Known as the “Great Lakes State”, Michigan is a popular destination for summer outdoor recreation. However, winter in the state is unexpectedly fantastic, too.
It offers plenty of cozy winter getaways, including ski resorts, snowmobiling trails, frozen waterfalls, and magical small towns that dress up in Christmas lights.
Are you thinking of holidaying in Michigan and need help determining where? Check out our list of the best places in Michigan to spend winter 2023-24.
Detroit
Right, not everyone is a fan of outdoor activities. So how about exploring Detroit? Visit the Wright Museum, take a walking tour, shop at Eastern Market, or get impressed by the rich art scene. Foodies will appreciate local restaurants and coffee shops. While more active travelers can also enjoy a bit of winter vibes by ice skating at Campus Martius Park.
Frankenmuth
Looking for some unconventional shopping options? In that case, we recommend you visit Frankenmuth. Known as “Little Bavaria”, this tiny town was settled by German Lutheran immigrants and features German-inspired architecture and a plethora of quaint shops. Ramble its streets, have a pint of beer at Frankenmuth Brewery, or relish a family-styled chicken dinner.
You can never give too many gifts, so don’t forget to visit Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store, which is open 361 days a year.
‘Lavender Dawn” Point Betsie Lighthouse
“Lavender Dawn” at Point Betsie Lighthouse in winter captures a truly mesmerizing scene. The Point Betsie Lighthouse, located along the scenic Lake Michigan shoreline, becomes a magical winter wonderland.
Traverse City
Traverse City is one of the top Michigan travel destinations and it’s very clear why. Set on the banks of Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay, it’s a combination of both worlds – city life and the great outdoors. Soak in the festive atmosphere in the downtown area, discover local wineries, craft breweries, and vineyards, or get out and enjoy some winter fun.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is the perfect choice for hikers, while Crystal Mountain offers prime skiing and snowboarding experience.
Holland
Not only you can find a German town in Michigan, but you can also see a bit of Dutch heritage in a place called Holland. Nestled on Lake Macatawa, it’s a year-round destination. However, the frosty winter scenery is truly magical.
In Holland State Park, you can take a peep at the beach and the iconic lighthouse. Another great trip is to DeZwaan Windmill. It was brought from the Netherlands in 1964 and it’s the only working Dutch windmill in the country. However, we believe the best thing about Holland is its heated sidewalks. No, it’s no joke, so come check it out 😉
Mackinac Island
If you would like to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the 4-square-mile Mackinac Island is the perfect spot. It’s located in the middle of Lake Huron and only accessible by ferry or plane. On top of that, there are no cars allowed on the island.
Wait, so how do people move around? To explore its two forts and Victorian architecture, you can either walk, borrow a snowmobile, ride a fat bike, or take a horse-drawn taxi. All of that will make you feel like living in the good old days and you will leave with an impression like no other.
Munising
If you want to embrace winter at full speed, start at Munising. Because this place is full of natural wonders and a ton of winter activities.
Engage in snowmobiling or snowshoeing at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, cross-country skiing in Hiawatha National Forest, or climb frozen waterfalls. Is ice climbing your thing? Aim to visit Munising the second weekend of February, when the city becomes home to the renowned Michigan Ice Fest.
Fenton
Yes, Michigan is famed for numerous ice-climbing destinations, and the best one can be found nowhere else than in Fenton.
Peabody Ice Climbing Club is set in a retired apple orchard and you can try both ice and mixed climbing, as well as altitude training. Never tried any of those yet? No worries, it’s a good place for beginners to learn the basics before they set off to conquer the real mountains.
