After reading reviews of some of the "big chain" hotels, we decided the make our reservations at the Lamplighter Motel. Terry, one of the owners, was very upfront about the style and size of the rooms. The rates were just right without braking the bank. Almost every review gave very good marks. The motel is located in a very quiet area, close to all the shopping and restaurants. Each room has a different theme. We stayed in the Garden room which consisted of two rooms, 1 queen bed and 1 double bed. The room was decorated just as one would expect, like a garden! The rooms and bathroom were small however very clean. A microwave, small refrig and coffee maker were supplied in our room. Our friends stayed in "somewhere in time" room with a queen poster bed. The guests staying at the motel were all repeats and had nothing but wonderful things to say about the property. Terry, the owner, plus other guests were sitting around a outdoor firepit just enjoying the weather and sharing stories. The gounds of the motel are beautiful, clean, plenty of parking and free internet. We only stayed one night however wished that we stayed an additional night. The motel is located close to the ferry service to Mackinaw Island. There are only 11 units for rent so besure to make your reservation early.
Terry and his wife, Jennifer were very helpful with information regarding ferry service, dining, shopping, etc. This was a great change from the big chains!

the only room available is a small double room. In fact the owner, Terry, mentioned the size of the room twice during the course of the conversation. I thought about it and decided the price was right so we booked it. As we pulled up to the front of this very cute and cozy motel with all the flowers I was at once put at ease. Yes, the room was small, but it's not as if I wasn't told beforehand. So enough about the size of the room and on to what this little place is. It's clean, lovely, peaceful and fun. At about 9:30 pm Terry starts a campfire and one by one the other people staying at the motel join the circle. One couple comes to the Lamplighter once a year for a week and does day trips to nearby attractions. Another couple came north from Kansas to get away from the heat. There were several couples within a short period of time and we all shared our stories about where we had been and where we were going and become kindred spirits. It was wonderful to hear the impressions of others. What was also especially nice is to share your experiences with people from all over and realize we are so different and yet so much alike. Terry's wife, Jen, joined us with their two little dachshunds who slept on pillows at their feet. When you have been traveling for a couple of weeks by yourselves and have an opportunity to share your stories with others it is refreshing. It's almost like group therapy for meandering travelers. We laughed quite a bit about mishaps along the way. By the end of the evening you are part of an unique experience you could not have had anywhere else. This place is not just about a place to lay your head at night but about the entire experience. Nice people with lots to share. You are not going to find this at the Econo Lodge or Super 8. If I am ever in this area again, I will be sure to stay here. I hope you do too. By the way, the motel is within walking distance of the main thoroughfare and waterside park. It's also very close to the ferries to Mackinac Island. Life is good at the Lamplighter Motel! By the way, Terry and Jen take care of everything...the housekeeping, landscaping, reservations and do a superior job of it. Kudos to them.

After staying in chain hotels and a fancy B&B, we wanted a laid back, homey place to meet locals as we toured northern MI and the UP. Stayed in the Dragonfly room for 2 nights and it was exactly as advertised. Terry and Jenn were full of helpful local info and were fun to talk with. The other guests were accepting, interesting and delightful. When I get back to northern MI again will look forward to the fire pit time at night. Terry - love your old car!

First off, the 2-star rating has to be taken in context. There were things to like about the Lamplighter, but based on the reviews in TripAdvisor I was expecting more. The price is very reasonable for the area but just keep in mind, you get what you pay for. We stayed in the Lighthouse room (2 adults, 2 kids) and we had a hard time fitting everything in the rooms. Both rooms were very small (beds take up most the room) and the bathroom was even smaller. What made it "less than" what I read on TA was that my wife really didn't care for it. Granted, she likes major chains that have all of the amenities, but this place only had its location and the charm of the owners going for it.
It was fine for me, and perhaps some of my traveling buds, but if you like spacious rooms with the latest decor this is not the place for you.