Memorial Day Weekend 2026 in Bellaire: Brewery Hopping & Lakeside Stays

Your Ultimate Memorial Day Weekend Bellaire Michigan 2026 Guide

The long weekend is almost here, and if you haven't locked in plans yet, there's still time to craft the perfect Memorial Day escape. Forget the crowded beaches and overpriced resorts—this year, head to Bellaire, Michigan, where craft beer flows freely, pristine lakes sparkle under late-May sunshine, and cozy cabin rentals await. At One Destination Properties, we've watched countless guests discover why this charming northern Michigan town has become a beloved destination for holiday weekends.

Whether you're a devoted craft beer enthusiast making a pilgrimage to the legendary Short's Brewing Company or simply craving a peaceful Memorial Day lake getaway in Michigan, Bellaire delivers an experience that's equal parts adventure and relaxation. Let's dive into everything you need to know for planning an unforgettable Memorial Day Weekend 2026 in Bellaire.

Why Bellaire Should Top Your Memorial Day Destination List

Tucked into Antrim County's rolling hills and surrounded by the stunning Chain of Lakes, Bellaire offers something increasingly rare: authentic small-town charm without feeling sleepy or isolated. With a population hovering around 1,100 residents, this village punches well above its weight when it comes to attractions, dining, and outdoor recreation.

The timing couldn't be better for a late-May visit. Spring has fully awakened northern Michigan by Memorial Day weekend, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-50s to low 70s—perfect weather for patio beers, kayak excursions, and evening bonfires. The summer crowds haven't quite descended yet, meaning you'll enjoy shorter lines, easier reservations, and a more relaxed atmosphere everywhere you go.

For those exploring multiple holiday options, you might also consider our guide to Memorial Day Weekend at Shanty Creek, which focuses on the resort's extensive amenities. But if craft beer culture and lakeside serenity call your name, Bellaire's downtown district is where you want to be.

The Short's Brewing Company Experience: More Than Just Great Beer

No conversation about Bellaire is complete without mentioning Short's Brewing Company, the craft brewery that put this small town on the national beer map. Founded in 2004, Short's has earned a cult following for its innovative, sometimes audacious brews that push boundaries while respecting tradition.

What Makes Short's Special

The Bellaire Pub—Short's original location—remains the heart and soul of the operation. Unlike sterile taprooms in larger cities, this space feels like walking into a friend's incredibly well-stocked basement bar. The rotating tap list regularly features 15-20 beers, from approachable lagers to experimental small-batch creations you won't find anywhere else.

Memorial Day weekend typically sees the pub buzzing with energy as locals and visitors alike kick off the summer season. The outdoor beer garden becomes especially popular when weather cooperates, offering a relaxed setting to work through a flight or two. Their food menu goes beyond typical pub fare, with locally-sourced ingredients elevating classics like burgers, pizzas, and shareable appetizers.

Planning Your Brewery Visit

A few practical tips for maximizing your Short's experience during the holiday weekend:

• Arrive strategically: Weekday afternoons and early evenings tend to be less hectic than weekend prime time
• Designate a driver or plan ahead: The brewery is walkable from downtown, and several affordable Airbnb rentals near Short's Brewing Company put you within easy strolling distance
• Grab merchandise: Short's branded gear makes excellent souvenirs, and their bottle shop lets you bring favorites home
• Don't skip the flagship beers: Huma Lupa Licious and Soft Parade remain beloved for good reason

Beyond the Brewery: Bellaire's Lakeside Adventures

While Short's might draw you to Bellaire initially, the surrounding natural beauty gives you reasons to stay. The town sits at the heart of the Chain of Lakes—a interconnected system of fourteen lakes connected by the Intermediate River. This waterway paradise offers endless opportunities for paddlers, anglers, and anyone who simply wants to gaze at sparkling water.

On-Water Activities

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of boating season in northern Michigan. Kayak and canoe rentals become readily available, and the calm, protected waters of the chain are perfect for paddlers of all skill levels. Intermediate Lake, the largest in the chain, provides excellent fishing for bass, pike, and panfish—a great option if you're planning a Father's Day fishing trip later in the summer and want to scout locations.

For a more leisurely experience, pack a picnic and find a quiet spot along the shoreline. Many visitors spend entire afternoons simply watching the water ripple while enjoying the peace that comes from disconnecting.

Land-Based Exploration

If you're craving variety, Shanty Creek Resort lies just minutes from downtown Bellaire. Their extensive trail network opens for hiking and mountain biking by Memorial Day, offering routes for every fitness level. Golf enthusiasts will find impeccably maintained courses emerging from their winter slumber, ready for early-season rounds.

For couples or solo travelers seeking resort-adjacent convenience, the Designer Studio at Shanty Creek, Pool & Beach offers an ideal base camp. You'll have access to resort amenities while maintaining the flexibility to explore Bellaire's downtown scene just a short drive away.

Where to Stay: Bellaire Michigan Cabin Rentals That Feel Like Home

Choosing the right accommodation transforms a good trip into an unforgettable one. One Destination Properties maintains a carefully curated portfolio of cabin rentals in Bellaire designed for exactly these kinds of getaways—spaces that offer comfort, character, and convenient access to everything the area offers.

What to Look For in Your Memorial Day Rental

When booking your Memorial Day lake getaway in Michigan, consider these factors:

Location matters: Properties within walking distance of Short's Brewing Company eliminate the need for a designated driver after your tasting adventure. Browse our rentals near Short's Brewing Company to find options that put you steps from the action.

Kitchen access: Holiday weekends often mean restaurants operate at capacity. Having a fully-equipped kitchen lets you prepare leisurely breakfasts, pack picnic lunches, and cook dinners on your own schedule.

Outdoor space: Late May evenings in northern Michigan are magical. Look for properties with decks, patios, or fire pit areas where you can unwind after full days of exploration.

Group size flexibility: Whether you're planning a couples retreat or gathering the whole friend group, matching your rental to your party size ensures everyone stays comfortable.

Larger groups might consider The Legend, Shanty Creek ski & golf, pool, which provides ample space for everyone to spread out while offering pool access—perfect for those warmer afternoon hours.

Planning Your Long Weekend Itinerary

With only three days to work with, a loose plan helps ensure you experience Bellaire's highlights without feeling rushed.

Friday Arrival

Check into your rental and take time to settle in. Grab an early dinner at Wheelhouse Diner & Goatlocker Saloon for hearty comfort food, then enjoy a nightcap on your cabin's deck while the stars emerge.

Saturday: Brewery & Beyond

Sleep in, then fuel up with a homemade breakfast before heading to Short's Brewing Company for an afternoon tasting session. Work up your appetite with a post-brewery walk along downtown Bellaire's quaint streets, browsing local shops and galleries. Cap the evening with dinner at one of the area's farm-to-table restaurants.

Sunday: Lake Life

Rent kayaks or canoes and spend the morning paddling the Chain of Lakes. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy waterside, then return for an afternoon of pure relaxation—hammock time, reading, napping, or whatever recharges your batteries. Consider a sunset drive through the rolling countryside as a final farewell to the weekend.

Monday: Unhurried Departure

Memorial Day itself often works best for a leisurely departure. Enjoy one final breakfast, straighten up your rental, and head home with memories (and perhaps a growler or two from Short's) in tow.

Extend Your Northern Michigan Adventure

If the long weekend leaves you craving more, consider building out a longer trip. The Upper Peninsula lies just a few hours north, and our Memorial Day Weekend Upper Peninsula cabin getaways guide can help you plan an extended adventure.

Book Your Memorial Day Weekend 2026 in Bellaire

The countdown to Memorial Day Weekend 2026 is on, and Bellaire's best rentals won't stay available forever. Between Short's Brewing Company's legendary taps, the Chain of Lakes' tranquil waters, and the kind of small-town warmth that makes you feel immediately welcome, this destination delivers everything a perfect holiday weekend requires.

One Destination Properties is ready to help you find the ideal home base for your Bellaire brewery hopping and lakeside adventures. Browse our complete collection of Bellaire vacation rentals today and secure your spot before the best properties book up. Your Memorial Day escape awaits—craft beer glass in hand, lake views on the horizon, and not a care in the world.