Your Michigan Winter Guide: Adventures in Ann Arbor & Ypsilanti
Winter in Michigan transforms our community into a sparkling playground, right at your doorstep. For our McKinley residents in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, the season is an invitation to explore, play, and create warm, cozy memories. From world-class museums to local festivals, here’s your curated guide to making the most of winter, all within a short drive,or even a walk from your apartment home.
Magical Light Displays & Holiday Cheer
Just a Short Drive from Your Ypsilanti Apartment:
Nite Lites at Michigan International Speedway (Brooklyn, MI): Turn an ordinary evening into pure magic. Bundle up the family, pack some hot cocoa, and experience over six miles of animated light displays from the comfort (and warmth) of your car! This awe-inspiring tradition that runs through January 4th is just $35 for a whole carload, perfect for a weeknight adventure when you need a dose of wonder.
A Historic Holiday Village:
Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village (Dearborn, MI): Step into a living postcard from winters past. This immersive experience features the historic homes and streets of Greenfield Village aglow with lantern light and period decorations. Listen to carolers, watch costumed presenters demonstrate traditions, and even meet a friendly Santa. It’s a heartwarming, multi-sensory event that creates lasting memories for all ages.
Outdoor Winter Thrills
Classic Fun in Ann Arbor's Backyard:
Sledding at Rolling Hills Park: Just a quick trip from your McKinley apartment in Ypsilanti, this park features one of the area's most beloved sledding hills. It’s the perfect spot for an afternoon of laughter and exhilarating runs. After you’ve worked up an appetite, you’re just minutes away from the comfort of home or a stop at a local café.
An Iconic Detroit Day Trip:
Ice Skating at Campus Martius Park: For a truly iconic Southeast Michigan experience, venture into Detroit. Skate hand-in-hand under the twinkling lights and towering city skyline. The rink is surrounded by festive decorations, holiday markets, and warm food stalls, making it easy to turn a few laps on the ice into a full day of urban exploration and fun.
Indoor Discovery & Play
A Curious Adventure in Downtown Ann Arbor:
Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum: On a frosty day, dive into a world of discovery just minutes from your door. This isn’t a "look, don’t touch" museum, it’s a place where kids of all ages can experiment and ignite a passion for science through 10 galleries of interactive exhibits. It’s a guaranteed way to turn a cold day into a day of warm, engaged learning.
A Tropical Escape on Belle Isle:
Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory: When you need a definitive break from the gray winter skies, this lush, free conservatory on Belle Isle is your answer. Wander through steam-filled rooms of vibrant orchids, towering palms, and desert cacti. It’s a sensory retreat that feels a world away, yet is just a manageable drive from both Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti.
Can't-Miss Winter Events
A Frosty Festival in Plymouth:
Plymouth Ice Festival (January 30 - February 1, 2026): Witness the breathtaking transformation of downtown Plymouth into a gallery of frozen art. Wander the streets, enjoy live entertainment, and marvel at the beauty as master carvers create majestic, glittering sculptures from blocks of ice!
A Culinary Celebration:
Ann Arbor Restaurant Week (January 18-23, 2026): This beloved event is the perfect excuse for a parents’ night out or a special family dinner. Local participating restaurants offer plenty of discounts, deals, and specials, allowing you to savor the diverse and acclaimed flavors of Washtenaw County’s food scene. From your McKinley property, you have easy access to explore over 40 participating restaurants!
Your Cozy Home Base for Every Adventure
Apartment homes are more than just a place to live, they are your launchpad for experiencing all the richness of what communities have to offer. After a day of sledding, skating, or exploring, there’s nothing better than returning to the comfort, warmth, and convenience of your home.
Ready to make a McKinley community your home for every season? Visit mckinley.com today to schedule a tour and see our available apartments in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti.
