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Ads are how we pay our bills and keep our blog free for you to enjoy. We also use affiliate links; if you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Practical Wanderlust has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Practical Wanderlust and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. Ice-glazed lighthouses. Glittering ice caves. Snowshoeing between wineries. A Bavarian village? Michigan in the winter is a surprisingly cozy blend of vibrant cities, charming towns, and a pristine wintry wonderland. The long, cold, and — yes, snowy — winters are ideal for exploring blanketed trails, cozying up in a fascinating museum, and warming up with a drink in a heated igloo. You might know Michigan for its growing reputation for being an idyllic summer destination. With its vast Great Lakes, Caribbean-like inland lakes, and sugar-sand beaches, the state welcomes a lot of tourists when it’s warm and sunny. But winter in Michigan is an unexpected — and fantastic — winter destination, too. In the midst of winter, thick snowflakes pour from the sky and the coastline transforms into a wonderland of ice. Big cities and small towns sparkle in twinkling lights and snowy magic, bringing a festive energy to the long, northern nights. With such an intense winter, Michigan residents just have to embrace it. Skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, snow sculpting, winter festivals— if there’s anything that’s quintessentially “winter,” you can do it, see it, eat it, or drink it in Michigan. So let’s check out the most beautiful places to visit in Michigan in the winter!
Looking for more winter travel inspiration? Take a look at some of our other winter posts to help you plan your winter getaway:
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This FREE 3-page printable packing list will help make sure you don't forget anything for your next winter trip. We'll also send you our favorite travel tips! A wintry Michigan day in Leelanau County. (Photo Credit)Travel Tips for Michigan in the WinterBefore making reservations, know what to expect when traveling through Michigan in the winter. How cold does it get in Michigan in the winter?Temperatures and snowfall vary across the state of Michigan, but you can count on cold and snowy weather throughout most of the winter. In Marquette, the Upper Peninsula’s biggest city, the average high doesn’t exceed freezing during the winter. In the southeast corner of the state’s Lower Peninsula, Detroit’s average winter highs hover in the low- to mid-thirties. Michigan also experiences lake-effect snow — a winter weather phenomenon common in the Great Lakes region. When cold air from the north passes over the massive Great Lakes, warmer air and moisture rise, cool, and form clouds that can drop a lot of snow in a short amount of time. Because of wind patterns, the western side of Michigan gets more lake-effect snow than the eastern side. Marquette, which sits on Lake Superior’s southern shore, gets a whopping 150 inches of snowfall each year. And the Keweenaw Peninsula — the little finger of land reaching north into Lake Superior — gets even more. All this to say, you should prepare for snow and cold on your winter visit to Michigan, but you’ll be wowed by a fresh snowfall and frozen beaches! Who are the original inhabitants of Michigan?The three largest groups of Indigenous Peoples in Michigan are the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi. Together, they’re known as the Anishanabe, meaning “original people.” These three tribes have a partnership known as the Three Fires, which unites them in common language, culture, and traditions. Today there are twelve federally recognized tribes and four state recognized tribes in Michigan. Where’s the best place to fly into Michigan?Detroit is the best option for flying into Michigan. It’s the biggest (by far) and most accessible airport in the state. It also makes a great start/endpoint for a trip around the state. If you want to stay here at any point on your trip (we definitely recommend it!) look to stay in the Downtown, Corktown, or Midtown neighborhoods. If your trip will center around West Michigan, you could consider flying into Grand Rapids. The airport is much smaller (though very pleasant), but would save you a long drive across the state. We recommend using Kayak to compare flights from both airports and find which has the better deal. Driving around Michigan in the winter can be, well, snowy and icy, so four-wheel drive and snow tires are a must! (Photo Credit)How do I get around Michigan in the winter?If you’re planning to visit multiple cities or regions within Michigan, you definitely need a car. On the other hand, if you limit your visit to one of the biggest cities — like Detroit or Grand Rapids — you can see a lot without a car. Walking, public transit, and rideshare programs make getting around easy in these two cities. If you’re driving to or through Michigan in the winter, take extra precautions. Sudden snowstorms and blizzards can cause whiteouts and slick roads in an instant. Always check the forecast before driving, and take winter weather warnings seriously. If you rent a car, it’s worth picking (and paying extra) for one that can handle winter driving. Cars with four-wheel drive, high clearance, or even snow tires can make all the difference. We recommend using Kayak to compare car rental deals and find the best one for your trip – and book with a travel credit card that includes primary rental insurance, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred! Last, if you plan to visit both the Upper and Lower Peninsula, you’ll be crossing the 5-mile-long Mackinac Bridge — also known as the “Mighty Mac” and the longest suspension bridge in the western hemisphere. Driving the bridge over the Straits of Mackinac is an adventure for some and a nightmare for others. If you fall into the latter category, you can let someone else do the driving while you curl up in a ball in the backseat calmly enjoy the ride. The Mackinac Bridge Authority offers a driver assistance program, where someone can drive you and your car across the bridge for $10. There’s nothing quite as magical and calming as a lighthouse overlooking a frozen lake in the snow.The Best Places to Experience Winter in MichiganWith two snowy peninsulas full of charming towns, beautiful countryside, and wintry magic, there is no shortage of seasonal charm in Michigan. Below are our favorite places to enjoy the best attractions, activities, sights, and festivities that a Michigan winter entails. Mountains? Check. Skiing? Check. A ridiculous amount of charm? Absolutely check! (Photo Credit: Boyne Mountain Resort)Petoskey and Harbor Springs: A Moutain Resort RetreatThe northwest tip of Michigan’s mitten – that’s the lower peninsula for the uninitiated – is home to some of the most beautiful lakeside towns in the state. Full of tourists in the summer, the neighboring resort towns of Petoskey and Harbor Springs are snowy, quiet, and quaint in the winter. Sitting on opposite sides of Little Traverse Bay, these two little outposts are popular among skiers and snowboarders – at night, you can see the other town’s lights across the water. But it’s not just the snow that makes this area so lovely. A quick jaunt around either’s sleepy winter downtown will remind you of a literal Christmas card: locals huddled over their drinks in a cozy pub, kids bundled up for the snow like amorphous blobs, and garland-wrapped gas lamps lighting up the snowy streets. Here are our favorite things to do in Petoskey and Harbor Springs in the winter:
Where to Stay in Petoskey and Harbor Springs
Detroit, Michigan: The Music Lover’s ParadiseWhat began as a French settlement across the river from Canada has transformed over the years into a major US city. “Detroit” is a French name, meaning strait — describing the city’s geographic location between Lake St. Clair and Lake Huron. After 60 years of French rule, the city was turned over to the British, then on to the United States in 1796. Soon after, Detroit burned almost to the ground in the Great Fire of 1805. Detroit, of course, was rebuilt, and the city’s motto captures the spirit of this revival: “We hope for better things: it will arise from the ashes.” Today, Detroit is perhaps most famously known as Motor City and the hub of the automobile industry. But it’s known for a lot more than just cars. Music is a huge part of the city’s culture — and Detroit’s Motown legacy is a gift to us all! Today the city offers fantastic museums, a rich art scene, a blossoming urban farming movement, and gorgeous architecture. A winter visit is the perfect time to both explore cozy museums and to bundle up for big city sightseeing. Here are our favorite things to do in Detroit in the winter:
Where to Stay in DetroitHere’s where to base yourself during your stay in Detroit:
Frankenmuth, Michigan: A Charming Bavarian TownFrankenmuth, in east-central Michigan’s Saginaw Valley, is Michigan’s Little Bavaria. Immediately upon arriving in town, you’ll understand why. Frankenmuth began with a group of Bavarians sent over by a German pastor in 1845. The idea was to bring a sense of German community (and of course, churches) to German pioneers who were struggling in the Midwest. They also wanted to convert the native Chippewa, who for the most part left the area after the Germans cleared the land for farming. What started as a little German outpost in frontier Michigan is now a bustling Bavarian village with food and architecture to match (well, sort of — it’s still Michigan, not Germany). In the wintertime, Frankenmuth shines. It truly is a holiday destination – and home to the world’s largest Christmas store – with snow sculptures, cozy, family-style dinners, and quaint German shops. Cover it in a blanket of snow, and you’ve got yourself a genuine holiday fairy tale! Here are the best things to do in Frankenmuth in the winter:
Where to Stay in Frankenmuth
Kalamazoo, Michigan: The Craft Beverage Lover’s ParadiseThe name “Kalamazoo” may have you tongue-tied — or perhaps wondering where the heck it came from. Unfortunately, there’s no straight answer. What we do know is this: Upon first being settled, the town was called Bronson. The name came from the first white settler who made his home in the area. However, Bronson wasn’t a popular man (reports say he was eccentric and selfish, and possibly stole a cherry tree), and the town was renamed Kalamazoo. (Needless to say, Bronson quickly left town). The origins of “Kalamazoo” are still unknown. The word is most likely rooted in the Native American word “Kikalemazo,” which appears in Potawatomi legend. There are several translations of the word, including everything from “place where the water boils” to “reflecting river.” Regardless, Kalamazoo is a much better name than Bronson, wouldn’t you say? Names aside, Kalamazoo is the perfect place to cozy up during a winter trip. Known for its craft beverage scene — and no, not just beer — Kalamazoo is a hip, eclectic college town with both indoor and outdoor pursuits. Here are the best things to check out in Kalamazoo:
Where to Stay in Kalamazoo
Holland, Michigan: A Truly Dutch TownKnown for its Dutch heritage, spring tulips, and — not joking — heated sidewalks (why these don’t exist in other Michigan towns is beyond me), Holland is a charming year-round destination on Michigan’s west coast. Situated on Lake Macatawa just a couple miles from the big lake (Lake Michigan, that is), Holland boasts a quaint, small-town feel and beachy scenery that’s absolutely stunning in the winter. While it’s no time to see tulips, winter in Holland means gorgeous views (and photo ops), snowshoeing and skiing, strolling downtown (remember, heated sidewalks), and of course, a trip to see an authentic Dutch Windmill.
Where to Stay in Holland
Grand Rapids, Michigan: An Artsy Winter EscapeGrand Rapids, Michigan’s second-largest city, straddles the Grand River and is known for its beer, arts, and food scene. What’s not to like? Known as “Beer City USA” (other cities try to claim the title, but GR is the real deal), Grand Rapids’ Beer City Ale Trail features more than 80 breweries. A trip to Grand Rapids isn’t complete without a thorough exploration of some of the country’s best breweries. Art comes alive in Grand Rapids when the epic ArtPrize festival takes over the city in the fall. But you can still enjoy the city’s artwork in the winter, as many permanent installments have been created over the years. Plus, a new winter festival brings its own sparkling art to the long winter nights. This vibrant, down-to-earth, West Michigan city is a fantastic destination any time of year, but it’s got some special charm when winter rolls around. Our favorite things to do in Grand Rapids in the winter:
Where to Stay in Grand Rapids
Traverse City, Michigan: A (Winter) Beach GetawayTraverse City is situated at the foot of Grand Traverse Bay, about 20 miles east of some of the most beautiful Lake Michigan beaches. This small city is a summer haven for tourists coming from all over the Midwest and is known for its numerous lakes, fabulous wineries, and famous National Cherry Festival. In the winter, tourism slows down and the town breathes again. Locals flock to cozy bars, snowy trails, and favorite shops. During the snowy season, the hilly farmland and dunes along the lakeshore welcome skiers, snowshoers, and wine lovers. Pubs and restaurants embrace the cold, welcoming chilly customers with fire pits and heated igloos. Traverse City is also a great basecamp for exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore — a summertime paradise that transforms into a winter wonderland. With amazing access to winter trails and a fantastic food and drink scene, Traverse City is so much more than a summer destination (psst: take a look at our a summer guide to things to do in Traverse City!). Here are our favorite things to do in Traverse City in the winter:
Where to Stay in Traverse City
Marquette, Michigan: A Nature Lover’s SanctuaryThe biggest city in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Marquette is also the onlyU.P. destination on this list. That’s not to say there isn’t more worth exploring in the U.P. (da Yoop, as locals say), but Marquette is a great basecamp for exploring the best of this remote region. Marquette sits on the southern shore of Lake Superior, the deepest, coldest, and most pristine of the Great Lakes. The natural beauty and the outdoor recreation opportunities are a major draw for many. However, the city got its start as an iron mining town, and the legacy of this past is obvious today. In the Lower Harbor, one of Marquette’s famous Ore Docks is a sight you have to see – and quite literally can’t miss. Marquette served as a shipping port for iron ore, and these gargantuan docks have been aiding in the process since 1912. One of them is still an active dock, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a freighter in port! While here, you’ll get a sense of the local U.P. culture. A distinct accent, an appreciation for the seasons (yes, even in a town that receives 150 inches of snow each year), and a sense of local pride sets this northern community apart. Even in the winter, Marquette’s got a unique magnetism that will have you planning your return trip in no time. Here are our favorite things to do in Marquette in the winter:
Where to Stay in Marquette
Mackinac Island, Michigan: The Idyllic American TownVisiting Mackinac Island (pronounced “Mackinaw“) any time of year is like stepping back in time. This 4-square-mile island sits in the middle of Lake Huron between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas. Not only are cars banned from the island, but Mackinac is home to two historic forts and plenty of Victorian architecture. This unique place has been on the country’s radar for a while: it was actually America’s second national park, after Yellowstone. It later became a Michigan State Park when the military closed Fort Mackinac in 1895. So, what is Mackinac like, and if no cars are allowed, then how the heck do you get there? In the summer, you can take a ferry to the island, where horse-drawn carriages and bicycles are your modes of island transportation. Summertime activities include hiking, biking, kayaking, exploring the forts, and stuffing your face with famous Mackinac Island fudge. But in the winter, the island transforms. Packed with tourists in summer, the population shrinks dramatically in the winter. If the lake isn’t frozen, you can still take a ferry to the island – the only other option is a small plane. Horse-drawn taxis, snowmobiles, and fat tire bikes are how you’ll get around, and most activities revolve around playing in the snow and celebrating the holidays. Most businesses are closed, and the ones that aren’t are often “open by request” or open “as long as the ferry is running.” Despite (or because of) this deep sense of quiet, Mackinac Island is a one-of-a-kind winter destination. Oh, and it’s also one of HGTV’s top 10 Christmas towns! Here are our favorite things to do in Mackinac Island in the winter:
Where to Stay in Mackinac Island
What to Pack for Michigan in the WinterEver heard that saying, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing?” In addition to keeping you warm as you explore, weatherproof clothing is especially important if you’re going to do outdoor activities. So, be sure to bundle up in your favorite cozy sweaters, a warm coat, and waterproof winter boots! We’ve got all the details you need. We recommend wearing a base layer underneath your clothing on cold days during your winter trip – that means that the layer closest to your skin should all be made from merino wool. Merino wool is super warm, incredibly soft (nope, it’s not itchy) and much more lightweight than synthetic fabrics, as well as being naturally antibacterial, which means you can re-wear it without the re-wear funk. If wool isn’t your thing, wear an equally insulating textile like hemp or silk. Avoid non-insulating fabrics like cotton, and remember that natural fibers are pretty much always better than manmade textiles like polyester. After your base layer, you’ll need to add on at least 1 additional layer before your outerwear, like a pair of pants and a sweater. On REALLY cold days, where the temperatures are below 10 degrees, we recommend adding on another base layer before your clothing layer & outerwear. And if you’re doing winter activities, add a waterproof layer as well, like lined snow pants. For more winter travel packing tips, head over to our Cold Weather Packing Guide. Here are our tried and true travel essentials for winter travel.
Whew! That should keep you warm and toasty. Oh hey, want a printable version? Just sign up below and we’ll send a checklist straight to your inbox. Printable Winter Packing List
This FREE 3-page printable packing list will help make sure you don't forget anything for your next winter trip. We'll also send you our favorite travel tips! About the Author: Emily is a copywriter, nature lover, and art dabbler who lives in the northern Michigan town of Traverse City. Her favorite parts of travel are the outdoor pursuits unique to the destination — and the best local food and drink she can find. Learn more at emilycarolcopy.com Are you looking forward to a Michigan in winter trip full of snow, beer, art, and heated sidewalks? What are you most looking forward to on your trip around the mitt? Let us know in the comments below! Psst: Looking for more Midwestern adventures? Take a look at some of our other blog posts:
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Where should I go for Christmas in Michigan?Here are some of the best Christmas towns in Michigan:. Rochester. Rochester, MI, USA. ... . Traverse City. Traverse City, MI, USA. ... . Mackinac Island. Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA. ... . Holland. Holland, MI 49423, USA. ... . Christmas. Christmas, MI 49862, USA. ... . Grand Rapids. Grand Rapids, MI, USA. ... . Frankenmuth. Frankenmuth, MI, USA. ... . Detroit.. What is the number one tourist attraction in Michigan?According to a list compiled by the U.S. News & World Report, the most popular tourist attraction in all of Michigan is Mackinac Island. Mackinac Island is known for its famous fudge and Native American historical sites.
What is there to do in Grand Rapids in the winter?Explore Winter in the City. Recreation. Cross-Country Skiing in Grand Rapids. ... . Recreation. Skiing. ... . Experiences. Fun and Educational Winter Break Activities for All Ages. ... . Experiences. Visiting Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in the Winter. ... . Recreation. West Michigan Winter Sports. ... . Shopping, Experiences.. What is there to do in Ann Arbor for Christmas?Christmas event events in Ann Arbor, MI. Wayne Open Air Christmas Market Craft Vendor Appli. ... . MEMBERS ONLY--A Red Ryder Christmas Story Wine & Appetizer Reception. ... . 5th Annual 12 Bars of Christmas Crawl® - Ann Arbor. ... . Christmas in the village arts and crafts show. ... . Fishville Farms Christmas Craft Show & Food Drive.. |