These Towns in the Great Lakes Come Alive in Winter
Take a break and explore these winter wonderlands on the shores of the Great Lakes. These festive towns and natural landscapes look best under blankets of snow. Experience the ice Caves of Munising, Michigan, while witnessing the natural beauty it has to offer. These destinations have festive village scenes, outdoor adventures, and holiday cheer. Whether you are drawn to the thrill of dog sledding or the peacefulness of snowshoeing, there is something for everyone within these Great Lake towns that comes alive in the winter.
Kewaunee, Wisconsin
This beautiful lakeside town on the shores of Lake Michigan, formerly known by its ancient Menominee tribe name of Kewāneh, is a must-visit destination this upcoming winter. Despite being a smaller town, there is no shortage of winter activities. Explore the winter landscapes around Kewaunee by snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on the Ahnapee State Trail. The trail interconnects with numerous miles of skiing trails in Kewaunee County. The Winter Park Tubing and Ski Area is an excellent place for the family. Winter Park Ski Hill features a heated chalet, rental options, and five ski runs.
Stroll around the scenic lakefront, which features the Kewaunee Pierhead Lighthouse. This historical monument towers 43 feet above the waves of Lake Michigan. If visiting during the holiday season, partake in the "Walk of Lights," a designated pathway guiding you to some of Kewaunee's most festive and illuminated buildings.
Munising, Michigan
Winter is a magical time in Munising. When the snow begins, Munising transforms into a winter oasis on the shores of Lake Superior. Visit the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Cliffs to witness the cliffs create stunning views with snow and ice. You can explore the remainder of the park by snowshoeing, as Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers some of the best snowshoeing terrain in Michigan. Or experience the thrill of dog sledding through the winter landscapes. Several outfitters in the area offer guided dog sledding tours.
Featuring frozen waterfalls, forests, and snowy landscapes, Munising offers plenty of winter activities. For those seeking adventure, ice climbing is one of the most exciting pursuits. This area provides frozen waterfalls standing over 50 feet tall.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Mackinac Island transforms into a relaxed and charming destination during winter, decorated with snow-covered trees, historic structures, and stunning views of Lake Huron. Take time to enjoy the stillness of Mackinac Island during the winter months. Hike, snowshoe, and ski in Mackinac Island State Park. Forget cars. Snowmobiling is one of this island's most popular winter activities, and travelers will find numerous snowmobiles when walking around.
After a day in the snow, enjoy the charm of the island's past era with a horse-drawn carriage tour. There are a variety of guided tours, including historical and festive carriage rides during the winter months.
Grand Island, Michigan
This scenic island is situated on Lake Superior, just off the north shore of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, north of Munising. In the winter, Grand Island becomes a scenic wonderland. The icy shores of the island capture the Island's natural beauty during the winter months. A key attraction for the island during the winter is the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) during clear winter nights. These dazzling flashes of light dancing across the sky are Earth's greatest light show.
Explore the Island's Ice Caves. The cliffs and caves of the island are mesmerizing when encased in a layer of ice and snow. You will want to bring a camera as the island's natural beauty in winter is the ideal place for photos.
Ephraim, Wisconsin
The winter scenery in Ephraim looks like the setting of a Christmas movie. Take a walk through the festive village on the Door Peninsula in Wisconsin, on lake Michigan. The historic buildings and winter scenes become even more inviting when covered in a blanket of snow. Explore the nearby Peninsula State Park on the shores of Green Bay, which has beautiful snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails. The state park also has an outdoor skating area. If you're feeling a little cold, warm up with a cup of hot cocoa at one of the many vendors within the park. Eagle Harbor offers some of the best ice fishing in the world. There is no need to be an expert, as there are many local guides to help show you the ropes.
Ephraim also hosts a Christmas Market and parade during the holidays to help begin your holiday season.
Sheboygan, Wisconsin
Sheboygan, Wisconsin, on the shores of Lake Michigan, is a town that embraces winter festivities. You will find a small-town charm during the colder months. Sheboygan offers plenty of winter activities, from festive Christmas lights to winter exploration. During the winter season, every day is a great day to explore the Sheboygan Lakers Ice Center. Skate around the ice rink and feel like you are floating on ice. Strap on the snowshoes and visit Kohler Andrae State Park for a walk through the scenic wooded area.
During the holiday season, take a stroll through Evergreen Park and brighten your Christmas spirits during the holiday season. This illuminated wooded area offers a 1.1-mile route that is sure to be the most festive show in town.
Grand Marais, Minnesota
This community is known for its scenic views, small-town charm, and festive spirit on the northern shores of Lake Superior. Explore the quiet winter landscapes by hiking or snowshoeing on the various trails around Grand Marais. The most popular destination for these activities is Superior Hiking Trail. Explore the Superior Hiking Trail and witness a stunning view of Lake Superior from above on the Pincushion Mountain Overlook.
Another popular tourist attraction is Artist Point, offering a short hike and spectacular views of the harbor, lighthouse, and Lake Superior. The abundance of snow makes Grand Marais a snowmobiling destination. Layer up this winter, grab your winter gear and enjoy these awesome Grand Marais winter activities.
Frankenmuth, Michigan
Frankenmuth does not hibernate during winter; this small town has a big festive energy, just south of Bay City and the shores of Lake Huron's Saginaw Bay. Frankenmuth is home to the historic Zehnder's Snow Fest, which hosts ice sculpting events throughout the winter season. Explore the natural beauty of Frankenmuth's surroundings by hitting the cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. Zehnder Park is home to many nature trails through the snow-covered forests.
During the holiday months, enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride with the crisp winter air and the charm of the beautiful surroundings through snowy settings. Frankenmuth is also known for having the world's largest Christmas store. Bronner's is a year-round attraction; the winter season adds an extra layer of enchantment.
Do not miss out on the opportunity to escape to these winter wonderlands along the shores of the Great Lakes. The festive towns and natural landscapes genuinely bring out the beauty of winter. Layers of snow, ice sculptures, and peaceful views help to appreciate the colder months. Experiencing the ice caves of Munising, Michigan, to the serenity of Mackinac island's towering forests, is a way to enjoy each destination's innate beauty. Be sure to fill your thermos with hot cocoa and enjoy the festive village scenes, diverse outdoor adventures, and holiday cheer in these Great Lake towns.
