5 Ways to Thoroughly Enjoy a Michigan Winter

1. Go skiing or snowmobiling.

Even though it is approaching March, there is still time to go skiing or snowmobiling for the weekend. If you don't have skis or snowmobiles, you can make arrangements to rent them. No matter how you look at it, it is a great reason to get away for a long weekend and get out of the house.

2. Find a festival and go.

There are a lot of festivals around Michigan throughout the winter - Zehnder's Snowfest in Frankenmuth and Perchville in Tawas are just two examples. Winter festivals may include polar bear swims, warming and beer tents, ice fishing competitions, snow sculptures, live entertainment, and much, much more. They are a great way to have some winter fun and see some lesser-known Michigan cities. Just be prepared for the weather and research what's happening before you go.

3. Ice fish.

Ice fishing can be quite an educational experience for those who've never been. If done correctly, you will have a great dinner for all of your effort. If you've never been ice fishing before, it would be a very wise idea to go with someone who knows what he or she is doing. You don't want to have to be rescued from the freezing water or have gear end up in the lake. By including a group of friends, good food, and drinks (beer in most cases), you can make a weekend out of it.

4. Snowshoe or cross-country ski.

Snowshoeing and cross-county skiing are making a comeback. Why not give it a try? The worst-case scenario, you get a great workout and never end up doing it again. It is a great way to get out into the woods when there is a lot of snow. Just be sure that you don't trespass on private property.

5. Just head Up North.

If nothing else really appeals to your taste and you are a more indoors type of person, but yet would like to get out of the house, why not head Up North? There are some great hotels that have indoor water-parks, such as Great Wolf Lodge near Traverse City and Zehnder's Hotel in Frankenmuth. Both are great destinations for families with small children. In both cases, there are plenty of other attractions to visit as well, making it a great destination for a long weekend.

Winter in Michigan doesn't have to be so incredibly dreary and you don't have to put up with cabin fever. There are plenty of things to do while there is still snow on the ground. Summer will be here soon enough with its own sets of activities and fun; why not make the most of winter while it is still here? If you really hate the winter weather, you can always move to Florida or Texas. However, there is a chance that you'll miss the changing of the seasons after awhile.