Great Lakes Inn
Save
9324 North River Road, Algonac, MI 48001
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
At Great Lakes Inn, the monthly costs for accommodations present a compelling financial advantage compared to both St. Clair County and the broader Michigan state averages. For instance, the studio room is priced at $1,100, significantly lower than the county's average of $2,966 and the state's average of $3,824. Similarly, the semi-private room at Great Lakes Inn is offered at $1,560, which also undercuts St. Clair County's average of $2,862 and Michigan's average of $3,191. Even the one-bedroom option at $2,000 remains competitively priced when juxtaposed with St. Clair County's average of $2,460 and Michigan's state figure of $3,384. These pricing structures highlight Great Lakes Inn as an attractive option for those seeking quality accommodations without straining their budget in comparison to regional norms.
| Floor plans | Great Lakes Inn | St. Clair County | Michigan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,100 | $2,966 | $3,824 |
| Semi-Private | $1,560 | $2,862 | $3,189 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,000 | $2,460 | $3,384 |
What level of care are you interested in?
Assisted Living
Memory Care
Independent Living
Skilled Nursing Facility
Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)CCRC
Other
The reviewer found the room to be very clean and the beds comfortable. The bathroom and towels were clean. Check-in was easy and the price was great. Julie Ann-Marie, the room attendant, was awesome - very helpful and kind. The desk attendant was very nice. The service was great and the staff were friendly and helpful. The location was great and the price was good, with clean rooms.
The room smelled musty upon entry. There was food on the walls and the sheets were dirty. Garbage was left in the room. The staff promised a refund for the second night but never processed it. The hotel was described as a dump with food on the walls and dirty sheets. The bathroom exhaust fan was very loud, the pools looked nasty, and the neighbors were noisy, with no refunds offered. The mildew smell was horrible and the room was filthy with sticky carpets. Staff ignored safety concerns and refused refunds. The hotel failed to provide adequate sleeping space for a party and disputed a refund. The staff were rude and the property did not match its online pictures. The rooms were dirty and had bugs, with peeling wallpaper and aging fixtures. Some rooms had no hot water and no WiFi, with beds that felt old and uncomfortable. The pool water was dirty and not as pictured, posing a health risk.Across what appears to be a family of budget hotels in Mackinaw City and nearby areas, guests repeatedly describe a troubling pattern: rooms that smell musty or rotten, cleanliness levels that fall well short of basic standards, and a sense that the property as a whole is run down or not properly maintained. Several reviewers report walking into rooms with a bad odor, sometimes described as moldy or "musty," with visible signs of disarray like dirty sheets, garbage left behind, and even food still on walls. One guest even spoke of "food on the walls" and another of sheets that were not clean, creating an immediate impression that cleanliness and hospitality are inconsistent at best.
Many travelers recount problems that aren't just cosmetic. A number of reviews mention dirty bathrooms, towels that look used, and fixtures that appear to be in disrepair. Several accounts describe carpets that feel sticky, walls with holes or peeling wallpaper, and overall rooms that feel unclean or poorly maintained. A recurring complaint is a pervasive smell of mildew or damp air that won't dissipate, sometimes making it hard to enjoy any time spent in the room. The issues aren't limited to odors; guests also report broken or underperforming amenities, such as hot water that won't heat up, fridges that don't work, and outlets or lamps that don't function properly.
The property's pool and outdoor areas emerge as major flashpoints. Multiple reviews describe outdoor pools that look green or dirty, and indoor pools that are cold, murky, or covered in a slimy film. Some guests even report having to clean pools themselves before allowing children to swim, while others state that several pools were not in operation or did not match what was pictured online. In addition, there are warnings that the pools and hot tubs are not well cared for, and that the overall outdoor environment feels neglected. These pool conditions significantly detract from the overall experience, especially for families and travelers with kids.
Staff and service experiences are highly variable. Some guests encounter friendly, accommodating employees who go out of their way to help. There are mentions of courteous interactions and praise for individual staff members who were helpful and pleasant, such as a room cleaner described as "awesome" and a front desk person who treated guests well. On the other hand, there are frequent reports of indifferent or even rude behavior at the front desk, with references to eye rolls, being ignored, or general unhelpfulness. A few guests describe staff as unfocused, often on their phones, or lacking accountability in situations like refunds, cancellation requests, or miscommunications about available amenities.
Refunds and policy enforcement appear to be a major source of frustration. Several reviewers recount promises of refunds that never materialize, or deductions for nights not stayed due to safety concerns or unavailable accommodations. One guest described being told they wouldn't refund the second night and later being laughed at by staff when pressing for a refund. Others mention contacting third-party booking services like Expedia or Priceline and encountering difficulty getting a refund or proper coordination between the hotel and the booking platform. In some cases, guests report contacting BBB or other authorities after unsatisfactory resolutions. The inconsistency around refunds significantly colors the overall trust and willingness to repeat a stay.
A common thread is the mismatch between what is advertised or expected and what guests actually experience. Several reviews point out that online photos give a misleading impression - whether of waterfront access, room size, or overall aesthetics - and that the reality, especially across the group of four or more hotels tied together (often referred to in reviews as combinations with Great Lakes Inn, Thunderbird, Budget Inn, and Starlite), fails to meet expectations. Some comment that the location and price can be attractive, but the trade-off is dated rooms, questionable cleanliness, and subpar pool facilities. A few mention clean rooms or adequate basics in certain units, yet these positives are often overshadowed by broader consistency problems and the quality of the common areas.
In sum, the collective experience described by many guests paints a picture of a budget-hotel ecosystem with significant quality control issues. Rooms frequently disappoint on cleanliness, odor control, and basic comfort; pools and common amenities are not reliably maintained or accurately represented in pictures; and customer service, particularly around refunds and billing, can be inconsistent or unsatisfactory. A segment of travelers does find value in location and price, and occasionally encounters friendly staff and a clean room, but those instances are sporadic relative to the prevailing concerns. For travelers weighing options in this area, the prevailing advice tends to be to consider other properties unless you're willing to accept dated rooms, variable cleanliness, and the potential for inadequate service and refund difficulties.
Active Adult Communities (55+)Active Adult Communities provide seniors with opportunities for socialization, activities, and wellness programs tailored to their needs. These communities offer a sense of belonging and security while promoting an active and independent lifestyle for those aged 55 and older.
Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
Independent LivingIndependent living communities are important for seniors because they offer a safe and supportive environment where older adults can live independently while still having access to amenities and services that enhance their quality of life. These communities provide social opportunities, recreational activities, and assistance with daily tasks, promoting overall well-being and allowing seniors to maintain their independence for as long as possible.
Memory CareMemory care is crucial for seniors as it provides specialized support and services for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs offer a safe and secure environment where residents receive personalized care, cognitive stimulation, and help with daily activities. Memory care helps seniors maintain their independence, quality of life, and dignity while also providing peace of mind for their families.
Cats allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.
Dogs allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.
Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
Beautician on-siteHaving a beautician on-site at a senior living community is important for seniors as it allows them to easily access grooming and personal care services, boosting their self-esteem and overall well-being. It also provides convenience and helps seniors maintain their sense of independence and personal style.
Devotional services off-siteDevotional services off-site are important for seniors as they provide spiritual nourishment, social engagement, and a sense of community outside of the senior living facility. This can enhance overall well-being and help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness often experienced by older adults.
Indoor common areasIndoor common areas are crucial for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, recreation, and community engagement, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Outdoor common areasOutdoor common areas are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, physical activity, and relaxation. Being outside in nature can improve mood and overall well-being, while also encouraging movement and engagement with others. These spaces can help combat feelings of isolation and promote a sense of community among residents.
Ambulatory care"Ambulatory care services provide essential medical support and treatment to seniors without requiring hospitalization, allowing them to maintain their independence and quality of life while managing chronic conditions or receiving routine medical care."
Diabetic careDiabetic care is crucial for seniors as they are more susceptible to developing diabetes due to aging and other health conditions. Proper management of diabetes can help prevent complications such as heart disease, vision loss, and nerve damage, improving the overall quality of life for seniors in senior living communities.
Incontinence careIncontinence care is essential for seniors to maintain their dignity, hygiene, and overall quality of life. By addressing incontinence issues promptly and effectively, seniors can enjoy a sense of independence and comfort in their daily activities.
Meals provided"Meals provided" are crucial for seniors in assisted living communities as it ensures they have access to nutritious, balanced meals without the stress of meal planning and preparation. This can help promote overall health and well-being for seniors who may have limited mobility or cognitive abilities. VegetarianA vegetarian diet is important for seniors because it can help lower the risk of chronic diseases, maintain a healthy weight, and provide essential nutrients needed for aging bodies. Additionally, plant-based diets are often easier on digestive systems and can contribute to overall well-being in older adults. Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life. Devotional activities offsiteDevotional activities offsite are important for seniors because they provide social engagement, spiritual growth, and a sense of community outside of their living environment. This can improve overall well-being, mental health, and combat feelings of isolation or loneliness.The Great Lakes Inn in Algonac, MI is an assisted living community that provides a comfortable and supportive environment for seniors. With a range of care options available, including assisted living, independent living, and memory care, residents can receive the level of assistance they need while maintaining their independence.
The community offers various amenities to enhance the quality of life for residents. A beautician is conveniently located on-site, ensuring that residents can easily access hair and beauty services. Devotional services are also available off-site for those who wish to practice their faith. Indoor common areas provide spaces for socializing and relaxation, while outdoor common areas allow residents to enjoy nature and fresh air.
Care services at Great Lakes Inn include specialized diabetic care for those with diabetes management needs. Incontinence care is also provided to ensure the comfort and dignity of residents. The dedicated staff members are trained to offer compassionate assistance with daily activities as needed.
The dining options at Great Lakes Inn cater to various dietary preferences, with vegetarian meals available. Nutritious and delicious meals are prepared by skilled chefs who prioritize resident satisfaction.
A variety of activities are organized to promote engagement and well-being among residents. Devotional activities off-site offer spiritual enrichment opportunities, allowing individuals to connect with others who share their beliefs.
In terms of nearby amenities, Great Lakes Inn benefits from its convenient location. There are five pharmacies located nearby, ensuring easy access to medications and healthcare supplies. Additionally, there is one physician in close proximity for medical consultations or emergencies. Five restaurants in the area offer dining alternatives outside of the community, allowing residents to explore local cuisine if desired. For spiritual needs, there is also a place of worship nearby providing opportunities for religious observance.
Overall, Great Lakes Inn provides a warm and caring environment where seniors can enjoy personalized care services in a comfortable setting.
Algonac, Michigan offers a variety of amenities and services that may be appealing to seniors looking for a peaceful and convenient place to live. The area features several dining options such as Snoopy's Dog House, Winner's Circle Saloon, and Anita's Riverfront Grille, providing a range of choices for meals out. Additionally, there are pharmacies like CVS Pharmacy and Rite Aid nearby for easy access to medications and healthcare needs. For worship, there are multiple churches including Port Lambton United Church and Living Word Assembly. Medical care is also easily accessible with physicians like Tae Hong Chung and Hetal Patel, MD located within a short distance. Transportation options are available through Gary's Taxidermy & Tanning for those without personal vehicles. Furthermore, residents can enjoy the beautiful parks in the area such as Ruedisale Park and Memorial Park for leisurely walks or outdoor activities. Overall, Algonac offers a comfortable and supportive environment for seniors to consider for their retirement years.
At Great Lakes Inn, the monthly costs for accommodations present a compelling financial advantage compared to both St. Clair County and the broader Michigan state averages. For instance, the studio room is priced at $1,100, significantly lower than the county's average of $2,966 and the state's average of $3,824. Similarly, the semi-private room at Great Lakes Inn is offered at $1,560, which also undercuts St. Clair County's average of $2,862 and Michigan's average of $3,191. Even the one-bedroom option at $2,000 remains competitively priced when juxtaposed with St. Clair County's average of $2,460 and Michigan's state figure of $3,384. These pricing structures highlight Great Lakes Inn as an attractive option for those seeking quality accommodations without straining their budget in comparison to regional norms.
Great Lakes Inn is located at 9324 North River Road, Algonac, MI 48001 in St. Clair County, Michigan
Incontinence care at Great Lakes Inn is designed to ensure dignity and comfort for residents experiencing challenges associated with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. This specialized support not only addresses the physical aspect of incontinence but also alleviates anxiety and embarrassment that can arise from such situations. Trained staff members are attentive to individual needs, implementing routines that promote regular toileting schedules while using discreet and sensitive approaches. By providing this essential care, residents can enjoy a greater sense of security and well-being, allowing them to focus on social engagement and cognitive activities rather than the stress of potential accidents. This holistic approach enhances overall quality of life, making it easier for individuals with memory impairments to thrive in a supportive environment.
Yes, Great Lakes Inn allows both dogs and cats.
Maple Street Home
Algonac, MI
Small, intimate assisted living with comprehensive care and amenities.
Rolling Brook Apartments
Algonac, MI
Comprehensive assisted living with an active social calendar and convenient access to healthcare, dining, and worship.
Rolling Brook Apartments costs
Rolling Brook Apartments reviews
Rolling Brook Apartments images
The David Family Home
Algonac, MI
Small, home-like setting with comprehensive memory care and 24/7 supervision.
Belle River Home
East China, MI
Small, home-like setting with personalized care and diabetes-friendly dining.
River Bend 2
East China, MI
Comfortable, supportive board and care with meals, housekeeping, and activities.
River Bend
E. China, MI
Diabetes-focused care with spiritual and social wellness in a welcoming setting.
The Meadows of Anchor Bay
New Baltimore, MI
Clean, spacious living with friendly staff and engaging on-site activities.
The Meadows of Anchor Bay costs
The Meadows of Anchor Bay reviews
The Meadows of Anchor Bay images
Sandalwood Valley
Lenox, MI
Clean, well-maintained environment with caring, attentive staff and a home-like feel.
Sandalwood Valley costs
Sandalwood Valley reviews
Sandalwood Valley images
The Parkdale
Clinton Township, MI
Clean, welcoming environment with friendly staff and engaging activities.
Engaging Memory Care Activities That Enhance Quality of Life
Memory care activities are essential for improving the quality of life of seniors with cognitive impairments, as they stimulate cognitive function, promote well-being, and encourage social interaction through tailored strategies. These activities combine structured exercises with spontaneous tasks, sensory engagement, physical workouts, creative pursuits, and intergenerational interactions to enhance emotional connection and a sense of purpose.
Transitioning from assisted living to memory care is driven by an individual's cognitive decline and specific needs, requiring careful evaluation of indicators like increased confusion and wandering. The process involves consulting medical professionals, researching suitable communities, considering financial and legal aspects, and ensuring effective communication for personalized care plans.
Understanding the Distinctions: Assisted Living and Memory Care Explained
The article differentiates between assisted living and memory care, explaining that assisted living supports seniors with daily activities while promoting independence, whereas memory care provides specialized services for individuals with dementia, focusing on secure environments and cognitive support. It also addresses staff training, safety considerations, costs, family involvement, and transition strategies for families navigating these care options.
When to Transition from Assisted Living to Memory Care: Key Indicators, Steps, and Finding the Right Community