A Quiet Christmas in Northern Michigan

By December 24, everything starts to settle. Mailboxes are closed up. Stores wind down early. Even the music feels slower.

In Northern Michigan, that shift is easy to notice. Lights glow across porches. Snow has piled up without melting. Roads are quiet. You can wake up without a list and walk outside without needing to be anywhere.

For guests spending Christmas here, that quiet is often the reason they came. Not for packed restaurants or full itineraries, but for the space to step back a little. A frozen lake. Bare trees. A kind of calm that doesn’t ask for anything.

It’s not a day that needs to be filled. Most people spend it reading, cooking slowly, or stepping outside for a few minutes just to hear how quiet it is. Everything moves a little differently, and that’s the whole point.

Small Traditions That Mean More

There’s something about winter that makes the smallest things stand out. A pot of coffee on the stove. Someone wrapped in a blanket on the couch with a book. A half-finished puzzle that no one’s in a hurry to complete.

The days around Christmas don’t need big traditions to feel meaningful. For many guests, the moments that matter most are the ones that happen naturally. A slow breakfast with everyone still in pajamas. A board game that gets competitive in the best way. A walk to the edge of the lake, just to see how much it’s frozen since yesterday.

There’s no need for a plan. No pressure to fit anything in. Just a few quiet hours, some good food, and the people you came here with.

Guests often bring what they already have. A family recipe. A book they’ve been meaning to finish. A game they always pack for winter trips. Those small pieces come together and make the time feel full in a way that doesn’t need explaining.

Christmas at the Lake

Being near the lake in winter feels different than any other time of year. The sound carries differently. Everything is quieter, like the snow has muted the edges of the world. You notice things like reflected light, slow-moving clouds, and the way frozen branches lean toward the water.

For some guests, this is the version of Christmas they’re looking for. No big travel plans. No last-minute shopping. Just space to breathe and a landscape that isn’t asking for anything.

It works well for families who want to keep things simple. It’s also good for couples or solo travelers who want to step out of the usual rhythm and spend the day somewhere peaceful.

Lakemore Lodge is one of those places where people come back for this kind of quiet. It sits close to the water, with a view that changes every hour depending on the weather. Inside, there’s warmth and space. Outside, there’s snow and silence. Together, it’s enough.

When the Year Winds Down

There’s something about this part of winter that invites reflection. Not the kind that shows up on a to-do list, but the kind that happens in small moments — when you’re stirring something on the stove or watching snow fall without speaking.

Some guests bring journals. Others bring nothing and write in their heads instead. A few take time to map out the year ahead. But many don’t. They just let the quiet stretch out and see what comes up.

This season doesn’t ask for big changes. It offers room. A bit of distance from everything that came before and everything that hasn’t started yet.

If You’re Staying Through the New Year

For guests who stay a little longer after Christmas, early January often feels like a reset. The holidays have passed, but winter is still holding everything in place. The pace is slow. The days are quiet. And there’s no pressure to jump into anything new just yet.

If you're spending that stretch in Northern Michigan, a few small outings can help shape the days without filling them:

  • Sledding on nearby hills or just outside the cabin

  • Short hikes through places like Brown Bridge Quiet Area or local nature trails

  • A trip to a local coffee shop or bookstore to warm up and linger for a while

Some guests book this week on purpose. Not because they’re celebrating anything but because they’re not. It’s a time to ease out of the year gently, and to let the new one begin on quieter terms.

Places like Lakemore Lodge make that feel possible. You’re close to what you need, but far enough from the noise to ignore it. And if you want to stretch your stay a little longer, the calendar’s usually on your side.

A Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve Near Traverse City

The last night of the year feels different when you're up north. There’s snow on the ground, maybe a few flakes still falling, and the lake sits still and quiet like it’s waiting for something. Inside, the lights are soft, dinner’s on the stove, and everyone is exactly where they need to be.

For families, New Year’s Eve doesn’t have to be flashy to feel special. Some of the best nights are built around simple things: a homemade meal, a game of cards, maybe a fire pit outside if it’s not too cold. Some people stay up late. Others toast with sparkling cider at nine and head to bed early.

This kind of celebration is easy to overlook. It doesn’t make much noise, and it won’t fill your social feed. But for a lot of people, it’s the night that lingers. A quiet moment, shared with people you love, before the new year begins.

Local Fireworks and Family Events

If you’re looking for something festive, there are usually a few public events scattered around Traverse City and the smaller towns nearby. Places like Clinch Park or local ski resorts often host fireworks or outdoor celebrations. It’s worth checking the local calendar closer to the date, but many families find something simple and fun happening within a short drive.

Skating rinks sometimes stay open late for a New Year’s Eve skate. Some towns do hot cocoa stands or community countdowns with music and lights. The scale is smaller, but that’s part of the charm. You’re not shoulder to shoulder in a big city crowd. You’re watching fireworks in boots and mittens, with a warm drink in hand.

Many Traverse City hotels on the beach are close to these events, especially downtown. If your goal is to be near the action, that’s a convenient option. But if you’re hoping for a quieter night, staying just outside of town can make the evening feel more personal.

You can join the fun when you want to, and step away from it just as easily.

Lodge-Based Celebrations for All Ages

When you’re staying in for New Year’s Eve, the celebration shifts. It becomes less about the clock and more about the people in the room.

For families, especially those with young kids or mixed age groups, that can actually be a relief. You don’t need much to make the night feel special. A few good snacks, something to toast with, and a space that feels warm and relaxed.

Some families line up a movie marathon. Others keep it simple with a few card games or a puzzle spread out on the table. Sparkling cider makes it feel like a real toast without keeping anyone up past bedtime. If you have a fire pit, even better. S’mores or hot cocoa by the lake are a good way to mark the moment, no countdown required.

If the sky is clear and the lake hasn’t frozen over too thick, you might even catch a few fireworks in the distance. Small displays, mostly, but enough to pause and look.

Lakemore Lodge is one of the places that works well for this kind of night. There’s room for a group to stay comfortably, or for just one family to spread out. The view is peaceful, and everything you need is already there: a kitchen to cook in, a great room to gather in, and just enough quiet to make the whole evening feel like your own.

Planning a New Year’s Eve Family Celebration

The best part about a family celebration on New Year’s Eve is that there are no rules. You can make it as quiet or as playful as you want. It doesn’t take much to make the night feel special.

One of the easiest ways to keep things low-stress is to plan a little bit. Shop for snacks early so you’re not running around town the day before. A few comfort foods and a bottle of sparkling cider usually go a long way.

Keep the activities simple. Set out a puzzle. Pick a movie or two. Let the kids put together a homemade countdown. Card games and trivia tend to hold up well with mixed ages. No need for anything complicated.

A New Year’s Eve family celebration works best when the pace fits your people. If the kids fall asleep early and the adults stay up to chat, that’s a good night. If everyone’s in bed before ten and happy about it, that works too.

The goal isn’t to impress anyone. It’s to finish the year feeling relaxed and together.

Where to Stay Near Traverse City

There are plenty of options if you’re planning to spend New Year’s Eve in the Traverse City area. Some families stay right downtown, choosing from the many Traverse City hotels on the beach that line the shoreline. These are great if you want to be close to the fireworks or able to walk into town for an event.

But for those looking for more space or a quieter setting, short-term rentals just beyond the city are worth considering. A winter-ready cabin or lodge gives you room to cook, stretch out, and enjoy the view without the buzz of downtown nearby.

Lakemore Lodge is one of those options. It’s close enough to town that you can still catch a fireworks show or pick up last-minute groceries, but far enough away that you’ll feel the stillness of the season. The lake view adds something extra, especially when everything’s covered in snow.

If you’re thinking about extending your stay into early January, it’s a good time to start looking. Some families book next year’s winter getaway during this very weekend, once they’ve seen how calm and comfortable it can be.

  • Yes. Local displays are often held near the beach downtown or in nearby towns. Check the city or regional event listings closer to the date for updated details.

  • Simple traditions work best. Early countdowns, card games, popcorn, and warm snacks tend to hold attention and keep the night fun without overstimulating.

  • No. Many families choose to stay just outside town. It gives you more space, more quiet, and often more comfort, especially if you’re planning to stay in for most of the evening.

  • Yes. It’s a year-round lakefront rental with plenty of space for winter stays, including New Year’s Eve and early January bookings.

Best Places to Visit in Michigan for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving should feel cozy and meaningful. With this, hosting at home mostly means waking up early, cooking for hours, managing family logistics, and trying to keep everything from burning or boiling over. By the time you sit down, it barely feels like a break.

That’s why some families choose to head north for the holiday. Not for a big itinerary or to do more, but to slow things down.

Traverse City, the Leelanau Peninsula, and nearby lake towns stay open through late fall, but without the summer rush. Shops and bakeries are still running. Trails are still walkable. You can step outside in the morning with a hot drink and not hear anything but wind in the trees.

There’s not much you have to do here. And that’s part of the appeal.

This region is one of the best places to visit in Michigan for Thanksgiving if you want time to cook, eat, and relax without the pressure of hosting at home.

Where to Go and What to Do

Northern Michigan isn’t crowded in late November, but it’s not shut down either, making it a good place to visit for Thanksgiving. Since you’re not dealing with peak-season traffic or sold-out restaurants, you can move at your own pace.

Here are a few options to keep in mind when visiting Michigan:

Traverse City

Downtown shops stay open through the holiday weekend, and many places decorate for the season. You’ll find cider, spiced drinks, and plenty of baked goods at local cafés and bakeries. Places like Common Good Bakery and Morsels are worth stopping by.

Leelanau Peninsula

Most wineries on the peninsula offer tastings through November. The drive itself is beautiful, open land, bare vines, and the lake in the distance. It’s quiet, which makes it easier to linger and enjoy the views.

Local Trails and Nature Areas

Brown Bridge Quiet Area, Boardman Valley Trail System, and Empire Bluff Trail (if the weather holds) all offer easy walks with good views. They are mostly cold, but if you dress for it, there’s something nice about being out there with no noise or even crowds.

Farm Markets and Pie Stops

While many seasonal markets close after October, a few local spots still sell pies, jams, and cider leading up to Thanksgiving. It’s worth checking places like Gallagher’s Farm Market or Edson Farms if you’re passing through.

This time of year doesn’t need a packed itinerary. One or two low-key outings, a warm meal, and somewhere quiet to stay is enough.

What to Eat and Drink

Thanksgiving meals are usually planned, but you can consider supplementing with local finds. Northern Michigan has no shortage of small shops, bakeries, and specialty markets to make it easier to build a good meal without doing everything from scratch.

Even in November, you can still find fresh bread, locally made pies, and fall produce, especially if you plan your stop a day or two before the holiday.

Here are a few places to keep in mind:

Gallagher’s Farm Market

While the main produce season ends in October, Gallagher’s mostly stays open through Thanksgiving week with baked goods, apples, jams, and local snacks. They usually carry homemade pies and cider.

Common Good Bakery

A solid choice for bread, pastries, and coffee. Their sourdough and seeded loaves are ideal for stuffing or morning toast. Pre-order if you’re coming in close to the holiday.

Edson Farms

A natural foods store that stocks organic and local products, including produce, cheese, and dry goods. Good for filling in the gaps if you're cooking from scratch but want a few shortcuts.

Local Wineries and Bottleshops

If wine is part of your Thanksgiving plan, nearby wineries like Shady Lane Cellars or Left Foot Charley are usually open through November. Some offer bottles to-go, and a few even host casual tastings if you catch them early in the week.

Most restaurants and breweries close on Thanksgiving Day itself, but many are open the days before and after. If you don’t want to cook the entire time, it's easy to find a warm meal in town; just check hours ahead of time.

Other Great Places to Visit in Michigan for Thanksgiving

Northern Michigan is popular in the fall, but it’s not the only region worth visiting this time of year. If you’re up for a drive and want to compare options, here are a few other places that come up when people search for Thanksgiving trips in the state.

Ann Arbor

Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor has a walkable downtown, great food, and several late-fall events. Restaurants book up fast over Thanksgiving weekend, so it’s better for visitors who want to eat out instead of cooking.

Grand Rapids

Known for its breweries and art scene, Grand Rapids offers more of a city experience. A good pick if you want live music, food tours, or indoor activities for a group.

Saugatuck

This small Lake Michigan town is quieter in November but still draws visitors with its art galleries, shoreline views, and cozy cabin rentals. Many shops stay open for holiday shopping, and restaurants typically reopen the day after Thanksgiving.

Harbor Springs and Petoskey

These lakeside towns near Little Traverse Bay are beautiful year-round. By late November, many seasonal businesses are closed, but the views and quiet atmosphere make it a good retreat for couples or small groups.

Where to Stay Near Traverse City

If you decide on Northern Michigan for Thanksgiving, finding the right place to stay can make the weekend easier. Many hotels in Traverse City stay open through the season, and several short-term rentals and cabins are available in the surrounding area.

It mostly depends on how you want to spend your time.

If you're planning to eat out or explore town most of the time, a small hotel or downtown condo might work just fine. But if you're planning to cook, relax, or host a few people, a house with a full kitchen and enough space to spread out makes things a lot more comfortable.

Places outside the city limits, especially those on smaller inland lakes, offer more peace and room to move. You’ll be close enough to grab groceries or take a short trip into town, but far enough away to enjoy some quiet.

Lakemore Lodge, located just south of Traverse City on Arbutus Lake, is one example. It’s a lakefront rental with multiple bedrooms, a large kitchen, and common areas designed for group stays. If your version of Thanksgiving includes shared meals, time by the fire, and not feeling rushed, this type of stay can help you settle in.

Late Summer Guest Q&A: Inside One of the Top Northern Michigan Family Stays

Summer is in full swing. The lake is busy with laughter. The porch is quiet in the mornings. Families are settling into their stay.

Some are here for the first time. Others know the routine: unpack, unwind, and ease into the rhythm of the Lodge.

We’ve gathered a few stories from guests who’ve stayed at Lakemore so far this season. These are real moments. Short thoughts. Honest answers.

This post shares what they’ve loved, what surprised them, and why some are already planning to return. If you're looking for a place that feels like your own little piece of northern Michigan family resort life, this is a good place to start.

What Brings Families to Lakemore Lodge?

Every family has their reason.

Some want a quiet place near Traverse City. Others are meeting up with relatives from out of town. A few are here just to be near the water.

One guest told us:

“We looked at hotels, but this felt more relaxed. We liked that we could cook and let the kids run around.”

Another said:

“It was a short drive from home, but far enough to feel like a real vacation.”

Lakemore Lodge offers a bit of both space to unwind and room to explore. It’s not crowded. It’s not noisy. And it’s just 15 minutes from town.

Looking for ideas once you arrive? See how families spend a rainy day at the Lodge without ever leaving.

What Do Guests Love Most About the Property?

The answers vary, but a few things come up again and again.

One family mentioned the sandy beach.

“The kids played for hours. We didn’t have to go anywhere else.”

Another loved the view.

“We had coffee on the porch every morning. You can’t beat that.”

Some talk about the layout. The walkout basement gives families space to spread out. The kitchen makes it easy to cook together.

“We took turns making dinner. It felt like a group effort, but in a good way.”

Everything’s close but not crowded. That balance is what guests seem to appreciate most.

Favorite Moments Shared So Far

It’s the little things that tend to stick.

“Pancakes on the porch. Every single morning.”

“The kids called the basement ‘their zone.’ We barely saw them after lunch.”

“My daughter saw a loon for the first time. She still talks about it.”

“We brought too many clothes. Everyone just stayed in swimsuits.”

These are the kinds of memories that don’t need a plan. They happen in between things, after breakfast, before dinner, while the lake stays still.

Why Families Return

For some, it’s the space.

“We’re not on top of each other. Everyone has room to do their own thing.”

For others, it’s the routine.

“We come the same week every summer. The kids expect it now.”

There’s no need to over-plan. The lake is right there. The house is already stocked. The drive to Traverse City is short, but most guests don’t go far.

“It’s calm. We know what to expect. That’s why we keep coming back.”

Want a quieter season? Some guests return in the fall or early spring. Here’s what they read and where they go.

Planning Your Stay

Lakemore Lodge isn’t a typical resort. It’s one home, right on the water, with everything you need to settle in and stay a while.

Families choose it because it’s easy. You can cook meals together. Spread out. Watch the lake. And when you want a short drive into town, Traverse City is just 15 minutes away.

If you’re looking for Traverse City short-term rentals that feel private, quiet, and family-ready, this might be the place.

Check availability here or browse our blog for more stories before planning your stay.

Close-up of a person playing a board game indoors on a rainy day, with natural light and warm tones creating a cozy atmosphere.

  • No. Lakemore Lodge is a private, standalone home on Arbutus Lake. It offers lakefront access, space for up to 12 guests, and the feel of a retreat, without the crowds or shared amenities of a resort.

  • About 15 minutes by car. It’s close enough for takeout, shops, and beach days but far enough to feel peaceful and tucked away.

  • Yes. Many families return each year. You can even coordinate stays with extended family in nearby homes.

  • Yes. With multiple bedrooms, a walkout basement, and shared gathering spaces, the layout works well for families of different ages.

Coming This Summer: First-Ever Food and Wine Festival in Traverse City

This August, Traverse City is serving up something brand new, and it’s going to be delicious. For the first time ever, the region will host the Traverse City Food & Wine Festival, a multi-day celebration of the flavors, farms, and talents that make Northern Michigan so special.

Running from August 20–24, 2025, the festival was created to shine a spotlight on our vibrant culinary scene. It features everything from local chefs and wineries to interactive tastings and lakeside dinners. It’s more than just a food event, but a full sensory experience in one of the most scenic places in the Midwest.

If you're someone who plans vacations around meals (we see you), or you just want to sip wine with a view, this is the kind of weekend you’ll want on your calendar.

Festival Highlights and Experiences

The festival isn’t built around just one headliner or tasting, but has a full lineup of events meant to help you explore, sip, and savor your way through the region. Whether you’re in it for the food, the wine, or the lake views, there’s something to look forward to each day.

Grand Tasting at the Open Space

Mark your calendar for Saturday, August 23, when the festival’s biggest event, the Grand Tasting, takes over the waterfront at Open Space Park in downtown Traverse City.

This is an outdoor tasting that features a curated mix of small plates from both beloved local chefs and culinary guests from around the country. Each bite is crafted to showcase the best of Northern Michigan’s seasonal ingredients.

You’ll also find over 100 local wines and craft beverages to explore, perfectly paired with the food and the view. Add in some live music and cooking demonstrations, and you’ve got an afternoon that’s equal parts picnic, tasting tour, and celebration.

It’s the kind of summer moment you’ll wish you could bottle up (like a nice bottle of Leelanau rosé).

Exclusive Culinary Events

If you’re the type who loves a little extra flavor in your travel plans, the festival’s lineup of specialty events is where things really shine. From hands-on demos to vineyard dinners under the stars, there’s something for every appetite.

One of the most anticipated highlights is a four-course tasting dinner with celebrity chef and Food Network star Tyler Florence. This event will be hosted at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. A James Beard Award nominee and longtime fixture in the national food scene, Florence brings star power and serious culinary chops to the table. His presence is a big win for the region, and seats for his event are expected to go fast.

Beyond that, the schedule includes estate dinners at local wineries, outdoor summer cookouts, and educational tastings that dive into perfect food and wine pairings. For something more laid-back, stop by the Traverse City Farmer’s Market for chef demos using fresh regional produce. You can also snag tickets for one of several Sunday brunches and progressive lunches happening around town. It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure for food lovers.

Engaging Activities Beyond the Plate

The festival also offers a few off-the-beaten-path experiences that bring the beauty of Northern Michigan into the mix.

Start your day with a 5K run or walk through the vineyards on the Leelanau Peninsula, a scenic and social way to stretch your legs (before more wine, of course). You can also take things to the water with Food & Wine Sails on the Bay aboard the Wind Dancer or Nauticat, where tastings happen with the breeze in your hair and the shoreline in view.

For something even more immersive, book a farm or winery tour and get a behind-the-scenes look at how some of the region’s best ingredients go from soil to plate or bottle.

Extend Your Northern Michigan Adventure

The festival may be the main event, but there’s plenty more to enjoy while you’re here. August in Traverse City is the peak season for sunshine, lake time, and local exploring, and staying at Lakemore Lodge puts it all within easy reach.

Outdoor Activities and Natural Beauty

Step outside and you’re just a one-minute walk from Arbutus Lake, where guests can paddleboard, kayak, or cast a line in calm, swimmable waters. It’s the perfect way to start the day, especially if you’ve got a few wine tastings planned later.

For something on land, head across the road to the Brown Bridge Quiet Area, a protected slice of nature with peaceful hiking trails through forests and fields. It’s one of the area’s hidden gems and only a few minutes from your door.

Looking to explore beyond the immediate surroundings?

  • Spider Lake is just a 6-minute drive

  • Traverse City Beach and the open water of West Bay are about 19 minutes away

Discover Local Attractions

In between festival events, consider carving out time for a few of the area’s local wineries and breweries. Places like Bonobo Winery, Left Foot Charley, and Farm Club offer a laid-back tasting experience with incredible views and friendly staff. Many are just a short drive from Lakemore and open throughout the weekend.

Looking for something off the typical tourist path? Check out our guide to Hidden Gems in Traverse City where you’ll find unique shops, quiet trails, and lesser-known local favorites that are well worth the detour.

Savor the Flavors of Traverse City

The Traverse City Food & Wine Festival is shaping up to be one of the most exciting weekends of the summer. It’s full of local flavor, lakeside tastings, chef-led dinners, and a whole lot of personality.

If you’re making a weekend of it, where you stay matters. You’ll want somewhere close to the action but far enough to actually relax, especially after a day spent tasting, walking, and wine-hopping. That’s where Lakemore Lodge comes in.

Located just a short drive from downtown, this lakefront retreat on Arbutus Lake gives you space to stretch out, cook with local finds, and soak up the quiet in between events. With room for up to 12 guests, a full kitchen, private beach, fire pit, and plenty of space to gather, it’s designed for food lovers, families, and friends who want to make the most of their time together.

So whether you're coming for the wine, the food, or the full experience, make it a weekend worth remembering.

Book your stay at Lakemore Lodge or call 231-947-MORE to lock in your festival getaway.

An example of a wine tasting setup, featuring red and rosé wine glasses, a tasting scorecard, and small bites, capturing the spirit of Traverse City's Food & Wine Festival.

  • The festival is scheduled for August 20–24, 2025.

  • Expect a full range of experiences: the Grand Tasting, cooking demonstrations, wine pairing classes, chef-led dinners, and vineyard tours throughout the region.

  • Tyler Florence is a nationally recognized chef and Food Network star. He’ll be headlining the festival with exclusive cooking events and a featured tasting dinner.

  • The lodge is about 15–20 minutes from downtown Traverse City, close enough to be convenient, far enough to feel like a true escape.

  • Visit our VRBO listing or call 231-947-MORE to reserve your dates.

  • Yes. Most events, including dinners, tastings, and specialty experiences, require advance tickets. Be sure to check the official festival page or follow Traverse City Tourism for ticket release dates and availability.