Watch CBS News

Best Spring Break 2015 Destinations Near Detroit For College Students

Things may be on the up-and-up for the local economy, but that doesn't mean that every college student in Michigan has the necessary funds to make their way south to the warm weather and tropical sands for a lavish spring break this year. In that same vein, with the Detroit area more popular than ever, why leave this spring at all? Michigan has some great alternative options for students and their friends to cut loose, or even give back, this upcoming spring break.

With Alternative Spring Break Detroit, volunteers get to make Detroit a better place by cleaning parks. (Credit, Michael Ferro)

Alternative Spring Break Detroit
42 W. Warren Ave.
Detroit, MI 48202
(313) 577-1010
www.wayne.edu

For years now, many Detroit area students have decided to forgo the "party hard" mentality to instead opt for some time to give back to their local community. One great option? Alternative Spring Break Detroit! Though volunteering for local causes is the main focus of this Wayne State University-sponsored event, there are a number of community-related efforts available for the conscientious young person, including plenty of outreach programs that look great on a future resume. For more info, please visit the website.

Pine Knob Ski & Snowboarding
7778 Sashabaw Rd.
Clarkston, MI 48348
(248) 625-0801
www.skipineknob.com

Sure, it may not be a beachside cabana with hot, sunny weather, but for us Michiganders, some time on the slopes could be just what many college students desire this year. Pine Knob is located not too far from Detroit and is very reasonably priced for the average college student looking to still have some fun and save a little money. Check out the website for rates, snow and trail descriptions, and special offers.

Even if you're not skiing, Treetops has golf, climbing and many other outdoor activities for spring break. (Credit, Michael Ferro)

Treetops Ski Resort & Spa
3962 Wilkinson Rd.
Gaylord, MI 49735
(866) 348-5249
www.treetops.com

For those college students looking to travel as a couple or with a group of mixed friends, Treetops Resort offers the perfect getaway for a week of skiing and snowboarding on the slopes, as well as plenty of pampering and relaxing at the spa. Treetops' many wonderful accommodations, including entire cabin rentals for large parties, will give you and your college friends or significant other the best options for a localized spring break this season. Special offers are available on the website.

Related: Best Restaurants In Detroit Worth The Hype

Spring Break at Boyne Mountain Resort
1 Boyne Mountain Rd.
Boyne Falls, MI 49713
(231) 549-6000
www.boyne.com

For the complete wilderness getaway package, with everything from skiing and snowboarding, to hiking, camping and wine tasting, Boyne Mountain Resort offers the best spring break deals for those looking to truly get away from the college campus atmosphere. For college students who are of drinking age, the wine tasting options are a great, laid-back alternative to the tequila-fueled parties of Cancun and the south. For more offers and available deals, and to book a wine tasting spring break vacation, please visit the Boyne Mountain Resort Spring Break website.

Suds and Snow in Traverse City
4050 Hammond Road East
Traverse City, MI 49696
(231) 947-2770
www.timberridgeresort.net

For the best combination of drinking and outdoors activities in Michigan, the 9th annual Suds and Snow up in stunning Traverse City along Lake Michigan presents the perfect option for those college students looking to unwind with a few alcoholic beverages. There will be beer sampling, fine food selections and snowshoeing for all those looking to have a great time in the world cherry capital. Speaking of which, while there, be sure to try some of the country's best cherry beers!Related: Best Parks In Detroit

Michael Ferro is freelance writer and a graduate of Michigan State University where he majored in Creative Writing and received the Jim Cash Creative Writing Award. Born and bred in Detroit, he currently resides in Ypsilanti Township. Additional writing can be found at Examiner.com.
View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.