Known as the “Great Lakes State,” Michigan is a popular destination for outdoor recreation in the summer. However, winter in the state is also unexpectedly fantastic.
It offers plenty of cozy winter getaways, including ski resorts, snowmobile trails, frozen waterfalls and magical little towns decked out in Christmas lights.
Are you thinking about vacationing in Michigan and need help deciding where? Check out our list of the best places in Michigan to spend the winter of 2023-2024.
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 be impressed by the rich art scene. Foodies will appreciate the local restaurants and coffee shops. While more active travelers can also enjoy a bit of winter atmosphere by skating at Campus Martius Park.
Frankenmuth
Looking for unconventional shopping options? In that case we recommend that you come by Frankenmuth. This small town is known as ‘Little Bavaria’ and was inhabited by German Lutheran immigrants. It features German-inspired architecture and an abundance of quaint shops. Stroll the streets, sip a beer at the Frankenmuth Brewery, or enjoy a family-style 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, open 361 days a year.
‘Lavender Dawn’ Point Betsie Lighthouse
“Lavender Dawn” at Point Betsie Lighthouse in winter captures a truly enchanting scene. Located along the scenic Lake Michigan shoreline, the Point Betsie Lighthouse becomes a magical winter wonderland.
Cross the city
Traverse City is one of the best travel destinations in Michigan and it’s very clear why. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay, it is a combination of two worlds: city life and the outdoors. Enjoy the festive atmosphere of downtown, 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 an excellent skiing and snowboarding experience.
Holland
In Michigan, not only can you find a German town, but you can also see a piece of Dutch heritage in a place called Holland. It is located on Lake Macatawa and is a year-round destination. However, the icy winter landscape is truly magical.
In Holland State Park you can take a look at the beach and the iconic lighthouse. Another great trip is to the DeZwaan windmill. It was brought from the Netherlands in 1964 and is the only working Dutch windmill in the country. However, we believe that the best thing about the Netherlands are the heated sidewalks. No, it’s not a joke, so come and have a look 😉
Mackinac Island
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the 4-square-mile Mackinac Island is the perfect place. It is located in the middle of Lake Huron and is only accessible by ferry or plane. Furthermore, no cars are allowed on the island.
Wait, how do people move? To explore the two forts and Victorian architecture, you can hike, borrow a snowmobile, ride a fat bike, or take a horse-drawn taxi. All of that will make you feel like you’re living in the good old days and you’ll leave with an impression like no other.
Munization
If you want to embrace winter at full speed, start at Munising. Because this place is full of natural wonders and a lot of winter activities.
Go snowmobiling or snowshoeing at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, go cross-country skiing in Hiawatha National Forest or climb frozen waterfalls. Is ice climbing your thing? Try to visit Munising the second weekend of February, when the city becomes home to the celebrities Michigan Ice Fest.
Fenton
Yes, Michigan is known for its countless ice climbing destinations, and you won’t find the best anywhere other than Fenton.
Peabody Ice Climbing Club Set in an old apple orchard, you can try both ice and mixed climbing, as well as altitude training. Never tried one of these? Don’t worry, it’s a good place for beginners to learn the basics before heading out to conquer the real mountains.
