Top Things to do in Michigan During Winter

In my opinion, winter is one of the most underrated seasons in Michigan. If you know where to look, and don't mind bundling up, there is so much fun to be had outdoors during the snowy season. And often you'll find there are far fewer crowds and people traveling this time of year which makes discovering the hidden gems more enjoyable. Below are a few of my favorite adventures throughout the years. You can also check out my list of highly recommended winter gear to help you stay warm and dry. 

​Disclosure: Some links below are affiliate links which means I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

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Hop Lot Igloo Village

Hop Lot Brewing Company in Suttons Bay has the dreamiest set up nestled in the forest that truly feels like a winter wonderland. You can book an igloo online for 75 minutes with up to 8 friends and sip on beer, wine, cider and a full menu of yummy food! Each igloo has their own heater so you will stay cozy and warm. Or you can enjoy a drink and roast a s'more at the outdoor fire pits.

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Snow Tubing at Mt. Holiday

What better way to get out and enjoy the season than by flying down a hill of snow at up to 30 mph?! Mt. Holiday is located in Traverse City and offers fun for all ages and is a great activity for bigger groups as you can sled down the hill connected to your friends' tubes for added speed. Tickets must be booked online for a two hour window at $15 per person. Mt. Holiday is also a smaller ski resort with multiple runs (weather dependent). ​

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CAndle Light HIke at Mt. McSauba

Mt. McSauba in Charlevoix is a winter recreation playground for all ages. In addition to a small ski slope you'll also have access to an ice rink, sledding hill, and cross country ski trails. Every Friday from 5-8 p.m. you can also enjoy a candlelight hike (and catch a gorgeous sunset if you arrive at the right time). The 1-mile loop trail is beautifully lit and will take you along the lakeshore, over the dunes, and through the forest. Warm up with a glass of hot chocolate at the end. The trail is self-guided so you can go at your own pace. There was only moderate elevation making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. ​

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Skybridge at Boyne Mountain

Located about 30 minutes outside of downtown Charlevoix, this is a great stop to make on your way in or out of town. The Skybridge opened at Boyne Mountain in 2022 and holds the claim to fame as the world's longest timber-towered suspension bridge at 1,200 feet long and 118 feet high. The bridge is open in all seasons so you can come back again and again for a different adventure. It was so neat to visit in the winter and watch the skiers pass by  below (be sure to look down when you pass over the glass floor if you're brave enough!) If you're not skiing, you can purchase a separate ticket for the bridge and take a ski lift to the top. After you cross the bridge warm up by the fire pits or grab a snack at the food truck. ​They also cover the bridge in twinkling lights which makes it even more magical in the winter.

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Basecamp at Iron Fish Distillery

Visit Basecamp at Iron Fish Distillery in Thompsonville to have dinner and drinks in a cozy heated bell tent. You can reserve one of their tents online for 90 minutes and enjoy hand crafted cocktails and wood-fired pizza. I had the Martha’s Mule paired with the creamy spinach and bacon dip and Iron Field pizza with elk sausage - yum! Fun fact: each one of the tents is named after fish found in northern Michigan lakes and rivers. 

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Muskegon Luge Adventure Park

This winter sports park is home to one of only four luge tracks in the United States and offers 2.5 hour "Learn to Luge" classes where participants can race down the track reaching speeds of up to 30 mph. You can also skate through the forest on their ice skating ribbon and snowshoe and cross country ski on miles of groomed trails. ​If you're interested in trying luge be sure to book in advance as the slots do sell out quick. Gear for the other activities can be rented on site day of.

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Winter Rafting on the East Jordan River

Winter rafting trips are hosted by Jordan Valley Outfitters and include a scenic two hour float down the East Jordan River. You will definitely want to book in advance on their website to ensure you secure your spot as these trips tend to book up fast especially on the weekends. You'll start your adventure at the Jordan Valley Outfitters headquarters (311 N Lake St, East Jordan, MI 49727) where you'll check in and then board a bus to take a short drive to where you'll launch your raft into the water. The tour company provides all the gear you need for your trip including life jackets and paddles. You don't really have to worry about getting wet or falling in - it's a very peaceful float down the river with scenic views and the chance to spot some wildlife. You will also have a chance to stop and get out to enjoy hot chocolate and take some photos on the riverbank. 

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Tobogganing at Echo Valley

Enjoy the ultimate winter thrill at Echo Valley near Kalamazoo. Fly down the toboggan hill reaching speeds of up to 60 mph on their all-season sledding surface. When you reach the bottom the staff will send your toboggan back up to the top so you don't have to worry about carrying it. They also offer a snow tubing hill here and you can purchase a day pass for $20 which includes unlimited rides on both attractions. 

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Play River Rocks

River St. Joe is a farmstead brewery in Buchanan, Michigan. They offer a variety of craft beer, cider, and non-alcoholic sodas on tap. In the winter they transform their bocce ball lanes into a fun game coined "River Rocks" which is a mix between curling and shuffleboard. You push the curling stones with a broom and score points for landing them closest to the target. You can rent a lane by the hour and it's a great activity for groups of 4-6. You can drink while you play or sip by the cozy fire pits outside. 

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World of Winter

The largest winter festival in the United States occurs annually in Grand Rapids, Michigan. World of Winter is taking place from January 10 to March 2, 2025 and features over 150 art installations, events, live performances and ice sculptures. This best part it's free to walk around and explore and fun for all ages. Many of the installations incorporate light and sound and are interactive. See full schedule here. 

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Downhill Skiing

No winter season in Michigan is complete without hitting the slopes - or just enjoying a little apres ski if that's more your style. Michigan is home to several amazing ski resorts each with their own unique flare. A few of our favorites we've visited over the years are Nubs Nob, Crystal Mountain, Boyne Mountain and The Highlands. Many of the resorts offer lodging as well as family friendly activities throughout the season. 

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