In the chilly, mellow months of November and December, St. Ignace reveals an entirely different side—one of peace, natural beauty, and a slower pace. This is the perfect time to unwind and appreciate the quiet charm of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Ready to slow down and really savor the season? Unpack your sense of wonder and keep reading to discover some of our favorite things to do in St. Ignace during the quiet time of year.
Trot to Mackinac Island for a Thanksgiving Tradition
Spending Thanksgiving in the area? We like to start the big day with a lot of fun for a great cause at the Turkey Trot on Mackinac Island. This 5K event brings together runners and walkers of all ages to support local food pantries—just bring a non-perishable food item to enjoy a free ride from St. Ignace on the 8:30 A.M. ferry, a perfect way to work up an appetite for that delicious dinner!
Where to Find your Thanksgiving Feast
If you’d prefer to skip the cooking this time around, let one of our local establishments prepare your spread. Check out the St. Ignace Truck Stop, a long-time favorite known for a welcoming atmosphere and an amazing Turkey Day dinner. Or, hit up Johnnie’s on 2 for a memorable Thanksgiving with all the fixings.
You may want to bring something special from the Great Lakes to your own holiday table, easily accomplished when you shop at one of our fabulous local fish markets before Thanksgiving.
Mackinac Straits Fish Company offers high-quality whitefish harvested from the Upper Great Lakes, along with an epic selection of smoked fish and a notable whitefish spread.
At King’s Fish Market and Restaurant in Moran, you’ll find fresh and smoked fish, along with other local specialties like beef jerky and homemade pasties. A little further down the road, visit Gustafson’s Smoked Fish in Brevort for a legendary selection of smoked fish and other delicious treats.
Home-town Comfort at the New Hampton Inn
Once you’ve enjoyed your Thanksgiving feast or explored the local attractions, a great place to stay is essential! This December, St. Ignace is thrilled to welcome a brand-new Hampton Inn. Guests can unwind in style, taking in fantastic lake views and enjoying amenities like a year-round outdoor hot tub. After a day of exploring, you’ll find it super easy to refuel at the on-site restaurant and bar. This newest addition to town offers a warm, relaxing retreat with easy access to everything our winter wonderland has to offer.
Frosty Fun at Little Bear East Ice Arena
Fab Fridays are back this winter, hosted by the St. Ignace Recreation Department at the Little Bear East Ice Arena. These family-friendly skate nights are the perfect way to kick off the weekend, with themed events like colorful “Glow Skate” nights and special holiday sessions. Keep the fun going all week with open skating on Mondays through Thursdays from 2:30 to 4:00 p.m., or drop in for hockey on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.
The 9th Annual Antique Snowmobile Crossing over the Mackinac Bridge
This December, St. Ignace is set to showcase holiday cheer with the 9th Annual Antique Snowmobile Crossing over the Mackinac Bridge on December 14, 2024. This event invites snowmobiles 25 years or older to parade as a group over the Mackinac Bridge. To join in on the fun, be sure to register by December 9 at 5 p.m., as on-site registration is not available. All machines must have a wheel kit installed. If you have questions about the wheel kit requirements, please contact the Top of the Lake Snowmobile Museum at (906)477-6298.
Participants can arrange for non-crossing members of their party to drive vehicles and trailers to the Welcome Center near St. Ignace. A shuttle service will be available from Mackinaw City for those who need a ride. The crossing itself is well-organized, with designated lanes, support for breakdowns, and post-event loading at the Welcome Center.
After the crossing, join other snowmobile enthusiasts at Little Bear Arena for a celebratory gathering and lunch. Extra lunch tickets are available for $15 each and can be purchased online. Commemorative t-shirts will be available for purchase at the event for $20.
Snowmobiles have been part of Michigan’s winter scene since the 1960s, providing a thrilling way to explore the Upper Peninsula’s snow-covered landscape. For anyone interested in learning more about snowmobiles, the Top of the Lake Snowmobile Museum in Naubinway is a must-see. It features over 185 vintage and classic models and offers a unique look at the history of snowmobiling in the State of Michigan.
Plan Your Winter Getaway to St. Ignace
Gear up for winter at Adventure Up North, located in downtown St. Ignace, where you’ll find everything you need to explore the outdoors this season. Whether you’re looking for snowshoes, hiking boots, or warm outerwear, they’ve got you covered! When you have shopped to your heart’s content, stop by the Village Inn Restaurant and try their famous planked whitefish, a local favorite that are sure to leave you craving more.
Stay in the loop on events, travel tips, and seasonal inspiration—sign up for the St. Ignace Visitors Bureau Newsletter, explore our blog for inspiring articles, or subscribe to the St. Ignace YouTube Channel for even more insider insights. Ready to make St. Ignace your haven this winter? Visit our website to start planning your trip today!
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