Trails lead to warm cafés, outdoor adventures lead right back to small-town charm, and it’s easy to mix a big winter day with an even better night. Stay in Manistee with Boardwalk Vacation Rentals, spend the day doing what you love, then come back to downtown for dinner, drinks, and a cozy night at your own vacation home or condo—no crowded hotel hallways required.

OUTDOOR WINTER ADVENTURES NEAR MANISTEE

When planning your Northern Michigan getaway, you’ll find plenty of lodging options—hotels, motels, resorts—but none of them match the space, privacy, and local feel of a vacation rental. Here’s why Boardwalk Vacation Rentals stands out as the best choice for where to stay in Manistee:

SKI OR SNOWBOARD NEARBY (THEN COME BACK TO MANISTEE)

If your group loves downhill skiing or snowboarding, you’re perfectly positioned for a classic winter weekend: ski during the day, relax in Manistee at night. Plan your “après” in downtown—then unwind at your Boardwalk Vacation Rental with plenty of space for the whole crew.

CROSS-COUNTRY SKI OR FAT BIKE THE BIG M

For a quieter, woodsy winter day, Big M is a favorite for Nordic skiing and fat biking. Pack snacks, dress in layers, and treat it like a winter “loop adventure.”

SNOWSHOE THE MANISTEE RIVER TRAIL AND SUSPENSION BRIDGE

This is one of those winter outings that feels instantly memorable—peaceful forest, river views, and that iconic bridge moment that’s worth the trip.

WINTER HIKE ARCARDIA DUNES FOR LAKE MICHIGAN VIEWS

Want a scenic payoff without needing a full-day plan? Arcadia Dunes is a strong pick for couples (sunset) and families (fresh air + big views).

SNOWMOBILE THE REGIONAL TRAIL NETWORK

If your group rides, you can build an entire weekend around the trail system—then refuel in Manistee and relax somewhere warm afterward.

ICE FISHING AND WINTER ANGLING OPTIONS

When conditions are right, ice fishing becomes its own winter tradition in the area—perfect for travelers who want a classic Michigan winter day.

TRY WINTER RAFTING OR PADDLING FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT

If your crew likes unique experiences, winter paddling is a whole vibe—especially for visitors who’ve “done the usual” winter activities before.

GO STARGAZING ON A CLEAR WINTER NIGHT

Winter skies can be unbelievably crisp. Bring cocoa, bundle up, and make it a 20-minute wow moment before heading back to town.

WINTER IN MANISTEE IS THE KIND OF GETAWAY WHERE EVERYTHING FEELS CLOSE

After a winter day outside, downtown Manistee makes it easy to shift into cozy mode. Build your evening around a great meal, then head back to your rental to relax, play games, watch a movie, or just enjoy being “snowed in” (the fun kind).

 

COZY INDOOR THINGS TO DO IN MANISTEE IN THE WINTER

SEE A MOVIE AT THE VOGUE THEATRE

A perfect family-friendly warm-up plan after a cold day outside—popcorn included.

CATCH A LIVE SHOW OR PERFORMANCE

For a date night (or something special with the family), check local performance schedules and make it an evening.

PINBALL AND DINNER IN DOWNTOWN MANISTEE

A SIMPLE PERFECT WINTER WEEKEND ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVE + DOWNTOWN COZY NIGHT

Check in → dinner downtown → movie, dessert, or a relaxed night in.

DAY 2: BIG OUTDOOR DAY + COMFORTABLE NIGHT IN

Ski day trip or trail adventure → dinner and drinks → unwind at your vacation home.

DAY 3: SCENIC MORNING + EASY WRAP-UP

Short hike or snowshoe → coffee + shopping → head home refreshed.

*WINTER SAFETY NOTE FOR LAKE MICHIGAN

Lake Michigan winter views are incredible—but avoid walking on ice formations or unsafe pier areas when conditions are dangerous.

MAKE MANISTEE YOUR WINTER HOME BASE WITH BOARDWALK VACATION RENTALS

Manistee isn’t just one activity—it’s how easily you can stack outdoor fun with a cozy downtown and a comfortable place to return to at night. With Boardwalk Vacation Rentals, you can stay close to everything, spread out, and enjoy a true winter getaway in your own home-away-from-home.

Get $50 OFF equipment rentals with code HOLIDAY50 when you reserve by 12/31/25.

✔ Valid for any 2025 or 2026 Boardwalk Vacation Rentals stay
✔ No minimum equipment rental amount
✔ $50 discount per reservation (enter your Boardwalk reservation ID at checkout)

Skip the packing—we’ll deliver baby gear, beach gear, games & more right to your door, including baby gates, strollers, highchairs, beach chairs, umbrellas, coolers, cornhole, ladder toss, wagons, and more.

👉 Browse & reserve: https://equip.manisteevacations.com