Michigan in winter transforms into a wonderland offering a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. From the serene snow covered trails of Mackinac Island to the vibrant festivals in Traverse City & the ski slopes of Boyne Mountain there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking to explore historic towns enjoy winter sports or cozy up in a charming inn Michigan’s winter destinations provide endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. In this guide we’ll take you through some of the best spots to experience Michigan’s winter magic.
Best places to go in Michigan in the winter
Michigan offers a variety of winter activities for everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit:
Mackinac Island
Things to Do: In winter the island transforms into a serene wonderland. Enjoy snowshoeing & cross-country skiing at Mackinac Island State Park. Visit the historic Fort Mackinac without the summer crowds.
Best Hotel: Stay at the Murray Hotel a cozy and historic spot open year-round.
Best Food: Try Millie’s on Main for comfort food and Yankee Rebel Tavern for hearty winter meals.
Cost per Person: Around $150–$200 per person including hotel food and rentals.
Warning: Ferry services are limited in winter and weather conditions can be harsh. Check travel schedules.
Traverse City
Best Hotel: Grand Traverse Resort & Spa offers a luxurious stay with winter activities and spa services.
Best Food: Visit Trattoria Stella for Italian fare or The Cooks’ House for locally-sourced dishes.
Cost per Person: Around $200–$250 including hotel wine tours and meals.
Warning: Roads can be icy so ensure your vehicle has snow tires.
Petoskey
Things to Do: Enjoy downhill skiing at Boyne Highlands and Nub’s Nob then explore the quaint downtown for shopping.
Best Hotel: Stay at the Stafford’s Perry Hotel a charming historic place with beautiful winter views.
Best Food: Head to Palette Bistro for Mediterranean cuisine or Petoskey Brewing for a local beer experience.
Cost per Person: Approximately $175–$225 including skiing hotel and meals.
Warning: Skiing can be challenging for beginners so take lessons if needed.
Frankenmuth
Things to Do: Experience Zehnder’s Snow fest famous for its ice and snow sculptures and enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides.
Best Hotel: Stay at Bavarian Inn Lodge known for its indoor waterpark and Bavarian-themed decor.
Best Food: Try Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth for their famous chicken dinners or Frankenmuth Brewery for local brews.
Cost per Person: Around $100–$150 including hotel dining and activities.
Warning: Dress warmly for outdoor events, as temperatures drop quickly.
Detroit
Things to Do: Ice skate at Campus Martius Park visit the Detroit Institute of Arts or catch a show at Fox Theatre.
Best Hotel: The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit offers a luxury stay in the heart of downtown.
Best Food: Check out Selden Standard for seasonal small plates or Slows Bar BQ for barbecue.
Cost per Person: Around $175–$250 including hotel dining, and entertainment.
Warning: The city can be busy during holidays so book hotels and shows in advance.
Ann Arbor
Things to Do: Explore the University of Michigan Museum of Art and Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. Enjoy sledding and ice skating at local parks.
Best Hotel: Stay at the boutique Graduate Ann Arbor close to campus and cultural spots.
Best Food: Dine at Zinger man’s Delicatessen for an iconic meal or Frita Batidos for Cuban-inspired street food.
Cost per Person: $150–$200 including hotel food and activities.
Warning: Parking can be a challenge in winter so plan accordingly.
Grand Rapids
Things to Do: Attend the World of Winter Festival, featuring ice sculptures and light displays. Visit the Frederik Meijer Gardens.
Best Hotel: Amway Grand Plaza Hotel offers luxury and is close to many downtown attractions.
Best Food: Try The Sovengard for farm-to-table Nordic cuisine or Founders Brewing Co. for craft beer.
Cost per Person: $175–$225, including hotel, meals, and festival events.
Warning: Book accommodations early, as the winter festivals attract many visitors.
Saugatuck
Things to Do: Hike the Saugatuck Dunes State Park trails and explore the local art galleries.
Best Hotel: Stay at the Wickwood Inn, a romantic bed-and-breakfast known for its cozy vibe.
Best Food: Visit The Southerner for comfort food or Bowdies Chophouse for steak.
Cost per Person: Around $150–$200 for accommodation, dining, and activities.
Warning: Winter hiking can be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.
Holland
Things to Do: Visit Dutch Winterfest, and enjoy ice skating and snowshoeing in nearby parks.
Best Hotel: CityFlatsHotel is a sustainable and modern option in downtown Holland.
Best Food: New Holland Brewing for beer and pub food or deBoer Bakkerij for Dutch pastries.
Cost per Person: $125–$175, including hotel, food, and activities.
Warning: Keep an eye on the weather for snowstorms that can affect travel plans.
Marquette
Things to Do: Ski at Marquette Mountain or try ice climbing at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Best Hotel: Stay at Landmark Inn, offering historic charm with modern amenities.
Best Food: Try Lagniappe Cajun Creole Eatery for a taste of New Orleans in Michigan or Donckers for local chocolates and meals.
Cost per Person: $150–$200, including hotel, meals, and outdoor activities.
Warning: Prepare for very cold weather, as Marquette often has heavy snowfalls.
Ludington
Things to Do: Explore Ludington State Park through cross-country skiing and winter hiking. Visit the Big Sable Point Lighthouse.
Best Hotel: Stearns Hotel offers affordable, comfortable lodging near the state park.
Best Food: Jamesport Brewing Company for local brews and American food.
Cost per Person: Around $125–$175, including hotel, food, and activities.
Warning: Dress in layers, as lakeside winds can make it feel colder than expected.
Boyne Mountain Resort
Things to Do: Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and the Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark.
Best Hotel: Boyne Mountain Resort itself is the best place to stay, offering easy access to slopes and waterpark.
Best Food: Everett’s is a family-friendly dining option at the resort.
Cost per Person: $200–$250 for lodging, meals and activities.
Warning: Slopes can get crowded during peak times so plan skiing for early mornings or late afternoons.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Things to Do: See the frozen waterfalls go snowshoeing, and explore cross-country skiing trails.
Best Hotel: Stay at the nearby Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub offering rustic accommodations and food.
Best Food: Tahquamenon Falls Brewery serves hearty meals and craft beer.
Cost per Person: Around $100–$150 for lodging, dining, and activities.
Porcupine Mountains
Things to Do: Backcountry skiing snowshoeing and downhill skiing at Porcupine Mountains Ski Area.
Best Hotel: Stay at Konteka Black Bear Resort a cozy lodge ideal for those looking to explore the Porkies.
Best Food: The lodge’s restaurant serves up hearty meals perfect after a day of winter sports.
Cost per Person: $150–$200 for lodging meals and activities.
Warning: Some trails are for advanced skiers and snowshoers so know your limits.
Sleeping Bear Dunes
Things to Do: The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive offers breathtaking winter vistas.
Best Hotel: Sylvan Inn Bed & Breakfast in nearby Glen Arbor provides cozy lodging and a charming atmosphere.
Best Food: Dine at The Homestead Resort for fine dining or enjoy local fare at Art’s Tavern in Glen Arbor.
Cost per Person: Around $150–$200, including accommodation meals and outdoor activities.
Warning: Snow on the dunes can make hiking more challenging so take care on steeper slopes.
Charlevoix
Things to Do: Enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding at Mt. Mc Sauba or explore the quaint downtown for winter shopping and dining.
Best Hotel: Stay at Hotel Earl of Charlevoix a newly renovated boutique hotel with modern amenities.
Best Food: Visit The Weathervane Restaurant for a waterfront view and fresh seafood or try Smoke on the Water for BBQ.
Cost per Person: Approximately $150–$225 including lodging meals and activities.
Warning: Snow and ice can make roads slippery so ensure your car is equipped with proper winter tires or chains.
Mount Bohemia
Things to Do: Known for its extreme skiing and snowboarding this destination offers steep slopes and rugged terrain.
Best Hotel: Stay in one of Mount Bohemia’s unique yurts for a more adventurous lodging experience.
Best Food: The on-site Log Cabin serves hearty meals after a long day on the slopes.
Cost per Person: Around $150–$250, including lodging food and activities.
Warning: Mount Bohemia is best for advanced skiers and snowboarders. The slopes are steep and there are no beginner trails so beginners should approach with caution or enjoy the yurts and views.
Crystal Mountain
Things to Do: A family-friendly resort with winter activities including skiing snowboarding ice skating and a luxurious spa. The resort also hosts fun winter events for children.
Best Hotel: Crystal Mountain Resort itself offers a variety of accommodations from cozy cottages to luxury suites.
Best Food: Dine at the resort’s Thistle Pub & Grille for American cuisine or grab a quick bite at the Wild Tomato.
Cost per Person: Around $200–$275 for lodging meals, and activities.
Warning: Plan ahead as the resort can get busy during the holiday season and peak weekends.
Silver Lake Sand Dunes
Things to Do: Experience the dunes’ unique winter landscape by snowmobiling or hiking. Nearby Mears offers cozy accommodations and dining.
Best Hotel: Stay at Dunes Waterfront Resort, which offers a great view of Silver Lake.
Best Food: Visit Golden Sands Golf Course Grill for casual dining or Val-Du-Lakes Bar & Grill for local dishes.
Cost per Person: Around $125–$175 for lodging meals, and activities.
Warning: The dunes can be windy and cold in winter so dress warmly. Snowmobiling on sand dunes is a unique challenge, so consider renting or getting guided tours if you’re a beginner.
Ontonagon
Things to Do: Ontonagon serves as the gateway to the Porcupine Mountains with easy access to winter trails waterfalls and wildlife. Snowshoeing and snowmobiling are popular activities.
Best Hotel: Stay at the AmericInn by Wyndham Ontonagon a comfortable option with proximity to the Porcupine Mountains.
Best Food: Dine at Syl’s Cafe for homestyle cooking or Roxey’s Bar & Grill for local fare.
Cost per Person: Around $100–$150 including hotel meals and activities.
FAQ
10 Best places to go in Michigan in the winter
1. Mackinac Island
2. Traverse City
3. Petoskey
4. Frankenmuth
5. Detroit
6. Ann Arbor
7. Grand Rapids
8. Saugatuck
9. Holland
10. Marquette
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