Posted in Detroit
December 29, 2020
8 Enchanting Towns Around Detroit That Feel Like You’ve Fallen Into A Snow Globe
Don’t let snowy weather keep you from enjoying the charming small towns that surround the Motor City. After all, when cold temperatures arrive, there’s something utterly magical about hopping in the car and enjoying a drive through Metro Detroit’s prettiest communities. Here are eight incredible towns near Detroit that transform into a snowy dreamland during the winter months.
It’s easy to see why Holly tops our list, as its dedication to winter cheer is right there in its name. Even after Christmas has passed each year, Holly retains its sense of magic. Throughout town, you’ll find everything from historic hotels to lovely lights to a cozy area known as Battle Alley that looks like something from a Dickens novel. Talk about delightful.
We’d be remiss to discuss fairytale-like towns within driving distance of Detroit without including Frankenmuth. While it takes approximately 90 minutes by car to reach Frankenmuth, we think this spot is so worth checking out during the cold weather months. With its Bavarian architecture, covered bridges, carriage rides, and abundance of cheer, it truly captures that snow globe-like charm.
Downtown Rochester is a popular destination during the holiday season because of its iconic Big, Bright LIght Show, but the whimsy doesn’t end when Christmas is over. In fact, the town of Rochester is spectacular all winter long, boasting friendly local businesses and a quaint atmosphere that might just make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time to a simpler era.
This small town just outside of Ann Arbor highlights small town living at its finest. In addition to a picturesque downtown area that looks beautiful when coated in snow, it also offers natural splendor galore that will capture your heart during the winter. Take a stroll at Mill Creek Park or spend the day at Dexter-Huron Metropark, where you’ll find outdoor fun galore.
You might not have spent time in this Macomb County gem, but it’s so worth checking out all year long. When winter rolls around, Richmon’s turn-of-the-century architecture, historic homes, and friendly vibe are on full display. Whether you’re doing some shopping or simply driving through to appreciate the setting, you’ll quickly fall in love with Richmond.
We’ve featured Milford in previous articles, but it’s easy to see why this spot holds our attention. Milford is home to only 6,000 residents, and this tight-knit community vibe makes it extra-special. When winter rolls around, the downtown area is dotted with holiday lights, wreaths, and other festive decor that add a sense of magic to each and every store, coffee shop, and eatery. What’s not to love?
This village in Washtenaw County is simply overflowing with endearing features, including a historic gem known as Sharon Mills County Park. When snow falls, is there anything more enchanting than taking a walk among the scenery alongside a 19th century mill? You might just forget that you’re so close to Detroit when you spend time in Manchester.
Situated just one hour from Detroit, this tiny yet big-hearted town is full of friendly faces and seemingly endless historical charm. One of its main attractions is the longstanding White Horse Inn, which first opened as a general store back in 1848. Today, you’ll certainly feel like you’ve landed in a snow globe as you watch snowflakes fall alongside the inn and other historic buildings in Metamora.
Have you spent time in any of these cozy winter towns near the Motor City? Share your favorite experiences and memories with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend a community that should have been on the list by filling out our nomination form here.
For more seasonal fun, head to this charming village of shops near Detroit.
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Address: Detroit, MI, USA