The first settlers who moved to this area were attracted by the white pine and hardwoods, which allowed them to profit in the lumber industry. This community was settled in 1874 by the Jackson, Lansing & Saginaw Railroad and was named in honor of Augustine Smith Gaylord, an attorney for the railroad. It was named the county seat of Otsego County in 1877. Known as Michigan’s Alpine Village, Gaylord is located in the exact center of the northern part of the state on the 45th parallel. No matter what tickles your fancy, you can find it here in Gaylord! Its Alpine-themed shopping district features a quaint and attractive setting where visitors can browse through unique boutiques, specialty shops, and art galleries for distinctive treasures. Weekend entertainment is offered on the downtown pavilion, as is a farmer’s market and a wide range of activities and events, including music festivals.
A year-round outdoorsman’s paradise, the list of recreational activities to be enjoyed in the parks, forests, and nature preserves is endless. Lake-effect snowfall allows for fantastic snowmobiling, both downhill and cross-country skiing, sledding, tubing, snowshoeing, snowboarding and sleigh rides! Skating can be enjoyed on the more than 90 inland lakes in the wintertime, which, along with the six “Class-A” trout streams, provide plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming and boating in the warmer months. With 17 championship-caliber golf courses, Gaylord is the Midwest’s premier golf destination and is known as America’s Summer Golf Mecca. Hikers and mountain-bikers love the 62-mile North Central State Trail, which goes from Gaylord to Mackinaw City. And no matter what your palate prefers, you will be satisfied at one of the numerous restaurants, cafes, coffeehouses, taverns or bars here, all of which welcome guests to relax with a delicious meal and a refreshing drink. Embrace all there is to do in exciting Gaylord! Hotels allow you to stay conveniently close to where you want to be. When you stay at Choice Hotels, you enjoy affordable rates, many amenities and friendly service. We look forward to hosting soon! Reserve your room today!