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The River House of Alaska, Michigan located Southeast Grand Rapids, pet friendly

Waterfront cottage with kitchen and balcony

Photo gallery for The River House of Alaska, Michigan located Southeast Grand Rapids, pet friendly

Property grounds
Exterior
Property grounds
Smart TV, books, offices
Exterior
Welcome to the River House of Alaska, Michigan, a serene retreat nestled on the Thornapple River. Enjoy bonfires by the riverside and unwind in this beautifully landscaped cottage with excellent river access for smallmouth bass fishing, canoeing, tubing, kayaking or swimming.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6102 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

The River House of Alaska, Michigan located Southeast Grand Rapids, pet friendly

Welcome to the River House of Alaska, Michigan, 'A Retreat for the Mind, Body, and Spirit.' A unique Pure Michigan destination!

ATTENTION: It is wise to plan ahead and book your Spring and Summer 2026 vacation NOW! Thank you to all of our great guests for making the River House a successful vacation rental! We have been VRBO Premier Hosts and renting the River House since 2006 and it has been a great experience! Thanks for considering our most excellent riverside retreat for your vacation! We are near site managers and we manage and clean the River House ourselves. The River House is the ideal location to get away from the city and relax by the river. You will be able to sit outdoors by the riverside and have a bonfire and enjoy the wildlife. We hope you decide to stay with us!

The River House of Alaska, Michigan, is located in the historic Village of Alaska, Michigan, located 15 miles southeast of Grand Rapids on the Thornapple River and 30 miles from Lake Michigan. This classic Cape Cod cottage, with vintage 1940 interior design, is situated on the Thornapple River in a park-like setting. The River House is well maintained and has been restored to its original beauty both inside and out.

This is a great getaway from the city but also close to all the city conveniences. If you are planning on vacationing, attending seminars, weddings, visiting relatives in Grand Rapids, visiting ArtPrize, and/or touring the #1 Micro-Breweries in America, this rental may be the ideal getaway. The on-site manager is nearby for recommendations and assistance. Note: pictures of the road proximity to the River House not shown pictorially. Please use Google maps to go to the property and see the road. Guests with pets are encouraged to keep pets on a leash for their pets safety. The River House is 420 Friendly.

The River House is a beautifully landscaped riverside cottage that is a great place to relax and has excellent river access. The cottage has a concrete pier that juts out into the river for excellent smallmouth bass fishing, canoeing, tubing, kayaking, and swimming.

The interior of the cottage features master bedroom (upstairs) that features a California King size bed, antennaTV and side room with 2 twin beds. The main floor bedroom features a queen-size bed and dresser. The main floor living room has a pull out queen-size sleeper couch and Futon couch. The Cottage has air conditioning, Android OS TV, Wifi High-Speed Fiber -Optic Internet access and is fully furnished. Note: The Wifi system is the best wireless technology available featuring dual band 2.4 and 5.0 Mghz service. If you are a work-from-home employee you can meet all your daily work internet based connectivity requirements and utilize the desk and office setup to work remotely while at the River House.

The river has easily accessible rapids that are excellent for fly fishing. The Cottage also features a riverside patio with a fieldstone barbeque grille, an excellent place to relax! There are also many public golf courses in the general vicinity.

Make your dream vacation a reality at our unique riverside vacation rental, and experience a piece of heaven on earth. The River House has a heart, soul, and spirit that will satisfy your desire to find that unique vacation destination that will provide a relaxing environment and inspire memories to last a lifetime.

Your River House experience will give you that precious and most-elusive commodity, time. Time to relax with loved ones. Time to think about your future. Time to reflect on your past. Time to contemplate the meaning of life. Time to fish. Time to swim. Time to canoe. Time to read. Time to catch up on sleep. Time to love. And most importantly, the environment to assure a good time.

Our goal is to provide a vacation experience that will leave a lasting impression. We want you to experience Total Vacation Satisfaction and leave with a sense of ownership, leading to a strong desire to return. Your vacation experience at the River House of Alaska, Michigan will leave a lasting impression in your Mind, on your Body, and on your Spirit.



Keywords: Cottage, Fishing, ArtPrize, Alaska, River, Vacation, 420 Friendly

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car required
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Office

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Safe

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Kayak
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 1,100 square feet

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  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Air conditioning
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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property on the number on the booking confirmation

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with EU regulations about consumer rights, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Map
Alto, MI

What's nearby

  • Davenport University - 3 min drive - 5.8 km
  • Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe - 4 min drive - 6.8 km
  • MSA Fieldhouse - 8 min drive - 13.5 km
  • Patterson Ice Center - 8 min drive - 14.6 km
  • Calvin College - 10 min drive - 18.2 km

Getting around

  • Grand Rapids Station - 23 min drive
  • Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) - 13 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Circle K - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Culver's - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Uccello's Ristorante, Pizzeria & Sports Lounge - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The River House of Alaska, Michigan located Southeast Grand Rapids, pet friendly pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much is parking at The River House of Alaska, Michigan located Southeast Grand Rapids, pet friendly?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The River House of Alaska, Michigan located Southeast Grand Rapids, pet friendly?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The River House of Alaska, Michigan located Southeast Grand Rapids, pet friendly?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The River House of Alaska, Michigan located Southeast Grand Rapids, pet friendly located?

Located in Alaska, this cottage is within 9 miles (15 km) of Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe, Davenport University and MSA Fieldhouse. Patterson Ice Center and Centerpointe Mall are also within 9 miles (15 km).

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The River House of Alaska, Michigan located Southeast Grand Rapids, pet friendly Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 175 out of 207 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 24 out of 207 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 6 out of 207 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 207 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 207 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Tom E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a great place to enjoy the river from. Accomdations were very nice for our family and Wally was very helpful when we arrived. Would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kaitlin G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great weekend at the river house. There is a great outdoor space to enjoy and we were able to get out on the canoe for some fun!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shelly M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gorgeous peaceful property

The hosts communicated extremely well with us and were super nice. The property is beautiful with many amazing views. The river was so tranquil and we absolutely loved our get away weekend! We will definitely be booking this gem of a spot again.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marcy J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Girls time

Adorable cottage. Could’ve stayed longer if had the time. Accomodations great.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Trina R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
5 StarsWe had a wonderful stay! The home had that perfect “up north cabin” feel — cozy, inviting, and full of charm. The view of the river was absolutely breathtaking and incredibly peaceful; it was exactly what we needed for a relaxing getaway. Wally was super friendly and welcoming, which made our stay even better. We’ll definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julia B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

R and R on the River

This property reflects the intent of the owners to make a special place shine. The landscaping is a work of art. Several places to hang out or fish. Working condition on all appliances and fixtures. Older quaint cottage in spectacular location.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Rebecca S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice little old cabin

My family stayed here for a week getaway to kayak, golf, eat out, play games and relax.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

8/10 Good

Chele M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice place to stay

We stayed for our daughters wedding near by. It's a nice little place on the river.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Winona D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful vacation

Very nice and peaceful property
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

8/10 Good

Susan H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The River House

Beautiful scenery!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jessica T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

It's so peaceful here!

We were in town for a concert and only stayed a couple of nights but it seemed longer because of this wonderful property. The river is so peaceful and beautiful, we would stay again for sure!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robert C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing quiet and relaxing

The entire family enjoyed a wonderful weekend of relaxing fishing.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alice E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect getaway

The whole group loved this cozy and cute cottage. The natural setting was beautiful and the host was easy to work with and very friendly.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

River house

We had a very nice relaxing time beautiful property on the river!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Noreen W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to host family and friends near Grand Rapids!

The River House was a clean and comfortable place for our stay near Grand Rapids. We enjoyed sitting by the river and bonfire.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susan C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Alaska, MI ❤️

Beautiful property! Enjoyed our stay of just rest and relaxation. The house is quaint and has a fascinating history.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful and relaxing getaway!

Great location, away from the city but not too far. Property was well maintained. Many different wildlife seen daily from fish to birds and deer. Loved the stay and would come back again. This is really a nice gem for a getaway!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Pam T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy Cabin-Beautiful View

Cozy Cabin. Good Amenities. Very Nice Hosts. The view is wonderful!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carrie G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing Retreat

We enjoyed our stay immensely! Great location to explore the Grand Rapids area and Lake Michigan. Could have also spent the entire time sitting outside and watching the river go by.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

PABLO G., ELKHART

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great setting!

Had a wonderful experience.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Cole D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome place 10/10

The home was beautiful, everything we needed for a little weekend getaway from work! Everything was clean and ready for us upon arriving and couldn’t have been a better location! Next time I’m in Michigan I’ll have to make another stop in at the river house!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Diane V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Is a GREAT little get-away on a beautifull river in a nice tiny town.

Love the property, the view & the fact you can see the river from so many windows. Comfortable too! Owners are great.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cathy W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Retreat

Communication with property manager was amazing. The outdoor grill was broken and Wally responded quickly and replaced the grill that day.The river was fun for tubing and if you love to fly fish we left a big brown trout there for you.We were disappointed that the outdoor balcony was under construction and we could enjoy our drinks overlooking the river. But, we enjoyed the patio and plenty of chairs to relax outside.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

William M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot

Very great cottage on the river. This place has just about everything you need to enjoy some family time, inside or out. I hope to visit again soon when we have less going on and better weather! Overall 5 stars!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeff N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Property!

We were in Grand Rapids for a wedding and thank God we found this property instead of staying in a hotel. Very peaceful, beautiful scenery wildlife fishing kayaking could not have asked for a better place to stay. If this wasn’t 10 hours away, I’d book it every weekend!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024