With the fresh start of a new year, Traverse City is ready to welcome visitors with exciting January events and activities that highlight Northern Michigan’s winter magic. From lively festivals and winter sports to cozy indoor experiences, Traverse City offers endless opportunities to make your January unforgettable. Whether you're looking for a thrilling outdoor adventure or a relaxing winter retreat, Lakemore Lodge on Arbutus Lake is the ideal base for your stay, providing cozy lakeside accommodations and easy access to all the fun.
1. Traverse City Restaurant Week – Winter Edition
Dates: January 26–February 1, 2025
Location: Various Downtown Traverse City Restaurants
This January, Traverse City’s finest eateries are offering special, prix-fixe menus during Restaurant Week - Winter Edition! From farm-to-table creations to classic comfort foods, this is an ideal chance to explore Traverse City’s renowned culinary scene.
Highlights: Local restaurants will feature multi-course menus that spotlight seasonal ingredients.
Must-Try Spots: Be sure to visit The Cooks’ House, Trattoria Stella, and Amical for a true taste of Traverse City.
After-Dinner Relaxation: Retreat to Lakemore Lodge, where you can unwind by the fire or enjoy a lakeside stroll.
2. Winter Sports and Trails Around Arbutus Lake
Ongoing in January 2025
Location: Lakemore Lodge and Nearby Trails
January is an ideal time for winter sports in Traverse City, and Lakemore Lodge offers immediate access to some of the best outdoor activities. Experience the serene beauty of Arbutus Lake and surrounding trails with winter sports that include ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
Local Trails: The Boardman Valley Trail and Vasa Pathway are perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, offering stunning views of snow-covered forests and landscapes.
Tip: Rent cross-country skis or snowshoes at a nearby outfitter and explore Lakemore Lodge’s private paths and lakefront.
3. Explore the National Writers Series: January Author Events
Dates: Various Dates in January 2025
Location: City Opera House
For literary enthusiasts, Traverse City’s National Writers Series is a must. Each winter, this popular series brings accomplished authors to the City Opera House, hosting discussions, book signings, and Q&A sessions. This January, the series features renowned authors sharing insights into their latest works, providing an engaging cultural experience for visitors.
Author Highlights: January 2025 features bestselling authors in genres from historical fiction to memoir.
Venue: The historic City Opera House offers an intimate and inspiring setting.
Perfect for Cozy Nights: After the event, return to Lakemore Lodge to curl up with a new book by the fire.
4. Indoor Attractions and Historic Tours
Ongoing in January 2025
Location: Downtown Traverse City and Grand Traverse Commons
When you need a break from the cold, Traverse City has indoor attractions perfect for winter exploration. The historic Village at Grand Traverse Commons offers art galleries, unique shops, and guided historic tours of what was once a mental asylum. With warm, inviting spots throughout, this is an intriguing way to experience Traverse City’s rich history.
Tour the Commons: Guided tours include unique insights into the site’s history, along with glimpses of the underground steam tunnels.
Wine and Coffee Spots: Grab a drink at Left Foot Charley winery or cozy up with a cup at Higher Grounds Coffee for a true taste of Traverse City.
5. Wine Tasting on Old Mission Peninsula
Ongoing in January 2025
Location: Old Mission Peninsula Wineries
Traverse City’s wineries are beautiful in winter, offering peaceful settings and breathtaking views. Take a wine-tasting tour along the Old Mission Peninsula, where you’ll find a variety of wineries with cozy tasting rooms and special winter releases. Wineries like Chateau Chantal and Mari Vineyards provide picturesque lake views and intimate experiences perfect for warming up with a glass of local wine.
Recommended Tasting Rooms: Visit Bonobo Winery and 2 Lads Winery for distinctive wines and amazing vistas.
Transportation: Take advantage of Traverse City’s wine tour services to safely and comfortably visit multiple wineries.
6. Relax and Recharge at Lakemore Lodge
January is a time to relax, unwind, and recharge, and Lakemore Lodge offers the ultimate in cozy comfort. Nestled on the shores of Arbutus Lake, the lodge provides a peaceful retreat from the busy holiday season and a beautiful backdrop for your winter getaway.
On-Site Amenities: Enjoy a lakeside fire pit, spacious rooms, fun for all ages game room, cozy fireplace, and easy access to winter activities.
Start the New Year Right at Lakemore Lodge With scenic landscapes, exciting events, and serene accommodations, January in Traverse City is an unforgettable start to the year. Plan your winter escape at Lakemore Lodge, where you can explore all that Traverse City has to offer while enjoying a cozy retreat on Arbutus Lake. Whether you’re here for winter sports, culinary adventures, or just some peace and quiet, Lakemore Lodge is the perfect home base. Book your stay today and experience Traverse City’s winter charm firsthand!
