With the kids out of school on winter break and the hectic energy of the holidays winding down, it is the perfect time to plan a quick winter getaway for the family. Fortunately, it won’t need to be a flight away.
The Midwest is no stranger to snowy winter weather, and magical seasonal escapes can be found in every direction from Metro Detroit. From lively winter festivals to adrenaline-packed winter sports, there is a destination that will be a great fit for your family — and within driving distance, too.
Lake Geneva, WI
- 6-hour drive from Detroit
Though a great destination for all seasons, Lake Geneva really comes alive in the winter. Snow blankets the landscapes, and ice glitters over the three lakes in the area, making for the perfect Midwest postcard destination.
Lake Geneva is much more than picturesque, with ski resorts galore and two Winter Festivals to explore. There is also a walkable downtown area with yummy restaurants and plenty of indoor activities for when the weather gets too much.
Minneapolis and St. Paul, MN
- 10-hour drive from Detroit
A bit further away are the twin cities, for some urban winter fun after a holiday at home. Two cities make double the fun—no matter if you stay in the capital or across the river, there will be something that everyone in the family will love.
Expect heart-warming eats and educational museums in Minneapolis, and sparkling ice sculptures and other winter festivities in St. Paul. Don’t miss The Great Northern Festival, an inspiring event that combines climate education with collaborative community activities.
Fair Oaks, IN
- 4 ½-hour drive from Detroit
This farm destination doesn’t slow down when winter arrives. Around and after the holidays, Fair Oaks Farms transforms into a festive scene, embracing the countryside’s natural winter wonder to make for an exciting seasonal getaway.
Though Fair Oaks centers around the farm, there is no shortage of things to do with your family. As the No. 1 agritourism destination in the Midwest, Fair Oaks Farms packs everything from educational museums to rich, farm-to-table dining experiences. Kids will also love the indoor playing areas throughout the grounds.
Galena, IL
- 7-hour drive from Detroit
Natural winter beauty and a charming downtown scene make Galena a great winter escape this season. Snow covers the town’s historic brick buildings, and from December to March, bald eagles can be seen soaring over the Mississippi River.
Skiing and snowshoeing are town favorites in Galena, but the quaint downtown is equally intriguing, layered with American history for your family to dive into. Plan your stay around President’s Day weekend for the Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa Winter Carnival, with four days of icy fun.
Hocking Hills, OH
- 4-hour drive from Detroit
For families obsessed with the winter scenery of the Midwest, Hocking Hills is an underrated trip. During the season, caves and gorges are dripping with glittering icicles, and the frozen waterfalls will blow your mind.
While the natural phenomena are the main appeal in Hocking Hills, the chill in the air does not let up. After layering up, snowshoe across the snowy landscape of Conkle’s Hollow and Ash Cave, or sledding at Lake Hope State Park. Turn in at the end of the day for a warm, comforting meal in town.
The Poconos, PA
- 8-hour drive from Detroit
The Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania may lie slightly outside the Midwest, but this winter hotspot is well worth the drive. The ridges and forests of the Poconos reside on the northern range of the Appalachian Mountains, offering smooth slopes that are perfect for winter sports.
There are many ski resorts to choose from in the Poconos. If your family is looking for something more unique, there are also a number of locations to try snow tubing or even dog sledding. No matter what you choose, the Poconos is a stunning hub of winter festivities to check out throughout the season.
Looking for some additional recommendations to make your trip the most memorable: Dig in deeper to these locations:
- Family Road Trip Guide: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
- Family Road Trip Guide: Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota
- Family Road Trip Guide: Fair Oaks, Indiana
This content is sponsored by Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers. Visit buyfordnow.com. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Ultimate Family Road Trip Guide.
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