Do you start to feel bored, irritable, and restless toward the end of the winter months every year?
If so, you’re not alone.
What is colloquially known as “cabin fever” is quite common across the Midwest. It tends to be worst in February and March, though it can start as early as November and December. Characterized by excessive sleepiness, anxiety, and boredom, cabin fever can leave you feeling irritable and restless for weeks at a time … and it’s certainly no way to enjoy a Michigan winter.
Fortunately, White Lake has a range of activities to combat dreaded cabin fever. It seems our experience enduring marathon frigid winters over the years has paid off and given us some special ingenuity in the winter entertainment department.
So, if you’re able, take a load off this winter, and head up for a weekend getaway to our gorgeous coastal region. The following fun winter activities you can do in White Lake are sure to turn your winter frown upside down.
1. Embrace the winter season at the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex.
Sometimes, if you can’t beat ‘em, you should join ‘em. In other words, staying inside for indoor activities during the winter is often much preferred, but it can also be fun to simply embrace the cold and snow and head outside too!
The Muskegon Winter Sports Complex has facilities for a range of outdoor winter sports, including:
- Cross country skiing
- Snowshoeing
- Ice skating (figure skating, hockey, or speed skating on a lighted trail)
- Luging
- Sledding
This is a great place to come with the whole family. No matter your age or skill level, you’ll be sure to find an activity that jibes with your interests. Rental equipment and lessons are available.
2. See a live performance at the Playhouse at White Lake or The Block.
Formerly Howmet Playhouse, the Playhouse at White Lake doesn’t feature plays during the winter, but you can still attend live musician performances and other events – showman at this historic venue. Similarly, The Block in Muskegon has an eclectic schedule of popular arts events — from classical live music, to interactive concerts, movies + music events, and more.
3. Go to a Muskegon Lumberjacks game at L.C. Walker Arena.
The Muskegon Lumberjacks are a Tier I junior ice hockey team based in Muskegon. Their home games are played at L.C. Walker Arena, just a 20-minute drive south from Montague.
If you’re a hockey fan, this is a great place to see future draft picks of the National Hockey League and NCAA players as the USHL (United States Hockey League), of which the Lumberjacks are a part, produces the most NCAA players out of any other U.S. league.
4. Shop till you drop in downtown Montague and Whitehall.
Don’t miss out on the numerous local shopping opportunities offered in the White Lake Area. Both Montague and Whitehall are home to an array of shops and boutiques where you’ll find one-of-a-kind items.
Take a stroll through Colbys Hokey Pokey for antique and refurbished home furnishings, or head over to Bell’s Clearance Center for brand new pieces. Check out the eclectic mix of gifts and souvenirs at Pitkin Drug, and look for discounted items at the Pitkin Sale Shoppe. In Montague, you’ll find the much-lauded bookstore, The Book Nook & Java Shop, as well as a host of interesting antiques at The Carriage Antique Mall.
A range of other art galleries, boutiques, and assorted shops can be found in both cities as well, so be sure to spend some time strolling and perusing on your own!
5. See the latest movies at Whitehall’s NorthStar Cinema.
NorthStar Cinema in Whitehall has all the latest films — from kids’ movies and action flicks, to dramas and period pieces. Children (12 and younger) and seniors (55 and older) can obtain discounts on tickets, or you can catch a matinee for an excellent price. When the movie’s over, head to downtown Whitehall or Montague and …
6. Enjoy an evening out on the town with dinner and drinks.
Once the sun sets (and let’s face it, in February that’s around 6pm!), you’ll want to cozy up inside for dinner at one of the many fine dining establishments in downtown Whitehall or Montague. From pizza and pub fare, to Chinese food and sandwiches, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re with your sweetheart or away with friends, make a night of it, and after dinner, enjoy a drink at one of the stylish watering holes both cities have to offer. Check out the Book Nook & Java Shop for a great glass of wine. Or, head to Pub One Eleven, Fetch Brewing Company, or North Grove Brewers for tasty beer and other drinks. Many area establishments feature live music. Take a look at the Community Events Calendar to check for events.