Its simply breathtaking any time of the year. Along the way, youll see historical sites, century-old architecture, and even a ghost town. But, first, make sure you and your car are ready for your winter road trip with our winter driving survival guide. Dont forget your camera for this frozen spectacle of natural beauty. Many undeveloped areas in the vicinity draw visitors for winter sports, including ice skating and snowshoeing, too. There are several attractions with indoor winter fun and special events too, including Grand Rapids Childrens Museum, Grand Rapids Public Museum, and Grand Rapids Art Museum. Jacobs Falls, for instance, includes a short hike from the road. Gather your gang and head to a museum, check out the local craft breweries, go cross-country skiing in Millennium Park or hit the slopes at Cannonsburg Ski Area. 1. On top of that, driving US-25 lets you enjoy beach views youve never seen, including the wetlands along the Thumb, where you may spot rare birds and other animal life. First-class local museums pay homage to the areas rich connection with the Great Lakes shipping industry and the surrounding natural areas; be sure and check out the Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan and the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center, one of the best musuems in Michigan. While your little ones embark on thrilling escapades, you can slip away to the heavenly spa and indulge in some well-deserved pampering. Additionally, there are many chances to enjoy live music and entertainment in Grand Rapids. There are slides, a lazy river, a surf simulator, pools and hot tubs as well as a kids pool. Just a little further on from Richmond is Virginia Beach, Virginia that makes for an amazing road trip destination from Michigan. In the winter months, travelers flock to the city for the warm winter feelings prompted by the city streets lined with lights and festive feeling of the downtown area. By Skye Sherman Updated on October 25, 2022 Fact checked by Elizabeth MacLennan Photo:. 1. Michigan Winter Getaways: 12 BEST Spots for a Michigan Winter Vacation Need a break and looking for Michigan winter getaways? Are they configured to be family-friendly? Frankenmuth has the Great Lakes Escape Game, Frankenmuth Historical Museum, and Zehnders Splash Village water park as well. In the 200 years since then, the site has remained a popular tourist destination thanks to the presence of the Irish hills. You can also take off on snowmobiling and snowshoeing excursions. Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world! Bundle up well to fend off Lake Michigan and journey to this classic Michigan beach town. Proximity to attractions: This is used to assess the propertys location. Are there diverse dining options to cater to different tastes? You can walk the trails for majestic views of Lake Huron, the Straits of Mackinac, and the Victorian homes that line the streets. If you click on an affiliate link we provide, we may receive compensation. 10 Best Michigan Winter Family Vacations: Top Kid Friendly Destinations Sandy Allen We independently evaluate all recommended services and products. Find the BEST romantic getaways in Michigan. You can go ice skating at Rosa Parks Circle outdoor rink or Griffs Icehouse indoor rink. New laws took effect July 1 in states across the country. What to know About the AuthorNora Rhein is a student at Wayne State University majoring in Public Relations and minoring in Theatre Management. Are there kiddie activities on-site? Right here in Michigan! With an annual snowfall of up to 180 inches in some parts, the state offers a magical canvas for a multitude of winter activities. The joy on my childrens faces as they hurtled down the water slides in the midst of winter was priceless. The 323-acre peninsula sticks out into Lake Superior. Also known as the gateway to Michigans famed Keweenaw Peninsula, Houghton is one of the biggest cities in the Upper Peninsula. Some of the best skiing resorts in Michigan for a family vacation include Boyne Mountain Resort, Crystal Mountain, and Shanty Creek Resorts. The waterfalls are famously known as the Root Beer Falls and often freeze in very cold temperatures, creating a fascinating view of a world stopped by winter. South of Mackinac Island, Boyne Falls is a special spot for snow sports in Northern Michigan. Its the home of one of the largest Michigan winter resorts in the Petoskey area: Boyne Mountain Resort. 13 Beautiful Winter Drives Around the United States From iconic national parks to a covered bridge tour. Depending on your route from Michigan, you can take pit stops at interesting cities like Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and Grand Rapids. In fact, there are tons of indoor winter things to do in Michigan and outdoor activities to do across the state for the entire winter. Overview: This renowned festival began in the 1950s as a way to celebrate the works of William Shakespeare. She lives a quiet life of travelling, writing, and minding her own business. Driving To Northern Michigan In The Winter The town has more than 1,800 acres of parks for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat-tire snow biking. Room comfort and configuration: This is used to assess the comfort and configuration of rooms. YouTubes privacy policy is available here and YouTubes terms of service is available here. At just 14 miles long, the byway is perfect for a short day trip and is packed with beautiful sights along the way, including Potawatomi Falls, Gorge Falls, and Rainbow Falls. Please use the buttons below to share this post with others. Uniquely located at the convergence of three rivers, Pittsburgh is a low maintenance big city. Marquette offers some of the best retail in all of northern Michigan, with so many small businesses to make you smile, including some fabulous new craft breweries and gastropubs. I rate these destinations based on the following criteria: The best time to plan a winter family vacation in Michigan is typically from December to February when you can enjoy the full winter experience with snow-covered landscapes and winter activities. Experience Winter in Michigan | Michigan Dining options: This evaluates the dining options at the property. Cant decide between spending time in nature or downtown? The one near Presque Isle Park is still in operation. The snowfall makes you feel like youre the only person in the world. From horse-drawn carriage rides and tree-lighting ceremonies to bonfires, sledding, snow golf and more, the island makes a romantic getaway or family-friendly winter vacation. If you visit at any time from November through January, you could attend one of the several Dutch WinterFest and holiday events. The Upper Falls is the second largest waterfall east of the Mississippi. And road trips from Michigan are even more fun since there are so many options to choose from. Cadillac is a great little vacation getaway spot, a lot of fun, too. With a wide array of resorts, hotels, cabins and cottage rentals available, options abound for a cozy winter getaway. Its so picturesque that it has been named by USA Today as one of the nations most scenic drives. Search Vrbo for the best Holiday Homes & Rentals, 9 Best All-Inclusive Resorts In Michigan, USA - Updated 2023, 12 Best Fishing Lodges In Michigan, USA - Updated 2023, Top 11 Luxury Resorts In Michigan - Updated 2023, Top 12 Airbnb Vacation Rentals With Pool In Michigan, USA - Updated 2023, Top 8 Airbnb Wedding Venues In Michigan, USA, 10 Scenic Train Rides In Michigan, The USA, 15 Best Road Trips From Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Top 6 Stayz Accommodations In Lennox Head, Australia, Top 10 Guesthouses In Cape Town, South Africa - Updated 2023, 10 Vacation Rentals In Quito, Ecuador - Updated 2023, 6 Best Wine Tours In Toronto, Canada - Updated 2023, 6 Best Downtown Tours In Toronto, Canada - Updated 2023. Most of the land in the region is undeveloped and protected, offering unique opportunities to see Michigan at its most wild complete with pristine waterfalls and moose and deer making their way through the woods. While the vast majority of this legislation will not change the day-to-day lives . All Rights Reserved. 1 Boyne Mountain RoadBoyne Falls, MI 49713(866) 976-6972Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps. Also, the peaceful snow offers a unique chance to spot animal life, such as winter birds, deer, and herons. The Absolute Best Winter Road Trips in the USA - Back Road Ramblers Related: Best Places to Visit in January in the USA, 9922 W Front St, Empire, MI 49630(231) 334-2000Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps. At the Holland Community Aquatic Center, everyone can have indoor water fun with slides, a zip line, water cannons, diving boards, and more. You can go ice skating, snowshoeing or take a horse-drawn surrey ride. Yeah, you could drive around Lake Michigan to get there but wouldn't it be more fun to drive your car onto a ferry and take a break from road travel while you enjoy the view? Although there are plenty of wonderful restaurants and retail destinations, the friendly small town feel will warm you up in the winter chill. Located right off of Lake Michigan, the ice begins to overtake the shoreline for a breathtaking view. Always ready for a new Michigan adventure! The Black River Harbor National Forest Scenic Byway is one of the most beautiful road trips in Michigans Upper Peninsula. This Michigan winter resort is the definition of a family-friendly vacation destination because it offers activities for all ages. On the western side of the city, Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort offers skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snow tubing, ice skating, and ice fishing. Strategically situated at the confluence of three rivers, the city embraces every season with gusto and is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change colour. But even with a distinct lack of Tulips, Holland in the winter should not be missed. Luxurious accommodations: The spacious rooms, high-end amenities, and attentive service create a relaxing environment for families to unwind after a day of exploring. If you want to give your pocketbook a break, check out the area's theaters, museums and parks. Of course, theres so much more to do here than just bask in the beautiful wintery scenery. Take the Maid of the Mist boat tour to get a closer look. 2. Couples Retreat on the River Cabin Irons, Michigan Sleeps: 2 This romantic cabin in northern Michigan sits on the Au Sable river. Comprehensive Guide to Ski Resorts in Michigan Trip Idea 10 Michigan Trails to Experience This Winter Trip Idea A Guide to Snowmobile Trails in Michigan Trip Idea Explore Winter in Michigan Skiing and Snowboarding Snowmobiling Cross Country Skiing Lakeside Lights Luge, Tubing & Sledding Ice Fishing Dog Sledding Indoor Fun More Winter Outdoors Enjoy a safe and enjoyable family-friendly Michigan vacation this winter at one of these unique destinations for winter family vacations in Michigan, then tell us about what you like to do during the winter in Michigan! In particular, its the home of Bronners CHRISTmas Wonderland, which is a 320,000-square-foot holiday store that sells all manner of Christmas decor and gifts as well as holds holiday events throughout December. We independently evaluate all recommended services and products. The resort offers ice skating, zip lining, rides over the slopes, and horseback riding during the winter as well. Round the bend of Lake Erie, past the cities of Toledo and Cleveland in Ohio, make your way to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on your road trip from Michigan. Indiana Dunes, Indiana 1 hour from Chicago (50 miles) Delmas Lehman/Shutterstock.com Only an hour away from downtown Chicago, Indiana Dunes became the newest National Park in the United States in 2019. Other notable attractions here include Absecon Lighthouse, Ripleys Believe It or Not!, and Steel Pier. Any maritime enthusiast will appreciate the lighthouses and lake-front trails, but Thunder Bay is also home to shipwrecks sure to give you a chill. Take your pick from our recommendations of the top road trips from Michigan, USA, and have an awesome road-tripping experience! The winter archery, outdoor laser tag, carriages pulled by Belgian horses, and spa and wellness center set this resort apart from the rest. 9 Magical Places to Visit in Michigan in the Winter - Practical Wanderlust Take a snowy trek through the Waterfront Park and Sculpture Garden, or visit one of the many galleries for more local scenery. Youll marvel at the Soo Locks, where you can go freighter watching, and take in the wild and wintery Lake Superior shoreline. This scenic Thumb drive has a long and fascinating history. Looking for something more nautical for your winter getaway? Best Places for a Family-Friendly Winter Vacation in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, A Family-Friendly Michigan Winter Vacation Experience on Mackinac Island, Best "Up North" Winter Getaways in Michigan's Lower Peninsula, Best Michigan Winter Vacation Spots for Families in Mid-Michigan, what there is to do in Michigan in the winter, Michigan winter resorts in the Petoskey area, Exploring local indoor and outdoor activities with your family in Lansing, live music and entertainment in Grand Rapids, Awesome Mittens Guide to Plymouth Michigan Things to Do, Will the Northern Lights Be Visible in Michigan Tonight? Although fewer people flock to the city during the winter, it offers excellent getaway experiences, including holiday festivities in December. Nordic Sports sells all of the snow gear and equipment that you could need. There are also other amusement parks and gaming to keep the family entertained. Theres simply so much to do in Traverse City in the winter: hiking the nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes and Lake Michigan shoreline; snowmobiling and skiing, or simply exploring the shops, cafes and breweries along Front Street. Traverse City, MI(231) 947-1120Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps. Home to Northern Michigan University and gorgeous views of Lake Superior, Marquette is guaranteed to make you fall in love with the Upper Peninsula. Let me share my top picks for family vacations that will warm your hearts and create memories to last a lifetime. 7. Check out some of our favorite destinations for wonderful winter vacations below and start planning some chillingly beautiful vacations in Michigan. If youre looking for where to go in the winter in Michigan, almost anywhere is a great destination. Choosing the perfect Michigan winter vacation spot for your family can be quite the task, with several remarkable options. At the beginning of your trip, discover unique experiences in Manistee. Isha is a former corporate nobody. Frankenmuth, Michigan Distance from Detroit: 90 miles North; 1.5-hour drive Why it made our list: Frankenmuth, aka Michigan's Little Bavaria, is one of those places that's just far enough to. Just a short jaunt over the might Mackinac Bridge, the Soo is a fun Michigan winter getaway. There are also trails for cross-country skiing. It has more than 45 miles of trails for skiing, snowshoeing, and skijoring. Highlights: The world's longest bar, beautiful water, fellow party animals and lots and lots of golf carts, Distance from Flint: Roughly 2-and-a-half hours by car to Port Clinton, plus a short ferry ride. For more winter sports, check out Valley Spur for skiing and snowshoeing. Grand Island, located about a half-mile off Munisings coast in Lake Superior, has towering sandstone cliffs, and sea caves that freeze and create dramatic ice formations. Once at the top, grab a drink or a bite from an eatery overlooking the city. 11 Places In Michigan That Everyone Must Visit This Winter Holiday Ski & Recreation Area and tubing and sledding in local parks. Right off of the northern coast of Lake Michigan, youll feel like youre on the edge of a frozen world. Your family can enjoy several places in Marquette MI during the winter. The winds off Lake Superior create a perfect climate for unique ice formations along the beach and cliffs, such as the Black Rocks. If you prefer your water of the hot tub and water slide variety, rather than the frozen kind, youll want to check out Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark. Enjoy surfing, swimming, sunbathing, or walking along the boardwalk. SHARE US~We love spreading the word about the beauty of Michigan and the many Michigan activities throughout the year. Road trips are an awful lot of fun, especially with your best friends or close family. If the little ones, or you, tire of the cold and snow, visit the Holland Aquatic Center for indoor pools. This historic downtown shopping area really takes you back in time, in a good way: theres boutique and gift shops; bookstores and toy stores, and a slew of local cafes and restaurants. Winter waterfall viewing is an unmissable tourist attraction. For a traditional holiday fit for a fairytale, travel to Holland to make wonderful memories. This route, running 92 miles along the northern shore of Lake Michigan, offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding forests. I recall my kids delight at the extravagant indoor pool, while the citys sparkling holiday lights enchanted me. The sand dunes at Sleeping Bear are peak wild Michigan, almost untouched by humankind. Highlights: The ferry ride is a highlight but there is also plenty to look forward to once it is over. Downhill Skiing or snowboarding at Bittersweet Ski Resort and Timber Ridge. 12 Amazing Winter Scenic Drives in Michigan You Must Experience Tawas Point State Park has cross-country skiing, hiking, and winter camping too. Over the years, the festival has expanded to include other theatrical works alongside the classic Shakespeare plays. Traverse City winter activities include the snow-covered trails of Sleeping Bay Dunes, the ski slopes of Hickory Hills and Mt. Travel to the Tahquamenon Falls State Park, a popular spot for hikers throughout the winter months. For sports fans, a visit to Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, Muhammad Ali Center, and Churchill Downs is a must. The natural features have an ancient history, with many of the rock formations dating back 1 billion years. From breathtaking coastlines and ice-covered lighthouses to frozen waterfalls and peaceful forests filled with wildlife, Michigans road trip destinations are perfect for wintertime. However, if youre planning a winter vacation to Alpena, youll definitely be back. The upper falls is 50 feet tall and 200 feet wide. Check out what else is new at Cedar Point this year. Open fields freeze, setting the stage for snowmobiling, ice fishing, and snowshoeing; mountains are blanketed by snow, making for the perfect conditions for snowboarding, sledding, and skiing; and indoor heating is kicked up a few notches, perfect for . The incomparable "squeaky sand" (thanks to its high silica content) and miles of beach and water set the scene for a perfect summer day. [Updated July 13, 2023], My Awesome 48-Hour Summer Itinerary in Mt. Amazing Family Weekend Getaways in Nothern Michigan Crystal Mountain 12500 Crystal Mountain Dr, Thompsonville, MI 49683. Looking for more winter fun in Michigan? Winter In The Central Upper Peninsula: A Pure Michigan Guide The Eben Ice Caves form when snow pours off the beachside cliffs, creating fascinating ice walls. Is it near popular skiing destinations? To ensure I provided my readers with the most comprehensive and accurate information, I reached out to local residents, engaging in conversations to gain valuable insights. Crystal Mountain, near Frankfort MI, is one of the Midwest's best family resorts for all four seasons, and they do winter especially well. Ive experienced the luxury of JW Marriott Grand Rapids and the aquatic fun of Avalanche Bay at Boyne Mountain Resort. Popular for its casinos and nightlife, Atlantic City in New Jersey is a famous tourist destination that is ideal for an east coast road trip from Michigan. Visit the frozen beach scene at Holland State Park, and enjoy winter festivals, European Christmas markets and activities such as cross-country skiing, sledding and ice skating. Overview: Put-in-Bay is a destination for those who like to let loose. Will never get tired of exploring the unique places across the state and meeting all the awesome inspiring people that are here. On the east side of the city, Blackjack Mountain Big Snow Resort has skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and other outdoor winter activities. Pleasant Michigan, Awesome Mittens Guide to Escanaba Michigan, Amazing Dining & Views on a Pictured Rocks Boat Adventure. Best Winter Road Trips to Take From Chicago - Thrillist Nearby Caberfae Peaks is a great low-key ski resort, too perfect for a quick getaway. 13 years ago Save Looking for thoughts on where, within 5 hour drive from Detroit to have a romantic weekend getaway. Next, we have JW Marriott Grand Rapids, an urban haven with luxurious accommodations and a stunning skyline. This includes Munising home to several famous waterfalls the Hiawatha National Forest, and Canyon Gorge. Wintertime in Michigan is more than just snow and ice. Several outdoor activities, delectable local food, and entertainment options are also available here. Owner, Director, and Chief Explorer! If youre looking for a leisurely road trip, this is the perfect choice. Youll find plenty of places to stop and take in the incredible views. Here are 13 ideas for easy trips to take this summer (or maybe this spring, if you're feeling antsy). Have you tried the offerings of 3 Floyds? My curated list of the best Michigan winter family vacations, brimming with details and insider tips, will help you navigate your options seamlessly. I use these questions to assess safety and cleanliness. Just a few hours from Michigan is the vibrant city of Louisville in Kentucky that is home to several amazing attractions. Are the premises clean and well-kept? What you will consider the best family-friendly Michigan winter vacation ideas, though, depends on what you want to do. Where can you find the next best thing to a northern European winter vacation? A town with heated sidewalks definitely has the right idea. Overview: This is a popular spot for honeymooners and other couples. This is the perfect winter getaway destination for those who prefer a taste of city life. You can end your journey in Bay City, or follow the Saginaw Bay coastline to explore things to do in Tawas City. Overview: Take a trip to Milwaukee. (Do a quick search on the following sites). The hotels kids club is also a haven of entertainment, where your kids can immerse themselves in a world of fun and imagination. When the weather is warm, area residents flock to the outdoor party destination. The main attraction in Thompsonville MI during the winter is Crystal Mountain, a resort with plenty of snow sports for families. Learn more. It features pools, hot tubs, and water rides and slides. If you head to Pittsburgh, you have to take a ride up Mount Washington on the Duquesne Incline or the Monongahela Incline. Indoor activities: Families can enjoy swimming in the indoor pool, dining at the on-site restaurants, or exploring the nearby attractions such as museums and shopping centers. Why it made our list: While Lake Geneva is packed with Chicagoans in summer, winter offers a whole other vibe. Sweeping views of the winter wonderland that will take your breath away. But you don't have to ski to enjoy Michigan winter to its fullest. Overview: Whether watching a race, visiting the museum or taking your turn driving around the track, this is the place for any racing fan. Notre Dame fans will enjoy checking out the campus and visiting the 125-year-old Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Alpena is called the Sanctuary of the Great Lakes, and for good reason. There are opportunities to go ice fishing on one of the many rivers and lakes or go skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and more at Cannonsburg Ski Area to the northeast or Millennium Park and Beach, one of the largest urban parks in the country, to the west. All rights reserved (About Us). Recommended Hotel: North Star Hotel Pictured Rocks, Related: Best Things to Do in The Upper Peninsula, MI, Holland, MI(800) 506-1299Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps. See our top 5 Things to do in Midland Michigan in winter! You could go ice skating or play ice hockey at Tawas Bay Ice Arena. Related: Best Places to Go in December in the USA, Munising, MI(906) 387-1717Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps, Part of Michigans Upper Peninsula, Munisings nickname is the snowmobile capital of the Midwest.. All you need to do is gather your friends and family, load up the car, and take the scenic route! For a slower pace, walk the cobblestone sidewalks while you shop downtown. Is there a kid-friendly menu available? Alongside these top winter vacation in Michigan spots, there are lots of other things to do in Michigan in winter, including the unique experience of a Polar Express train ride, during your Michigan weekend trips this winter. Many of the Traverse City wineries and breweries in Traverse City offer seasonal tastings and events, and the Great Wolf Lodge is an indoor water park with pools, slides, and rides for everyone. Highlights: Do it all! Milwaukee offers culture, nightlife, sporting events and more. Along the way youll get the chance to visit some of Michigans most beloved natural sites, including Presque Isle Park, Wagner Falls, and Au Train Beach. Head east from Michigan for an amazing road trip to the fascinating state of New York. The route follows the coastlines of Lake Huron and Saginaw Bay, offering breathtaking outlooks over the water. Higher cost: Families on a budget may find it more difficult to afford a winter vacation at this hotel compared to other options. Starting in Mackinaw City, a shoreside resort in Michigans Lower Peninsula, the trip crosses the Mackinac Bridge and hits some of the most scenic sites in the Upper Peninsula. Highlights: Indianapolis 500, Brickyard Vintage Racing Invitational, Grand Prix and more, Travel timefrom Grand Rapids: Roughly 4 hours. Yes, Michigan hosts several winter festivals and events, including the Winter Festival in Frankenmuth, the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, and the Winter Carnival in Houghton. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Howard Johnson by Wyndham Traverse City, Related: Best Places to Visit During Christmas in the USA, Grand Rapids, MI(616) 258-7388Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps. Moreover, the Bavarian Inn Restaurant & Lodge has a water park, arcade, and mini-golf course. It features views of rolling hills, farmland, and one-of-a-kind nature reserves, the most of which famous is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. For the more adventurous, elk viewing carriages and sleigh rides are the perfect way to spend snowy nights, and Alpena offers them both. As a travel enthusiast, I embarked on a mission to discover the very best destinations for families to enjoy during the snowy season.