Best Winter Activities in Traverse City
Up North and Away’s Favorite Winter Activities
Winter in Northern Michigan is truly special to experience. The city slows down, holiday lights go up and there is always a fresh covering of snow. There are countless holiday events, wintery activities, and drinks to warm you up. We know you'll cherish the magic of winter here in Traverse City as much as we do!
Winter Holiday Events in Downtown Traverse City
There are many annual holiday events hosted in Traverse City and the surrounding villages in the winter. Everything from local shopping events and tree lighting ceremonies to visits with Santa for the little ones and specialty warm cocktails for the adults. We recommend checking out what local events might be overlapping with your trip to TC.
Northern Michigan Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding
Northern Michigan is home to dozens of downhill ski resorts and we have several favorites. All of these offer equipment rentals, lessons, discounted specials, and runs of varying difficulties with chairlifts.
Favorite Overall: Crystal Mountain
Largest Ski Resort: Boyne Mountain Resort
Favorite in Traverse City: Holiday Hills
Best Terrain Park: Schuss Mountain at Shanty Creek Resort
Snowshoeing, Cross Country Skiing, and Fat Tire Biking
Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and fat tire biking are great ways to get some fresh air and experience our beautiful trail systems in the winter. Plus, they are great activities for all ages and experience levels. We have plenty of trails to explore and several places to rent equipment from in the area.
Winter Equipment Rentals:
Favorite Snowshoeing and Biking Trails:
Favorite Groomed Cross-Country Ski Trails:
Tubing Hills in Traverse City, Michigan
Snow tubing is a local favorite for all ages. Gather your friend group or the whole family for a tubing adventure filled with winter fun and laughs followed by a cup of cocoa around the fire and food back in the lodge. No skills or experience necessary!
Reservations required.
Sleigh rides around Northern Michigan
What better way to make memories with your loved ones than a sleigh ride through a winter wonderland? Traverse City and the surrounding area have several locations that offer horse-drawn sleigh rides for a romantic evening with your other half or a lifelong holiday memory with the whole family.
Reservations Required.
Snowmobiling Trails and Rentals in Grand Traverse County
Northern Michigan is home to a network of snowmobiling trails that cover hundreds of miles. Trails allow for a fun afternoon of snowmobiling in Traverse City or a trek all the way to the tip of the Lower Peninsula. Whether you’re bringing your own sleds or looking to rent for the day, this area is a hub that brings snowmobilers from all over the state.
Experience recommended
Rentals:
Trail Map:
Northern Michigan Wineries, Breweries, and Distilleries with Heated Outdoor Areas
Almost all of the local wineries breweries and distilleries are open year-round. Business hours might change a bit in the winter but the main tasting spaces are always a favorite for an afternoon activity. Many spots offer winter events, activities, or unique outdoor seating options in the winter. Here are some of our winter favorites around Traverse City and The Leelanau Peninsula.
Leelanau County’s Favorite Winter Hot Spots:
45 North Vineyard and Winery - Groomed Recreation Trail and Igloos
Hop Lot Brewing Co. - Heated Igloos
Black Star Farms in Suttons Bay - Snowshoeing and Heated Patio
Rove Estate - Snowshoe Trail and Fire Pits
Traverse City’s Best Winter Drink Spots:
Traverse City Whiskey Co. - Heated Patio and Fire Pits
The Filling Station Microbrewery - Heated Patio and Bar Enclosure
Silver Spruce Brewing Company - Covered Patio with Fire Pits
Black Star Farms on Old Mission Peninsula - Heated Patio
Winter Shopping in Northern Michigan
At the heart of downtown Traverse City is Front Street. In the summer it is bustling with beach-goers and families on vacation from all over the country but in the winter, it reverts back to a quaint, small town right out of a holiday movie. The historic buildings are covered in a fresh dusting of snow and the holiday lights and grand Christmas tree display light up the streets. It is the perfect place to find special gifts, tasty treats, and local goods while supporting small businesses in their slower season.
In addition to downtown, you'll find the spectacularly remodeled State Hospital now known as The Village at Grand Traverse Commons - equally cozy and magical as downtown TC in the winter. There, you can also find quaint shops for the perfect gifts or take in the beauty of the historic site this time of year.
Our Favorites Downtown Traverse City Shopping:
Our Favorites at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons:
800 Cottageview Dr, Traverse City, MI 49684
Moonstruck Gardens & Moonstruck Conservatory - Suite 40 and Suite 64
High Five Threads - Suite 35
Sanctuary Goods - Suite 50
Premier Floral Design & Gift Emporium - Suite 55
