Your Ultimate Guide To Winter Attractions And Activities In Michigan
Lisa Sammons
Author
Michigan is pretty much the definition of a winter wonderland. Whether you’ve lived here your whole life or have only visited a few times, it’s likely that you’re familiar with just how long winter in Michigan can be. While many think of the season as quite brutal, those of us who love the Wolverine State are well aware of just how many things there are to do here in winter. It feels like there’s no end to Michigan winter activities. Winter in Michigan is cold, but it’s also stunningly beautiful, and if you ask us, it just might be the most gorgeous time of year. Here’s a definitive guide to all the best winter attractions in Michigan:
Holiday Events In Michigan
For many, the holidays in Michigan are the best time of all. We’re practically guaranteed a white Christmas each year, and we’ve got so many amazing holiday lights, Christmas tree displays, ice sculptures, winter festivals, and more. The cold weather alone just might be enough to get anyone in the spirit, but if that doesn’t get you feeling holly, jolly, and merry, these amazing holiday events in Michigan certainly will.
1. Olde World Canterbury Village
The Canterbury Village Holiday Stroll is one of the best holiday events in Metro Detroit. Canterbury Village is a 21-acre collection of shops that's open year-round and often hosts wonderfully festive events. Christmas is especially magical. The Holiday Stroll offers nearly a million lights, a 7-minute light show, hot cocoa, hard cider, and costumed characters. Learn more or purchase tickets from the Canterbury Village Holiday Stroll website.
2. Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village
Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village is held annually at the Henry Ford. Throughout the year, Greenfield Village operates as a living history museum, but come November, it turns into an old-fashioned Christmas wonderland. Costumed performers, fireworks, holiday treats, and, of course, thousands of lights all decorate the 80-acre village. Learn more and purchase tickets at The Henry Ford website.
3. Crossroads Village
Crossroads Village in Flint puts on one of the best Christmas events in all of the Midwest. There's a spectacular drive-through light show available on certain nights, a fun holiday train, a walk-through village, and so much more. This event has been an annual family tradition for many for over 30 years. You can learn more from the Genesee County Parks website.
4. Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo
This is one you'll definitely want to purchase tickets in advance for, as it's quite popular and has a tendency to sell out. Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo is an amazingly fun after-hours event. The front half of the zoo is decorated with millions of lights. Note that most of the animal exhibits are closed during this time, but you will be able to spot the river otters and beaver exhibits. This is one of the best zoos in America, and it's even more spectacular when decked out for the season. This fest is one of the most fun things to do in Detroit around Christmastime. For more information or to purchase tickets, check out the Detroit Zoo website.
5. Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade in Marquette
Marquette is one of the best Christmas towns in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The city lies right along Lake Superior and celebrates the holidays with an all-American parade and tree lighting that's one of the best in Northern Michigan. Enjoy meet-and-greets with Santa and other costumed characters, plus seasonal beverages like hot chocolate and more. This celebration in the Upper Peninsula is always a wonderful way to ring in the season. Learn more from the Downtown Marquette website.
6. Zehnder's Snowfest
Zehnder's Snowfest has been an annual tradition in the little Bavarian town of Frankenmuth for over 30 years now. The family-friendly winter wonderland features igloos, ice sculpting competitions, activities for kids, and so much more. It takes place in late January, so you'll have plenty of time to recover from the holidays before checking out this epic festival. Learn more from the Zehnder's website.
Christmas Towns In Michigan
Nothing will get you into the holiday spirit faster than visiting the best Christmas towns in Michigan. If you’re looking to feel like you stepped onto the set of a Hallmark movie, these are the spots for you. You’ll find the downtown areas decked out in lights and splendor, festivities everywhere you look, and, of course, tons of family-friendly fun.
7. Rochester
When the snowfall comes and Christmas carols start popping up on the radio, there's no place better to be than Rochester. This Lower Peninsula town puts on an incredible show for the holidays. Over 1.5 million lights cover the entire downtown area for more than a month and a half. It's an amazing festive experience that will make you feel like you stepped into a snow globe. The Big, Bright Light Show Facebook page has information on this year's dates.
8. Holland
If you love the idea of an old-fashioned Christmas, Holland, Michigan is the spot for you. This picturesque town in West Michigan is right on the banks of Lake Michigan, not far from Grand Rapids. While it may be most popular in the springtime thanks to its beautiful tulips, it also knows how to put on a great Christmas celebration. There's a nighttime Parade of Lights, and many of the quaint shops downtown have charming celebrations for the season, plus plenty of sales encouraging you to spend your money at local businesses. The city even has a unique, high-tech snowmelt system that will ensure the sidewalks are ice-free, no matter how much snow is falling. Learn more from the Downtown Holland Facebook page.
9. Houghton
The Keweenaw Peninsula is a wonderful area to celebrate the holidays, and Houghton is one of our favorite towns to visit at Christmastime. This small town has a wonderful Winter Wonderland celebration for two weekends in December that even includes sleigh rides. Fans of craft beer won't want to miss a visit to Keweenaw Brewing Company, one of the best breweries in Michigan. The town's proximity to Lake Superior virtually guarantees snowfall in the wintertime, and you'll get to enjoy caroling, kids' activities, and more. Learn more from the Visit Keweenaw website.
Outdoor Activities
Many of us might be tempted to remain curled up by the fireplace, all bundled up, during a Michigan winter. After all, it does get quite chilly here. However, if you ask us, there’s no better time to get out and enjoy all the beauty our great state has to offer! There are so many amazing Michigan winter activities that are worth bundling up for, whether you’re checking out frozen waterfalls, our epic state parks, or enjoying ice fishing on the mighty Great Lakes. From ice climbing to snowmobile trails, snowboarding and ice skating, and even cross-country skiing and luge, there are so many winter sports to enjoy in the Wolverine State. As long as you’re prepared and dressed warmly, you can enjoy virtually limitless outdoor attractions in Michigan during the winter.
10. Rosa Parks Circle
Lace up those blades, it's time to hit the ice rink! The Rosa Parks Circle in Grand Rapids is one of the best ice skating rinks in Michigan. Skates are available for free rental with admission (first-come, first-served), or you can bring your own. Season passes are available for purchase if you'd like to get the most bang for your buck. Lockers and shoe bins are available. The ice rink's opening is weather-dependent, so keep an eye on the Rosa Park Circle Ice Rink Facebook page for weather updates.
11. Echo Valley
If you're looking for outdoor winter sports, Echo Valley is the place to go. This fun-filled Kalamazoo locale has unlimited snow tubing and tobogganing for adults and kids, plus a warming lodge to get your blood flowing before you hit the slopes again. Group reservations are not required, but note that this is a cash-only facility. You can get more information from the Echo Valley website.
12. Mt. Brighton Ski Resort
Skiers will be in heaven at Mt. Brighton. This ski resort has been welcoming outdoor adventurers since 1960. There are 130 ares to explore here, and if you're a beginner, lessons are offered to ensure you will be hitting the slopes with skill in no time. You'll find more challenging hills up north near Traverse City, but if you are looking for something a little more beginner-friendly, Mt Brighton is a great place to check out. Get more information from the Mt. Brighton website.
13. Eben Ice Caves
The Eben Ice Caves in Northern Michigan (near Marquette and Munising) are an absolutely magical experience. This is such a surreal area for snowshoeing! Ice cleats are highly recommended once you reach the ice caves, as the terrain can get pretty dangerous. You'll be met with a 60-foot wall of ice that's perfect for ice-climbing. This place is truly one of the state's natural wonders. You can learn more and keep an eye on conditions from the Eben Ice Caves Facebook page.
14. Boyne Mountain Resort
The Boyne Mountain Resort is a winter playground that can't be beat. This place truly has everything for outdoor fun in the cold! Cross-country skiing, fat-tire bikes, horseback riding, a ski area, electric snow bikes, ice skating, snowshoeing, ziplining, and more are available here. There's even a heated pool where you can enjoy outdoor swimming in the dead of winter. If you book a room at the on-site resort, you'll enjoy a discount at the winter Adventure Center. Learn more about all the activities offered from the Boyne Mountain website.
15. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is truly among the most magnificent places in the entire country. The park lies along Lake Superior, and it's immensely popular to visit in the summertime, but don't skip out on a winter visit! The miles of icy trails and frozen waterfalls are truly stunning. You can find more information on the National Park Service website.
Winter Getaways
Winter is a wonderful time for travel, and you’ll find plenty of amazing winter destinations in Michigan. Looking for romantic things to do in Michigan in winter? There are plenty of cozy cabins that are just perfect for snuggling up with your significant other by a frozen lake and roaring fire. If you’re looking to travel with the little ones and are looking for family things to do in Michigan in winter, we’ve got that too: check out some of our amazing resorts.
16. Mackinac House
The Mackinac House on Mackinac Island is a charming boutique inn. This car-free island is a darling throwback to simpler times, and while it's most popular in the summer, wintertime brings all kinds of fun. The Mackinac House is located right in the downtown area, so you've got easy access to tons of shops and the town's massive Christmas tree. Many of the island's shops are closed during the off-season, so exploring the area in the winter allows for a unique experience. Get more information or check rates at the Mackinac House website.
17. Double JJ Resort and Gold Rush Indoor Waterpark
The Double JJ Resort is the perfect winter getaway in West Michigan. The resort offers family cabins, a hotel, condos, suites, and even log homes. Sleigh rides and sledding are both offered, and if you're looking for even more of an adrenaline rush, don't miss the indoor Gold Rush Waterpark. The water is kept at a temperature of 84 degrees, so you don't have to worry about getting too cold. For more information or to book a stay, check out the Double JJ Resort website.
18. The Chalet (Airbnb)
Charlevoix is such a beautiful area. It's popular in the summertime thanks to its abundance of wineries, but when we saw this adorable mushroom house, we couldn't help but think cozy winter getaway. This comfortable house has everything you need for a private getaway, with Wi-Fi, a full kitchen, proximity to Lake Michigan, and two bedrooms. Up to four guests can stay here. Book a stay at Airbnb.
Winter in Michigan can be long and brutal, but it’s part of life here, and we love it. Even our iconic landmarks like the Mackinac Bridge, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and Tahquamenon Falls manage to look all the more incredible when covered in snow. If you’re heading out, make sure to stay safe and take temperatures into account by practicing smart winter packing. Get out there and have fun!
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