Holiday getaways close to home

When I think of winter, I think of hot chocolate, cozy fireplaces and sweater weather. And of course, like so many of us in Chicago, fresh snow falls and winter activities are my favorite! Spending time outdoors in the winter, especially when there is snow, is a rare treat for some, but not for us in the Midwest. That’s why I’m sharing some of my favorite winter destinations this year.

Cadillac, Michigan: “Pure Michigan Trail Town”

Nothing says winter quite like Northern Michigan, home to the charming town of Cadillac. Cadillac earned the title “Pure Michigan Trail Town” for good reason. It offers access to nearly 500 miles of groomed snowmobile trails (with snowmobile rentals and trail side lodging nearby) and 100 miles of back country trails for cross country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking and fat tire biking. Imagine biking in the snow! It's wildly popular in the area, and many of the back country trails encourage it. And that’s not to mention other winter activities like paddling, fishing and downhill skiing, as Cadillac is home to one of the oldest ski resorts in the Midwest. 

The crown jewel of the Cadillac area in wintertime is Caberfae Peaks Resort with 30 downhill ski runs on three peaks and the highest elevation for lift-serviced terrain in Michigan's Lower Peninsula. The site boasts huge vertical drops and consistently great snow. There is also ungroomed back country terrain for fresh powder days. 

Officially opened in 1937, this family-run, independently-owned resort has a rich history and loyal following. You can still find evidence of the first ski run, “Number One,” carved out in the woods near the lower left side of North Peak. 

While Caberfae Peaks is open year-round for golf, weddings and other events, the ski slopes open around Thanksgiving weekend every year – complete with dining options and the largest day lodge in Michigan and ski-in/ski-out lodging options. There is something for every level, including beginners, who can take skiing and snowboarding lessons in a private or group setting. 

Surrounded by over 500,000 acres of Manistee National Forest, Cadillac is brimming with four-season outdoor activities even outside of winter, and it also offers cozy lodging to keep your hearts and toes warm. The Mackenzie Lodge at Caberfae Peaks is the place to stay if you want to be close to the skiing action – or rent a cozy, two-bedroom cabin at Coyote Crossing for snowmobile trail access right outside your door.

Winter magic in Galena

For a similar “Nordic” experience right here in Illinois, capture some winter magic in Galena. You can snow-ski or snowboard at Chestnut Mountain Resort. Chestnut offers impressive ski hills, snowboarding facilities and stunning views of the Mississippi River. They also make their own snow. So everyday is a good ski day at Chestnut Mountain! Another fun option in Galena is to hoof it through the snow with goats at Hoof It Goat Treks, and ice skate at Eagle Ridge Resort’s Nordic Center. You will love all of the winter wonderland options in and near this historic midwestern town.

Make sure to take a stroll on Historic Main Street and take in the festive holiday shopping and mark your calendars for Dec. 10 to attend Night of the Luminara and Living Windows. More than 5000 candlelit luminaries line the streets and sidewalks of Galena, and carolers will serenade you amongst the peaceful glow of the luminaries in Grant Park. It’s truly magical, and you feel like you are on the set of a Hallmark Christmas movie. Galena has something for everyone. Whether you take in a unique coffee tasting or check out the annual Holiday Fire in the Sky holiday fireworks display, you will be in the spirit of the season in no time.

While there, you can stay at the historic DeSoto House Hotel. The Hotel, the oldest operating hotel in Illinois, has seen many shining moments over the years, and is a fantastic option for staying in downtown Galena. If you are into something more eccentric, check out Jail Hill Inn, a former county jail turned bed and breakfast. There are also many other cozy B&Bs in the area, including the charming cabins at Goldmoor Inn.

The Abby Resort in Lake Geneva

If you’re headed to Wisconsin this winter, check out The Abbey Resort in Lake Geneva. Just a ninety-minute drive from Chicago, The Abbey Resort offers a fantastic holiday experience that will get you into the holiday spirit. The resort boasts a 35,000 square foot newly renovated Avani spa, as well as a full slate of indoor and outdoor activities like ice skating and indoor pool for the kids. My personal favorite winter activity at the Abbey is roasting marshmallows while sipping hot cider by the firepit. Book your holiday spa and feel a million miles away in beautiful Wisconsin. 

For more holiday fun and things to do in Chicago and beyond, follow me at Let’s Go with Catie Keogh.

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Republished from Dec. 2, 2022