest hotel nabbed the top spot, the release went on to say.

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It's not the only award The Deer Path won for 2024. According to the release, the hotel earned the No. 6 spot on Travel + Leisure's list of " Best Resorts in the Continental U.S. " It also landed at No. 66 in the magazine's report on " Best Hotels in the World " for 2024 -- one of only 16 U.S. hotels to make the list of 100.

Voting for the "World's Best" awards comes from reader surveys, editors said. For 2024, more than 186,000 readers weighed in, with approximately 700,000 votes across 8,700 properties.

According to magazine, hotels were first classified based on their locations and amenities. They were then rated on criteria including rooms and facilities, service, food, value and more.

From there, readers could rate hotels based on each characteristic, ranging from "excellent" to "poor," editors said.

According to the results, T he Deer Path Inn earned a near-prefect reader score of 98.11. More than five points behind the Deer Path was Larsmont Cottages on Lake Superior, in Two Harbors, Minnesota, with a reader score of 93.75.

"The moment you arrive at Deer Path Inn, it’s clear that this hotel is different," the hotel's winning entry reads. "It’s set in a Tudor manor house dating to 1929 and has an old-world charm that may trick you into believing you’re in England, not a suburb north of Chicago. In fact, as one reader so aptly explained, 'the Deer Path Inn makes guest[s] feel like they are visiting the fine home of a British relative.'"

That familiar feeling is one reason locals also love it.

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Last year, Deer Path manager James Barnett told NBC Chicago that nearly half of the the hotel's reservations come from Illinois zip codes.

“You don’t have to go far to feel like you’re on vacation,” said Stephie Blum, a Northbrook resident who visited the Inn in October. "It always makes me feel like I’m away, even when I’m not. They know your name, they greet you when you come in."

That personal touch is part of the art of Innkeeping, Barnett said.

At the Inn, life slows down: it’s a place where dinner reservations are only taken over the phone, which leads to better communication with guests, Barnett said. Details and personal connections matter – all the way down to the rubber ducks that are hand-placed on a guest’s bathtub tray before they arrive.

“We want to make it feel like it is a home away from home, so we try to learn about guests, and put special items in their room that make them feel like they’re still at their own home,” Guest Services Manager Shelby Trkla said. 

The feeling of hospitality also extends into The Deer Path's charming room packages, which range from a "Local's Only" neighborhood scavenger hunt, to "A Good Book & A Spot of Tea" -- a generous package that includes bedtime tea service with English-inspired bedtime snacks, a lavender mocktail, and a curated “Sleepy Sips” playlist, books selected by the Lake Forest Book Store and more.

This summer, The Deer Path Inn's programming extends to a series of British picnic-inspired "Summer Soirees " as the hotel celebrates its 95th anniversary, a spokesperson said.

“There's a thoughtfulness, and more attention,” Barnett added. “That comes back to the idea of an Inn – a warm, welcoming refuge. A smaller place, with personal service. That’s what people crave when they come here. It’s a step away from the everyday.”

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• 7 Lakes In Moscow That Will Leave You Under The Delightful Spell Of The Russian City

Moscow is the land of winters and snowfall, known for its rich cultural and historical significance. The city is considered as the heart of Russia. Roam in the city for a whole week and you still won’t be able to cover all the tourist spots and destinations. Along with these famous must-see venues such as Red Square and Moscow Kremlin, you can also visit the beautiful lakes in Moscow to create memories with your loved ones.

7 Magnificent Lakes In Moscow

Now add a touch of nature in your holiday trip by visiting these lakes near Moscow. It is a well-known fact that Moscow is not only known for its iconic tourist spots, but the city also has a delightful landscape that will take your breath away.

1. Lake Baikal

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It is one of the most famous lakes in Moscow that is located in Siberia near the border of Mongolia. This deepest lake in the world is a freshwater lake. You will find this lake surrounded by the high-range Mountains and the famous Siberia Taiga forest. The lake is 5,387 feet deep. For your trip, you can set up a base camp at Irkutsk. You can visit this world heritage site by using public transport such as the train. This way you can discover the new streets and corners of the city and redefine your experience as a tourist. Baikal Lake is the also the home of animals such as the Baikal seal and other endangered bird species. There are more than 300 species of birds present in Lake Baikal.

Must Read: 15 Interesting Things To Do In Moscow: Trekking, Opera, And More In 2022

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2. Lake Imandra

If you are planning to visit the lakes near Moscow Russia, then Lake Imandra should be on top of your list of places to visit. The Lake Imandra is located in the Murmansk region that lies in the Southwest part of the Kola Peninsula. The lake is 109 km long and is divided into different water bodies and is connected by two straits called Ecostrovsky and Zayachya Salma. Being the second largest lake in the European region, the lake is the home to a variety of fish. Don’t forget to take your fishing gear and equipment along with you. No matter what month it is, you can plan a mini fishing trip with your friends.

3. Lake Beloye

This white lake is situated in the Vologda Oblast region of Russia. The best thing about this lake is its quality of water. The lake is about 46 km long and you will find exotic species of fish that you would not find anywhere else. You can reach Lake Beloye by simply driving along the Barnaul-Kolyvan highway. If you are thinking of taking the bus then you will get to explore the Barnaul-Kolyvan’ route. After which you will be required to take a taxi. You will find the beautiful pine forests surrounding the lake throughout the Northwest region. There are hotels situated nearby which you can book online such as MosUz Center Hotel.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Hotels In Moscow That Redefine Luxury Like None Other!

4. Lake Nero

It is one of the oldest lakes in Russia that is more than 500,000 years old. The lake is located in Yaroslavl Oblast. Such type of lakes near Moscow, Russia , holds great historical importance. What makes this lake even more special are the two islands named- Lvovsky and Gorodskoj. The lake covers an entire area of 54.4 km. the lake is more than 500,000 years old. If you are planning your visit in the month of January, then you should pack some warm clothes along with a pair of comfortable shoes for walking along the lakeside.

Suggested Read: Shopping In Moscow: 14 Top Places That Will Make You Believe The City Is As Classy & Chic As Milan

5. Lake Ladoga

Lake Ladoga is one of the lakes near Moscow Russia that should definitely add to your travel list. It is a freshwater lake that is located in the famous area of the Republic of Karelia. You will have to travel to the outskirts of Saint Petersburg. The lake is spread across the area of 219 km and has the width of 83km. you will find a number of different islands located near the lake such as- Valaam and Kilpola. You can enjoy the beautiful view of the lake surrounded by tall trees. There is a famous Cultural Exhibition Center of Gogolev near the lake which you can visit. The great museum of art has the unique collection of sculptures that were created by the famous artist Kronid Gogolev. You can even attend the workshops and also buy souvenirs from the local shops.

Suggested Read: Russia Circle Trip: 20 Places To Visit In Moscow And St. Petersburg In 2022

6. Lake Onega

Another name in the list of lakes near Moscow is Lake Onega. It is also the largest lake located in the north-western part of European Russia. You can also find towns such as Petrozavodsk. UNESCO declared Kizhi archipelago a world heritage site which is located in the northern side of the lake. Plan your visit to the lake, and you will get the chance to visit the famous churches that were built in the 15th century. The lake is 245 kilometers long and is also the 18th largest lake in the world. You can precook a spot for yourself so that you can spend your holidays doing activities you love such as fishing.

7. Senezh Lake

The famous Senezh Lake was formed in the year 1826. Also known as Senezhskoye, the lake is located about 60 km away in the northwest area of Moscow. The lake is an ideal place for boating and photography. You will get to see the mesmerizing forests and tall pine trees. You can relax sitting at the lounge chairs by the lakeside. Now make your holidays pleasant by organizing a small barbeque party by the lake. The temperature is colder as compared to other parts of Russia. The place is the blend of flora and fauna, and that’s what makes it a perfect spot for you to test your photography skills.

Further Read: Summer In Moscow: Soak In The Landscapes Of This Stunning City In 2022!

Tourists from all over the world travel to visit these famous lakes in Moscow. The city is full of museums, cafes, restaurants, clubs, art galleries, shopping centers, and local shops that will make your trip to Russia a raving success! Once you do visit, don’t forget to share your experience with us!

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