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WElcome to waterway inn
Nestled in the heart of Indian River, MI, Waterway Inn offers a comfortable and convenient stay for travelers looking to explore the natural beauty and charm of northern Michigan. As one of the last owner-operated lodgings in Indian River, we pride ourselves on offering personalized service and a cozy, welcoming environment. Our focus is on the details that larger places might overlook, ensuring your stay is comfortable and memorable.
Prime location
We are conveniently situated near exit 310 on I-75, making us easily accessible for travelers. Additionally, we are adjacent to the North Central State Trail, offering our guests direct access from our rooms and mobile homes to this scenic trail. This trail allows guests to walk and bike to local shops and restaurants, making it easy to explore Indian River.
Comfortable Accommodations
Enjoy clean, cozy rooms equipped with all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay. We add an extra touch by including firewood at our community firepit and supplying charcoal and lighter fluid for our BBQ pits, so you can enjoy a cozy evening by the fire or a delicious outdoor meal.
Affordable Rates
Get the best value for your money without compromising on quality. We offer discounted rates during the off-season and save more when you stay a week or longer! Our rates are lower compared to surrounding cities such as Gaylord, Petoskey, and Mackinaw City, offering you an affordable alternative.
contactless check-in
​We are excited to offer a contactless check-in option, designed to provide you with a seamless and hassle-free arrival experience.
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No need to wait in line at the front desk or worry about checking in during specific hours. Our contactless check-in allows you the freedom to arrive at your own convenience, anytime after 3:00 PM. Simply access your room with ease and begin your stay without any delays.
How does this work? Add the contactless check-in option to your stay and we will do the rest for you! Each of our motel room doors is equipped with digital keypads allowing for a keyless entry. On the day you are scheduled to arrive, one of our experienced front desk agents will call or text you with your room number and door code. When you arrive at the property, you can bypass the front desk and go right to your room! The door code is active starting at 3:00 PM. If you are approved for early check-in, your door code will be active at the approved time.​​
dog-friendly accommodations
​Traveling with your dogs? We allow dogs in our newly remodeled 2-bedroom mobile home and our standard king room. Both allow up to two (2) dogs. If these accommodations are not available when you'd like to stay, we recommend contacting Indian River Pet Resort for overnight boarding. A daily $20.00 per pet non-refundable fee will be added to the reservation. For more information, view our dog policy here.
The Waterway Inn is just 20 miles from beautiful Nub's Nob and Boyne Highlands ski resorts and close to Odawa Casino in Petoskey and Kewadin Casino in St. Ignace. We are 28 miles north of Gaylord, 30 miles south of Mackinaw City, and 21 miles east of Petoskey, which boasts some of the most unique shopping in Northern Michigan.
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OUTDOOR Activities
Our shaded picnic area includes grills, picnic tables, kid's swings, a bonfire pit, a basketball court, and horseshoe pits. Ride your ORV or snowmobile on some of Northern Michigan's best-groomed trails right from your front door.
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We now offer bicycle and kayak rentals! Click here for more info!
