How to Maximize Your Winter Fun
You might think of winter as a time to snuggle up with a good book indoors, but even in chillier weather, there's plenty to do outdoors. If you're looking for some winter fun this coming season, try some of the outdoor activities listed below.
Winter Day Trips
A winter day trip is a perfect way to escape and enjoy all the hidden winter wonders your state has to offer. Depending on what part of the country you're in, you can consider day trips to nearby forest preserves, mountains and lakes, or even attractions like skating rinks or ski resorts. The most important thing to remember is that no matter where you are, there's always somewhere to go and something interesting to see. You might just need to unleash your sense of adventure and head on a winter day trip to find it.
Enjoy Ice Skating on a Lake or Rink
Whether you head to a lake, a river, or a local pond for ice skating, you're apt to be treated to some breathtaking views and some of the most scenic ice skating you can find. If you're living somewhere with limited access to bodies of water, man-made outdoor rinks tend to pop up all over the country during the snowy season — even in destinations that don't see a lot of snow or any at all. So if you're after some winter fun, grab your bestie, your partner, or the whole family and strap on some ice skates for a day of skating.
Go Sledding or Tubing
Unleash your inner child with a trip to your nearest toboggan hill for a sledding or tubing adventure. This activity can be fun for all ages and walks of life. Sledding and tubing can be enjoyed on just about any snowy hill provided it's safe and clear of obstacles. If you're looking for the ultimate sledding or tubing experience, head to a ski resort with tubing and tobogganing hills if there's one in your area.
Meet the Cold-Weather Zoo Animals
If you're after some fun things to do in winter, why not head to the zoo? Plenty of cold weather animals are particularly fun to watch in the wintertime, including penguins, leopards, tigers, and if your zoo happens to have them, snow monkeys. Animals that aren't inclined to play in cold weather will likely have been moved indoors in the winter months, meaning you'll have plenty of places to warm up inside during your visit and check out hippos, gorillas, and other exotic creatures.
Find Some Gourmet Hot Chocolate
Nothing makes a winter day complete like a cup of hot chocolate. Before you head home for the day, be sure to stop by a local cafe and indulge in a cup of gourmet hot chocolate with your favorite flavors and toppings. If you can't find somewhere local or if you prefer to stay at home and enjoy your hot chocolate around a cozy fire, grab yourself some cocoa bombs. These chocolate treats are stuffed with hot chocolate powder and, occasionally, some extra treats that melt and dissolve when you drizzle hot milk over the top.