When the snow starts falling and temperatures drop, there is an entirely new set of winter activities to enjoy and explore in Northern Michigan.
The community of Bay Harbor is a hidden gem where locals and visitors alike enjoy the very best the winter season has to offer. From local traditions to days spent in the snow, Bay Harbor has winter activities to fit every lifestyle. Find out why these pastimes are among the best ways to enjoy winter in Northern Michigan.
1. WATCH A SHOW AT THE GREAT LAKES CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Standing as the region’s cultural hub, the Great Lakes Center for the Arts presents a series of holiday performances. Ushering in the season, Crooked Tree Arts Center’s rendition of The Nutcracker will take place December 11-12. Classical music lovers will enjoy Handel’s orchestral piece “Messiah” December 16-17, performed by the Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra. Discover the full calendar of events coming to the Great Lakes stage.
2. EXPLORE DOWNTOWN BAY HARBOR
Decorated for the holiday season, the quaint streets of The Village at Bay Harbor are home to a variety of unique shops, fashionable boutiques, waterfront dining and more. Also within The Village, the Inn at Bay Harbor and the Village Suites Bay Harbor are two amazing hospitality options for guests visiting the area. Additionally, Petoskey’s historic Gaslight District features over 170 unique stores and restaurants. Fresh greens and twinkling lights adorn shop windows and streetlamps, offering plenty of charming spots for photos.
3. HAVE A SNOWY ADVENTURE
If you are a thrill-seeker, Northern Michigan is home to 160 different downhill runs between three of the best ski resorts in the Midwest. Expert and beginner skiers alike all meet up at Nub’s Nob to explore the 248 acres of skiable terrain. This Park delivers first-class ski and snowboard experiences day and night. For a variety of winter activities, Boyne Highlands and Boyne Mountain both offer cross country skiing, zipline adventures, tubing, snowshoeing and biking. Boyne Highlands also features an Enchanted Trail on select weekends of the Winter season, guiding guests on a magical experience through a beautifully lit winter trail.
4. ENJOY LOCAL TRADITIONS
One long-standing Northern Michigan tradition is the Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Parade in Harbor Springs. This year marks the 106th year where everyone will come together to light the tree, sing carols, and kick off the holiday season. Another “don’t miss” event is the Harbor Springs Ice Fest, featuring hand-carved ice sculptures on display throughout the town, a Chili Cook-Off, live ice carving demonstrations, and more. Browse the full calendar of events.
5. SPEND THE DAY ICE FISHING
January and February are the biggest months for the time-honored sport of ice fishing. Traversing frozen waters allows anglers to reach the far corners of lakes that would otherwise only be accessible by boat. With dozens of lakes and rivers nearby, there are plenty of great locations to fish in Northern Michigan. Popular catches include bluegill, northern pike, walleye, and various trout species.
Fun for all Four Seasons!
With exuberant events and gorgeous sights to take in at the Bay Harbor Yacht Club, now is the time to visit Bay Harbor in Northern Michigan. Bay Harbor, a coastal resort and golf community that offers a lifestyle like no other. Encompassing 5 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, Bay Harbor is home to the area’s best amenities and lifestyles. Families often enjoy boating, swimming, and fishing off the shores of Lake Michigan or walking or biking along the Little Traverse Wheelway. The Bay Harbor Golf Club has been called “The Pebble Beach of the Midwest” and the Bay Harbor Yacht Club is known as the social centerpiece of the entire community. The Village at Bay Harbor offers lots of options for unique shopping and delicious dining. Residents here enjoy life to its fullest.
