From skating rinks to snowy spots, best places to enjoy this winter
With the holidays kicking off the winter season, it’s a great time to make fond new memories with your loved ones. And there are so many ways to enjoy this frosty time of year! You can travel to a snowy destination that offers winter activities and cozy nights by the fire, go ice skating at one of the best rinks in the country, and welcome the New Year at a festive event.
To find the best spots to enjoy some winter fun, an expert panel nominated their favorites in each of three categories. Then, readers voted for their top picks to determine the winners.
Click on each category below to see the full winners list:
Best Destination for Snow: Upper Peninsula of Michigan
See a different side of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan during the winter — Photo courtesy of UP Travel
From skiing and sledding to snowshoeing and snowmobiling, there’s plenty to do during winter in the Upper Peninsula towns of Sault Ste. Marie and Marquette. And while much of Mackinac Island is closed in winter, the trails are open for cross-country skiing in Mackinac Island State Park.
Full list of winners: Best Destination for Snow »
Best Ice Skating Rink: The Rink at Campus Martius Park in Detroit, Michigan
Go for a spin on the ice at The Rink at Campus Martius Park — Photo courtesy of Charles Falsetti for Visit Detroit
There’s a silver lining to the frigid winters of Detroit, Michigan — skating at The Rink at Campus Martius Park. Located in the heart of downtown Detroit with stunning views of the city skyline, this rink has been a major magnet for locals and Olympians alike.
Full list of winners: Best Ice Skating Rink »
Best New Year’s Eve Drop: Ludington’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Ludington, Michigan
Ring in the new year at Ludington’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop — Photo courtesy of Todd and Brad Reed Photography
Michigan embraces the holiday spirit each year with Ludington’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop, an event that takes place on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. This festival invites Michiganders and visitors alike to kick back and enjoy wine and local craft beer as they marvel at colorful fireworks and a ball drop stage that’s clad in thousands of flashing lights.
Full list of winners: Best New Year’s Eve Drop »
Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote in more Readers’ Choice Awards.
