“Imaginary Friends Stay Free” Last May as we had been driving along Highway 2 in Michigan’s upper peninsula, Chuck and I simultaneously read, “Imaginary Friends Stay Free” on The Colonial Motel sign. We each repeated the line with laughter. Chuck had quickly turned around and pulled into the parking lot. “Let’s stay here!” He grinned. “I like this sense of humor.” When we’d entered the office, it was as if we’d stepped into the 1950’s. This motor lodge had been captivating! Join us!

A cardboard Elvis had welcomed us from the corner of the room where two dogs had been curled up next to an electric guitar. Arrays of 1950’s photos displaying musicians and movie stars had brought the mid-century era to life. Trip Advisor “Five Star” ratings had been posted behind the counter. The proprietor had been speaking with another guest, so we made friends with the dogs and absorbed the ambiance.

Michael Phelan, the host and innkeeper, had greeted us warmly. Mike’s smile had put us instantly at ease. With knowledge in a variety of areas, our conversations flowed easily: construction, living in Arizona’s high desert, guitars and owning a business.

When we’d asked Mike about owning the motel and how his business had been going, he beamed, “It fills right up, now.” He gestured to the ‘Travelers’ Choice’ awards from Trip Advisor. (Pictured above) “People have given very positive reviews. That brings in business.” He had nodded. “My cleaning crew does a wonderful job!”

“You can see how much it’s grown. People have to book ahead to get a room, especially in the fall. Color tours, ya know?”

Then and Now

Photos of The Colonial Motel had been placed around the office. “This used to be the breakfast room when the couple had owned it.” Looking at the photograph of the breakfast room, a vague memory tickled the back of my brain. ‘Maybe I’ve stayed here?’ I had wondered silently while the men spoke of guitars.

Our Room “The Jack and Jill”

“I’ll put you in the Jack and Jill room.” Mike had carefully positioned his “X” stamper over a square. “It has two rooms with a bathroom in the middle. Like ‘The Brady Bunch.’ ” He had nodded. With the swoosh of the stamp, the deal had been solidified. We paid. Mike handed Chuck the metal keyring #8.

The knotty pine walls and comfortable mattresses were cozy! Each of us with our own bed, we slept well!

The Next Morning

Feeling like an excited youngster on a long trip, I woke refreshed for a new day of adventures as we had set our eyes toward Duluth. Believe me, everything with Chuck is an adventure!

In the office coffee and donuts had been placed out for guests, which we enjoyed. Thank you, Mike, for your hospitality! We hold admiration for your tenacity and personable manner as you connect with each guest!

Michigan Tourism – Motor Lodges

Motor Lodges play an important part in Michigan tourism as they meet the needs of cost-conscious travelers. In fact, young adult visitors have been attracted to the “retro” appeal of the 16,000 motels across Michigan.

In the past few years people have had a renewed interest in traveling and finding budget-friendly options has boosted business. The Michigan tourism industry has recently been ranked 18th in our nation with “leisure visitor spending” at 12.7 billion dollars. This income builds our economy and increases the number of jobs. Michigan’s lodging employment projections are believed to increase by 23,660 jobs by the year 2030.

The Colonial’s Sign – A Beacon

On The Colonial Motel’s website Mike had written, “Our sign is mostly original dating back to the 1950s. When lit up at night, it beckons the weary traveler on the open road like a beacon in the night much like the Manistique lighthouse does for boats on Lake Michigan.”

This signature sign had caught our attention and drew us to our fantastic overnight stay at The Colonial Motel! We admire Mike’s dedication and vision for The Colonial Motel. We wish Mike all our best!

New experiences and connecting with others around this crazy world have been the best parts of traveling! Stay curious and make memories!

Related Links:

Nearby The Colonial Motel is the Kitch-Iti-Kipi spring. Here’s the article.

Duluth holds many curious tales. Wilhelm Boeing had been a legend. Here’s the article.

Here’s our video from Duluth, the largest inland port.

If you are planning to head north to Keweenaw, here are some articles about sites to see.

Resources:

Here’s The Colonial Motel’s website.
Geeks For Geeks article
Michigan State University Tourism Statistics article
Michigan Hospitality and Tourism report