Three Stunning Snowy Getaways in the Northern Midwest

Dec 4, 2024

Winter break is almost upon us, and we’re here with some suggestions on some great midwest getaways for a week or weekend trip. We bet you’ll recognize some of the destinations on this list as your favorite seaside towns and summertime hotspots, but rest assured the fun doesn’t stop just because the temps drop. There’s still plenty of fun to be had in the great outdoors and along those glistening shores, even if the weather is chilly and the snow is falling. Check out our suggestions and book your stay to enjoy a winter escape from the city and suburbs! These three fabulous destinations are a frosty paradise away from home, just waiting for you to embark on your next adventure.

Grand Marais, Minnesota – This lakeside town on the shore of Lake Superior transforms from summer haven to a stunning winter wonderland in the colder months. You’ll find plenty of adventure and excitement to be had while chasing frozen waterfalls, winter hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing at the gorgeous state parks just a short drive away like Grand Portage State Park, Judge C.R. Magney State Park, Cascade River State Park, Gooseberry Falls State Park. Plus you can also stop by the shores of Lake Superior and look at the incredible ice stacks or go ice fishing. Silver Dollar City leans into the season’s festivities by hosting “An Old Time Christmas” with 6.5 million holiday lights, a Christmas in Midtown Light Spectacular, Rudolph’s HOlly Jolly Christmas Light Parade, and more. The Promised Land Zoo offers an incredible “Let There Be Light” Drive-Thru Holiday Lights display. Just 30 minutes outside of the area is the Points Unknown group, offering unique and exciting Dog Sledding Experiences.

Two Harbors, Minnesota – This picturesque area along the North Shore is a winter enthusiasts dream, with quaint and cozy lodgings and a peaceful snowscape. Take a tour through the coastal area and admire the glistening ice stacks along Brighton Beach. Catch a spectacular sunrise over the snow-covered shores of Burlington Bay Beach. Don’t miss the Two Harbors Lighthouse, nestled on a rocky point in between Agate and Burlington Bays on the waters of Lake Superior. Winter hiking, walking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing are popular pastimes for visitors in areas like Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, Jay Cooke State Park, Iona’s Beach Scientific and Natural Area, and Tettegouche State Park. It offers a much-needed respite from the busy suburban area and urban cityscape.

Empire, Michigan – Located on the Northwest side of Lake Michigan, this area is home to some of the most beautiful views on all of Lake Michigan, and especially in Sleeping Bear Dunes State Park. While the park is an extremely popular Summer destination, it transforms into a peaceful, snow-blanketed natural area for some much needed calm, quiet reflection. This massive 72,000 acre park has a wide swathe of remote wilderness regions as well as well-groomed paths and trails, so no matter what your level of exploration and adventure, you’ll find something to light that spark! The Dune Climb offers fantastic sledding and good ol’ fashioned fun for kids and families (goggles and helmets are recommended due to velocity!) There are also plenty of chances to enjoy winter hiking, nature photography, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing at places like Pierce Stocking Drive, Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, and Shauger Hill Trail. Of course there’s also plenty of fun for night owls, too, since the sun sets much earlier during winter, and affords you beautiful views of the night sky including the Northern Lights – best viewed around Good Harbor Beach or Glen Haven. There’s even opportunities for anglers to get their kicks with some exciting ice-fishing for bluegill, bass, panfish, and more.