Winter in Traverse City, Michigan, might not be as popular as its summer season, but this picturesque city still holds its own charms. Known for its cherry blossoms, wineries, and beaches, Traverse City has something to offer during the colder months, too. From snowshoeing to cross-country skiing, there are exciting activities you can enjoy with your significant other. So grab your warmest coats and boots, and let’s explore the 7 top things to do in winter in Traverse City MI for couples!
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1. The Magic of Downtown Traverse City During Winter
With over 400 inches of annual snowfall, Traverse City is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. And if you’re not up for hitting the slopes, there are plenty of charming shops and local restaurants to explore in Downtown Traverse City.
The Magic of Downtown Traverse City During Winter is a spectacle to behold. As winter sweeps in, Traverse City transforms into a picturesque wonderland, with its charming downtown area adorned in a blanket of crisp, white snow. The bare trees become sparkling canvases as icicles hang like nature’s own ornaments, creating a serene, almost magical ambiance. The usually vibrant streetscape takes on a quieter, more tranquil persona, with the soft glow of streetlights bouncing off the snow, adding a warm, golden hue to the frosty setting.
It’s not uncommon to witness locals and tourists alike, wrapped in cozy layers, strolling around, indulging in hot cocoa from local cafés, or simply basking in the whimsical winter setting. This visual spectacle, coupled with the cordial Michigan hospitality, makes downtown Traverse City a must-visit destination during winter.
(Photo by West Michigan Woman Community.)
For those who prefer indoor activities, don’t worry – there’s still so much to do in this vibrant city during the colder months. From world-class art galleries and museums to cozy coffee shops and boozy brunch spots, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, with the holiday season in full swing, there are numerous festive events and markets to check out.
One of the most favorite indoor activities is exploring the city’s many art galleries. From contemporary masterpieces to classic pieces from renowned artists, you can spend hours getting lost in these creative spaces. And with a variety of exhibitions and installations on display throughout the year, there’s always something new and exciting to see.
For those looking for a more hands-on experience, why not try your hand at a pottery or painting class? Many local studios offer workshops for all levels – whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist. This is a great way to unleash your creativity while also learning something new.
2. Skiing and Snowboarding Opportunities
Traverse City turns into a haven for winter sports enthusiasts when the snow begins to fall. The city is the gateway to some of the best skiing and snowboarding opportunities in Michigan. Both novice and experienced thrill-seekers can head to the nearby slopes for an adrenaline-filled day.
Mt. Holiday, just a short drive from downtown, offers a variety of slopes to suit different skill levels. It also has a tubing park for those looking for a different kind of snowbound fun.
Photo: mt-holiday.com
For the more experienced, there’s Hickory Hills Ski Area with its eight runs, offering more challenging terrain. Whether you’re carving your first path down a beginner’s slope or tackling a black diamond run, the thrill of skiing or snowboarding against the backdrop of Traverse City’s stunning winter landscapes is an experience not to be missed.
Photo: IG: hickory_hills_official
3. Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing
For couples seeking adventure, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are two winter sports to try in Traverse City. Both activities offer a great workout while taking in the natural beauty of the city. There are many places you can enjoy these winter sports, including the Grand Traverse Commons, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and the VASA trail system.
Nordic Skiing at Hickory Hills:
“Hickory Hills has 5k+ hilly kilometers of beginner to advanced cross-country ski trails, as well as a 1k lighted cross-country loop for night skiing. Snowmaking and grooming operations have expanded and provide an exceptional Nordic experience. Cross-country ski rentals are now available at the lodge.
With a purchase of a season pass, Nordic skiers may enjoy the trails prior to the Hickory Hills lodge opening. Nordic skiers should be advised grooming will occur on these trails may occur during park hours.
Adjacent to Hickory Hills is Hickory Meadows, a mostly flat, multi-use 6k groomed trail. The trail is shared with walkers and snowshoes, and winter cyclists.” – Traversecitymi.gov
4. Wine Tasting
Traverse City is home to numerous wineries, and winter is a perfect time to visit them. Most wineries feature ice wines or dessert wines, which are perfect for sipping beside a cozy fireplace.
The gentle undulating hills surrounding Traverse City, shaped by retreating glaciers thousands of years ago, possess a unique allure as the initial snowflakes of winter gently descend. These slopes lovingly cradle the vines responsible for some of the finest wines in the Midwest. While the Traverse Wine Coast boasts nearly 50 esteemed wineries, its reputation extends beyond the realm of wine tasting. It’s an immersive encounter, especially during winter, where one can explore vineyards along cross-country ski trails, embark on snowshoe hikes, or even indulge in fat tire biking.
Some wineries also offer snowshoeing tours or sleigh rides through the vineyards, making for a romantic experience. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a unique winter activity, Traverse City’s wineries have something for everyone.
45 NORTH VINEYARD & WINERY
Explore the picturesque vineyard trails at 45 North Vineyard & Winery, freely accessible during regular business hours. These trails encompass 3 miles of meticulously groomed paths near the tasting room, perfect for cross-country skiing and fat tire biking enthusiasts. Additionally, there is an additional 1.6 miles exclusively reserved for snowshoeing. After your adventure, treat yourself to the delightful indulgence of mulled wine or cocoa, alongside savory soups and the timeless pleasure of roasting s’mores over a crackling fire.
AURORA CELLARS
Experience winter fun at Aurora Cellars with three loops ranging from a half-mile to a mile. Afterward, indulge in warmth by cozying up next to one of their outdoor stoves or treat yourself to a delectable warm lunch basket indoors.
BEL LAGO
Discover the enchantment of guided snowshoeing amidst Bel Lago’s picturesque vineyard at their North Farm location. After your exhilarating adventure, indulge in a delectable dinner served at the beautifully restored farmhouse on the property.
BLACK STAR FARMS, SUTTONS BAY
After a delightful winter hike through the enchanting forest at Black Star Farms, guests can warm up at the tasting room where they can indulge in the cozy ambiance of outdoor fire pits, a heated terrace, and delicious hot mulled wine. For those seeking to explore further, snowshoe and walking stick rentals are available to all winery guests from Christmas week through February. Inn guests, on the other hand, enjoy complimentary access throughout their stay. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and treat yourself to a truly memorable experience.
Added bonus: you have access to the TART trail system for more exploring!
BLUSTONE VINEYARDS
Blustone Vineyards earned recognition as one of the premier winter snowshoe trails in Leelanau County, securing its place in Traverse Magazine’s esteemed Red Hot Best contest. Notably, it was also crowned as the top winery in the county by the same reputable contest. This dual distinction presents a compelling motive to embark on the trail and indulge in a cozy post-trail warm-up.
BONOBO WINERY
Experience the beauty of Grand Traverse Bay at its finest while exploring Bonobo’s two miles of meticulously groomed trails that meander through the picturesque vineyards.
BRENGMAN BROTHERS
Brengman Brothers is an ideal destination for a delightful family outing, with its meticulously groomed 2.5k trails meandering through the vineyard. Bring your little ones along and make the most of the nearby sledding hill. And don’t forget to bring your four-legged companion too, as dogs are warmly welcomed on the trails (just ensure they remain leashed and outside the tasting room).
BRYS ESTATE
Discover two enchanting winter trails perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. These scenic paths wind their way from the tasting room, through the vineyard and Secret Garden, all the way to the charming farmhouse. At Brys Estate, you can warm up with a cup of hot spiked apple cider while gathering around the cozy outdoor fire pit. Although the trails are not groomed, feel free to bring your own gear and indulge in a delightful winter wine experience.
CHATEAU CHANTAL
Guests are warmly invited to bring their snowshoes and indulge in the delightful Founders’ Trail, offering both a ¾ mile and half-mile loop. The trail at Chateau Chantal graciously welcomes visitors during regular business hours. After relishing the trail, unwind by the cozy glow of one of our two interior fireplaces or bask in the cozy ambiance of our several outdoor firepits. All the while, sip on a sublime glass of wine or indulge in a decadent spiked hot cocoa.
FRENCH VALLEY VINEYARDS
Experience the ongoing winter adventure at French Valley Vineyards, offering 2.5 miles of meticulously groomed tracks for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. After an invigorating trail excursion, indulge in the cozy ambiance of our tasting room, where you can savor a delightful drink and delectable bites. Mark your calendars for January, as we’ll be treating you to live music every Thursday!
ROVE WINERY AT THE GALLAGHER ESTATE
Experience the beauty of Rove Winery at the Gallagher Estate with self-guided vineyard trails, perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. After a delightful winter afternoon, indulge in mulled red wine sangria by the outdoor fire pits. It’s a truly enchanting way to enjoy the season.
5. Relaxing Spa Day
After a day of outdoor activities, treat yourselves to a relaxing spa day. Traverse City has several spas that offer couples’ packages, including massages, facials, and other services. Popular Spas in the area include Crystal Mountain, Urban Oasis Salt Spa, Pavlova, Salon Coiffure, and Michalene.
6. Ice Skating
Lace up your skates and head to one of Traverse City’s outdoor ice rinks. The outdoor rinks offer a beautiful winter wonderland atmosphere, surrounded by lights, music, and good company. The ice rinks are open from January to March until 9pm, depending on the weather. There is no charge for use of these rinks.
Rink Locations
- 14th and Pine Street (Thirlby Field)
- State Street between Railroad and Hope (F&M Park – no warming house)
7. Snowmobiling
For couples who crave a little more excitement, snowmobiling might be the perfect winter activity. The Traverse City area is known for its extensive network of snowmobile trails, providing a wide array of sceneries from forests to open fields.
The snowmobiling community adores the picturesque trails surrounding Traverse City! Adorned with a soft, white blanket of snow, this region boasts gently sculpted hills and valleys that provide the perfect backdrop for thrilling winter adventures. With its diverse scenery, the trails meander through a variety of landscapes, including cozy tunnels nestled amidst towering evergreens, expansive groves of hardwood trees casting blue-shadowed sunlight, majestic ridges offering a vantage point for soaring eagles, and vast meadows overlooking distant glacial lakes. View the 7 Snowmobiling Locations Here.
Photo: Traversecity.com
The Ultimate Winter Bucket List for Couples in Traverse City, MI
Winter in Traverse City, MI might be cold, but it doesn’t mean you can’t have fun! From outdoor winter activities to indoor relaxation, there are many things to enjoy in this winter wonderland. Traverse City offers couples a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, and the chance to create unforgettable memories together. So don’t let the cold weather stop you, grab your loved one, and get ready for an exciting winter adventure in Traverse City, MI! Check our Urban Bay Escapes short term rental availability here!
