Otsego Resort — An Outpost of Casual Elegance Since 1939
Opened in 1939 just off I‑75 in Gaylord, Michigan, Otsego Resort blends classic Northern Michigan charm with year‑round adventure. What began as a quiet alpine retreat has grown into a destination for skiing, golf, dining, and gatherings—still defined by warm hospitality and sweeping Sturgeon River Valley views.
A Legacy of Vision
- In 1955, Alan L. Gornick (former general counsel at Ford Motor Co.) acquired the property from the estate of steel magnate Donald McLouth and expanded it into a four‑season resort with the addition of the “Classic” golf course, a championship track designed by William H. Diddel.
- In 1981, Keith H. Gornick purchased the resort from his father. Under the Gornicks, Otsego evolved from 60 rooms on 500 acres to 105 rooms across 4,000 acres, while preserving its intimate, lodge‑style feel.
Dining With a View
- The award‑winning Duck Blind Grille welcomes guests year‑round with panoramic vistas of the Sturgeon River Valley. A recipient of Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence and one of a select few Northern Michigan restaurants to earn the honor, it pairs elevated comfort food with a thoughtful wine program.
Golf, Elevated
- Otsego’s presence in the game grew with “The Tribute,” designed by Rick Robbins and PGA TOUR veteran Gary Koch. Spanning 1,100 acres of the Sturgeon River Valley, The Tribute has been recognized as a Top 10 Best New Course by Sports Illustrated and a Michigan Top Ten by Michigan Golf Magazine, and was featured in the Microsoft Links 2003 video game.
Today Otsego Resort remains a welcoming basecamp for skiers, golfers, diners, and families—combining storied history with fresh experiences across the seasons.
Otsego Resort in Pictures
