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Top 5 Winter Date Ideas in the Northern States (2025 Edition)

  • Writer: Annette Suzette
    Annette Suzette
  • Nov 1
  • 2 min read

When winter settles across the Northern states, the world slows down and sparkles. Snow blankets the ground, city lights reflect on frozen lakes, and couples find creative ways to stay warm together. From cozy cabins in Wisconsin to frozen waterfalls in Michigan, winter here isn’t just a season — it’s an experience.



A smiling couple in winter attire shares a joyful moment in a snow-covered street with warm yellow lights, exuding a cozy, romantic vibe.

The northern chill creates the perfect backdrop for intentional moments. Whether you’re skating hand-in-hand, sipping cocoa by the fire, or exploring small-town holiday markets, these dates are about slowing down, reconnecting, and making the most of the season together.

If you’re ready to turn the cold into something magical, here are five unforgettable winter date ideas to inspire your next cozy getaway across the Northern states.



Two people stand in a snowy ice castle, one pointing upwards. Blue ice walls surround them, creating a serene, wintry atmosphere.
 Ice Castles in North Woodstock

Northern States (Maine, Vermont, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota)

1. Ice Castles in North Woodstock, New Hampshire: Wander through massive hand-crafted ice tunnels, slides, and frozen sculptures glowing with LED lights — a true winter wonderland.

Date Tip: Go at dusk for magical lighting, then grab hot chocolate from the nearby café for a cozy warm-up.

2. Sleigh Ride at Trapp Family Lodge – Stowe, Vermont: Glide through snow-covered trails on a romantic horse-drawn sleigh at this iconic Austrian-style mountain resort.

Date Tip: Bundle up under a shared blanket and end the night with fondue by the fire inside the lodge.



3. Frozen Waterfall Hike at Tahquamenon Falls State Park: Paradise, Michigan: Marvel at

Cozy cabin in a lush forest with glowing windows. A bright fire pit is in the foreground, creating a warm, inviting ambiance.
Romantic Cabins in Wisconsin

one of Michigan’s largest waterfalls as it partially freezes, creating surreal icy formations.

Date Tip: Bring thermoses of coffee or cocoa and plan a photo session — this one’s made for Instagram.

4. Cozy Cabin Getaway in Door County, Wisconsin: Snuggle up in a lakeside cabin overlooking frozen Lake Michigan, and explore the local winter wine trail or candle-lit fish boils.

Couple ice skating in a large indoor rink with a vaulted ceiling and industrial beams, wearing winter attire, conveying warmth and joy.
Ice Skating at The Depot

Date Tip: Pack board games and make it a no-phones weekend. Just the two of you, good food, and the fireplace.

5. Ice Skating at The Depot in Minneapolis, Minnesota: Skate hand-in-hand inside this historic train shed turned indoor rink. A classic date for cold Midwest nights.

Date Tip: After skating, warm up with dinner and live music at Brit’s Pub or The Local downtown.


Waterfall cascades over icy rocks in a snow-covered forest. Brown water contrasts with white snow and greenery, creating a serene winter scene.
Frozen Waterfall Hike at Tahquamenon Falls State Park

No matter how cold it gets outside, winter offers countless ways to warm your connection. Whether you’re exploring a snowy trail, skating under city lights, or staying tucked away in a cabin built for two, the Northern states are full of hidden gems that make every date feel like an adventure.






Two horses pull a red carriage driven by a person in a snowy setting with evergreen trees and a large chalet-style building.
Sleigh Ride at Trapp Family Lodge











Looking for more ways to keep the spark alive this season? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for intentional date ideas, tools, and resources designed to help couples grow closer. When you join, you’ll also receive our 50 Free Date Ideas guide, the perfect inspiration for your next night out (or night in).


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