Wintertime in Northern Michigan is a special time of the year. As a Traverse City native working in real estate for nearly 50 years (gasp!), I know the area well, and along with my fellow Brick & Corbett team, we can share some of the best things to do here in the winter months. From outdoor activities to indoor attractions, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy.
Outdoor Activities
There is a wide variety of outdoor activities to choose from during the winter months. You can explore the area’s beautiful trails and parks, or check out the many local lakes and rivers. Here are just a few of our favorite ways to beat the winter blahs:
Skiing & Snowboarding
If you’re looking for a great place to take the family, Hickory Hills offers 15 runs and a bunny hill with a “carpet lift” for the little ones. We also love Mt. Holiday with it’s 12 runs and night skiing options!
Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing
There are numerous parks and trails that allow snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. If you’re looking for great options with a view, try the Baldy Trail in Arcadia Dunes, located approximately 20 minutes south of Frankfort. The culmination of this 3.8 mile trail offers pristine Lake Michigan views! For those looking for more of a workout, the steeper 1.2 mile Pyramid Point trail in Glen Arbor rewards your efforts with a stunning water view at the summit and an all downward trajectory on the return trip to where you started from. You must have a Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore pass to enjoy Pyramid Point.
Ice Fishing
With freshwater no more than 6 miles away, there are many places to ice fish. For those who are looking to catch Walleye, Lake Leelanau is known for their stellar catch! Kids 17 and under can fish for free, adults can grab an e-license here.
Sledding & Snow Tubing
Open from dawn until dusk, Grace McDonald Park is a fun place to go sledding. For the epitome of family fun, Timberlee Hills is an excellent place to go for snow tubing, in fact, our team hosts a client appreciation event there each winter!
Ice Skating
Outdoor ice skating is a longtime winter tradition in Traverse City. As are all winter sports, it is very much dependant upon optimal weather conditions so check here for all current available locations.
Snowmobiling
Ranch Rudolph is considered the ultimate destination for snowmobilers, boasting 200 miles of groomed trails. Specific rules apply so visit their website prior to making your plans. Additionally, the first free snowmobiling weekend of the year is upon us February 11-12th! Check here for all information.
Indoor Activities
If you’re more of an “indoor cat” and prefer to stay warm and cozy, we have plenty of options for you.
Wine/Brewery Tours
We are so fortunate to have world class wineries in our midst here in Northern Michigan. For wine, our team especially loves Bonobo Winery on Old Mission Peninsula!
Dining
For those who are epicurious, there are many wonderful places to dine in our area. Italian? Try Trattoria Stella or perhaps Sorellina. Craving Latin fare? Check out Barrio. Asian? Nothing will satisfy quite like Red Ginger. French? Amical has been tantalizing tastebuds in downtown TC for 30 years! There is truly something for everyone.
TC Oscar Fest
The State Theatre & Bijou By the Bay Theatres are hosting Oscar fest until March 12th, 2023. Fifteen of the year’s best, Oscar nominated films, each running for a week.
Shopping
With minimal exposure to the elements you can peruse the charming shops that line Front Street in picturesque downtown Traverse City.
Olympic-Level Fun
Another fun thing to do is to try your hand at curling at The Traverse City Curling Club. They have leagues for regular play and even host corporate events.
Wintertime in our region can be a truly magical experience inside and out. With so many activities to choose from, you’re sure to find something that’s perfect for you. So, grab your coat and mittens, and get ready to explore the beauty of winter!
Does Winter Impact the Housing Market?
Yes, it does. Each season offers slightly different opportunities for both buyers and sellers.
- SELLERS: Although winter in Northern Michigan can be cold and snowy, it can actually be the ideal time to sell your home, as buyers may be eager to close a deal before the spring market picks up. Also, a soft blanket of snow adds instant, cost-free curb appeal!
- BUYERS: Wintertime may offer opportunities for potential buyers with a less-competitive market than in the warmer months to come. That means you may have more choices from the current housing inventory than you would later on.
If you’re thinking about making a move this year, let’s connect before the spring market ramps up and potentially costs you your edge at the closing table.
