Text: R. Collins // Photography: Mt. Pleasant Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, Courtyard by Marriott Mt. Pleasant at Central Michigan University

Alongside other cardinal locations in Michigan such as the picturesque northern region, “wine country,” and the east side’s industrial bustle in Metro Detroit, central Michigan and one of its more popular areas, Mt. Pleasant, stands out for its own unique set of offerings.

Among them is the convenient, travel-friendly location in the heart of Michigan, as well as several scenic golf course properties, and of course, the sports and academics of Central Michigan University, or CMU. Located on campus, Courtyard by Marriott Mt. Pleasant at Central Michigan University offers special access to one of the largest public universities in the country, and a special dose of school spirit for those visiting.

“There is no better way to experience Mt. Pleasant than to be at the center of it all, right on CMU’s campus. When you visit Central Michigan University, there is a certain feeling, almost a buzz on-campus. You can feel the excitement and enthusiasm of the university’s culture in the air,” said Heather Evoy, director of sales at Courtyard by Marriott Mt. Pleasant at Central Michigan University.

The hotel is also located just minutes away from the historic downtown Mt. Pleasant, Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort, the Kelly/Shorts Stadium at CMU, and just off highway U.S. Route 127, providing close access to several of the area’s best golf courses, including Maple Creek Golf Club. Across the comfortable and contemporary Courtyard by Marriott property, from the large-scale university logo in the lobby to the campus views from each suite, there is a special atmosphere offered to CMU fans and visitors.

“You will also find local photography featuring various locations around CMU’s campus, that are displayed throughout our entire hotel. Our Executive Suite, located on the top floor, features a private outdoor patio that overlooks Kelly/Shorts Stadium, which provides a breath-taking view,” Evoy said.

As one of the largest universities in the country, CMU also has a robust intramural sports program—one of the nation’s largest—as well as a committed fan base for its NCAA Division I football team. Its park-like campus traverses approximately 480 acres in Mt. Pleasant and the Courtyard by Marriott property on its eastern edge offers a convenient home-base for strolls across the grounds and to different campus activities.

Similar to other businesses in the hospitality industry, the Courtyard by Marriott at CMU is eager to welcome back visitors with a renewed interest in travel, according to Evoy. The location has implemented safety measures and rigorous cleaning protocols to combat the spread of COVID-19, and guests can even utilize mobile check-ins, mobile keys, and other mobile requests. When in town, check out local eateries like Summit Smokehouse & Tap Room—offering up southern-smoked barbecue in the heart of Michigan—and get the whole family involved in new adventures at the Mt. Pleasant Discovery Museum.

More to explore in Mt. Pleasant:

Mt. Pleasant Country Club | 3686 E River Rd, Mt Pleasant, MI

Hunter’s Ale House | 4855 E Blue Grass Rd, Mt Pleasant, MI

Hampton Inn Mt. Pleasant | 5205 E Pickard Rd, Mt Pleasant, MI