Winters in the Midwest can be particularly brutal, but even the heartiest of Midwesterners can use a break from the ice, cold, and snow. Fortunately, you don’t have to travel too far to find warm and cozy getaway spots in America’s heartland. Whether you’re looking to cuddle next to a fireplace in a cabin or craving outdoor adventure with plenty of snow sports, Midwestern resorts have lots to offer couples, families, and groups of friends. These are some of the best quaint and cozy winter getaways in the Midwest.
Grand Hotel – Mackinac Island, Michigan
Mackinac Island is a favorite Midwest destination at any time of year. Even when the temperatures drop and the snow falls in Michigan, this is a lovely getaway spot. The Grand Hotel is one of the best family resorts in the Mackinac area and is a prominent landmark in the area. This historic hotel has been welcoming guests since 1887! At 660 feet long, the Grand Hotel’s front porch is the longest in the world. Make some hot chocolate and spend some time on it while watching the ferries go by. This hotel has been consistently ranked as one of the best resorts for families with kids.
Osthoff Resort – Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
There are cozy rooms at Elkhart Lake’s Osthoff Resort, which is perfect for a weekend getaway in Wisconsin. This is a romantic getaway spot for couples with plenty of outdoor and indoor activities offered throughout the winter months. There are also spacious meeting rooms and a ballroom here, making it great for conferences and work retreats as well. The holidays are a truly special time at Osthoff, with a St. Nicholas Brunch, Breakfast with Santa Claus, and the annual Old World Christmas Market with over 80 artisans displaying their specialty giftware.
Honey Creek Resort – Moravia, Iowa
To stay at one of the finest resorts in the state of Iowa, consider staying at the Honey Creek Resort. Located in south-central Iowa on Rathbun Lake, this is a popular place for camping during the summertime. You can stay in a resort cottage during the winter months and find plenty to do to stay busy. There are multi-purpose trails to hike nearby and an indoor water park that’s perfect for the kids. Spa services are also available by appointment at the resort.
Big Cedar Lodge – Ridgedale, Missouri
The Big Cedar Lodge is located in the Ozarks of Missouri, and it’s one of the best winter getaways in the area. There are cozy rooms in this lodge, which feels like a secluded wilderness retreat. However, there are still lots of luxurious amenities here, including stained glass, vaulted ceilings, and gourmet restaurants. Enjoy beautiful lake views and elegant dining room as you relax and unwind. There are multiple waterfalls in the area that you can bundle up and explore!
Sugar Lake Lodge – Cohasset, Minnesota
Sugar Lake Lodge is one of the best places to stay in the Cohasset, Minnesota region for relaxation and outdoor adventures. This lodge is in the heart of Northern Minnesota and also great for meetings, conferences, and seminars. Stay in one of the charming lakeside cabins, one of the golf course villas, or lakefront suites. The lodge dining room has a breakfast buffet and Otis’s Grill has burgers, sandwiches, and a friendly bar.
Walnut Ridge Guest Houses – Platteville, Wisconsin
Walnut Ridge is a favorite Wisconsin destination for many Midwestern travelers who are looking for outdoor activities and soothing indoor relaxation. Stay in one of the log and stone cabins here to cozy up to the fireplace and take a warm dip in the whirlpool. The locally famous New Glarus Brewery is nearby to sample some delicious beers or take a growler back to your cabin.
Rustic Ridge Log Cabins – Merrimac, Wisconsin
You can explore the beautiful wilderness of Wisconsin when you stay at Rustic Ridge Log Cabins in Merrimac, Wisconsin. These cabins are situated on 40 acres of hills and wooded areas. One of the most popular cabins here is the Treetops Cabin, a favorite among honeymooning couples! The vacation homes here have fireplaces, kitchens, and high-speed Internet access. There are lots of scenic hikes in the area, and Lake Wisconsin is right around the corner.
Door County Cottages – Egg Harbor, Wisconsin
There is a lot to see and do in Door County, Wisconsin, so why not take your time and stay at a cottage while in the area? The Door County Cottages in Egg Harbor have cozy cottages with full kitchens and private hot tubs. Pets are welcome so there’s no need to leave your furry companions back at home. Make a point to visit Jorn’s Sugar Bush, a historic maple syrup factory nearby, and the Egg Harbor Fun Park if you’re traveling with kids who enjoy mini-golf, go-carts, and paintball.
Potawatomi Inn – Angola, Indiana
Head to the Pokagon State Park by Indiana’s Lake James to enjoy a relaxing stay at the Potawatomi Inn, Resort & Conference Center. The big draw here is the refrigerated toboggan run, which is one of only three in the entire Midwest. You’ll reach thrilling speeds up to 40 mph on this exciting toboggan slide – even if there’s no snow on the ground. Ice skating on the lake is another popular activity, and there are fireplaces to gather around in the common lounge areas to come back inside to warm up.
