The Inn at Harbor Shores is one of the crown jewels of the Harbor Shores Resort development, a key element of the identity of Michigan’s Great Southwest. Situated along the north shore of the St. Joseph River, just minutes from downtown, The Inn has become a familiar gathering spot for both locals and visitors. Now, as it enters its eleventh year of operation, ownership has decided it was time for a major transformation.
General Managing Partner Brady Cohen has been at the helm of The Inn almost since the beginning:
“We have come a long way in our first 10 years, with major enhancements every year. Adding value to your stay is in our DNA. My goal, when I came on board, was to establish our AAA Four Diamond Award, which signifies a luxury hotel with refined, stylish, upscale amenities and a high degree of hospitality and service. We have won this award for six consecutive years. Once we hit our 10-year anniversary, we decided it was time for a full renovation, to enhance all of our travelers’ needs.”
When hotels undergo a “refresh,” they typically do so in phases, allowing them to remain operational while minimizing disruptions to guests. At The Inn, this multi-phase renovation has been underway for the past year and a half. Cohen details the extensive updates:
“This is our third phase of our almost four-million-dollar remodel. First, we started with all of the corridors—all new carpets, wall coverings, and artwork. Then we started tearing apart all of the guest rooms—everything, right down to the drywall. We upgraded with all new flooring, new paint, fixtures, vanities, wardrobes, headboards, mattresses, and TVs. It’s a complete remodel in all 92 guest rooms.”
The Inn features a combination of Standard and Harbor View guestrooms, plus several larger suites, designed for families, groups, or bridal parties. Cohen is excited about the results of the refresh, describing the new design as having a “coastal contemporary vibe.”
“The new guest rooms are very bright and welcoming. You walk in, you’ve got a nice, bright atmosphere—it’s refreshing. From your private balcony, you can look directly out at the St. Joseph River, or take in views of holes 4 and 5 of the Harbor Shores Golf Course on the other side. Every room features sliding glass doors that open to its own private balcony.”
Cohen highlights that guest rooms at The Inn are 400 square feet—about 25% larger than the average hotel room—providing extra space and comfort for travelers. Rather than staying in a standard roadside hotel near Exit 23 or 27, guests can choose to be right on the river and fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Michigan’s Great Southwest. He believes it should be an easy decision, though he acknowledges that budget considerations sometimes come into play.
“We try to add a lot of value. Yeah, we might be a little bit more expensive than your average highway hotel, but what we offer in terms of amenities can make your experience a bit more memorable.”
He reminds travelers that The Inn has an on-site spa, a boutique coffee & wine shop, an indoor-outdoor pool, a tiki bar in summer, and a full-service bar/restaurant, Plank’s Tavern, featuring breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week with a large waterfront patio.
With the completion of its guest room refresh, The Inn is making a stronger effort to connect with the local Twin Cities business community, with a focus on attracting everyday business travelers. Cohen acknowledges that there’s a common perception that hosting business guests at The Inn comes at a higher cost. However, he emphasizes the value of on-site amenities, convenience, and the overall experience that set The Inn apart.
To accommodate corporate needs, The Inn offers local negotiated rates that are highly competitive and heavily discounted. Businesses are encouraged to reach out to Cohen directly for a customized rate package tailored to their needs.
“We also have great spaces on the second floor for meetings and events. It makes for a really great stay for business travelers when you have brand-new remodeled guest rooms coupled with state-of-the-art technology in our meeting spaces.”
Cohen also highlights that Plank’s Tavern is a destination in itself, offering a great bar with good-time vibes. In warmer months, guests can also enjoy the outdoor tiki bar, an indoor/outdoor hot tub, and an outdoor pool.
“There’s just so much to do here. We even provide complimentary shuttle service to and from other restaurants, as well as downtown businesses and beaches.”
For those looking to experience the newly refreshed guest rooms firsthand, The Inn is offering a special March Madness promotion for locals and email subscribers.
“Just call our front desk and ask for the Home Court Advantage Rate— where you can book guest rooms for just $119 and add a second night for $109! This deal is to promote our guest room refresh to locals who want to come see the transformation. We want to host all of your lodging, food, and beverage needs—so come see our investment in this community.”
The Inn at Harbor Shores is also committed to customizing meetings and business travel experiences for local companies. Sales Director Elizabeth Hacker specializes in creating personalized plan quotes for business owners and event planners.
“We are very budget conscious too. We try to work with all kinds of budgets. Tell us what your budget is and we can customize a package that fits your needs. I think most people would be surprised at what we can offer.”
An Open House is planned for the spring, allowing locals the opportunity to tour the newly renovated guest rooms firsthand. Additionally, a video visit with our own Pat Moody on MoodyontheMove.com is planned for April.
For more information, contact: Elizabeth Hacker at 269-408-9114 or ehacker@innatharborshores.com Brady Cohen at 269-983-1111 or bcohen@innatharborshores.com
By Gayle Olson, MOTM Contributor