Welcome to the winter wonderland of Michigan, where the magic of the season comes alive in its community ice skating rinks. Whether it’s the thrill of gliding beneath a canopy of twinkling lights in a bustling city center or the tranquil escape into a frozen forest, Michigan’s 5 most unique ice skating rinks are more than just places to skate – they are where memories are made, traditions are born, and the simple pleasures of winter are celebrated.
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Campus Martius Park Rink, Detroit
Detroit is the city that combines urban vibes with festive cheer, especially at the Campus Martius Park Rink. Imagine skating amidst towering skyscrapers under a blanket of twinkling stars. The rink buzzes with energy, filled with music and laughter. As one glides across the ice, the aroma of fresh popcorn and hot chocolate saturates the air, inviting visitors to take a break.
The rink, located on Woodward Avenue in downtown Detroit, is open seven days per week, including holidays, from November through March.
Don’t miss the light show next door! Beacon Park’s “Northern Lights” theme, featuring custom, larger-than-life light installations, will be on display until Jan. 16, 2024, illuminating the park with over 125,000 holiday lights.
STAY: Check out Shinola Hotel, which puts guests in the heart of all of the fun. This luxurious hotel is the perfect place to relax. Amenities include a cocktail bar, modern Italian restaurant, and an onsite shopping complex.
Frankenmuth Ice Pavilion
Frankenmuth- a slice of Bavaria in Michigan. The Frankenmuth Ice Pavilion is a winter lover’s dream scene. It’s covered to keep everyone skating no matter what the weather brings. Picture spinning under a wooden beam ceiling, surrounded by the quaint, charming architecture of the town. This spot isn’t just about skating; it’s about experiencing a cozy, festive atmosphere, complete with the scents of gingerbread and giant Bavarian pretzels. The rink is open from November- February, and there are plenty of fun activities planned, like Ugly Sweater Skate and 90s Night, so check the calendar.
STAY: One of our family’s favorites is The Bavarian Inn. Kids will adore the German-themed indoor water park, arcade, and mini-golf. Amenities include a restaurant and bar, a gameroom, and a fitness room.
Mt. McSauba Ice Rink, Charlevoix
Mt. McSauba Ice Rink in Charlevoix is a serene setting for outdoors enthusiasts. Here, nature is the backdrop, and the rink is a frozen mirror reflecting the winter sky. The crunch of snow underfoot, the crisp, clean air, and the gentle sound of blades cutting across natural ice make this a meditative experience. It’s the perfect place for those who find peace in the stillness of winter and the beauty of a snow-draped landscape.
STAY: A winter visit to Charlevoix will be enhanced by a stay at The Earl. Here visitors will love amenities like a free breakfast buffet, an indoor pool, a hot tub, onsite coffee shop, and a lobby bar. It’s within walking distance to Michigan Beach Park.
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Check out Novels Set in Michigan to find the perfect read for a cozy escape!
Eben Ice Caves Hiking Trail
This is a rule-breaker. It’s not actually ice skating, but it involves a ton of ice! For the winter adventurers, the Eben Ice Caves Hiking Trail in the Upper Peninsula is a must-visit. The trail to the caves is a journey through a snowy forest, leading to a world of ice formations and frozen waterfalls. Getting there feels like discovering a secret winter kingdom. The echo of laughter in the caves, the crunch of snow under your boots, and the awe-inspiring view of nature’s ice sculptures are experiences that are as special as the landscape.
STAY: Best bet for a fun, cozy stay is in Marquette. It’s a bit of a hike to get to the hiking trail, but Landmark Inn in Marquette is a recently renovated (July, 2023) six floor hotel with two bars, a restaurant, and a wonderful fireplace in the lobby.
Rosa Parks Circle Ice Rink, Grand Rapids
In the heart of the Grand Rapids is the Rosa Parks Circle Ice Rink. It is a hub of cultural activity. There’s something so incredibly vibrant about this place. It’s not just skating; it’s the pulse of the city. Live music fills the air, artists perform at the sidelines, and the laughter and conversations of a diverse crowd create a gorgeous tapestry of life. This rink is where the community comes together in the winter months. It is open from November through February.
Check out our awesome Etsy shop for more adorable and cozy fall must-haves like this one!
STAY: The Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton, has everything a family needs to relax after an icy escapade up north. Amenities include a spa, fitness center, indoor pool, an onsite restaurant, and room service.
Each one of these rinks offers more than just a place to skate; they offer experiences, memories, and a tiny glimpse into what makes Michigan’s winters magic.
Bundle up, lace up those skates, and get ready to explore the winter wonderland that is Michigan’s 5 most unique ice skating rinks.
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