With an annual snowfall average of 200 inches, Ironwood is known for being one of the snowiest places in Michigan. As a snow haven near Lake Superior, the area attracts plenty of winter sports enthusiasts, but even if hitting the slopes isn’t your idea of fun, the area holds plenty of wintery charm.
For instance, the historic Downtown Ironwood is home to the Historic Ironwood Theatre, built in 1928, where you can take tours or catch a live theater event. The Downtown Art Place is a collaborative center where artists come together and sell their creations, so it can be a magical place to visit, get inspired, or pick up a new piece of art. Step back in time at the Ironwood Carnegie Library, built in 1901, making it the oldest continually operating Carnegie Library in the state of Michigan. The library is still open and serving patrons as a vital and vibrant part of the community.
Once you pick up a new book, you can stop into one of the many cozy cafes or coffee shops downtown. Outdoor types can check out all of the beautiful scenery the UP is known for (because who doesn’t want to see a waterfall in the winter?). We also highly recommend booking a stay at Ironwood’s Big Powderhorn Resort to try your hand (feet?) at skiing, or just to cozy up in the beautiful and spacious rooms to enjoy a roaring fire and on-site dining.
2. Munising
Magical all year long, Pictured Rocks in Munising, Mich., may be even more awe-inspiring during the winter, thanks to stunning ice formations, ice cliffs, ice caves, and my personal favorite, frozen waterfalls. The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Park is open all year round, although some parts of the park, including some trails, are closed seasonally as they are impacted by snow and other seasonal changes, so you’ll want to check ahead before you visit.
The park explains that ice viewing is one of the most popular winter activities, as visitors flock to see the water that seeps out of the sandstone cliffs, due to their porosity, and freezes into columns and curtains that can range from blue to green to yellow-hued in the light. Other outdoor options include the Hiawatha National Forest and the Grand Island National Recreation Area for more winter hiking and natural ice sculptures (there’s no ferry service in the winter, so the only way to access the island is to travel at your own risk over the ice). When you’re ready to warm up, head into town to visit cozy cafes like the Falling Rock Cafe & Bookstore and Gallery Coffee Co.
3. Marquette
I feel like I missed the memo big time, but apparently, Marquette might just be every Michigander’s favorite town in the UP. My family and I visited, and I have to say that I finally understand the hype. The downtown area is magical, with views of the water everywhere you look, historical buildings, and plenty of small-town charm.
To take in nature, plan a visit to Presque Isle Park, open all year round, although it’s open to non-motorized vehicles only. It’s ideal for hiking, taking in the sights and sounds of nature, and perhaps catching a glimpse of the native bird and deer populations. Overall, Marquette has everything you need for a magical winter experience, from cozy downtown cafes to snowbiking around the water to catching a glimpse of the northern lights at night. I’m also still dreaming about the delicious glass of Michigan wine I indulged in at the historic Vierling Restaurant and Marquette Harbor Brewery, so be sure to add that to your itinerary.
