In the cold winer months, activities can feel limited and sometimes a little pricey. Check out these low-cost ways to have fun this winter season.
Outdoor winter activities
- Sledding and tubing: Many communities have free sledding hills, such as the one at the Petoskey Winter Sports Park. Check out local sledding hills in Lansing here.
- Ice skating: Look for free outdoor rinks in local parks like Bentley Park rink in Owosso or check for affordable public skate times at indoor and outdoor rinks.
- Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing: Many state parks and national forests offer free trails. Some parks even have free snowshoe rentals available during open hours.
- Hiking: Explore scenic trails at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore or through vineyards, which can be free when snowshoeing.
- Lugeing: The Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park, located inside Muskegon State Park, offers a luge track, quarter-mile ice skating trail through the woods, family skating rink, hockey rink, cross-country skiing trails, family sledding area (built with young children in mind) and lodge where you can warm up by the fire.
- Visit natural ice formations: See the frozen waterfalls at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore or hike to the Eben Ice Caves in the Upper Peninsula.
Indoor winter activities
- Museums and cultural centers: Michigan has numerous museums with affordable admission, like the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum or the Grand Rapids Public Museum. Check out the free Durand Union Station and Michigan Railroad History Museum. If you have a SNAP or WIC Card there are a variety of Museums you can visit for free, find more information here.
- Historic theaters: Enjoy a movie at historic theaters like the Ionia Theatre in Ionia, which may have low ticket prices.
- Libraries: Many local libraries host free winter events, including book clubs and crafts.
- Local festivals and events: Attend free or low-cost events like Grand Rapids' annual World of Winter festival.
- Wineries, breweries, anconfluxcitybrew.com/d distilleries: Visit local spots like Tenacity Brewing in Flint or Confluxcity Brewing Company in Portland. Some may have free tastings or low-cost events.
Tips for saving money
- Visit during off-peak times: Go to zoos or other attractions during the off-season for discounted admission. Check with local libraries for discounted or free tickets.
- Check for free rental programs: Some parks offer free snowshoe or ski rentals.
- Pack your own snacks: Save money by bringing your own food and drinks for bonfires, sledding, or a day out.