Oakwood Resort, Syracuse

Oakwood Resort - A Historic Lakeside Retreat with Restaurant, Event Venues, and Private Beach Access

Located on the scenic shores of Lake Wawasee, this Syracuse hotel dates back to 1893, when it was established as a camp meeting ground. The 3-star Oakwood Resort features rooms equipped with flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, plus amenities like coffee makers and private bathrooms with bathtubs. The Pier & Back Porch restaurant serves daily seafood, pasta, and steak dishes, offering both indoor and seasonal outdoor seating. Weekend guests can enjoy a special breakfast buffet, while the Oakwood Coffee and Creamery provides beverages and refreshments. The property includes multiple event spaces with outdoor venues, including spacious lawns, gazebos, and a lakeside patio with lake views. A brick patio and various meeting facilities accommodate corporate retreats and business gatherings. The resort sits less than an hour from Fort Wayne and South Bend, and under 2 hours from Chicago and Indianapolis. Nearby attractions include Blue Barn Berry Farm (4 miles), Creative Fish Art Gallery (0.5 miles), and Syracuse Lake (1.5 miles).

Pros

Historic location on a former duck point offering panoramic lake views

Multiple dining venues including coffee shop and seasonal outdoor seating

Easy access to major metropolitan areas including Chicago, South Bend, and Fort Wayne

Extensive outdoor event spaces with gazebos and lakeside facilities

Cons

49.5 miles distance from South Bend Regional airport

Limited indoor entertainment options during inclement weather