5 Ways to Explore Keweenaw Peninsula Nordic Fun as a Family

Explore the Keweenaw Peninsula’s Nordic charm with your family through Finnish traditions, cozy saunas, delicious food and outdoor adventures like skiing and snowshoeing.

The snowy winter months in the Keweenaw Peninsula come sprinkled with cozy Nordic magic, thanks to its deep Finnish roots that bring food, culture, and traditions to life.

For families craving a Nordic vacation without the accompanying price tag, this icy region presents the perfect combination of Nordic-inspired outdoor fun and plenty of cultural exploration.

For even more fun in the Keweenaw, see our City Guide to discover where to eat and stay, stargazing and northern lights and family winter activities in the region.

What brought the Finnish immigrants to the Keweenaw?

Finnish immigrants began arriving in the Keweenaw Peninsula in the late 19th century, drawn by the booming copper mining industry. Their hard-working ethos and love for the great outdoors fit perfectly with the region’s rugged landscape.

Over time, the Finnish immigrants wove their traditions into the fabric of the Keweenaw. 

Today, that culture is everywhere. From the food to the festivals to the amazing saunas, much of what the Finnish brought to the region makes it an ideal winter destination for families.

5 Nordic musts during your family’s Keweenaw visit

Relish the Finnish culture with a mix of cuisine, history, wintry sports, sauna life and books for the entire family.

1. Finnish comfort food in Houghton and Hancock

The Suomi Restaurant in Houghton is a must-visit, known for its authentic Finnish pancakes, or pannukakku. These rich, custard-like delights come with fresh in-season berries, powdered sugar or rich syrup — and make a satisfying breakfast or brunch.

A golden-brown Finnish pancake served on a plate with a side of berry syrup, showcasing a traditional Nordic breakfast dish.
Photo credit: Steffy McCourt

The cozy atmosphere feels like stepping into someone’s Finnish grandmother’s kitchen. It should be noted that I have never visited this place when it wasn’t busy. There’s always a line (a testament to the menu), but it usually moves pretty quickly. And it’s so worth the wait.

For a hearty breakfast or lunch, head to the Nisu Bakery and Café in Hancock. This spot is famous for its cardamom nisu, a warm, flaky coffee bread that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of tea.

2. The Finnish American Heritage Center

Families can dive into the area’s Finnish culture with a visit to the Finnish American Heritage Center in Hancock. Exhibits tell the story of Finnish immigrants, their contributions to the mining industry, and their traditions that endure to this day.

Kids will have fun exploring artifacts like traditional Finnish clothing and tools, while parents will love learning the details of how Finnish immigrants shaped the region.

The center also hosts events tied to Finnish culture, such as the annual Heikinpäivä Festival, which showcases traditional games, music and, of course, food.

Participants holding hands in a large circle on a snowy field during the Heikinpäivä Festival, celebrating Finnish heritage with traditional winter festivities and costumes.
Photo credit: Heikinpäivä Festival / Visit Keweenaw

3. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing the Finnish way

Winter activities in the Keweenaw come with a Finnish spin.

  • At Swedetown Trails in Calumet, cross-country skiing takes on a Scandinavian flair, with groomed loops and warming huts along the way.
  • The Michigan Tech Trails in Houghton come with snowshoe rentals and plenty of space for younger hikers to get comfortable stomping through the deep snow. Festivals like Heikinpäivä bring additional energy, with fun and cultural outdoor winter activities.

4. Sauna life in the Keweenaw

Saunas are a cornerstone of Finnish life, offering warmth and rejuvenation — and there are two not to miss.

Two boys sitting and chatting in a wooden sauna with warm Himalayan salt brick walls, enjoying a relaxing and casual moment.
Photo credit: Steffy McCourt

  • Takka Superior is the real deal, and the Finnish sauna tradition comes to life at two locations with a focus on accessibility. The Eagle Harbor spot is ideal for groups, wellness retreats and events, offering plenty of space to relax and connect. And Hancock’s Portage Canal locale provides a more intimate setting, perfect for private use or small gatherings. Both are in the heart of the Keweenaw.
  • Mount Bohemia’s Nordic Spa blends relaxation with a touch of adventure. Enjoy the largest outdoor hot tub in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, along with a variety of saunas. The Finnish Panoramic Sauna, Himalayan Salt Sauna, Herbal Sauna and eucalyptus steam cabin all help you warm up after a cold day outside. The outdoor hot and cold pools, complete with a Nordic waterfall (be prepared to squeal!), add a refreshing twist.

5. Finnish book shopping

For book lovers, North Wind Books in Hancock carries Finnish literature — along with an expansive collection of Finnish children’s books.

A wooden shelf displaying a vibrant collection of Finnish books, including Moomin titles and children's literature, at North Wind Books, highlighting Nordic storytelling and culture.
Photo credit: Steffy McCourt

  • The Moomins by Tove Jansson is a favorite for kids, filled with whimsical tales of life in Moominvalley.
  • Families can also pick up The Kalevala or The Magic of the Kalevala to explore Finnish folklore and mythology.
  • And parents will surely enjoy Sisu: The Finnish Art of Courage by Joanna Nylund, which dives into the Finnish spirit of resilience and determination.

Family winter activities abound in the Keweenaw

Winter in the Keweenaw Peninsula gives families a chance to connect with Finnish culture through delicious food, warm saunas, cozy books and plenty of outdoor adventures.

Savor some pannukakku, steam in a sauna or stomp through snowy trails — whichever you choose, the Keweenaw delivers top-notch Nordic fun.

Ready to make a full weekend of it? Check out our comprehensive City Guide to the Keweenaw Peninsula. Find out the basics, some stargazing and northern lights spotting and many more winter activities for families.

Content sponsored by Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers. Visit buyfordnow.com. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Ultimate Family Road Trip Guide.

Steffy McCourt
Steffy McCourt
Steffy McCourt brings over 15 years of experience in education, parenting, and travel writing for esteemed publications like We Are Teachers and LA Family Travel. Recognized for her commitment to advancing literacy and writing skills, Steffy is honored to be a Fellow of the National Writing Project. She collaborates with educators nationwide to enhance teaching practices and empower student writers.

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