Michigan is a fantastic spot to explore throughout the year, with an abundance of natural and manmade gems to keep you and your loved ones enthralled. While we’re certainly known for the summertime beauty of our Great Lakes, there’s plenty to see during chillier months as well. Here are 11 must-visit locales throughout Michigan this winter.

1. Echo Valley Winter Sports Park (8495 E H Ave, Kalamazoo)

This sports complex is located in Kalamazoo, and its plethora of activities draws in countless visitors each year. Keep it simple by hitting the beautiful ice-skating rink, try your hand at some downhill tubing, or take your wintertime adventure to the next level with a visit to the toboggan run. As you hold on tight, you’ll reach speeds of up to 60 MPH! Talk about a unique adventure. Find out more about Echo Valley by reading our focused article here.

2. Big, Bright Light Show (downtown Rochester)

Venture to downtown Rochester when you’re looking to get into the Christmas spirit. It’s tough to imagine a more breathtaking display of lights than this one, which sparkles brilliantly and seems to coat every inch of every storefront. As you walk below millions of brilliant little bulbs, you’ll find it impossible not to embrace the joy of the holiday season. To learn more about this and other light displays, check out our previous article here.

3. Christmas and Holiday Traditions Around The World (Frederik Meijer Gardens, 1000 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids)

This one-of-a-kind exhibit at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a must-see during your next journey to the Grand Rapids area. Bring along the kids and learn about holiday traditions from unique cultures around the world, all while appreciating a plethora of gorgeously decorated trees and other pieces of decor. To find out more about this fantastic educational opportunity, click here and read our previous piece.

4. Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory (900 Inselruhe Ave, Detroit)

You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a tropical paradise when you explore this fantastic attraction on Detroit’s Belle Isle. Every inch of this conservatory is blooming with beautiful foliage from various climates, from arid to delightfully tropical. You might even forget about the bone-chilling temperatures of a Michigan winter as you explore this locale! Read our previous article on the conservatory by clicking here.

5. Union Mine Trail (Porcupine Mountains, Ontonagon)

Don’t let the snowy weather keep you from heading outside to appreciate Michigan’s natural splendor. If you find yourself in the Upper Peninsula, make the trip to Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park near Ontonagon. Once you arrive, embark on an easy one-mile hike along the Union Mine Trail, which offers beautiful wintertime views and an easy terrain that’s perfect for the whole family. For details, check out our focused piece on the trail by clicking here.

6. Muskegon Winter Sports Complex (462 N Scenic Dr, Muskegon)

Ever watched the Winter Olympics and wished you could try your hand at the luge? Well, you’re in luck! Look no further than the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex, which offers a full luge track to interested Michiganders who are willing to partake in a short training session before flying down the 850-foot track. Talk about a one-of-a-kind wintertime adventure! To learn more about this fascinating opportunity, click here and read our article about the luge at Muskegon Winter Sports Complex.

7. Greenfield Village (20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn)

This is your year to experience the beauty of an old-world holiday season. Dearborn’s Greenfield Village, which operates as part of the Henry Ford Museum, offers a series of "Holiday Nights" events throughout the winter season. During your visit, you’ll marvel at costumed carolers, walk through historically accurate homes and buildings, and maybe even try your hand at some old-fashioned ice skating. Learn more about this unique event by reading our previous piece here.

8. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (Munising)

Who says Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is only worth visiting during the summer months? There’s something undeniably magical about exploring this classic Michigan locale when the waters of Lake Superior have frozen over, and you’ll find ample opportunities to peruse everything from icy waterfalls to breathtaking hikes. For details, click here and read our focused article on winter at Pictured Rocks.

9. Avalanche Bay Indoor Water Park (1 Boyne Mountain Rd, Boyne Falls)

As much as we love the snowy weather and the activities it gives way to each year, there’s something to be said for a quick escape. When you’re ready to experience a taste of summer in the dead of winter, make your way to Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark. Tucked away within Boyne Mountain Resort, this waterpark is the largest of its kind in the Great Lakes State. Ready to start planning your weekend of splashing and sliding? Click here to read our previous piece on Avalanche Bay.

10. Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland (25 Christmas Ln, Frankenmuth)

We’re sure you’ve enjoyed the Christmastime magic that abounds throughout downtown Frankenmuth each year, but have you stepped into its most famous attraction: Bronner’s? This massive indoor holiday wonderland is truly a sight to behold, with seemingly endless rows of Christmas decor and some of the most unique items imaginable. While Bronner’s is open year-round, there’s something amazing and heartwarming about visiting during the holiday season. Learn more by clicking here.

11. Crystal Mountain Resort (12500 Crystal Mountain Dr, Thompsonville)

No matter what you’re searching for in a winter getaway, you’re sure to find it at Crystal Mountain. This beloved Thompsonville destination has a little something for everyone: ultra-relaxing spa treatments, ample opportunities for skiing, plenty of eateries, and some of the loveliest lodging imaginable. To find out more about Crystal Mountain and its seemingly endless opportunities for cold weather fun, click here.

Alright, Michiganders: we want to hear from you! When the weather outside is frightful, how do you and your loved ones spend your time in the Great Lakes State? Please feel free to leave your thoughts and suggestions in the comment section below.