When it comes to winter wonderlands, a fair amount of the fun is in the cozy contrasts. You set out on an outdoor adventure braced for the cold weather, but once you get going, you're as warm as can be. Then, when your energy is spent, it's time to relax and recover before going out again. There's no place better than a cozy cafe or vibrant, warm restaurant to recharge. That contrast between winter's fresh, crisp air and cozy cafes brings us such joy. While this adventure can be done in half a day if you're crunched for time, we recommend spreading it out into a full day. We recommend going back out after lunch and doing whichever outdoor activity you enjoyed most one more time.
Start the day with Contrast Coffee
Walk through the winter wonderland of Marquette to Contrast Coffee. If you stay at the Landmark Inn, as we did during our stay, your walk will be just the right length. Whether you prefer to warm up with a coffee-flavored coffee like Chris or something on the sweeter side like me, you're in for a treat. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming. It's an easy place to relax as you fuel up for an adventurous day.
Pro Tip:
Take a look at the seasonal menu they keep on the counter. You might spot a must try like their Cherry Cordial Latte or Peppermint Mocha.
Snow Biking along the Lakeshore
Rent a fat-tire bike from MQT Bike Rental and hit the snowy trails for an exhilarating ride. Whether you're a seasoned, comfortable biker like Chris or a timid too-many-childhood-memories-of-falling-off-bikes novice like me, it's a great adventure. This is one of those activities where, when I signed up for it, I was open to doing something I knew Chris would like but that I might not like.
We both had a great time, but I think I had the most fun. I felt the exhilaration I used to feel when riding bikes before they made me nervous. I can't wait to return to a fat-tire bike on a snowy day again.
Pro Tip:
Wear the same clothes you'd wear skiing and remember to unzip the side vents on your ski jacket as you start to get toasty from the workout.
Quick Stop at Trenary Toast Cafe
When we arrived inside Trenary Toast Cafe, its cheery atmosphere embraced us. They are most famous for their Finnish Korppu (Trenary Toast), a traditional Finnish sweet bread that is hard, crisp, and twice-baked. Some call it the Finnish version of Biscotti. It's great for dipping into coffee or hot tea.
During our visit, I was craving something savory, so I opted for the Hard Boiled Bite (an open-faced sandwich on Trenary sourdough rye, topped with cream cheese, habanero pepper jelly, tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, fresh dill, salt & pepper). Their "small" Cinnamon Roll satisfied Chris's sweet tooth that morning. There are all sorts of options available on their menu.
Pro Tip:
Buy a bag of their famous Cinnamon Trenary Toast to take with you. I've been dunking it in my morning coffee and it is delicious!
Snowshoeing at Harlow Lake
Rent gear from Down Wind Sports and explore the stunning winter landscape at Harlow Lake. If you have time, hike to the Top of the World overlook for breathtaking views. We didn't make it to the overlook, but we had a grand time, hoping we were headed in the right direction to reach it. The towering pines and pristine snow were view enough for us as we snowshoed and hiked our way along the paths.
Pro Tip:
Allot yourself plenty of time to hike in this gorgeous area.
Dip into Donckers for a Treat
Grab a late lunch or early dinner at Donckers. Before you go, stock up on hand-crafted chocolates and caramels! Mondays - Saturdays, their restaurant and their candy counter are open until 6 PM. Their first level is dedicated to gifts and sweet treats. Upstairs, they have a dining space with cool retro touches. It's the perfect place to relax after a day of snowy fun.
When we went, we started with a late lunch of sandwiches and soups and followed it up with some sweet treat shopping. Our favorites were their sea salt chocolates. They're available in milk chocolate or dark chocolate.
Pro Tip:
On the lower level there are some cool booths in the back. They're a fun spot to sit down and savor a sweet treat in.
