13 Unique Family-Friendly Michigan Winter Vacation Destinations
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Michigan winters are magical, and whether you’re a lifelong resident or just passing through, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season. From cozy indoor escapes to thrilling outdoor adventures, winter in Michigan has something for everyone.
When it comes to winter destinations, it’s hard to pick a bad spot. The best place for a family-friendly getaway really depends on what you’re looking for…
Do you love festive events? Head to Marquette’s winter wonderland, Petoskey’s decorated downtown, or Frankenmuth’s Bavarian charm.
Prefer outdoor adventures? You’ll find snow-covered trails, frozen waterfalls, and even ice caves scattered across the state.
Michigan’s winter offerings go beyond just the well-known spots, though. No matter where you go, the state is packed with unique experiences waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re chasing snowy landscapes, festive vibes, or just a quiet place to unwind, our guide to the best winter getaways for families will help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Family-Friendly Winter Destinations in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
When it comes to winter, there’s no better place to take a family vacation than the Upper Peninsula. This part of Michigan is (obviously) famous for being snowy because it gets up to 200 inches every year.
In fact, it’s won the title of “best snow destination in the U.S.” multiple years in a row!
Let’s take a look at these family-friendly destinations and winter resorts in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula…
Bessemer
Bessemer, Michigan, is a winter enthusiast’s paradise, offering a variety of activities for all ages. The town is home to two prominent ski resorts, each providing unique experiences.
Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort
On the western edge of Bessemer lies Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort, boasting 45 trails across 253 skiable acres. The resort caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels and features two terrain parks for those seeking freestyle challenges.
Beyond the slopes, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on nearby trails. The resort also offers a range of dining options, including the Caribou Restaurant & Bar and the Hideout Bar & Grill.
Snowriver Mountain Resort
To the east, Snowriver Mountain Resort encompasses two areas: Jackson Creek Summit and Black River Basin. Formerly known as Indianhead Mountain and Blackjack Mountain, respectively, these areas provide a combined total of 50 trails.
The resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and terrain parks, ensuring a variety of options for winter sports enthusiasts.
ABR Trails
For those looking to explore beyond the ski resorts, ABR Trails, located approximately 15 minutes southwest of Bessemer in Ironwood, offers over 92 kilometers of groomed trails suitable for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
The trails are maintained daily, ensuring excellent conditions for visitors. On-site accommodations include both luxury homes and rustic cabins, providing a comfortable stay amidst the serene winter landscape.
Marquette
Marquette, Michigan, is the perfect winter destination for families looking to embrace the season. Marquette Mountain Ski & Bike Area offers nearly two dozen trails for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, with one trail featuring an impressive 600-foot vertical drop—perfect for thrill-seekers.
Contrary to “popular” opinion, Marquette is NOT the worst place to live (or visit) in the winter!
Presque Isle Park
If you’re craving a more relaxed experience, head to Presque Isle Park, a 323-acre peninsula jutting into Lake Superior. In the winter, the park’s shoreline trails provide stunning views of icy Lake Superior, while its peaceful atmosphere is perfect for a winter picnic or a quiet walk.
Marquette Ore Docks
Marquette’s unique ore docks are a must-see. These towering structures, once essential for loading iron ore onto cargo ships, stand as symbols of the area’s mining heritage.
The ore dock near Presque Isle Park is still active, while the Lower Harbor Ore Dock downtown, retired in the 1960s, now serves as a striking reminder of the city’s industrial past.
Eben Ice Caves
For a magical winter adventure, visit the Eben Ice Caves southeast of Marquette. Located in the Rock River Canyon Wilderness of the Hiawatha National Forest, these natural ice formations are created as water seeps through the Rock River Gorge and freezes each winter.
A short hike through the snowy woods leads to these breathtaking frozen walls—an unforgettable sight for the whole family.
Munising
If snowmobiling is on your winter bucket list, Munising, Michigan, is the place to be. Known as the “Snowmobile Capital of the Midwest,” this Upper Peninsula gem offers incredible trails, including designated snowmobile routes through Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and across the frozen surface of Lake Superior.
Winter Adventures
Munising is also a hub for other winter activities. Whether it’s sledding, ice fishing, or exploring the trails at Valley Spur on skis or snowshoes, the area has something for every adventurer.
For thrill-seekers, the frozen waterfalls—such as Miners Falls, Munising Falls, and Wagner Falls—provide the perfect backdrop for ice climbing.
Winter in Munising wouldn’t be complete without a visit to its historic (and frozen) lighthouses. Many of them, including the Grand Island Harbor Rear Range Light, are accessible by snowmobile, making the journey to these picturesque landmarks an adventure in itself.
Paradise
Paradise, Michigan, is home to the stunning Tahquamenon Falls State Park, a must-visit destination year-round. In winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Don’t miss our winter guide to visiting Tahquamenon Falls!
Frozen Waterfalls
While the Upper Falls rarely freeze entirely due to their powerful flow, they often showcase impressive ice formations as temperatures drop. The Lower Falls typically freeze over by January, creating a serene and picturesque scene.
Winter Recreation
The park boasts over 35 miles of trails suitable for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Each winter, free guided snowshoe hikes are offered, some illuminated by lanterns for a magical evening experience.
Snowmobile enthusiasts can explore designated trails within the park, including Trail 45, also known as the Charcoal Grade Trail, which connects to the M-123 Scenic Byway.
Winter Camping
For those seeking an overnight adventure, the Hemlock Campground near the Lower Falls remains open year-round. Approximately 25 sites are kept clear of snow and feature electricity, picnic tables, and fire rings.
Vault toilets are available, and a water source is nearby. Campers are advised to reserve their sites in advance to ensure availability.
Before your visit, it’s recommended to check the latest weather conditions and park updates to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island may be known as a summer retreat, but it transforms into a cozy and peaceful winter escape. With fewer visitors, the island’s charming streets and stunning scenery become the perfect backdrop for a relaxed family getaway.
During the winter, you can explore tranquil trails that offer breathtaking views of Lake Huron, the Straits of Mackinac, and the island’s iconic Victorian homes. Winter activities add to the magic, including snow golf, bonfires, sledding, and even horse-drawn carriage rides, which evoke a true winter wonderland vibe.
Related: 7 Best Tips for Enjoying Mackinac Island in the Winter This Year
Mackinac Island also hosts special winter events, and the slower pace of the season allows for a more intimate experience of its timeless beauty. Whether you’re strolling the quiet streets or sipping hot cocoa by a fire, Mackinac Island in winter is a serene getaway like no other.
Best “Up North” Winter Getaways in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula
Boyne Falls
Boyne Falls is home to Boyne Mountain Resort, one of the largest and most popular winter destinations in Northern Michigan. This all-in-one resort is the perfect spot for families, offering a variety of outdoor and indoor activities to keep everyone entertained.
Winter Adventures for All Ages
Boyne Mountain Resort is a dream for snow sports enthusiasts. With 60 trails spread across 415 skiable acres, the resort caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
If you’re looking for something unique, try fat tire snow biking or SNO-GO biking, which combine biking with the thrill of winter sports.
For a more laid-back activity, snow tubing offers a fun and easy way to enjoy the slopes, while the resort’s dedicated cross-country ski trails provide a peaceful escape into the surrounding forests.
Thrill-seekers can enjoy the Zipline Adventure, which offers breathtaking views of the snowy landscape, or ice skate on the resort’s outdoor rink.
Even horseback riding is an option during the winter, allowing guests to experience the serene beauty of the area from a new perspective.
Indoor Fun at Avalanche Bay Waterpark
For a break from the cold, head indoors to Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark, the largest of its kind in Michigan.
Spanning 88,000 square feet, this waterpark features exciting attractions like waterslides, a lazy river, and the Rip Zone surf simulator. There’s also a kids’ pool and a relaxing hot tub area for adults.
The on-site arcade adds even more entertainment options for families, making it easy to spend an entire day indoors without running out of things to do.
Dining, Shopping, and Accommodations
Boyne Mountain Resort offers a variety of lodging options, from cozy rooms in the Clock Tower Lodge to luxurious condos and cabins. Dining choices are equally diverse, with several restaurants serving everything from casual fare to fine dining.
After a day on the slopes or in the waterpark, guests can explore the resort’s shops for unique souvenirs or winter gear.
Traverse City
During the winter, Traverse City embraces the season with festive cheer and endless opportunities for fun. The city comes alive in December with holiday events and twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors of all ages.
Many of the area’s wineries and breweries offer seasonal tastings and special events, giving adults the chance to sip on mulled wine or sample winter ales while soaking in the beauty of the snow-covered landscape.
Great Wolf Lodge
For family fun, the Great Wolf Lodge is a must-visit. This indoor waterpark features thrilling water slides, wave pools, and plenty of activities to keep kids entertained for hours.
It’s the perfect escape from the winter chill and a hit for families looking to balance outdoor adventures with cozy indoor fun.
Related: I Took My Family of 7 to Great Wolf Lodge… Here’s My Honest Review.
Outdoor Adventures in the Snow
Traverse City is a hub for winter sports enthusiasts. At Hickory Hills Ski Area and Mount Holiday, you can hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing.
For something a little different, zip-lining over the snowy treetops is a unique way to take in the scenic views of the region.
Local parks also offer plenty of space for sledding and other classic winter pastimes, making it easy to find an activity for every age and skill level.
Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes in Winter
Just a short drive from Traverse City, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers a stunning winter escape. The snow-covered dunes and quiet trails create a serene landscape perfect for hiking or snowshoeing.
Thompsonville
Thompsonville, Michigan, transforms into a winter haven thanks to Crystal Mountain, a four-season resort offering a wide variety of activities for families.
Beyond traditional snow sports like skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing, visitors can enjoy unique experiences such as snowshoeing, fat tire snow biking, and ice skating.
Crystal Mountain stands out with its winter archery, outdoor laser tag, and scenic carriage rides pulled by Belgian horses, creating memorable adventures for all ages. For those seeking relaxation, the resort’s spa and wellness center provides the perfect escape from the winter chill.
Nearby, the Michigan Legacy Art Park adds a touch of culture and history to the trip. Spanning 30 acres, this preserve features over 50 sculptures and poetry stones, each telling a story about Michigan’s rich past, all displayed in a snow-covered wooded setting.
East Tawas
East Tawas, situated along the shores of Lake Huron, is a hidden gem for winter getaways in Northern Michigan. This charming city offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
At Tawas Bay Ice Arena, you can lace up your skates for a session of ice skating or even join in a game of ice hockey.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Corsair Trail and Highbanks River Trail in the Huron National Forest provide excellent opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other snow sports through scenic, snowy landscapes.
Tawas Point State Park adds to the adventure with cross-country skiing, hiking, and even winter camping for those looking to fully embrace the season.
If you need gear for your winter excursions, Nordic Sports in town has everything you’ll need to make the most of your time in this serene winter destination.
Best Mid-Michigan Winter Destinations for Families
Frankenmuth
Frankenmuth offers a unique blend of Bavarian charm and indoor fun, making it an ideal winter destination for families who prefer to stay warm.
Known as Little Bavaria, the city is home to Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store. Spanning 320,000 square feet, this holiday wonderland is filled with decorations, gifts, and festive events throughout December.
Families can also enjoy interactive entertainment at the Great Lakes Escape Game, dive into local history at the Frankenmuth Historical Museum, or splash away at Zehnder’s Splash Village, a water park with slides and pools for all ages.
The Bavarian Inn Restaurant & Lodge adds even more to the experience, offering a water park, arcade, and mini-golf. With so much to do, Frankenmuth makes winter feel festive, fun, and full of Bavarian charm.
Lansing
Spending winter in Lansing offers plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to keep your family entertained and the winter blues at bay.
At the Michigan History Center, you can dive into the state’s culture and history with engaging exhibits, while the Impression 5 Science Center offers hands-on science fun for kids and adults alike.
Outdoors, Hawk Island Park is perfect for snow tubing, and Potter Park Zoo adds a magical touch with its winter wonderland lights and animal exhibits.
Just a short drive away in East Lansing, you can lace up your skates at Munn Ice Arena on the Michigan State University campus for a classic winter experience.
Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids, Michigan’s second-largest city, is a fantastic winter destination for families seeking a mix of outdoor fun and indoor attractions.
Cold Activities
One of the most popular activities downtown is ice skating at Rosa Parks Circle, an outdoor rink that combines winter charm with a scenic urban backdrop. For those who prefer skating indoors, Griff’s Icehouse offers a welcoming environment for all skill levels.
Just outside the city, Cannonsburg Ski Area is a favorite spot for skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. Families looking for serene winter landscapes can explore cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails at Blandford Nature Center or Pigeon Creek Park, where the quiet beauty of snow-covered paths creates a peaceful winter escape.
Indoor Things to Do
The Grand Rapids Public Museum provides an engaging way to explore the region’s history and culture through interactive exhibits and hands-on displays. Art lovers can visit the Grand Rapids Art Museum, home to an impressive collection of classic and contemporary works in a sleek, modern setting.
Families with young children will love the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, where interactive exhibits inspire creativity and learning through play. For a more high-energy indoor experience, Craig’s Cruisers Family Fun Center is perfect, with activities like go-karting, laser tag, and arcade games.
World of Winter
One of the winter highlights in Grand Rapids is the annual World of Winter Festival, which runs from early January through early March. This festival transforms downtown into a dazzling display of art and light installations, many of which are interactive and family-friendly.
With over 100 unique art pieces scattered throughout the city, live performances, and activities designed to encourage people to embrace the cold weather, the World of Winter Festival is a truly magical experience. Many events and installations are free, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re exploring illuminated sculptures along the Grand River or attending a pop-up performance, the festival brings warmth and vibrancy to Michigan’s chilly season.
Holland
On the shores of Lake Macatawa, Holland is a delightful Dutch-inspired town brimming with family-friendly winter activities.
Outdoor Fun
Outdoor enthusiasts will find over 1,800 acres of parks perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat-tire snow biking.
Riley Trails Park offers peaceful wooded paths, while the Mount Pisgah Dune Climb and Boardwalk provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, making it a favorite for visitors of all ages.
For those who enjoy a more serene outing, Sanctuary Woods Preserve features scenic trails ideal for exploring nature during the quieter winter months.
Indoor Attractions
If you’re looking to stay warm indoors, the Holland Community Aquatic Center offers fun for the entire family. With water slides, a zip line, water cannons, and diving boards, it’s a vibrant escape from the chilly weather.
For a more relaxed activity, downtown Holland invites visitors to stroll its charming cobblestone sidewalks, lined with unique shops and cozy cafés. The snowmelt system under the streets and sidewalks ensures your shopping experience remains comfortable even during the winter months.
Holiday Spirit
From November through January, Holland truly shines with its Dutch WinterFest and holiday celebrations. These festive events include holiday markets, light displays, and family-friendly activities that fill the town with seasonal cheer.
Whether you’re enjoying the crisp outdoor air or indulging in indoor fun, Holland offers a magical winter experience for families to cherish.
Explore Michigan as a Family This Winter
Michigan has plenty of family-friendly spots to explore this winter, so get going, and plan your next cold-weather getaway and beat the winter blues!