Beat the Winter Blues at a Michigan Indoor Water Park
Winter is here in full force with chilly temperatures and lots of snow covering the ground. If you want a break from the cold or skiing isn’t your thing, maybe what you need is a weekend at one of Michigan’s indoor waterparks. The the balmy air and warm water will help you forget the winter wonderland outside for a few hours.
Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark, Boyne Falls
At the largest indoor waterpark in Michigan, it’s always 84 degrees at Avalanche Bay, no matter how cold it is outside. Ride The Big Couloir, Avalanche Bay’s newest addition featuring the steepest drop in the industry. You’ll be launched down a tube, dropping 38 feet per second, spun around in a 360 degree loop and gently dropped into the water. Many other rides, a kiddie pool and an arcade ensure there’s something for the whole family to enjoy. Part of Boyne Mountain Resorts, you can also head outside and hit the ski slopes during your stay. And you are just a few miles from Petoskey where you can enjoy unique dining and shopping in the beautiful Northern Michigan lakeside town.
Splasherhorn Mountain drops an 800-gallon water avalanche on explorers inside Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark. Photo courtesy of Boyne Mountain Resort.
Great Wolf Lodge, Traverse City
Snow, sleet, rain — whatever — you won’t have to worry about the weather when you’re at Great Wolf Lodge. Eleven thrill rides and water attractions will keep you busy. Twist and turn down Alberta Falls, relax as you float down Crooked Creek or take a long soak in Manitoba Tubs. Story time, The Great Clock Tower Show and Ten Paw bowling alley provide entertainment out of the water. Elements Spa and Scoops Kid Spa provide a place for everyone to relax. Be sure to spend some time visiting the local vineyards and shopping in downtown Traverse City while you’re there.
Fairview Beachfront Inn & Waterpark, Mackinaw City
You’ll have a beautiful view of The Straits, Mackinac Island and the Mackinac Bridge from this hotel. Kids will enjoy the indoor waterpark that features a pool, waterslides and splash pad. Take a day trip to Mackinac Island and experience the winter season in one of Michigan’s most unique places. You’re just minutes from the Mackinac Island ferries that run between the mainland and the island as long as the bay isn’t frozen.
Lakeside Resort and Conference Center, Houghton Lake
Get away to Houghton Lake for a quiet winter weekend away from the hustle and bustle of life. The Lakeside Resort and Conference Center features a waterslide, pool, hot tub and lazy river. Skiing, snowboarding and tubing is just minutes away if you want to add winter outdoor fun to your itinerary.
Soaring Eagle Waterpark and Hotel, Mount Pleasant
Twist and turn down Loon’s Loop, surf the Flowrider, float the lazy river or relax in the hot tub at Soaring Eagle. You can dine at the on-site restaurants, climb the rock wall and listen to traditional Native American stories also. For grown-ups, Soaring Eagle Casino is just a short shuttle bus ride away.
Zender’s Splash Village Hotel and Waterpark, Frankenmuth
A six-story family raft ride and super loop body slide, zero-entry activity pool with water geysers, and dumping bucket are just three of the many ways to get wet at Zender’s. Dine at Zender’s Restaurant and shop for specialty food and gift items from around the world at Zender’s Marketplace. Be sure to venture out into the Bavarian town of Frankenmuth and visit the world’s largest Christmas store during your stay.
