A Traveler’s Guide to Rothbury, MI

A Traveler’s Guide to Rothbury, MINichole Steel2024-11-27T11:39:15-05:00

Photo of Double JJ in Rothbury MI Michigan is a vacation spot just waiting to be discovered. Surrounded by lakes and beautiful natural landscapes, this northern state has so much to offer, and when you stay at the Double JJ Resort, you won’t be disappointed. Their rustic accommodations are tucked deep inside the surrounding woods and have everything you need for the perfect cozy vacation in Rothbury, MI. Stay in a log home, family cabin, loft hotel room, or something else, and get ready to explore this beautiful hidden gem. Rothbury, MI is the perfect place for your next family vacation, but it is a bit undiscovered on the travel and tourism map. You might be wondering: what exactly should I expect of Rothbury, MI? Well, you’re in luck, because here, you’ll find a full guide to this sweet Michigan town, and everything you should do during your stay there.

Outdoor Adventures in Rothbury, MI

Rothbury, MI, is a place surrounded by natural wonders, which means it’s time to get outside! In the winter, enjoy snow tubing followed by a bonfire and snack at Double JJ’s Pony Expresso! If it’s warmer out, or you have good gear, you’ll have access to over 10 miles of hiking trails when you stay at the Double JJ. Have fun exploring hills, orchards, and the Sherwood forest by foot, cross country ski, or mountain bike. And if exploring the trails on your own just isn’t your thing, there are equestrian activities available that will help you to explore on horseback instead. Go out on an excursion with trained staff, take a lesson, or get the little ones excited about a pony ride!

Back Forty Western Town

The Back Forty Western Town is one of the most unique things you can do in Rothbury, MI. Here, you’ll not only find plenty of recreation, but you’ll be able to experience their craft room, general store, and eat some delicious hand-dipped ice cream after dinner at the Shooter Saloon and Grill. This is also where you’ll find one of the two waterparks in the area (there is also an indoor waterpark, which includes the tallest indoor waterslide in western Michigan). At the Back Forty Western Town, the old west meets modern entertainment, and you and your family will not be disappointed.

Where to Eat

With all the restaurant options at the Double JJ Resort, you surely won’t go hungry during your stay. Take in the views from the Curly Horse American Bistro, or enjoy the full bar and unique menu at Rustler’s Roost! For snacks, coffee, and more, check out Pony Expresso, Cactus Jacks, or Miner’s Gulp, and if you’re in the mood for ice cream, don’t miss the hand-dipped ice cream parlor in the General Store. With plenty of options to choose from, you’ll find yourself wanting to come back for more!

Double JJ Resort

With so much to do, see, and eat in Rothbury, MI, your options are truly endless. Enjoy hiking along a beautiful wooded trail, slide down some winter snow in a snow tube, or explore the Back Forty Western Town with your kids! There are plenty of options for everyone when it comes to a stay at the Double JJ Resort, so pack your bags, strap on your best walking shoes, and get ready to explore Michigan’s wild west!

Top 10 Restaurants in West MichiganNichole Steel2024-11-27T11:34:33-05:00

A good vacation is full of new experiences. You want to taste new foods, see new views, and try your hand at exciting activities. Luckily, Double JJ Resort is near some of the best restaurants in West Michigan. After playing the best golf courses at one of the finest Lake Michigan resorts, grab a bite to eat at these 10 culinary hot spots. You’ll never leave feeling hungry after feasting on Michigan food.

Best Restaurants in West Michigan

When you visit ranches in Michigan, you’ll want to spend entire days enjoying everything on-site. However, it’s definitely worth the trip to see the world-famous Lake Michigan beaches. Double JJ Resort is fortunate to have plenty of Michigan food within minutes of our lodging, but we’re also just a short drive from the many waterfront restaurants Michigan has to offer.

Curly Horse American Bistro, is the on-site Double JJ restaurant. You’ll find mac-n-cheese, cedar plank salmon, and everything in between at this versatile eatery. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer beautiful forest views to complement your delicious meal.
Thrasher’s Bear Lake Tavern, established in 1929, boasts being Muskegon County’s oldest restaurant. And with the flavor of their food, you can tell they have experience. If you’re visiting Muskegon State Park, be sure to stop!
The Deck is only open seasonally, but their beach location is ideal for summer vacations.
Moon Dance Cafe is the place to go for brunch. They have hearty, healthy, and reasonably priced fare to fuel you up for a day of golf at one of the best Lake Michigan Resorts.
Dockers Fishhouse is another of the best waterfront restaurants in Michigan, but this one offers marina views.
The Lake House is a casual place to get upscale food. Waterfront restaurants in Michigan are abundant, so here’s another high-quality spot in Muskegon!
Rico’s Tamales is one of the most satisfying hidden gem restaurants in West Michigan. They serve up deliciously filling Mexican food right here in Rothbury.
Taqueria Diaz is just a bit south of your Double JJ accommodations in the town of Whitehall. They are taco experts.
Hennessy’s Pub & Whisky Bar is king when it comes to Irish restaurants in West Michigan. And its large menu makes it one of the best restaurants in Muskegon for groups.
Country Dairy Farm Store, just minutes from our Ranch in Michigan, is a top-notch place to stop for lunch. In addition to tasty, natural Michigan food, they have a cute market and summertime farm tours.

Eating at Lake Michigan Resorts and Ranches

With all the fun you’ll have at our ranch in Michigan, you’ll be hungry at dinnertime. Eat your fill at these 10 can’t-miss restaurants. Then, return to Double JJ Resort for a restful night and another day of golf, horseback riding, and more. Contact us today to make a reservation!

5 Can’t-Miss Stops on the Michigan Wine TrailNichole Steel2024-11-27T11:46:53-05:00

When it comes to vineyards and wineries, most people think of France or California. However, Michigan has its own wine country, and it’s pretty incredible. The Lake Michigan coast is full of can’t-miss western Michigan wineries, forming what we like to call the Michigan wine trail. From the center of our coast all the way to the southern end, there are countless Michigan wine tours to satisfy your taste buds. Head to Double JJ Resort to enjoy the best resort and wine tasting in Michigan.

Our Top 5 Western Michigan Wineries

With so many western Michigan wineries and vineyards near Double JJ Resort, you can make an entire day out of exploring the gorgeous scenery and heavenly wine tastings in Michigan. If you want a vacation full of Michigan wine tours, try to stop at all five of these western Michigan wineries. Or, if you prefer to spend a longer amount of time at each, you can select one or two to visit for a more involved wine tasting in Michigan.

Oceana Winery and Vineyard has a wide variety of wines available, ranging from dry to sweet. They have two locations that offer wine tasting in Michigan: one at their vineyard in New Era and another in Muskegon. Both are on the Michigan wine trail and within driving distance of your Double JJ accommodations.
Fox Barn Market and Winery is an elegantly rustic western Michigan winery with an outdoor barn and beautiful views. In addition to classic reds and whites, they have deliciously sweet wines and snacks to match.
Jomagrha Vineyards & Winery opened in 1999 and has crafted American and French delicacies ever since. Their small batches are popular enough to sell out. And their prices couldn’t be more reasonable.
Love Wines is a family-owned company that crafts vino with creativity. It’s a must-stop spot along the Michigan wine trail. Each year, they have an entire calendar of fun events for visitors to attend.
Douglas Valley Winery is a larger vineyard with 8,000 vines and plenty of other fruit and vegetable plots. They have live music, wine-and-paint classes, and a farmers market during the summer season. Plus, it has the same incredible scenery of the entire Michigan wine trail!

For a list of even more western Michigan wineries, meaderies, and cider mills, check out this map of Michigan wine tours.

Resorts on the Michigan Wine Trail

Staying in western Michigan gives you access to some of the best wineries in North America. Your entire visit will be full of refreshing air and northern forests. Double JJ is one of the best western Michigan resorts, so before or after your adventure across the Michigan wine country, enjoy horseback riding or a game of golf with us. Call 231-894-4444 or contact us online to sent up your vino vacation!

A Budget-Friendly Holiday Gift Guide for the Outdoor Lovers on Your ListNichole Steel2019-12-17T13:16:27-05:00

Camping, glamping, hiking, and biking are just a few of the activities that people who love the outdoors enjoy, but they all involve quite a bit of equipment, which can get expensive. Fortunately, during the holidays, these are items that you can utilize as gifts. The key is to look for deals that will allow you to get everything you need for everyone on your shopping list and to take advantage of sites and apps that will help you find the best coupons and cashback offers so you can stick to your budget. Take a look at this guide to get started.

Backpacks and Luggage

When you spend a lot of time outdoors, it’s important to have sturdy, waterproof bags to hold all your gear and personal items. A new backpack is a great gift idea for someone who loves to go camping or hiking; anyone who travels a lot will appreciate a new luggage set, but they can be pricey. By utilizing online bag deals and promo codes, you can find the perfect bag for the wanderer on your list. Think about where your loved one likes to travel most, what kinds of weather conditions they might encounter, and how long they’re usually gone when they leave for a trip; this will help you figure out the right size and material for the bag.

Pet gear

Many people who spend time outdoors like to involve their pets, but it’s important to ensure the animals stay safe. When camping or hiking, dogs are great companions who make the trip even more enjoyable, but they need their own equipment and precautions. Collapsible food and water bowls, reflective collars, and safety booties that will keep little paws from getting cut on rough terrain are all budget-friendly gift ideas for those who want to make sure their fur-babies are safe on their outdoor excursions. Just make sure you’re sure of the animal’s size before you make a final decision; even smaller dogs may need a larger item to wear if they have a lot of fur.

Tools for comfort

Whether your loved one prefers to go camping or glamping, they’ll need certain tools for staying comfortable or getting good sleep. Depending on the degree of roughing it that they prefer, you might consider buying them some warm socks, a portable solar shower, or a small water filter that will allow them to keep their drinking water clean no matter how far from the path they stray. These are gift ideas that cost under $25, making them perfect for a tight budget. Think about what would make your loved one the most comfortable when they’re outdoors.

Help make memories

Those who hit the road often typically like to document their travels, and you can help them make their memories last by looking for a travel journal where they can sketch and write notes about their trips. Or, find a scrapbook large enough to hold all their photos so they can look back on all their outdoor adventures once the trip is over, plus all the supplies they need to create beautiful pages. These are both inexpensive options that your loved one will cherish for years to come, and if they travel with their family, they can get everyone involved in the process.

Finding the right gifts for everyone on your list can be the most stressful part of the holidays, but if you think about how you can add to your loved ones’ favorite hobbies and make them even better, you can stick to your budget while getting gifts they’ll truly love.

Exhilarating Sleigh Rides and Snow Tubing in MichiganNichole Steel2024-11-27T11:55:15-05:00

Nothing beats the breathtaking beauty of a fresh snowfall in Michigan. Waking up in the morning to see the pink sunrise peeking over frosted trees and rooftops is a sure-fire way to ensure a good day. At Double JJ Resort, that’s a regular occurrence. And when you’re done marveling at the view, we have plenty of exhilarating activities to help you get outside and enjoy the snow, starting with sleigh rides and snow tubing in Michigan. Because we offer all the best things to do in Michigan in winter right here on our property, Double JJ is one of the most entertaining western Michigan resorts.

Enchanting Sleigh Rides in Michigan

In the summer, Double JJ is the premier Michigan golf resort. In the winter, those wide, grassy expanses morph into snow-covered playgrounds. We’re fans of Midwest classics like sledding in Michigan, making snow angels, or building snowmen. However, for a unique take on sledding, go for one of our magical sleigh rides in Michigan.

For this seasonal activity, our very own horses will pull you through the gorgeous, snowy woods. You can even reserve private sleigh rides in Michigan with us, which are superb for families, friends, and couples alike! After sledding with the help of our horses, take the fun into your own hands with snow tubing in Michigan.

Speedy Snow Tubing in Michigan

For a softer, less bumpy take on sledding in Michigan, head to the Tubing Hill! Our 660-foot run offers the best snow tubing in Michigan. Speed down the hill and take the tow-rope back to the top for endless hours of nothing but fun. The tow-rope is especially appreciated by adults who don’t want to climb the hill after each turn of snow tubing in Michigan.

Sundance Slopes is open every day in the winter, and it’s conveniently close to our warming hut. Step inside for a steaming cup of hot cocoa or coffee. Then, head back out for more snowy excitement.

Best Western Michigan Resorts

When you stay at Double JJ Resort, you’ll find that winter is the best time of year. All of the things to do in western Michigan become even more fun when it snows, and our suites and cabins become cozy oases. Call 231-894-4444 to book your getaway to one of the best western Michigan resorts this winter!

A Place for GatheringNichole Steel2019-10-28T13:50:27-05:00

November brings a time for family and thankfulness for all the good things in our lives. Family, good health, food on the table and a roof over our heads are just a few of the things that many families celebrate during the Thanksgiving holiday season.

Double JJ Resort brings families together to celebrate. With our family accommodations of Log Homes and Family Cabins in the Back Forty to a Thoroughbred Suite makes for a great way to celebrate the families we are thankful for. Spending time together in the Gold Rush Indoor Water Park, going on a trail walk or horse ride gives everyone a chance to spend time together away from the hustle and bustle and responsibilities of our daily lives. By taking advantage of our Stay One Night, Get One Free promotion through November 26^th, you can give your budget a break.

Whether you come just for the day or make a weekend of it, Double JJ Resort has all the things you need to enjoy wonderful family, quality time together. Combine this family time with our tempting Thanksgiving Buffet, which has offerings for everyone; from traditional pumpkin pie and slow-roasted turkey to our popular spinach and artichoke dip and an Artisanal Charcuterie will satisfy everyone’s palate. Be sure to make your reservations early as it is sure to fill up fast. Combine this wonderful buffet with a stay in one of Double JJ Resort’s accommodations and add the waterpark and the family will be clamoring to celebrate together.

After all the good food, take some time to check out our Mystical Forest Mini Golf and ice cream at the Pony Express or work off some of that awesome buffet at the Gold Rush Waterpark or by going on a trail ride through the woods. After all the food and excitement, settle in for a relaxing evening in your cabin or suite, topped off with a Pizza from Rustler’s Roost for those who still have room for an evening snack.

All year round is fun and exciting at the Double JJ Resort and we are looking forward to making your Thanksgiving festivities even more special. Have an exciting, wonderful and relaxing Thanksgiving holiday season at the Double JJ Resort.

Finest Family Retreat Centers in MichiganNichole Steel2024-11-27T12:00:22-05:00

In today’s busy world, it can often be tough to stay in touch with family members—particularly those who don’t live with you. Family reunions are a great way to get together and catch up. When you host your Michigan family vacation at our resort, you’ll never have to stress about planning activities. Our abundant activities and amenities make us one of the best Midwest vacation spots for families. Choose from options like golf, horseback riding, and swimming at the waterpark for a fun-filled Michigan family vacation you’ll remember through the ages. Whether you’re celebrating the birth of a new baby, gathering for a wedding anniversary, or just meeting up to say “I missed you,” Double JJ Resort has the right space for you.

Michigan Family Vacation Event Spaces

Our rustic Michigan family vacation event spaces can accommodate groups of any size. We offer more options than most retreat centers in Michigan, and our flexibility is what makes us one of the best family vacation spots in Michigan.

The Maverick room fits 150, connects to the Thoroughbred Suites, and can open to combine with the Wyatt room.
The Curly Horse Balcony is lofted above the Curly Horse American Bistro and fits 70 people. It can be combined with the Mustang room for an additional 35 people.
The Mustang room is just right for a smaller family reunion. It has a capacity of 35.
The Dance Hall is our largest event space with a capacity of 300. It has gorgeous, western-themed chandeliers and windows. It also has a patio and can be combined with the Jesse James room for more space.
Shooter’s is a smaller gathering space with a bar. It’s an excellent option for a post-golf luncheon.
The Wild West room holds 70 people and is located in the waterpark building. Gather here after a morning of waterpark excitement.
The Wagon Wheel is another event space for large groups. It features views of Big Wildcat Lake, a dance floor, and a bar. It would be great for bigger celebrations, such as a 50th wedding anniversary.
In addition to these indoor spaces, Double JJ also offers several scenic outdoor event spaces. Whether you stay indoors or outdoors, these are the best spaces you’ll find at any of the family retreat centers in Michigan.

Michigan Family Resorts’ Group Packages

Double JJ offers more than most Michigan golf resorts’ stay and play packages; we make things easy for groups of all sizes. We’ll help you plan your family reunion so that the entire experience is stress-free and simple. Cut out the hours you would spend planning on your own, and let our Michigan family resorts’ staff design the perfect Michigan family vacation for you.

We’ll bundle your room block, meals, activities, DJ, and more into a single price and package for you. Or, if your family members want to pay individually, we can do that too. All our packages are completely customizable so that each family can find the right option for their unique wants and needs. Double JJ’s proximity to the gorgeous Lake Michigan means you can even head off our property to explore the local Midwestern towns. That’s why we’re one of the best Lake Michigan family resorts.

The Best Family Retreat Centers in Michigan

These unbeatable event spaces and customizable group packages make our retreat centers in Michigan the perfect space for any family. Reserve classic, country-style cabins for each family unit or an entire room block of Thoroughbred Suites. The most important part is being with your family. So call 231-894-3911 today to book your next family reunion at one of the best retreat centers in Michigan!

Fall Fun in West MichiganNichole Steel2024-11-27T12:02:45-05:00

In west Michigan, October is a wonderful time to visit for the beautiful color season. A leisurely scenic drive along Lake Michigan’s scenic coastline allows you to see all the glorious changes during Michigan’s fall season. Stopping at a local farm market, enjoying fresh cider and taking in all the scenery on a crisp, fall day makes for a wonderful start of a family trip.

Imagine a week-end stay in one of our Back Forty cabins or log homes, Thoroughbred Suites, Homestead Condos or Lofts Hotel, located right in the middle of over 2,000 acres that gives you a front-row seat to the surrounding trees in all their splendor of the fall color changes. Then there are all the activities you can enjoy in addition to enjoying nature. You can play and relax in the Gold Rush Waterpark, have lunch or dinner at our Curly Horse American Bistro or for lighter fare, Rustler’s Roost, located just above the waterpark makes for a wonderful day for the entire family. There are hayrides, bonfires, and s’mores and do not forget the pony and trail rides, two golf courses, mini-golf and our arcade; activities for all to enjoy.

October brings a lot of scary fun with Halloween at the Ranch on the 25^th and 26^th. We are calling for all scary and fun witches, monsters and zombies, plus cute or freaky animals and characters. Join us from 6 to 9 pm on Friday, October 25th, for hayrides, bounce house, yard games, pony rides, plus a community bonfire and s’mores. A fun and exciting evening at Double JJ Resort is for the entire family, who enjoy celebrating Halloween. Saturday, the 26^th, brings a day of wonderful activities for the children and the young at heart. From 11 am to 5 pm (small fee), there will be trick or treat stations, carnival games and prizes, pony rides, face painting, cookie, pumpkin and Halloween bag decorating, slime making and ice cream. Our DJ Glow Party will be from 7 pm to 11 pm, a perfect time to showcase your awesome costume. You can enjoy all these fun activities right at the Frontier at Double JJ Resort. Check out our weekend specials for the arcade, mini-golf, waterpark and mechanical bull. Lest we forget about our beer and wine lovers, this fall Double JJ Resort is hosting the Corkscrews & Brews Fall Color and Tasting Walk from 1 to 4pm on the 26^th during the Halloween at the Ranch. Bring your walking shoes and enjoy our local beer and wine offerings. There is non-stop fun to be had at Double JJ Resort for all. This weekend can be the beginning of a Halloween tradition for the entire family.

Best West Michigan Golf Experience | Minutes away from Double JJNichole Steel2024-11-27T12:04:07-05:00

The Great Lakes region is absolutely breathtaking, and Michigan is no exception. The crisp Lake Michigan water feeds everything around it, growing lush forests and emerald grassy fields. That’s why west Michigan golf is so incredible! The golf courses on Lake Michigan have fertile soil, healthy grass, and scenic views, so your golf experience here is one-of-a-kind. Double JJ Resort offers tons of fun things to do, but our golf getaways are particularly engaging. With two full-sized courses within minutes of our lodging and a mini-golf course right on-site, you’ll never get bored from the same old swing.

Outdoor West Michigan Golf

The closest course to our Double JJ cabins and suites is the Thoroughbred Golf Club. These 18 championship holes are right on our property, so you don’t even need a car to play. Thoroughbred’s 240 acres offer unique challenges for an exciting game, yet it is still suitable for golfers of all skill levels. It’s fun. It’s beautiful. It’s nearby. What could be better?

Just a three-minute drive down the road is another spectacular—and convenient—18-hole golf course: Grand View Golf Course. Immaculately groomed grounds and expertly designed features make it a crown jewel among west Michigan golf courses. Seriously, nothing beats the view from golf courses on Lake Michigan. You’ll have the best golf experience of your life with Double JJ’s golf getaways.

Fast-Paced Indoor Golf Experience

If the sun sets but you’re not ready to put down your clubs, keep the game rolling with Mystical Forest Mini Golf. This indoor game is excellent for unexpected rain, fun with youngsters, and a little after-hours putt-putt! Kick up the wow factor with a round of blacklight mini-golf. After you make your way through this miniature 18-hole golf course, stop by the arcade for some classic games. Kids and adults alike have a blast in this charming piece of playful paradise.

Double JJ Golf Getaways

While you stay at Double JJ, you don’t have to golf every day. We have tons of things to do on and off the fairway. However, if you love golf as much as we do, the variety in our courses means you’ll never get tired of our golf getaways. Call 231-894-4444 to book your stay with the best west Michigan golf resort.

Beautiful Lake Michigan Beaches | Experience the Great LakesNichole Steel2024-11-27T12:07:25-05:00

You don’t have to fly to an ocean for sand, sun, and waterfront fun. The American midwest has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Lake Michigan beaches are truly special because they offer the best of both worlds–you can enjoy cool temperatures surrounded by wooded scenery and eat icecream surrounded by boardwalk seagulls. Rothbury, Michigan is near several of these fantastic beaches, and Double JJ Resort offers unmatched accommodations for every vacationer. Whether you’re interested in Double JJ camping, a romantic suite for two, or a literal log cabin, there’s something here in Rothbury, Michigan for you. Without further ado, here are three of the best west Michigan beaches.

Best Lake Michigan Beaches

Medbery Park is a cute recreation area smack between Lake Michigan and White Lake. Stroll along one of the best Lake Michigan beaches, have a picnic in the park, and watch boats chug through the canal. Just across the canal, you will find the White River Light Station Museum, a historic 1875 lighthouse that now operates as a Great Lakes museum. Admission is inexpensive at $5 for adults and $2 for children, and you’ll leave with a newfound understanding of Michigan’s past. Pets are welcome at this beach, but they must be leashed at all times. Medbery park is also handicap accessible.
PJ Hoffmaster State Park features rolling dunes and uninterrupted views of the glimmering Lake Michigan. Its proximity to the lush Michigan forest is what makes this spot one of the best west Michigan beaches. Just a 30-minute drive from Rothbury, Michigan, you can splash and hike during the day and return to Double JJ camping and lodging for a peaceful night of rest. Be sure to check out the always beautiful Dune Climb Stairway, which climbs to an observation deck at the top of a tall sand dune for an unforgettable view of the diverse Michigan landscape.
Muskegon State Park and Pere Marquette Park rest on opposite sides of the Muskegon Lake channel. You can walk along the pier on either side to view the picturesque, red Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse. Muskegon State Park is a little more secluded and nestled in the wilderness, and Pere Marquette Park is just a short walk from restaurants and other urban attractions. If you decide to visit the more southern Pere Marquette Park, make the short walk to the USS Silversides Submarine Museum. You can also take a Lake Express Ferry tour to view these Lake Michigan beaches from the water.

Rothbury, Michigan for Lakeside Fun

When you’re looking for a fun day at the beach, Rothbury, Michigan is the place to go. You can sleep among the trees and enjoy easy access to sunshine and sandy parks during the day. Call us at 231-894-4444 to book your visit to these Lake Michigan beaches.