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Romantic Winter Things to Do in Michigan | Date Ideas, Weekend Getaways, and More

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The majority of couples end up staying at home more often during the winter. Although ordering food and watching a movie make for a fun date night, doing the same thing all the time can get boring.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Michigan for couples, fortunately, you can spice up your days, evenings, or entire weekends with our picks for the best romantic winter things to do in Michigan.

We challenge you to go above and beyond this year by surprising your date with something as unique as your love! Wherever your destination ends, it should begin with a breathtaking winter scenic drive.

romantic winter getaways in michigan

Romantic Winter Getaways and Day Trips in the Upper Peninsula

If you’re wondering “where can I go for a romantic weekend in Michigan,” we have you covered with a list of romantic winter things to do in Michigan. Although it is a popular destination in the summer, an Upper Peninsula winter road trip is no less an adventure.

It might be colder and it might be snowier, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less beautiful. Here are some ideas for romantic winter getaways in the Upper Peninsula.

Copper Harbor

From a rugged shoreline along Lake Superior to the top of Brockway Mountain, Copper Harbor offers one of the best romantic getaways in Michigan. The harbor deck gives you a wonderful view of Copper Harbor Lighthouse.

In addition to breathtaking beauty, the winter solitude makes this town a relaxing escape.

Lac La Belle

A winter cabin in Lac La Belle is a perfect way to relax and enjoy much-needed time together. Instead of going out to eat, this is your opportunity to cook your significant other’s favorite meal, and ditch the television for some board games or cards.

Also, during the day, you both can look into renting snowmobiles and head out onto the best Michigan snowmobile trails near your cabin. Mount Bohemia has snowmobiling, skiing, and more. Just be sure to dress warm!

Houghton

Michigan Tech’s Winter Carnival in Houghton is a great place to take a date with snow and ice carvings, plays, a ball, a beauty pageant, and sporting events.

The city is also a great place to grab pasties for dinner and buy a carton of ice cream to feast on in your hotel room or cabin rental at the end of a long day.

Munising

Whether you’re looking for day trips, weekend getaways, or fun date ideas in Michigan in winter, Munising has it all. The main attraction is the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, which has tons of hiking trails and several frozen waterfalls.

However, a few other places nearby have trails and frozen waterfalls too. And, I highly recommend visiting the Eben Ice Caves. On top of that, the city attracts internationally renowned ice climbers for Michigan Ice Fest.

Paradise

Located north of Mackinac Bridge, Paradise is known for Tahquamenon Falls State Park. It’s the ideal day trip destination if you want to visit a massive frozen waterfall or walk snowy trails hand in hand.

Mackinac Island

A short ferry ride from either end of Mackinac Bridge will take you to Mackinac Island, the “Jewel of the Great Lakes.”

Believe it or not, the island is one of the top winter weekend getaways Michigan offers. You can enjoy romantic horse-drawn carriage rides in the snow, decadent fudge, and unforgettable sunsets.

Don’t forget to spend some time on the snow-covered beaches of Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and/or Lake Huron while you’re in the Upper Peninsula. The only things more magical than frozen Michigan lakes are Michigan lighthouses in winter!

romantic winter date ideas in michigan

Northern Michigan Winter Things to Do for Couples

Northern Michigan is full of romantic fun activities in the winter for couples to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a few hours of romance, a romantic day trip, or a weekend-long getaway to reconnect, there are lots of great date night ideas in winter in Northern Michigan.

Mackinaw City

At the most northern tip of the lower peninsula, Mackinaw City is a hub for numerous romantic things to do in Michigan in winter.

The Straits of Mackinac, which are beautiful during the icy season, are only one of the attractions here. Stopping in Mackinaw City before entering the Upper Peninsula gives you a unique perspective of Mackinac Bridge covered in ice.

Many of the city’s hotels offer views of the Straits, and many restaurants serve cozy comfort foods. The city has a lot of unique attractions and live entertainment too.

The Petoskey Area

Several winter weekend getaways for couples are available in the Petoskey Area, which includes five resort communities — Alanson, Bay Harbor, Boyne City, Harbor Springs, and Petoskey.

The region has some of the best snow sports, and the Inn at Bay Harbor offers comfortable accommodations, dining, and other resort amenities.

However, nothing quite says adventure like bolting through snow-covered trees on a sled pulled by dogs. Winter resorts in Michigan like Boyne Mountain offer dog sled activities where you will not only feel the thrill of the ride, but afterward, you get to cuddle all of the adorable, fluffy snow dogs.

Then, you can head out on the Boyne Mountain slopes for some night skiing or snowboarding before grabbing dinner at a local restaurant in nearby Petoskey. Even if it’s not a romantic candle-lit dinner, you’ll both be starving for a big meal after all that activity!

Charlevoix

As a favorite winter weekend getaway in Michigan, Charlevoix is rich in historic architecture. The Earl Young Mushroom Houses could be one of the most unusual accommodations that you’ve ever stayed in.

The downtown area features boutique shops and world-class restaurants, and the Charlevoix South Pier Light Station is a great place for romantic photos during sunset.

Traverse City

For winter weekend getaways in Michigan for couples, look no further than Traverse City. Aside from hotels and resorts, there are Airbnbs in Traverse City to fit any budget.

Whether you watch a movie at Bijou by the Bay or the State Theatre or take a winery tour along the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas, there are plenty of unique and romantic things to do in Traverse City during winter.

romantic spots in michigan in winter

Winter Day Trips and Weekend Getaways in West Michigan

Are you looking for fun things to do for couples this winter in West Michigan? Here are a few of our favorite winter date ideas along the west coast of the state.

Grand Rapids

As the second-largest city in Michigan, Grand Rapids is always bustling and has a dazzling charm during the winter, making Grand Rapids a perfect winter getaway for couples.

You can warm up at a local Grand Rapids brewery, soak up some history at a museum in Grand Rapids, or dance to live music. If you like to get pampered, Amway Grand Plaza is the premier luxury hotel in West Michigan.

Holland

With a quaint community, Holland Michigan has a unique downtown area with heated sidewalks. Because of that, you can walk around and visit the shops without worrying about snow or ice.

Although many people list the town as one of the top romantic Michigan day trips in winter, there’s plenty to do for a full weekend. For instance, you can stroll on the frozen beach at Holland State Park.

A park may seem dull in the winter, but it’s only dull if you let it be so. If you leave your phones in the car and spend quality time catching up, it will surely have a lasting impact.

Romantic winter things to do in Michigan parks: Building a snowman, having a snowball fight, climbing a tree, or swinging on the swings. Unlike in warm weather, you’ll might have the entire place to yourselves, so you get to be as crazy, goofy, and lovey-dovey as you wish!

Allegan

Even though it’s known as an area for hunting, fishing, hiking, and the like, Allegan has several romantic things to do in Michigan in winter. For example, you can walk the historic streets, and listen to live music at the riverfront gazebo.

For accommodations, stay at one of the most delightful bed-and-breakfasts in the state — Castle in the Country — which has whirlpool tubs to make you forget about the cold.

St. Joseph

A slew of winter date ideas in Michigan awaits in St. Joseph and the surrounding area. If you’re adventurous, you can go to Warren Dunes State Park for snow sledding and tubing.

The John and Dede Howard Ice Arena offers ice skating, a concession stand with hot cocoa, and a fireplace. Another romantic winter date idea in St. Joseph is to watch the sunset from the bluff.

things to do in winter in michigan for couples

Mid-Michigan Romantic Winter Things to Do

While seemingly sparse in population, Mid-Michigan is the perfect place for a romantic winter getaway. There are so many fun winter activities that will help you bond and grow as a couple in this beautiful part of our state.

Here are a few of our favorite romantic spots for getaways and winter date ideas in Mid-Michigan.

Harrison

Located within 20 minutes of 20 lakes, Harrison is a popular destination in the summer. However, its large amount of land makes it a great place for romantic getaways in Michigan during the winter as well.

One fun romantic date night idea in Mid-Michigan is to enjoy night-time snow tubing at Snow Snake Ski and Golf resort. Lifts take you up the hill, and a worker pushes you from the top to increase your speed and maximize the fun.

You can buy a snow tubing pass and spend all day and into the night sliding around on your tube and laughing together. You’ll also find unique dining and entertainment in Harrison’s historic downtown area.

Midland

If you’re interested in romantic outdoor walks, Midland certainly has you covered. The area offers 11 miles of hiking trails, which are open year-round and can be perfect for activities like snowshoeing. Also, Dow Gardens is a 110-acre botanical utopia during the winter.

At Midland City Forest, you can go hiking as well as sledding, tobogganing, and ice skating. At night, the park is lit up and makes for a perfect romantic getaway filled with fun.

A chalet in the Midland park is equipped with a beautiful stone fireplace and offers hot chocolate and a window to watch all of the outdoor action while warming up on your break. Afterward, stay at The H Hotel, which offers romantic dinners and luxurious rooms.

Frankenmuth

Nearly every list of winter weekend getaways Michigan offers includes Frankenmuth because it’s a Bavarian wonderland. No matter the season, this Little Bavaria promises to help you create unforgettable memories.

Rich culture, historical beauty, eclectic shopping, and delightful food are all here. The Bavarian Inn Lodge and Marv Herzog Hotel are two of its most popular hotels.

Lansing

Despite being the capital of Michigan, Lansing features the amenities of a big city but the hospitality of a small town with many small towns in greater Lansing that are worth a visit. There are unique galleries, museums, and boutique shops to browse if you want to stay indoors.

If you like to enjoy the outdoors, consider snowshoeing or moonlight skiing at William M. Burchfield Park, where you can warm up by the lodge fire pit. Nothing quite says romance like cross country skiing in Michigan under the stars followed by roasting marshmallows!

Every year, the park creates its own Mid-Michigan cross-country skiing trail that is lined by small glow bulbs to light the way. It rents out everything that you need, from skis to boots, for a reasonable price.

romantic things to do in Michigan in winter

Day Trips and Winter Weekend Getaways for Couples in the Michigan Thumb

Don’t forget to explore The Thumb if you’re looking for Great Lakes romantic getaways this winter.

The east coast of Michigan has many great winter date ideas and romantic getaway options for couples — whether you’re looking for cheap romantic getaways in Michigan for couples or fun winter date ideas in Michigan.

Caseville

Along the shoreline of Lake Huron in The Thumb, Caseville has a few local attractions that are great romantic winter things to do in Michigan. Locals can visit Depner Farms for a memorable evening of choosing their Christmas trees.

The downtown area is full of one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants. If you want to walk on a frozen beach, check out Caseville County Park. Then, warm up with a home-brew at Thumb Brewery.

Port Austin

On the tip of The Thumb, Port Austin has a friendly atmosphere and rich history. This charming village features a picturesque rock formation called Turnip Rock, which you can only access via a romantic kayak or boat ride.

You can wine and dine at some amazing restaurants in town, and shop for unique, handcrafted items too. The Garfield Inn is a bed-and-breakfast with a rich history, great food, and comfortable rooms.

Marlette

Nestled in the heart of The Thumb, Marlette is one of the best cheap winter weekend getaways in Michigan for couples. Although this community is small, it has wonderful gift shops and friendly people. Its distance from the larger cities is what makes it so romantic.

If you want to stay for longer than a day trip, A Dove Nest Bed and Breakfast is located on a wildlife preserve just 15 minutes away in Kingston.

Port Huron

Among the many romantic Michigan day trips in winter, a visit to Port Huron provides a quiet retreat. This quaint town is located on the St. Clair River on the most southeastern edge of The Thumb.

The historic streets create a perfect atmosphere for spending time together. Small restaurants and shops fill the renovated buildings. Also, there are several museums to explore.

winter date night ideas in michigan

Romantic Southcentral and Southeast Michigan Things to Do in Winter

If you’re looking for romantic winter date ideas in Central or Eastern Michigan south of I-94, there are a plethora of ideas to choose from.

Whether you are looking for outdoor winter date ideas or a romantic winter getaway with great food and entertainment, Southeast and Southcentral Michigan are great options for winter romance.

Jackson

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Jackson plays host to top fun winter date ideas in Michigan. As a destination, the city has the perfect balance of activities for day trips and weekend getaways as well.

Winter walks are beautiful when the landscape is similar to that in a Christmas movie, and a trail like the Falling Waters Trail in Jackson fits the bill. It’s a nice step away from reality for both of you.

On top of that, you can experience the history, arts, and culture of the area, as well as ski the best trails in Jackson Michigan, watch an amateur hockey game, and taste award-winning wines — all within the immediate vicinity.

Chelsea

Despite its small size, Chelsea has the nightlife of a big city with several fine dining restaurants and theatres. The Purple Rose Theatre Company houses the Garage Theatre, which is one of the best places in Michigan for theatre productions. More theatre companies are located in neighboring Dexter.

Additionally, Chelsea has a few coffee houses, designer clothing boutiques, antique and collectible shops, and custom jewelry stores.

Ann Arbor

Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor is a lively university town with romantic winter things to do in Michigan. Downtown is very walkable and features some of the best nightlife, culinary arts, music, and events in the state.

Some special date, day trip, and weekend getaway ideas include escaping the game Decode, laughing at the Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase or the Pointless Brewery & Theatre, and baking at Zingerman’s Bakehouse.

Detroit

With tons of fun winter date ideas in Michigan, Detroit is the ultimate day trip or weekend getaway destination. The shopping districts, cultural attractions, boutique hotels, innovative restaurants, and theaters will keep you busy.

Downtown Detroit never slows down, and the Detroit International Riverwalk is especially romantic and stretches for more than 3 miles.

Also, Belle Isle Park is an island with a plethora of attractions, including a conservatory, aquarium, and zoo. If the weather has been cold enough, many people use the waterways within Belle Isle to go ice skating. It might not be your normal rink, but that’s what makes it fun!

If you like video games, play some retro titles at Ready Player One. Campus Martius is always a great place to check out too, with an ice skating rink, lights, and a great restaurant. Or, you could head to Greektown or Corktown for a delicious meal together.

Michigan Has Much More to Do in Winter

These are just a few of the romantic things that you can find in Michigan in winter. For more ideas, check out our winter activities in Michigan for the whole family. Also, share your favorite romantic things to do during the winter and preferred Michigan winter towns in the comments below.

2 Comments

  1. It’s a shame you completely overlooked the northeast area of northern lower Michigan. The Alpena area to Gaylord has SO much to see and do for couples. It’s one of the U.P. and coming areas of our state and becoming more popular by the day!

  2. Check out the Valentine House in Marshall Michigan ❣️ It’s lit up at night and truly worth seeing ❣️💖❤️♥️💗

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