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Originally Posted On: Romantic Winter Things to Do in Michigan | Date Ideas, Weekend Getaways, and More (awesomemitten.com)

 

The majority of couples end up staying at home more often during the winter. Although ordering food and watching a movie make for a fun date night, doing the same thing all the time can get boring. Fortunately, you can spice up your days, evenings, or entire weekends with our picks for the best romantic winter things to do in Michigan.

Romantic Winter Getaways and Day Trips in the Upper Peninsula

If you’re wondering “where can I go for a romantic weekend in Michigan”, we have you covered with a list of romantic winter getaways in Michigan. Here are some ideas for romantic winter getaways in the Upper Peninsula.

Copper Harbor

From a rugged shoreline along Lake Superior to the top of Brockway Mountain, Copper Harbor offers one of the best romantic getaways in Michigan. The harbor deck gives you a wonderful view of Copper Harbor Lighthouse. In addition to breathtaking beauty, the winter solitude makes this town a relaxing escape.

Munising

Whether you’re looking for day trips, weekend getaways, or fun date ideas in Michigan in winter, Munising has it all. The main attraction is Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, which has tons of hiking trails and several frozen waterfalls. However, a few other places nearby have trails and frozen waterfalls too. On top of that, the city attracts internationally renowned ice climbers for Michigan Ice Fest.

Paradise

Located north of Mackinac Bridge, Paradise is known for Tahquamenon Falls State Park. It’s the ideal day trip destination if you want to visit a massive frozen waterfall or walk snowy trails hand in hand. If you like the mystery of uncovering hidden treasures, check out the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, one of the world’s best maritime museums.

Mackinac Island

A short ferry ride from either end of Mackinac Bridge will take you to Mackinac Island, the “Jewel of the Great Lakes.” Believe it or not, the island is one of the top winter weekend getaways Michigan offers. You can enjoy romantic horse-drawn carriage rides in the snow, decadent fudge, and unforgettable sunsets. The historic Grand Hotel is an elegant retreat that will make you feel like royalty.

Northern Michigan Winter Things to Do for Couples

Northern Michigan is full of romantic fun activities in the winter for couples to enjoy – whether you’re looking for a few hours of romance, a romantic day trip, or a weekend-long getaway to reconnect, there are lots of great date night ideas in winter in Northern Michigan.

Mackinaw City

At the most northern tip of the lower peninsula, Mackinaw City is a hub for numerous romantic things to do in Michigan in winter. The Straits of Mackinac, which are beautiful during the icy season, are only one of the attractions here. Many of the city’s hotels offer views of the Straits, and many restaurants serve cozy comfort foods. The city has a lot of unique attractions and live entertainment.

The Petoskey Area

Several winter weekend getaways for couples are available in the Petoskey Area, which includes five resort communities — Alanson, Bay Harbor, Boyne City, Harbor Springs, and Petoskey. The region has some of the best snow sports, and the Inn at Bay Harbor offers comfortable accommodations, dining, and other resort amenities.

Charlevoix

As a favorite winter weekend getaway in Michigan, Charlevoix is rich in historic architecture. The Earl Young Mushroom Houses could be one of the most unusual accommodations that you’ve ever stayed in. The downtown area features boutique shops and world-class restaurants, and the Charlevoix South Pier Light Station is a great place for romantic photos during sunset.

Traverse City

For winter weekend getaways in Michigan for couples, look no further than Traverse City. Aside from hotels and resorts, there are Airbnbs in Traverse City to fit any budget. Whether you watch a movie at Bijou by the Bay or the State Theatre or take a winery tour along the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas, there are plenty of unique and romantic things to do in Traverse City during winter.

Winter Day Trips and Weekend Getaways in West Michigan in Winter

Are you looking for fun things to do in Michigan for couples this winter in West Michigan? Here are a few of our favorite winter date ideas along the west coast of Michigan.

Grand Rapids

As the second-largest city in Michigan, Grand Rapids is always bustling and has a dazzling charm during the winter, making Grand Rapids a perfect winter getaway for couples. You can warm up at a local Grand Rapids brewery, soak up some history at a museum in Grand Rapids, or dance to live music. If you like to get pampered, Amway Grand Plaza is the premier luxury hotel in West Michigan.

Holland

With a quaint community, Holland Michigan has a unique downtown area with heated sidewalks. Because of that, you can walk around and visit the shops without worrying about snow or ice. Although many people list the town as one of the top romantic Michigan day trips in winter, there’s plenty to do for a full weekend. For instance, you can stroll on the frozen beach at Holland State Park.

Allegan

Even though it’s known as an area for hunting, fishing, hiking, and the like, Allegan has several romantic things to do in Michigan in winter. For example, you can walk the historic streets, and listen to live music at the riverfront gazebo. For accommodations, stay at one of the most delightful bed-and-breakfasts in the state — Castle in the Country — which has whirlpool tubs to make you forget about the cold.

St. Joseph

A plethora of winter date ideas in Michigan awaits in St. Joseph and the surrounding area. If you’re adventurous, you can go to Warren Dunes State Park for snow sledding and tubing. The John and Dede Howard Ice Arena offers ice skating, a concession stand with hot cocoa, and a fireplace. Another romantic date idea is to watch the sunset from the bluff.

Mid-Michigan Romantic Winter Things to Do

While seemingly sparse in population, mid-Michigan is the perfect place for a romantic winter getaway. There are so many fun winter activities that will help you bond and grow as a couple in this beautiful part of our state. Here are a few of our favorite romantic spots in Michigan for getaways and winter date ideas in mid-Michigan.

Harrison

Located within 20 minutes of 20 lakes, Harrison is a popular destination in the summer. However, its large amount of land makes it a great place for romantic getaways in Michigan during the winter as well. One fun romantic date night idea in mid-Michigan is to enjoy night-time snow tubing at Snow Snake Ski and Golf resort. You’ll also find unique dining and entertainment in Harrison’s historic downtown area.

Midland

If you’re interested in romantic outdoor walks, Midland certainly has you covered. Dow Gardens is a 110-acre botanical utopia during the winter. At Midland City Forest, you can go hiking as well as sledding, tobogganing, and ice skating. Stay at The H Hotel, which offers romantic dinners and luxurious rooms.

Frankenmuth

Nearly every list of winter weekend getaways Michigan offers includes Frankenmuth because it’s a Bavarian wonderland. No matter the season, this Little Bavaria promises to help you create unforgettable memories. Rich culture, historical beauty, eclectic shopping, and delightful food are all here. The Bavarian Inn Lodge and Marv Herzog Hotel are two of its most popular hotels.

Lansing

Despite being the capital of Michigan, Lansing features the amenities of a big city but the hospitality of a small town with many small towns in greater Lansing that are worth a visit. There are unique galleries, museums, and boutique shops to browse if you want to stay indoors. If you like to enjoy the outdoors, you can go moonlight skiing at William M. Burchfield Park, where you can warm up by the lodge fire.

Day Trips and Winter Weekend Getaways for Couples in the Michigan Thumb

Don’t forget to explore the Thumb if you’re looking for Great Lakes romantic getaways this winter. The east coast of Michigan has many great winter date ideas and romantic getaway options for couples – whether you’re looking for cheap romantic getaways in Michigan for couples or fun winter date ideas in Michigan.

Caseville

Along the shoreline of Lake Huron in The Thumb, Caseville has a few local attractions that are great romantic things to do in Michigan in winter. Locals can visit Depner Farms for a memorable evening of choosing their Christmas trees. The downtown area is full of one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants. If you want to walk on a frozen beach, check out Caseville County Park. Then, warm up with a home-brew at Thumb Brewery.

Port Austin

On the tip of The Thumb, Port Austin has a friendly atmosphere and rich history. This charming village features a picturesque rock formation called Turnip Rock, which you can only access via a romantic kayak or boat ride. You can wine and dine at some amazing restaurants in town, and shop for unique, handcrafted items too. The Garfield Inn is a bed-and-breakfast with a rich history, great food, and comfortable rooms.

Marlette

Nestled in the heart of The Thumb, Marlette is one of the best cheap winter weekend getaways in Michigan for couples. Although this community is small, it has wonderful gift shops and friendly people. Its distance from the larger cities is what makes it so romantic. If you want to stay for longer than a day trip, A Dove Nest Bed and Breakfast is located on a wildlife preserve just 15 minutes away in Kingston.

Port Huron

Among the many romantic Michigan day trips in winter, a visit to Port Huron provides a quiet retreat. This quaint town is located on the St. Clair River on the most southeastern edge of The Thumb. The historic streets create a perfect atmosphere for spending time together. Small restaurants and shops fill the renovated buildings. Also, there are several museums to explore.

Romantic Southcentral and Southeast Michigan Things to Do in Winter

If you’re looking for romantic winter date ideas in central or eastern Michigan south of I-94, there are a plethora of ideas to choose from. Whether you are looking for outdoor winter date ideas in Michigan or a romantic winter getaway with great food and entertainment, southcentral and southeast Michigan are great options for winter romance in Michigan.

Jackson

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Jackson plays host to top fun winter date ideas in Michigan. As a destination, the city has the perfect balance of activities for day trips and weekend getaways as well. You can experience the history, arts, and culture of the area, hike the best trails in Jackson Michigan, watch an amateur hockey game, and taste award-winning wines — all within the immediate vicinity.

Chelsea

Despite its small size, Chelsea has the nightlife of a big city with several fine dining restaurants and theatres. The Purple Rose Theatre Company houses the Garage Theatre, which is one of the best places in Michigan for theatre productions. More theatre companies are located in neighboring Dexter. Additionally, Chelsea has a few coffee houses, designer clothing boutiques, antique and collectible shops, and custom jewelry stores.

Ann Arbor

Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor is a lively university town with romantic things to do in Michigan in winter. Downtown is very walkable and features some of the best nightlife, culinary arts, music, and events in the state. Some special date, day trip, and weekend getaway ideas include escaping the game Decode, laughing at Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase or Pointless Brewery & Theatre, and baking at Zingerman’s Bakehouse.

Detroit

With tons of fun date ideas in Michigan in winter, Detroit is the ultimate day trip or weekend getaway destination. The shopping districts, cultural attractions, boutique hotels, innovative restaurants, and theaters will keep you busy. The Detroit International Riverwalk is especially romantic and stretches for more than 3 miles. On top of that, Belle Isle Park is an island with a plethora of attractions, including a conservatory, aquarium, and zoo. If you like video games, play some retro titles at Ready Player One.

Michigan Has Much More to Do in Winter

These are just a few of the romantic things that you can find in Michigan in winter. For more ideas, check out our winter activities in Michigan for the whole family. Also, share your favorite romantic things to do during the winter in the comments below.