Top 20 Winter Activities Around Traverse City

Winter in Traverse City is a magical time, with endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Here’s a list of our top 20 things to do in the area during the winter months:

1. Grand Traverse Lighthouse

Take a scenic drive to Northport and explore the Grand Traverse Lighthouse at the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula. It’s a picturesque spot where Lake Michigan meets Grand Traverse Bay, and part of the Leelanau State Park. Enjoy the trails and accessible track chair for a unique experience.

2. Hop Lot Brewing

After the lighthouse, drive to Sutton’s Bay and cozy up in an igloo at Hop Lot Brewing. If the igloos are full, no worries—there’s a year-round fire pit for marshmallow roasting and a great indoor taproom.

3. Cognitions

For a fun family activity, head to Cognitions in Beulah. This interactive science center is perfect for kids and adults alike, with unique animals to meet and special events.

4. Left Foot Charley

Stop by Left Foot Charley for a glass of their famous Cinnamon Girl Cider and grab takeout from Spanglish. The tasting room’s big windows are perfect for enjoying the snowy view.

5. Skiing

Hit the slopes at Hickory Hills or Mt. Holiday. Both offer fantastic skiing and cozy lodges with delicious snacks and hot chocolate to warm you up.

6. Front Street Stroll

Take a stroll down Front Street for some window shopping and coffee. Explore the charming shops that stay open throughout winter.

7. Apache Trout Grill

Enjoy a cozy meal at Apache Trout Grill, a bayfront restaurant offering lunch, dinner, and a delightful brunch on Sundays. Don’t miss the view of the bay from the back windows!

8. Red Ginger

Savor a sushi roll at Red Ginger, known for its extensive Asian fusion menu and excellent gluten-free options. The Dojo near Dyer Lake Vacation Home is another great choice for sushi.

9. Taproot

Enjoy fresh, farm-to-table salads at Taproot. They offer carryout along with delicious hard ciders.

10. Filling Station

Grab a craft beer and share a pizza at The Filling Station. Their wood-fired pizzas are thin, crispy, and simply delicious.

11. Workshop Brewing

Enjoy a pint of local brew at Workshop Brewing while the kids play old-school arcade games. Located in the Warehouse District, it’s a great spot for good food, great beer, and community vibes.

12. The Good Bowl

Split a bahn mi and pho lunch special at The Good Bowl. Their authentic Vietnamese food is paired with a charitable twist—choose from local, national, or international charities to support with your meal.

13. Empire Bluff Trail

Hike the Empire Bluff Trail for breathtaking winter views of the snowy dunes and partially frozen Lake Michigan. It’s a spectacular experience!

14. Indoor Farmers Market

Visit the Indoor Farmers Market at the Grand Traverse Commons on Saturdays. It’s a fantastic way to experience local community and shop for delicious baked goods, cheese, and more.

15. Grand Traverse Commons Tunnels

Tour the underground tunnels at the Grand Traverse Commons, formerly the Traverse City State Hospital. It’s a fascinating walk through history.

16. Fat Tire Biking

Try fat tire biking on the snowy trails at Vasa Pathway. This winter biking adventure is perfect for exploring the area’s scenic trails.

17. Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour

Take a wine tour up the Old Mission Peninsula and enjoy stunning vineyard views and Michigan’s finest wines.

18. Snow Tubing at TimberLee Hills

Experience snow tubing at TimberLee Hills, one of Michigan’s largest tubing hills. With a tow-rope and a cozy lodge, it’s a blast for the whole family.

19. Clinch Park Walk

Bundle up and take a walk through Clinch Park. Admire the ice along the pier and enjoy the winter beauty of Grand Traverse Bay.

20. The Magic of Winter

Traverse City’s winter charm is undeniable. From snowy, tree lit streets to cozy storefronts and warm restaurant, enjoy the magic of winter in Northern Michigan whether you’re shopping, dining, or exploring.

No matter the length of your stay, Dyer Lake Vacation Home is perfectly situated for all your winter adventures. Enjoy your winter wonderland in Traverse City!

Explore the best winter activities in Traverse City! Ready to book your stay? Book direct and save or you can book through Airbnb if you prefer.

Hello there! I’m Marisa, Patrick’s mom, and I’m here to make sure your stay at Dyer Lake Vacation Home is as delightful as possible. Whether you have questions about the area or need help with anything during your stay, I’m your go-to person. My goal is to ensure you have a fantastic time and enjoy our little slice of heaven.

Our family finally settled in the Traverse City area in 1995 after years of vacationing here. Back in the day, when we were a bustling family of six, finding a suitable cabin was quite the adventure—before the days of the internet. I would call the Visitors Center (now Traverse City Tourism) and patiently wait for mimeographed sheets listing various cabin options. Finding a place that could fit our crew and accommodate our needs was no small feat!

With four kids, two hotel rooms just didn’t cut it, and dining out for every meal added up quickly. We loved having a home base, but finding a well-stocked kitchen with more than the basics felt like winning the lottery. We used to cross our fingers hoping the oven was big enough for a 9×13 pan and that there were at least two working burners on the stove.

Oh, how times have changed! You can leave the old days behind when you stay at Dyer Lake Vacation Home. Patrick, Lauren, and the rest of the family cook here, vacation here and play here. You will find a kitchen that’s well-stocked and ready to handle all your culinary adventures. We’ve got a full-size refrigerator and a stove/oven that actually works! Dyer Lake offers a comfortable place to hang out and a quiet lake for kayaking or lounging lakeside. Enjoy your stay—we’re thrilled to have you here!