What to Do with No Snow

10 wintertime activities in northern Michigan

By Abby McKiernan | Dec. 14, 2024

Winter Up North often brings snowy adventures, but when Mother Nature takes a break, it’s good to have a backup plan! Whether you’re looking for cozy indoor activities or invigorating outdoor fun, there are countless opportunities to make the most of winter—even without snow. From trivia nights and fat-tire biking to festive markets and family game nights, here are 10 budget-friendly, family-friendly ways to enjoy the season.

1. Library Learning at TADL

The Traverse Area Public Library has something for everyone this winter. After you pick out your books, teens can join video game competitions or tabletop campaigns like Dungeons & Dragons, while adults can explore tai chi and yoga classes. Storytime sessions will captivate younger kids, making it a great way to keep the whole family engaged and active indoors. Best of all, most events are free, making it an excellent option for the season of spending. (And if you live outside of Grand Traverse County, we have no doubt your local library has plenty of great programming to explore!)
Cost: Free
More Info: tadl.org/events/month

2. Art Rapids! Walk of Art Sculpture Park

Explore creativity in the great outdoors at the Art Rapids! Walk of Art Sculpture Park in Elk Rapids. Open year-round, this beautiful park features an impressive collection of sculptures set among wooded trails and open fields along Grand Traverse Bay. Perfect for a family outing or a peaceful solo stroll, this free activity combines art and nature, offering a tranquil escape during the winter months.
Cost: Free
More Info: artrapids.net/walk-of-art

3. Pinball Wars at Right Brain Brewery

For some retro fun, post up behind the flippers at Right Brain Brewery. This tournament welcomes players of all skill levels to compete on the brewery’s classic pinball machines. Enjoy a wide selection of craft beers and a relaxed atmosphere as you try your hand at this nostalgic game.
Cost: Free entry; pay per game
Dates: Check brewery calendar for dates
More Info: rightbrainbrewery.com/83/pinball-leagues

4. Euchre at Leelanau Sands

If you love card games, head to Leelanau Sands Casino for Monday night euchre tournaments. This casual yet competitive event is perfect for seasoned players or those looking to brush up on their skills. With plenty of chances to win, it’s an ideal way to spend a winter evening indoors.
Cost: Free
Dates: Mondays, 7pm
More Info: leelanausandscasino.com/euchre

5. Fat Tire Biking at Crystal Mountain

Crystal Mountain’s groomed winter trails are perfect for fat-tire biking, a thrilling way to explore the outdoors without snowshoes or skis. Rentals are available, so no equipment? No problem! Best of all, you can bike no matter the conditions, from bare earth to fluffy snow drifts.
Cost: Rentals start at $15/hour
More Info: crystalmountain.com/activities/fat-tire-snow-biking

6. A Visit to Oliver Art Center

Oliver Art Center is a hub for creativity and inspiration, offering free admission to its art gallery year-round. Explore beautiful exhibits featuring local and regional artists, or check out their schedule of winter classes and activities, which include everything from painting workshops to pottery lessons. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just looking for a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, this welcoming space has something for everyone.

P.S. Their Winter Market, where you’ll find local artists and vendors selling unique gifts, crafts, and artwork, offers an excellent opportunity to shop local through Dec. 23!
Cost: Free admission to gallery; class prices vary
More Info: oliverartcenterfrankfort.org

7. Winter Rafting in Manistee

Embrace the serenity of northern Michigan’s rivers with a winter paddling or rafting adventure. The Big Manistee River offers calm, scenic waters perfect for paddling through snow-draped landscapes, while the Pine River provides an exhilarating rafting experience for thrill-seekers. These guided trips let you enjoy the beauty of Michigan’s winter wilderness in a unique and unforgettable way. Dress warmly!
Cost: Prices vary by trip
More Info: visitmanisteecounty.com/winter-paddling-on-the-big-manistee and thepineriver.com/pine-river/pine-river-winter-rafting

8. Christmas Tree Cutting

Make this winter memorable by cutting your own Christmas tree in the Huron-Manistee National Forest. For just $5, you can explore the forest, select the perfect tree, and create a treasured holiday tradition. Bring a thermos of hot cocoa for an extra dose of seasonal cheer.
Cost: $5/tree (permit required)
More Info: recreation.gov/tree-permits

9. Step into History at Cheboygan Opera House

The historic Cheboygan Opera House is a hub of cultural activity, offering concerts, plays, and family-friendly movie nights throughout the winter. The beautiful venue and diverse lineup make it a must-visit destination for entertainment seekers of all ages.
Cost: Prices vary per event
More Info: theoperahouse.org

10. Take the Kids to a Museum!

For the littles who don’t understand the “Do Not Touch/Climb/Hang Upside Down From” signs at traditional museums, head to one of these hands-on spots: the Great Lakes Children’s Museum in Traverse City (now in its new home at Grand Traverse Mall); COGNiTiON Science & Discovery Center of Beulah; Raven Hill Discovery Center of East Jordan (now operating on their weekends and by-appointment winter schedule); and the Thomas A. Rutkowski Discovery Gallery at the Dennos Museum Center in Traverse City.
Cost: Admission varies per museum
More Info: greatlakeskids.org, discovercognition.org, miravenhill.org, dennosmuseum.org