Why Winter's Better In Durham: Beat The Blues With These Local Picks

Winter may be here, but the fun doesn’t slow down in Durham. From family outings to seasonal events and easy day trips, there’s plenty around town to keep your calendar full. Just remember to double-check hours, weather updates and ticket details before heading out. And if you want even more local winter ideas, keep scrolling — you’ll find a way to get personalized suggestions based on what you love to do.

Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort

Address: 99 Powder Hill Rd, Middlefield, CT 06455
Phone: (866) 860-0208
Details: Powder Ridge offers winter activities including skiing, snowboarding, tubing and a dedicated snow play area for younger children. Two-hour snow play access passes are available on weekends, with instructors on hand for assistance. Buy passes online and check the website for hours and conditions.

Champions Skating Center

Address: 6 Progress Dr, Cromwell, CT 06416
Phone: (860) 632-0323
Details: Champions Skating Center features two ice rinks, including an Olympic-size rink, with public skating available for ages 4 and up at select times. Public skating sessions do not follow a fixed schedule, so checking the live calendar is recommended. View the full schedule and themed sessions on the public skating page.

Art Studio of Connecticut

Address: 10 Steele Blvd, Berlin, CT 06037
Phone: (860) 538-7268
Details: This BYOB art studio offers step-by-step creative classes ranging from paint-and-sip nights to family sessions and private events. All supplies are included, making it an easy indoor winter activity for individuals or groups. Browse upcoming classes on the event directory.

Millers Pond State Park

Address: 344 Foot Hills Rd, Durham, CT 06422
Phone: (860) 424-3200
Details: Millers Pond State Park offers scenic winter hiking trails and shoreline access around a spring-fed pond shared with Cockaponset State Forest. The park is also popular for fishing and nature walks during colder months. Seasonal conditions apply; see website for updates.

Kidcity Children's Museum

Address: 119 Washington St, Middletown, CT 06457
Phone: (860) 347-0495
Details: Designed for children ages 1 to 7, Kidcity features three floors of interactive, pretend-play exhibits, including a medieval village and fishery. Reservations are required, with daily time slots available. Book in advance and review age guidelines on the museum’s website.

It Adventure Ropes Course

Address: 40 Sargent Dr, New Haven, CT 06511
Phone: (203) 812-9981
Details: This indoor ropes course features multi-level climbing challenges and zip rails designed for both kids and adults. Younger children can explore a lower-height course with adult assistance. Book tickets online and see the website for height requirements and session details.

Connecticut River Museum

Address: 67 Main St, Essex, CT 06426
Phone: (860) 767-8269
Details: Located along the waterfront in Essex, this museum explores the maritime history and ecology of the Connecticut River Valley through exhibits and educational programs. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday year-round. See the website for current exhibits and special events.

Bowlero Wallingford

Address: 980 N Colony Rd, Wallingford, CT 06492
Phone: (203) 295-0670
Details: Bowlero Wallingford offers a modern bowling experience with premium lanes, an arcade, sports bar and on-site dining. Online lane reservations are available and recommended, especially on weekends. See the website for pricing, hours and reservations.

Want ideas that fit your family and your budget? Enter your ZIP code and preferences — kid-friendly, outdoor, educational and more — for winter getaway recommendations made for you.

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