Top 7 Things to Do in Winter in Sheboygan

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Many love Sheboygan, WI, for its expansive, beachy coastlines and summer vacations. But when snow hits this quaint small town, don’t fret — there are plenty of things to do in winter in Sheboygan!

In fact, we have tons of travelers who visit our Sheboygan vacation rentals in December and beyond. But back to your itinerary. What’s there to do in Sheboygan during winter? This is your guide to what to do, where to stay, and what weather to expect!

 

Winter in Sheboygan: What to Expect

Like many Wisconsin and Michigan towns along the Great Lakes, Sheboygan gets pretty chilly during the winter months. You can expect lows of 25 degrees Fahrenheit in December and 18 degrees during January nights.

You can also almost always expect snow. It’s not uncommon for Sheboygan winters to grace us with fluffy, picturesque snowfalls and icy, frigid storms throughout January and February. If you’re an American traveler coming from down south, don’t forget to pack your clothing essentials. We’re talking about a solid winter coat, boots, hats, scarves, and long layers for your trip.

That being said, there’s still no shortage of things to do in a Sheboygan winter.

 

1. Attend a Winter Surf Lesson in Lake Michigan

Photo Credit: John Sukowaty

Call it a cultural thing, but some Sheboygan locals can’t get enough of Lake Michigan’s waves — even in the wintertime. There’s a reason why we’re called the “freshwater surfing capital” and “Malibu of the Midwest.” Our friends over at EOS Surf help travelers experience this phenomenon with surf lessons year-round. The owner is a cold surfing enthusiast himself and reminds us that Sheboygan locals have the luxury of surfing available to us in our backyards!

Our advice? Bring your wetsuit to avoid freezing in the water. You can also rent surfboards, paddles, and wetsuits from the shop.

And if you can’t wrap your head around a winter surf, why not start smaller? Cold plunges have great health benefits and all you need is two minutes in the water!

 

2. Enjoy Holiday Lights from Making Spirits Bright

Photo Credit: Vinita Mohan


You might not have packed a Christmas tree, but you can still relish the holiday spirit with a 1.1-km stretch of holiday lights! Hosted by the non-profit Making Spirits Bright each year, the Holiday Lights spans a forested street with endless Christmas designs. Candy canes, reindeer, Santa figures, and trees are all examples of the lit up displays you can check out on the drive.

You can also coordinate your car’s speaker system to play Christmas-themed music that acts as a base for the holiday lights’ flashing and coordination.

This is a budget- and family-friendly event for the kiddoes. They can drop their letters to Santa at an on-site mailbox, too!

 

3. Go Skating and Enjoy Nature at Elkhart Lake

Photo Credit: Anton Pentegov

  • Location: 41 E. Rhine Street, Elkhart Lake, WI
  • Cost: Free
  • Website: elkhartlake.com

Elkhart Lake is a 20-or-so-minute drive away from Sheboygan, but worth every second of that short drive. This area has tons of recreational activities to enjoy in nature, like hiking and canoeing (though you’ll need to bundle up for those). However, a must-do for winter in this area is some gold old fashioned ice skating.

You’ll find an on-site sports center at June Vollrath Park with volleyball and basketball courts, as well as a skating rink. They also offer rentals, so you don’t need to lug your skates in your luggage! Feel free to bring the whole family, as the center is equipped with restrooms and picnic tables to enjoy your day trip.

And if skating isn’t your thing? Bring comfortable shoes and traverse the lake area on foot instead! Elkhart Lake has endless hiking trails to burn off some calories and take in gorgeous views of the natural landscapes, too!

 

4. Walk Through Downtown Sheboygan’s Harbor Center

Photo Credit: melissamn

Known as the heartbeat of Sheboygan County, the Harbor Center features endless options for shopping, spas, restaurants, and the best views of the waterfront that you can enjoy on a morning stroll.

Grab a croissant and coffee, and walk along the boardwalk to discover a historical shipwreck and views of the lake and lighthouse.

And when hunger strikes? Meander on over to 9 on the Avenue for a Sheboygan classic: German bratwurst!

 

5. Cook Up a Storm at Your Sheboygan Vacation Rental

Sometimes, you just aren’t up for cold winds on your face or snow leaking into your shoes. And that’s A-OK, especially if you’re staying in a cottage with all the essentials to enjoy a night in!

Sheboygan Vacation Rentals have fully decked-out kitchens, including some with marble counter islands, barbecue grills, blenders, other appliances, and large, expansive dining room tables to connect with your loved ones.

We’ve got you covered with coffee makers and beans, but you might want to check out the following shops for groceries:

 

6. Get Inspired by Contemporary Art at the John Michael Kohler Arts Center

Photo Credit: Ron

  • Address: 608 New York Ave, Sheboygan, WI
  • Price: Free
  • Website: jmkac.org

Contemporary art isn’t reserved for the elites here in Sheboygan. At the John Michael Kohler Arts Center, everyone can enjoy exhibitions for free. The center hosts an impressive collection of thousands of art pieces from raw art amateurs and trained ones alike.

What’s great about this arts center is its interactivity. Not only can you observe and examine works of art, but you can also participate in them.

Some exhibitions and events where you can get some hands-on experiences include:

  • Khecari’s Rest Score: Hosted in early January, this event takes you through various somatic, calming body stretches and movements.
  • Social Studio: In this free-flowing, drop-in event open to adults and children, patrons can create their own art and expand upon the art of others.

 

7. Have a Cold One at one of Sheboygan’s Breweries

Photo Credit: Old Mke

Milwaukee is known for its variety of breweries in the USA North, but small-town Sheboygan is lucky to host many as well!

Some of our favorites include:

  • 3 Sheeps Brewing Company: This joint is dog-friendly and features a 10,000-sq-ft taproom for you to enjoy the brewery’s historical and operational aspects, too. You’ll also find various housemade brews spanning IPAs, lagers, sours, and more!
  • Hops Haven: Fancy a game of shuffleboard? Enjoy a few game options with your craft beer at this Sheboygan local favorite.
  • Craft30 Pub: This pub has plenty of character, whether it's a signed, hung-up guitar or unique lighting — and of course, don’t forget about the30+ craft beer options and delicious burgers.

 

Visit Sheboygan this Winter with Sheboygan Vacation Rentals

Bottom line? The holiday season and family activities are not to be missed here in Sheboygan. Plus, we’re proud of our historical attractions and heritage, with plenty of our museums and shops open year-round.

Whether it’s a brisk surf or Christmas themed outing, we’re ready to welcome you back to your luxurious and comfortable accommodation to unwind. Our rentals come equipped with all the amenities needed to enjoy a winter vacation with comfort and ease.


Book your winter getaway in Sheboygan today!