Every winter, the Keweenaw Peninsula transforms into a snowy playground for families — a place brimming with outdoor fun, cozy accommodations and enriching cultural experiences
A winter family trip to this “UP” destination promises a blend of snow-packed adventures and moments of quiet beauty that create lifelong memories.
In the heart of winter, the acres of forests are laden with snow and transformed into a wondrous winter landscape. Bring warm, waterproof hiking boots and well-insulated coats!
The Keweenaw Peninsula is my family’s favorite winter destination. An eight-hour drive from metro Detroit, it’s the perfect spot for a winter getaway.
Here in our City Guide, get the basics on why to visit, where to eat, where to stay and how to get there from metro Detroit. Plus discover three more family must-dos:
- Stars and northern lights in the Keweenaw Peninsula
- Winter activities families will love in the Keweenaw Peninsula
- Nordic fun in the Keweenaw Peninsula
Why families visit the Keweenaw Peninsula
The great outdoors
The Keweenaw is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true, and winter just amplifies its charm. From fat tire biking to cross-country skiing to snowshoeing, there’s plenty to explore
- Hiking: The Swedetown Trails and Michigan Tech Trails offer groomed paths, complete with warming huts for cozy breaks along the way.
- Snowmobiling: For faster-paced fun, hundreds of miles of snowmobile trails wind through forests and frozen landscapes, delivering adventure and breathtaking views.
Yooperlite hunting
Families will love Yooperlite hunting. These fluorescent rocks glow under UV light, and searching for them along Lake Superior’s shores at night gives kids a swashbuckling adventure.
Mine tours
History comes to life in the Keweenaw, and families can dive right down into it. The Quincy Mine Hoist Association in Hancock offers winter tours of its historic copper mine, where families can explore underground tunnels and learn about the region’s rich mining history.
Michigan Tech’s hockey team
Catch the excitement of a Michigan Tech Huskies hockey game in Houghton. Watching a Division I team in action is thrilling, and the energy in this small-town arena makes for a perfect evening outing.
Pair it with a pre-game meal at the college favorite, The Library Bar and Grill, in downtown Houghton for a complete experience.
Dark sky park
The Keweenaw Peninsula doesn’t slow down when the sun sets. The Keweenaw Dark Sky Park at Keweenaw Mountain Lodge offers stargazing opportunities for the whole family, complete with constellation tours and astronomy workshops.
Winter visitors might even glimpse the northern lights from Brockway Mountain Drive or the frozen shores of Lake Superior, where the icy surface reflects the auroras in an out-of-this-world, breathtaking display.
Where to eat
The Keweenaw’s dining scene has grown rapidly in the last decade. Families will find plenty of options for even the pickiest eaters.
- We recommend starting the day with Finnish pancakes at Suomi Restaurant in Houghton, a beloved local spot for breakfast.
- Roy’s Pasties and Bakery in Houghton is the go-to place for pasties, the savory pastries that are a Keweenaw tradition hailing from the mining days.
- Fitzgerald’s in Eagle River provides an elevated-yet-unpretentious dining experience with a menu that appeals to both kids and adults, all while offering unbeatable views of Lake Superior.
- For a casual, hearty meal, try The Michigan House Café in Calumet, where burgers, sandwiches and craft beer keep everyone satisfied.
- Cookies, cupcakes and jam are a must at The Jampot in Eagle Harbor, where monks live and bake on the shores of Lake Superior. Fair warning, this place will have you driving back annually for a visit.
Where to stay
- The Keweenaw Mountain Lodge in Copper Harbor is a top choice for families. Rustic yet comfortable cabins with fireplaces provide a cozy escape after a day in the snow. It also delivers dining options with hearty meals perfect for warming up and refueling.
- For a more central location, The Vault Hotel in Houghton combines historic charm with modern amenities. Its location makes it ideal for families looking to explore both the town’s attractions, like a Tech hockey game, and nearby trails.
- For a unique experience, consider staying at the Dapple-Gray Bed and Breakfast near Calumet, where cozy log cabin-style rooms and home-cooked breakfasts create a comfy atmosphere.
- Families seeking adventure can stay in the yurts at Mount Bohemia. These off-grid accommodations add an adventurous twist to a Keweenaw getaway, putting you right in the heart of the downhill skier’s dream.
How to get there — plus 3 pitstops
The drive from metro Detroit to the Keweenaw Peninsula is part of the adventure. It’s approximately eight hours, taking you through Michigan’s picturesque forest landscapes and offering several family-friendly destinations to break up the trip.
Museum of Ojibwa Culture in St. Ignace
To start, head north on I-75 toward Mackinaw City. If timing allows, consider stopping at the Museum of Ojibwa Culture in St. Ignace, just over the Mackinac Bridge.
This interactive museum introduces families to the rich history of the Ojibwa people through exhibits, storytelling and hands-on activities. It’s a great way for kids to stretch their legs while also learning about Michigan’s Native American heritage.
GarLyn Zoo near Naubinway
Continuing west on US-2, the next stop worth considering is the GarLyn Zoo near Naubinway. This smaller zoo is a hidden gem where kids can see everything from bears to lemurs up close.
It’s a manageable, stress-free experience in comparison to big-city zoos, and it offers a nice change of pace from the road.
Upper Peninsula Children’s Museum in Marquette
As you turn onto M-28 heading toward Marquette, a must-visit stop is the Upper Peninsula Children’s Museum in Marquette.
This colorful, hands-on museum is perfect for kids of all ages, with interactive exhibits ranging from wildlife and art to space exploration. It’s an excellent energy-burner before the final stretch to the Keweenaw.
Plan your family trip to the Keweenaw Peninsula
It’s a long drive, but with some strategic stops, your crew’s journey will be a pleasant one. And honestly, once you arrive in the peninsula, the beauty of the region makes the drive worth every mile.
The Keweenaw Peninsula is a winter destination that blends adventure, culture, and comfort. From fat tire biking to Yooperlite hunting and hockey, it’s a family escape that’s both adventurous and restorative.
Looking for even more to do? See our full City Guide and discover the stars and northern lights in Keweenaw, winter activities families will love and Nordic-style fun at this family escape.
Content sponsored by Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers. Visit buyfordnow.com. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Ultimate Family Road Trip Guide.