The Perfect Midwest Winter Staycation

BY ALLENA PEACOCK

Ah winter. For some, a time of joy brim-full of hot cocoa, snow angels, and childlike marveling at the unique structure of each individual snowflake. For others, the countdown to the warm days of summer starts in October. Many of us Midwesterners flee the cold and run away to the sandy beaches of Florida and the Carolinas, as far away from these flurry flakes as possible. However you feel about the only season that graces this beautiful state not once but twice every year, adventure and warmth can be found in the nooks and crannies of Culver, Indiana. 

For those that want to embrace the cold winds of winter, outdoor activities are abundant. Of course, the nostalgic activities of snowball fights and sledding are available, winter can be a fun season for adults as well. On the silvery plain of Lake Maxinkuckee, ice fishing has become a small town tradition. Juicy bluegill, flavorful perch, and even walleyes can be found by those willing to brave the ice. The hiking trails surrounding the lake are open to the public throughout the winter, and wildlife can be seen peeking out from snow tipped pines. In the deep cold of winter, an occasional ice hockey game picks up where witnesses can see members of the community either skillfully navigating the slippery surface, or slipping and scooting their way through. Either way has proven enjoyable for both players and audience. Only a short drive away are the Potawatomi Wildlife Parks where creatures of all sizes nestle in for the sharp winds of winter. Migrating birds drown the frozen lakes and dozens of species await the avid birdwatcher. For those looking to avoid those extra holiday pounds we all dread, miles of hiking trails border the vast lakes and soothing river. 

Holiday events sprinkle this charming town through December, but the festivities do not end when the tree gets packed away. Locals eagerly await the annual Winter Fest, a spectacular winter extravaganza in the first weekend of February. The Kickoff party kicks off the weekend long festivities where you can try your hand at frozen cod hole. For those willing to brave the arctic Lake Max, the Polar Plunge is not only a local tradition, but a national phenomenon every adventurer should cross off their bucket list. As for the people who are in it for the food, a chili cook off at the Beach Lodge will surely sate your taste buds. Culver offers a variety of year round activities for tourists and locals alike. Although the quiet tranquility is appealing for the masses, giving us a chance to relax and drink a cup of coffee, life does not pause during the flurries of winter. While summer is the busy tourist season for many of the local businesses spread out amongst the town, winter does not mean hibernation for these businesses and shoppers can frequently be seen flitting from shop to shop armed with bags and a warm cup of coffee from The Culver Coffee Co.

Culver also features year round activities for both locals and tourists alike. One of the only winter farmers markets in the area can be found in the local library, where customers can find home baked goods such as cookies, cakes, pies, and fresh bread. Zesty, crisp, and delicious vegetables line the tables for making a cozy winter soup or stew, and crafts are available for those looking to add a little farmhouse chic to their kitchens. Local restaurants dot Main Street and Lake Max, with local favorites such as Cafe Max, Papa’s, and Lucrezia Trattoria within blocks of the center of town. Warm food and friendly people are never found far in this lakeside town. 

While winter may not be your favorite season, the perfect stay-cation or vacation can be found right here in Culver, Indiana. Seasonal activities await children and adults alike from snowball fights to Polar Plunges. Small town shops feature handmade crafts and accessories such as that new pair of gloves you’ll need for the season. Cornerstones of the community, restaurants are abundant and you will never have to travel far for a good meal. Whether winter is the great love of your life, or something you suffer through only for the sake of summer, the charm and warmth found in this small town will get you through the whole season through. Come join us for a cup of coffee or a shopping trip, and you may never want to leave.