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Top 24 Hotels Near Crawford School
5521 M-72 Ne Kalkaska, MI 49646
Granada Inn Motel
Because Granada Inn Motel keeps Crawford School an uncomplicated drive, guests can enjoy a low-key journey before their day begins.
Arrivals at Granada Inn Motel may present modest desk service, direct parking, and vending corners that sustain clarity for budget travelers. Each guest room typically provides modest bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and compact desks, sustaining clear and functional routines daily. Shared spaces may highlight vending access, compact seating, and laundry facilities that reinforce clear and functional daily balance.
A stay may feature Wi-Fi, vending machines, compact laundry areas, and parking, reinforcing straightforward balance in guest routines.
Rodeway Inn Kalkaska
Crawford School is an easy drive of Rodeway Inn Kalkaska, a convenience that ensures the journey there is as simple as the stay itself.
Even without upscale features, Rodeway Inn provides structured arrivals where function and pacing support an easy entry flow. Standard guest rooms offer compact desks, in-room safes, and power outlets, balancing light work needs with peace of mind for belongings. Lobby seating includes armchairs, lamps, and check-in sightlines, serving as a flexible waiting, resting, or regrouping space.
Breakfast, TV service, coin laundry, in-room microwaves, public seating, and available Wi‑Fi support a no-frills, functional stay.
North Country American Inn
Because North Country American Inn keeps Crawford School a direct run, guests can decide on the travel method that best suits their needs.
Guests at North Country American Inn may encounter quick check-in, self-serve coffee, and modest lobby seating focused on practical convenience. Guest rooms often feature plush bedding, climate control, and streaming access, allowing guests to rest while enjoying entertainment. Public areas often highlight modest lobbies, vending corners, and seating areas that reinforce straightforward guest experiences.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, breakfast counters, vending areas, and laundry rooms, reinforcing practical daily routines across visits.
All Seasons Resort
This regional location relative to Crawford School helps All Seasons Resort guests feel oriented and comfortable with the area's layout.
All Seasons Resort typically offers simple arrivals with front desk service, on-site parking, and vending options for guest accessibility. Accommodations may include tasteful interiors, hardwood floors, and rainfall showers, reinforcing comfort in a practical guest setting. Facilities typically present compact breakfast rooms, guest laundries, and vending access that create balance for traveling visitors.
A stay often presents Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending machines, and guest laundries, reflecting straightforward budget travel ease.
The Lakeview Hotel Shanty Creek Resort
The hotel's spot as a sensible base gives The Lakeview Hotel Shanty Creek Resort guests a simple way to start their day of travel.
Guests at The Lakeview Hotel Shanty Creek Resort may find a reception with refined finishes, professional concierge presence, and courteous staff shaping an upscale start. Accommodations may feature elegant design touches, plush bedding, and minibars that offer selections to enhance a refined guest experience. Property amenities often provide elegant restaurants, spa-inspired services, and stylish lounges designed for a luxury orientation.
Accommodations may present plush bedding, spa-inspired bathrooms, fitness facilities, and Wi-Fi, shaping a polished luxury retreat.
Woodland Motor Lodge
Within the region, Woodland Motor Lodge is a practical base, a detail that delivers a sense of connection to Crawford School.
Woodland Motor Lodge often provides parking outside rooms, compact reception, and vending areas that maintain simple consistency for arrivals. Accommodations may present Wi-Fi, modest bedding, and climate control, reinforcing straightforward balance for overnight guests. Facilities often showcase compact lobbies, vending corners, and modest breakfast spaces that reflect straightforward practicality.
Accommodations may highlight Wi-Fi, vending access, pet-friendly allowances, and parking, maintaining consistent support each day.
River Country Motor Lodge
This convenient function as a base is a defining component of River Country Motor Lodge, because it ensures a visit free of traffic concerns.
At River Country Motor Lodge, arrivals may highlight modest lobbies, exterior entries, and vending corners that support practical travel routines. Guest rooms often include cable TV, compact fridges, and microwaves, supporting reliable ease for travelers during short visits. Shared spaces may include vending machines, guest laundries, and modest lobbies that emphasize practical routines for overnight visitors.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, modest coffee service, vending machines, and parking, sustaining clear and functional convenience for guests.
Days Inn by Wyndham Grayling
From Days Inn by Wyndham Grayling, the minimal regional drive to Crawford School removes travel complications for a hassle-free trip before the stay.
Days Inn commonly routes vending and ice along the lobby corridor, letting late arrivals resolve basics quickly before heading up. Suites at select locations add a safe and extra storage, keeping passports and electronics secure while layouts remain uncluttered. Outdoor pool terraces set loungers, shade, and rinse showers, turning open hours into relaxed breaks when weather cooperates and time allows.
Vending banks, ice, and a microwave with Wi-Fi and lobby seating turn short pauses and warm snacks into a single efficient loop inside.
Ramada Hotel & Conference Center by Wyndham Grayling
In the Kalkaska area, Ramada Hotel & Conference Center by Wyndham Grayling has a accessible location, serving as a convenient base for visiting Crawford School.
Ramada greets travelers with complimentary coffee in its lobbies, offering a care detail that helps guests refresh immediately after arrival. Guest rooms feature coffee makers, mini-fridges, and microwaves, helping travelers maintain simple routines during extended stays. Lobby lounges with seating clusters, communal tables, and bright décor provide orientation clarity and casual connection for guests.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and vending setups pair with parking and laundry, ensuring travel routines stay consistent everywhere.
Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel
This convenient location permits Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel to offer a blend of convenience and calm before the easy drive to Crawford School.
Arrivals at Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel may feature efficient check-in, complimentary parking, and a straightforward lobby for easy navigation. Rooms may provide compact seating, curated décor, and in-room coffee, helping travelers maintain comfort and routine while away. Shared spaces may include vending areas, modest lobbies, and laundry rooms that provide reliable consistency throughout each stay.
Accommodations may include Wi-Fi, compact breakfast areas, vending access, and laundry rooms, maintaining reliable routines for guests.
Super 8 by Wyndham Grayling
Crawford School is an easy regional drive from Super 8 by Wyndham Grayling, a plan that ensures travel logistics are always straightforward.
Reception areas at Super 8 are brightly lit and staffed 24/7, supporting dependable service and orientation clarity for all guests. Each guest room offers in-room coffee makers, mini-fridges, and microwaves, helping travelers maintain simple daily conveniences. Vending and market areas providing packaged meals, snacks, and drinks simplify routines, supporting consistency across all stays.
Free breakfast, parking, and Wi-Fi join with fitness rooms and pools, making family or group travel simple and predictable daily.
Spillway Lodges
This practical location means Spillway Lodges is a convenient base with Crawford School an easy drive away.
Spillway Lodges often highlights accessible arrivals with modest reception, vending access, and practical on-site parking for travelers. Each guest room often highlights plush bedding, blackout curtains, and climate control, promoting restful and consistent overnight stays. Facilities often highlight vending machines, breakfast counters, and guest laundries that maintain clarity and convenience for travelers.
A visit may feature Wi-Fi, vending machines, modest breakfast, and parking, sustaining consistent guest convenience across budget settings.
The Waters Inn
Guests at The Waters Inn can count on it as a convenient base for the easy regional drive to Crawford School.
At The Waters Inn, arrivals may present straightforward check-in, available parking, and simple lobby furnishings for guest use. Guest rooms typically include hardwood accents, premium linens, and streaming-enabled TVs, supporting both comfort and in-room activity. Shared spaces may feature compact business areas, vending corners, and modest lobbies that reinforce practical guest routines daily.
Guests may enjoy Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, vending access, and breakfast counters, reinforcing reliable support during travel stays.
Elk Rapids Lakeshore Inn
This useful role as a base is a defining feature of Elk Rapids Lakeshore Inn, because it frames a stay built around easy travel.
Guests at Elk Rapids Lakeshore Inn may encounter practical reception, vending services, and complimentary parking during the arrival experience. Accommodations may feature compact layouts, modest seating, and Wi-Fi, giving guests consistency and balance throughout their visit. Public areas typically include breakfast rooms, vending access, and seating clusters that sustain consistency for overnight visitors.
A stay often highlights Wi-Fi, vending areas, modest breakfast, and guest laundries, helping sustain clear routines for daily visitors.
The Dexter by Kasa
The simple regional drive from The Dexter by Kasa to Crawford School in Kalkaska means guests have a reliable way to arrive without confusion.
Kasa offers a modern and streamlined arrival experience, perfect for travelers who prefer the efficiency of a tech-enabled process. The full kitchen includes all necessary cookware, dishes, and utensils, making it easy to prepare everything from a simple snack to a gourmet meal. Clubhouses and resident lounges often include game tables like billiards or shuffleboard, providing a fun social outlet for guests.
With a swimming pool for leisure, a full kitchen for dining, and a fitness center for routine, the apartments support a balanced trip.
Grand Traverse Resort & Spa
A key planning advantage of Grand Traverse Resort & Spa in Kalkaska is its role as a practical base with Crawford School within driving reach.
At Grand Traverse Resort & Spa, arrivals commonly include polished lobby details, luggage handling, and concierge support that emphasize a sophisticated tone. Rooms typically present refined interiors, premium linens, and bathrooms finished with upscale materials for a polished impression. Facilities may feature polished bars, refined dining areas, and wellness centers that create a comfortable and sophisticated retreat.
A stay often offers elegant dining, wellness services, Wi-Fi, and valet support, combining refined hospitality with daily travel balance.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Acme-Traverse City by IHG
The benefit of using Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Acme-Traverse City by IHG as a sensible base renders it into a great starting point before the rest of the stay unfolds.
Communal zones in Holiday Inn Express lobbies combine lounge chairs and work tables, supporting both business and leisure routines. Guest rooms include branded toiletries, glass showers, and soft towels, refreshing routines and enhancing guest comfort daily. Lobby areas with open layouts, communal tables, and bright lighting create social hubs that help travelers regroup during arrival.
Complimentary breakfast, pet accommodations, and Wi-Fi combine with laundry and parking, keeping family travel smooth and simple.
Sleep Inn & Suites Bay View Acme - Travers City
In the Kalkaska region, Sleep Inn & Suites Bay View Acme - Travers City is situated as a practical base, a position that adds value to the guest experience.
Sleep Inn's Dream Corner Marketplace provides grab-and-go essentials after check-in, so small needs are covered before you settle upstairs. Every guest room features blackout drapes, a desk with lamp, a coffee maker and free Wi-Fi to support sleep and focused time. Meeting rooms provide natural light, whiteboards and AV hookups to support focused sessions without extra vendor coordination.
With free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, a fitness area, meeting spaces, laundry and a small marketplace, guest routines stay steady and simple.
Kasa Gold Coast Inn Traverse City
Because Kasa Gold Coast Inn Traverse City is a convenient base, guests can easily make the easy regional drive to Crawford School.
The support from the 24/7 virtual team at Kasa means guests have a personal concierge just a text message or phone call away. Every apartment offers a professionally designed, stylish interior that feels more like a modern city residence than a temporary hotel room. Outdoor grilling stations are a popular amenity, giving guests a great way to cook a casual dinner and enjoy the community atmosphere.
The core offerings of a full kitchen, free Wi-Fi, in-unit laundry, and a fitness center make for a reliable and functional stay.
Cherry Tree Inn & Suites
The journey from Cherry Tree Inn & Suites to Crawford School is a simple commute, a benefit that contributes to a well-rounded and convenient stay.
Cherry Tree Inn & Suites typically includes efficient check-in, basic lobby seating, and available parking for a no-frills arrival process. Rooms often provide climate control, curated décor, and plush bedding, maintaining a reliable foundation for overnight guest comfort. Facilities may present vending machines, coin-operated laundry, and compact lobbies that emphasize practical routines for guests.
Accommodations may present Wi-Fi, vending machines, breakfast service, and laundry rooms, maintaining practical balance in budget hotels.
Pointes North Beachfront Hotel – 2 Person Spa Tub Studios
For a trip to the area, Pointes North Beachfront Hotel – 2 Person Spa Tub Studios's location as a practical base is a foundational element of its practical charm.
Arrivals at Pointes North Beachfront Hotel – 2 Person Spa Tub Studios may feature modest reception areas, self-serve coffee, and parking options to support guest convenience. Each guest room may include hardwood finishes, compact seating, and rainfall showers, creating a practical yet stylish stay setting. Shared spaces often provide vending areas, breakfast spaces, and modest seating that reflect the straightforward style of budget stays.
A visit may offer Wi-Fi, guest laundry, vending corners, and compact breakfast areas, sustaining clarity for everyday guest routines.
avid hotel Traverse City by IHG
Because avid hotel Traverse City by IHG is a convenient base, guests can choose to get to Crawford School refreshed after an easy drive.
avid hotel Traverse City by IHG often provides quick arrivals with a simple front desk, vending access, and on-site parking for easy travel support. Guest rooms typically offer plush bedding, blackout curtains, and climate control, helping ensure rest and privacy during each stay. Facilities may feature guest laundries, vending machines, and breakfast corners that sustain reliable convenience across daily visits.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending access, and parking, reflecting straightforward support across budget properties.
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Traverse City
Crawford School is an easy regional drive away from Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Traverse City, a detail that allows for a smooth and integrated daily plan.
Where a small market is present, Days Inn organizes coolers and microwavables near seating so one stop covers snacks and utensils. Each guest room routes lighting to a bedside switch with a focused desk lamp, reducing night trips as notes finalize before sleep. Business centers keep PCs, printers, and counter space together so boarding passes, labels, and confirmations finish neatly on site.
A small market, coffee, and Wi-Fi near a computer kiosk cover late arrivals for quick bites and simple uploads in one pass on property.
Sugar Beach Resort Hotel
The hotel's spot as a sensible base gives Sugar Beach Resort Hotel guests a direct method for managing their time.
At Sugar Beach Resort Hotel, arrivals may include a basic reception, complimentary parking, and modest lobby seating for guest convenience. Accommodations may include Wi-Fi, ergonomic chairs, and compact desks, supporting both productivity and comfort while traveling. Shared spaces typically include modest lobbies, vending stations, and breakfast counters that reinforce simple travel consistency.
A stay often provides Wi-Fi, vending machines, laundry facilities, and breakfast counters, reinforcing reliable balance each day.
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Crawford School Local Area Guide
Welcome to Crawford School, a community hub nestled in Kalkaska, Michigan. This guide is designed for parents, coaches, and players preparing for events at the school's athletic facilities. We'll help you navigate arrival, find local amenities, and make the most of your time in Kalkaska. Understand the rhythms of game days, explore dining options, and get a feel for the local environment to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for your team and family.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Crawford School (Kalkaska, MI)
Crawford School is situated in Kalkaska, Michigan, a community known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. Located just off M-72, a key east-west thoroughfare, the school is easily accessible for travelers. The nearest major airport is Traverse City's Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive west, depending on traffic and road conditions. Accessing the school typically involves straightforward navigation from M-72, with clear signage for local roads leading to the campus. Parking is generally ample, especially outside of major event times, but it's wise to arrive early for tournaments or popular school functions. Public transit options are very limited in this rural area, making a personal vehicle or rideshare service essential for most visitors. Smart arrival tactics involve checking local event schedules in advance to gauge potential crowd sizes and considering an earlier arrival to secure preferred parking and avoid any last-minute congestion.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Crawford School
Lodging options in Kalkaska are primarily centered around the town itself, with a few motels and inns catering to visitors. While many teams and families opt to stay within Kalkaska for convenience, some may also consider accommodations in nearby Traverse City, which offers a wider range of hotels and amenities, though this adds a significant drive time. For events at Crawford School, staying within Kalkaska means most lodging is a short drive, typically 5-10 minutes, from the athletic fields. Hotels closest to the school are often the first to fill up during busy sports seasons or major community events, so booking well in advance is highly recommended. Utilizing map filters to search for hotels specifically within Kalkaska or along M-72 can help narrow down options. Flexible dates can also be beneficial, as accommodation prices can fluctuate based on local demand.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Traverse City Airport is about a 1-hour drive, connecting you to Kalkaska easily.
- Arrive early for tournaments to secure parking and avoid gate delays near the fields.
- The downtown Kalkaska area offers a convenient spot for team meals and regrouping.
- If weather is poor, consider local community centers or indoor recreational spaces for downtime.
- Downtown Kalkaska provides a central, accessible location for teams to gather before or after games.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Plan to arrive at least 60 to 90 minutes before your scheduled game time, especially for organized tournaments. This allows ample time for parking, locating the correct fields or courts, and checking in with event organizers if necessary. Utilize the designated warm-up areas to get your players loose and focused before they hit the playing surface. Familiarize yourself with the facility layout and any specific rules or guidelines posted by the school or league.
Mid-Day Regroup
Between games or during breaks, finding a comfortable spot to regroup is key. Many teams utilize lawn chairs and pop-up canopies in designated areas or open fields adjacent to the sports facilities. This provides shade and a central point for players and families to rest, hydrate, and refuel. Pack coolers with snacks and drinks to manage needs efficiently without extensive travel away from the venue.
Wrap-Up & Departure
After your final game, allow time for any post-game formalities, such as handshakes or team photos. Gather your equipment and belongings systematically, ensuring nothing is left behind. Depending on the event schedule, traffic around the school may increase. A brief cool-down period in a common area might be beneficial before heading to your vehicle, especially if departing during peak exit times.
Things to Do Near Crawford School
Walkable
Kalkaska County Historical Museum
Step back in time at the Kalkaska County Historical Museum, located just a short distance from Crawford School in the heart of Kalkaska. This local gem offers a glimpse into the area's rich past, from its logging heritage to its agricultural roots. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the lives of early settlers, the development of the railroad, and the natural history of the region. It's a quiet and educational stop for those interested in understanding the community's foundation and offers a nice respite from the sports fields.
Downtown Kalkaska · 1.1 miKal-Haven Trail
The Kal-Haven Trail is a scenic rail-trail perfect for a refreshing walk or bike ride. Easily accessible from the Crawford School area, this trail winds through picturesque Michigan landscapes, offering views of forests and open fields. It's an ideal spot for players to stretch their legs, families to enjoy a casual stroll, or anyone looking to connect with the natural beauty of Northern Michigan. The trail is generally flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
M-72 trailhead · 0.8 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Boardman River Nature Center
While a bit further out, the Boardman River Nature Center in Traverse City offers an immersive experience in local ecology. It features interactive exhibits, walking trails along the river, and educational programs focused on the flora and fauna of the region. It's a great option for a family outing, providing an opportunity to learn about Michigan's watershed systems and natural habitats. The center is a peaceful retreat, ideal for a break from competitive sports and a chance to appreciate the area's environmental richness.
Traverse City · 35.0 miShort's Brewing Company - Bellaire
For adult groups looking for a popular local spot, Short's Brewing Company in Bellaire is a renowned craft brewery. Known for its eclectic and award-winning beers, it offers a lively atmosphere and a chance to sample unique flavors. The pub often features a diverse menu of food to complement its brews. It's a significant draw for those traveling between Kalkaska and other Northern Michigan destinations, providing a taste of the region's burgeoning craft beverage scene.
Bellaire · 29.2 miBeyond the Event: Beyond these specific locations, the broader Kalkaska area and nearby Traverse City region are rich with opportunities for outdoor adventures, including hiking, fishing, and exploring smaller, charming towns. The abundance of state forests and public lands provides ample space for nature exploration.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Crawford School
Inside & Adjacent
Crawford School Cafeteria
For teams and families directly involved with events at Crawford School, the on-site cafeteria may offer convenient food options during specific school functions or tournaments. Availability and offerings can vary greatly depending on the event schedule and whether the kitchen is active. It's advisable to check with event organizers regarding any meal services or concessions provided directly at the school grounds, especially for packed lunches or simple refreshments.
On siteDowntown Kalkaska Restaurants
The immediate downtown area of Kalkaska offers several dining choices catering to a variety of tastes. These establishments often serve as central gathering points for local residents and visitors alike. Options typically include casual diners, pizza places, and cafes, providing straightforward and family-friendly meal solutions that are easy to access after events at Crawford School.
Downtown Kalkaska · 1.1 miNearby Gathering Spots
Pita Pit
Pita Pit in Kalkaska provides a quick and healthy fast-casual option, perfect for refueling teams on the go. Known for its customizable Mediterranean-inspired pitas, it offers a good selection of fresh ingredients and fillings. It’s a convenient stop for a casual lunch or dinner, especially for groups looking for something light and easily managed between games or before heading back to accommodations.
Kalkaska · 1.2 miThe Eagles Club
The Eagles Club in Kalkaska often serves as a community gathering spot and may offer food services to members and guests. While specific hours and menu offerings can vary, these types of local clubs can provide a taste of community life and sometimes offer reliable, no-frills meal options. It's worth checking local listings or inquiring about public access if you're looking for a casual, local dining experience.
Kalkaska · 1.3 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Trout Town Tavern & Eatery
Mancelona · 9.8 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on M-72 can be busy during peak summer travel and hunting seasons; plan accordingly.
- Weekends, especially during fall, see an influx of leaf-peepers and outdoor enthusiasts on local roads.
- Many smaller businesses in Kalkaska observe more limited hours, particularly on Sundays and Mondays.
- Cell service can be spotty outside of the immediate Kalkaska town center; download maps offline.
- Local events, like the Kalkaska Winterfest or craft fairs, can draw significant crowds and impact local access.
Weather & Seasons at Crawford School
- Winter: Winter in Kalkaska is cold, with average temperatures often below freezing. Expect snow, and dress in multiple warm layers including hats, gloves, and insulated boots for any outdoor activities. Short daylight hours mean activities may need to be scheduled earlier. Driving conditions can be challenging with snow and ice, requiring extra caution.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings milder temperatures, though frost is still possible early on. Layers are essential as days can range from cool to pleasantly warm. Rain is common, so packing a waterproof jacket and umbrella is wise. It's a good time for outdoor events, but be prepared for variable conditions.
- Mid-summer: Summers are typically warm to hot, with highs often in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit. Light, breathable clothing is recommended. While generally drier, occasional thunderstorms can occur, bringing brief, heavy rain. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are important for outdoor activities.
- Fall season: Fall offers crisp, cool weather, transitioning from warm days to chilly evenings. Temperatures can vary significantly, making layers crucial. This season is popular for its fall colors, but also for hunting, so be aware of increased local traffic. A warm jacket and comfortable footwear are recommended.
- Rain & snow: Rain is common throughout spring and fall, while snow is the primary form of precipitation in winter. Prepare for wet conditions by bringing waterproof gear like jackets and shoes. Snowfall can impact travel and outdoor schedules significantly during winter months, necessitating flexibility with event timings.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: High school athletics, youth sports leagues
- Neighborhood: Rural outskirts of Kalkaska
- Nearest airport: Cherry Capital Airport (TVC)
- Parking: On-site lots, street parking possible
- Walkable district: Limited, focused around school campus
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Local grocery stores in Kalkaska
- Pharmacy: Local pharmacies in Kalkaska
- Urgent care: Traverse City offers medical facilities
- Downtime: Local parks, community center
- Pro tip: Check event schedules for parking assignments and potential delays.

