Howard's House, Central Lake, Michigan, 49622

This 1904 home has been loved by our family for more than 40 years. It's been renovated with a fun mixture of farmhouse, vintage, and whimsical artistry to welcome guests. The upstairs is open and spacious with a tricky old staircase! The downstairs has a full kitchen, living area has a cozy electric fireplace, and the bathroom is sparkling brand new. Guests have commented that it reminds them of their grandparent's home...we hope you feel the same! This turn of the century home will take you back in time...when there was no internet! In place of WiFi, we offer a Victrola record player and collection of vinyls for you to experience and a tv with local channels...or you can enjoy your own tunes on the Bluetooth option on the modern Victrola. Our "off the grid" location invites you to kick back on the front porch, back porch or large yard and just enjoy each other's company. Our village population is less than 1,000 residents, so our streets are quiet for strolling, biking, or running. Within walking distance, is Intermediate Lake with docks for fishing, a park for play, small town shopping and dining. Lake Michigan, Torch Lake, Glacial Hills Nature Trails, Breweries, Distilleries, Wineries, ski resorts and snowmobile trails are all within 10 miles. Check out the bulletin board in the kitchen for local events scheduled during your stay that might interest you, and a list of where to find amenities you may need during your stay. And yes....the little shoe on display in the living room was found within the upstairs walls when the lathe and plaster was removed for remodel. In the Victorian area, when homes were built, often times a shoe was placed within the walls to keep evil spirits out of the home. The shoe was chosen because it is the only piece of clothing that forms to the shape of the wearer and more likely to hold the spirit...and it was usually a child's shoe because they were pure and innocent. The little shoe still holds a place of honor in Howard's House. Guests have access to the entire house and lot with plenty of room for boat trailers. We do have a garage on the property that can be used for sheltering bikes or motorcycles. The nearest boat launch is only a few blocks away on Intermediate Lake. The nearest boat launch for Torch Lane is 6 miles away. Lake Michigan beaches, 7 miles. Don't have your own boat? Paddles & Pedals in Bellaire will deliver kayaks, paddleboards and bikes right to the house for you! We live a mile away and will be available by phone for any need or inquiry you may have. Central Lake is a quiet little town with a population of approximately 950. We have no traffic lights and we're surrounded by a chain of lakes, forest, orchards, and farms. Several children live in the neighborhood and the elementary school is right across the street. We're minutes from boat launches on Intermediate and Torch Lake...both of which have sandbars to anchor and play. Also minutes from Lake Michigan beaches and several wooded trails to explore. You'll find all your needs within walking or short driving distance, we have no taxi service to speak of. There are also no traffic lights, but I will caution you to please use your blinker, the local police will appreciate that! The School Bus, Black Betty, and Big Red are cruiser bikes kept in the garage for your touring pleasure if you're feeling adventurous. Please let us know if you have any special requests. We do have a couple vintage bikes, (named School Bus, Black Betty and Big Red) to cruise the neighborhood and tour the village. We also have a Cornhole board game and bags for outdoor fun. An electric heater is available and can be used upstairs if more heat is needed in the cooler months. Blankets and pillows for the sofa bed can be found in the downstairs bedroom closet. Portable (vintage) crib/pack n play, and additional lawn furniture are just some items available upon request. It never hurts to ask.