Winter Wonders in Traverse City: 10 Fun Activities the Whole Family will Love

The winter season in Traverse City can be cold, but it’s also full of things to do outside if you know where to look. From sledding, to ice fishing and cross country skiing, there’s plenty of fun activities the whole family will love no matter what age you are! Here are 10 fun activities to enjoy this winter season in Traverse City, Michigan!

1) Holiday Festivities

With a variety of events, winter is an exciting time of year in Traverse City. There are many family activities to enjoy during this season! Visit Santa Downtown (or even ski with him!), check out some live theatre productions or concerts at local venues, or try something new like the Jingle Bell Run. There's also a New Years Eve CherryT Ball Drop downtown at midnight that you won't want to miss!

2) Cross Country Skiing or Snowshoweing

Cross country skiing and snowshoeing are both excellent ways to explore the winter woods. If you're not skilled enough to ski, you can always rent a pair of skis or snowshoes and learn how! The best part about these activities is that anyone can do them, regardless of their age or skill level. And because they're so low-impact, you'll be able to enjoy your day out on the trails for as long as you want.

3) Shopping in Traverse City (Downtown and Building 50!)

One of our favorite things to do during the winter is walk around and shop at Building 50 in the Commons of Traverse City. There are great stores, coffee shops, and restaurants to choose from! Plus, there are always holiday events happening throughout December.

Also be sure to check out the Downtown Traverse City website for a list of events happening this month downtown TC. You can also find other things to do, such as men's and women's holiday shopping nights, (and local craft shows!,) on their Events Calendar.

4) Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding

Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding is a great way to enjoy time with your family this winter. Whether you're new to winter sports or have been going for years, Hickory Hills or Mt. Holiday Resorts offers a variety of slopes for every level of experience and ability. Nearby Crystal Mountain Resort offers a full-service ski school that teaches both adults and children how to ski or snowboard from the basics, like getting on and off the chairlift, all the way up to more advanced turns and techniques.

5) Go Sledding & Tubing

Sledding and Tubing are favorite family winter activities in Traverse City, Michigan. It is easy to find hills in our area that are perfect for sledding, and there are several places where you can rent a tube. You can even ride a lift up the hill for an even easier adventure of tubing all day long at Timberlee Hills. Just make sure to dress warmly and enjoy this time of year!

6) Visit a Lighthouse

If you're looking for a great place to visit this winter, head up to Mission Point Lighthouse at the tip of Old Mission Peninsula. This is one of our favorite places to visit during the winter as there are beautiful views and plenty of things to do. Whether you want to go on an adventure with your family or just enjoy some peace and solitude, this is a great place to spend time during the winter months. If you want to go in the other direction, head out for a day trip to the Grand Traverse Lighthouse at the tip of Leelanau Peninsula

7) Visit Old Mission Peninsula Wineries

Old Mission Peninsula wineries are the perfect places to visit if you are looking for a winter activity. The wineries are located close together so you can go on a self-guided tour of several wineries in one trip. You can even stop at some of the stores to pick up souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home. It's a little far from downtown, but it is well worth visiting during your stay in Traverse City.

8) Ice Fishing

Another fun winter activity to enjoy as a family in Traverse City is ice fishing, because of all of the lakes in the area. It's a great family activity and provides a chance for everyone to get outdoors. You can choose to fish on your own or go with a group, so you're guaranteed to make some new friends! There are also places that offer equipment rentals if you don't have any of your own, and they'll teach you how to use it so you won't be left out of the fun.

9) Hot Chocolate In Front of a Fireplace

The perfect activity to do with your kids on a winter's night is to have some hot chocolate with marshmallows and try it sitting by a fireplace. Find a big blanket and cozy up next to someone you love and enjoy this time together. In Traverse City, there are many restaurants that offer fireside seating, or this could be as easy as ordering take-out and staying warm inside.

10) See A Movie At The State Theatre Downtown

The State Theatre is an iconic landmark of Downtown Traverse City and a host of the many Winter Events in Traverse City. They show a variety of films, concerts, lectures and other special events all year long. They typically offer specials on kids movies and concessions during winter break. Don't miss out on seeing a movie there this winter!

The bitter-cold winter months might feel like they drag on in Northern Michigan, but there are so many fun things to do in Traverse City and neighboring communities to keep you warm and entertained throughout the season. Whether you’re looking for family fun or date nights, we’ve got your nails covered with 10 new shades in our Winter Collection 2022. Check them out here!