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

Winter may be here, but the fun doesn’t slow down in East Hampton. 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.

Newington Ice Arena

Address: 300 Alumni Rd, 2nd floor, Newington, CT 06111
Phone: (860) 665-7825
Details: A convenient indoor rink offering public skate sessions throughout the winter. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance to speed up check-in, though QR codes are available on-site if needed. View upcoming sessions, pricing and schedules on the arena’s public skating page.

Kickback n Bowl

Address: 9 Bear Swamp Rd, East Hampton, CT 06424
Phone: (860) 267-4800
Details: This laid-back, 10-lane bowling alley pairs classic open bowling with a full-service sports bar. In addition to lanes, the bar area features dartboards and a pool table, making it a solid option for adults looking to unwind. Check open bowling availability on the alley’s website before heading over.

The Color House

Address: 738 Middletown Rd, Colchester, CT 06415
Phone: N/A
Details: Known locally as “The CoHo,” this community-focused art studio invites visitors to tap into their creative side with walk-in paint-your-own pottery, artisan goods and hands-on workshops. Classes range from ceramics and canvas painting to open studio memberships. Browse upcoming sessions on The Color House’s events page.

Gillette Castle State Park

Address: 67 River Rd, East Haddam, CT 06423
Phone: (860) 526-2336
Details: One of Connecticut’s most distinctive landmarks, Gillette Castle blends medieval-inspired architecture with sweeping Connecticut River views. Winter visits offer quieter tours of the mansion, scenic walks along wooded trails and a chance to explore the grounds without peak-season crowds. Tours can be reserved through the state’s online booking system.

Chatham Historical Society

Address: 6 Bevin Blvd, East Hampton, CT 06424
Phone: (860) 539-0988
Details: Housed in a historic schoolhouse, the Chatham Historical Society preserves and shares the stories of East Hampton’s past. Exhibits highlight community history, while residents are encouraged to contribute family stories and artifacts that help bring local heritage to life. Learn more on the Society’s website.

Funcity Trampoline and Adventure Park

Address: 30 Waterchase Dr, Rocky Hill, CT 06067
Phone: (860) 436-5371
Details: More than a trampoline park, Funcity combines bouncing courts with ninja courses, ropes challenges, climbing walls, bumper cars and an arcade. Open daily with varying hours, it’s a high-energy option for kids, teens and families. Tickets can be purchased through Funcity’s online booking system.

Gallery Cinemas

Address: 396 Old Hartford Rd, Colchester, CT 06415
Phone: (860) 537-6682
Details: A casual neighborhood movie theater showing current releases, complete with an arcade for added entertainment. Check current showtimes and upcoming films on the theater’s showtimes page.

Winding Trails

Address: 50 Winding Trails Dr, Farmington, CT 06032
Phone: (860) 677-8458
Details: Spanning 380 acres of woods and waterways, Winding Trails offers year-round outdoor recreation with a winter focus on cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and nature exploration. The nonprofit center emphasizes conservation, education and accessible recreation for families and individuals alike. See website for more information.

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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