There are so many fun summer activities we must forgo when the weather is too cold. But in fact, you don’t have to wait for warmer weather to enjoy some summer fun. Gather the family and check out these great summer activities you can do in winter, swimsuits required—seriously!
Get Wet at an Indoor Water Park
If a day at the waterpark is your child’s idea of a great time, it’s guaranteed to be even more fun in the winter. Who says you have to wait until Memorial Day to throw on your swimsuit? Family resorts such as Great Wolf Lodge and Camelback Resort in the Poconos region of Pennsylvania have huge indoor water parks that are a great way to get your summer fix in the winter. Your kids will love being allowed to put on their swimsuits in freezing temps, and there is nothing cooler than watching the snowfall from a heated pool!
Watch the Waves at the Beach
While beaches are closed for swimming during the winter, most of the boardwalks remain open. Take a stroll and watch the ocean, where the waves are usually huge in the colder months, making for a really great sight. Or hop on a bike on a boardwalk and grab a hot dog for lunch. At some beaches, you may be able to even play in the sand, if there’s no snow on the ground—just be careful to stay a safe distance from the water. If you get cold, plan a trip to a nearby venue to warm up. You don’t have to wait until June or July to pay a visit to fantastic sea life: In Coney Island, Brooklyn, Nathan’s hotdogs and the New York Aquarium are open nearly every day of the year.
Visit the Animals at the Zoo
While temps may be low, lots of local zoos remain open all year long. Bundle up and take a trip to visit the animals, or at least those that remain on display in the winter. You and the family can pop into an indoor exhibit when it gets too cold. There are some great ones happening this winter, including the 96 Elephants Global Origami Tribute at the Bronx Zoo. You can also pay a visit to the beloved seals and penguins at the Central Park Zoo, or take a spin (or several) on the carousel at many area zoos. Added bonus: No crowds. Be sure to pack a thermos of hot chocolate or cider. The animals are waiting!
Pitch a Tent and Camp Inside
Enjoy summer fun without leaving your home. You and your family can plan a camping trip right in your living room. If space allows, pitch a tent and throw in some sleeping bags. If space is tight, any kind of makeshift fort will do. Roast some marshmallows on the stove or break out the grill for a wintertime cookout. Tell some ghost stories, blast the summertime jams, or throw on a favorite summer-themed movie. The kids will love the feeling of camping in their own house!
Star Gaze at a Planetarium
Lay (or, at least, sit back) under the stars at a local planetarium. While it may be too overcast in January and February to get a good look at the galaxies, a planetarium is a great way to take in some of the outdoors without actually being outside. The best part, you’ll be nice and warm! The Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History in Manhattan is a classic and offers various show times throughout the week; there are several other options around the region, many of which include kid-focused shows. A virtual trip under the stars should hold your family over until you can see the real thing.
Get Active at an Indoor Sports Facility
Take your kids to an indoor sports center or a batting cage. While Astroturf is not quite the same as fresh grass, it will do until the weather warms up. A family soccer or softball game is sure to get the blood flowing just enough to bear the cold. Indoor sport centers such as A-Game Sports in Westchester or Chelsea Piers in Manhattan have plenty of opportunities for some great family fun. Get all the benefits of being outdoors without having to face frigid temperatures.
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