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

MADISON, CT — Winter may be here, but the fun doesn’t slow down in Madison. 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.

Here are some fun winter activities to enjoy in and around Madison:

• Go for a winter hike or snowshoe trek at Hammonasset Beach State Park, or one of the Madison area's other parks.
• Visit Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort, Middlefield: The winter season runs from December through Marc, with activities including skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and snowbiking.
• Do a little ice skating at the Northford Ice Pavilion in Northford. "Come skate with us during our public skate times! Open to all ages. There are no figure skating moves allowed during public skate. Rental skates and walkers are available. Skates and walkers are first come first serve."
• Night skiing at Mohawk Mountain in Cornwall; Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort in Middlefield; Ski Sundown in New Hartford; and Mount Southington in Plantsville.
• Try your hand at cross country skiing at Winding Trails in Farmington. After a fresh snow, of course. You can also cross country ski at other parks in Connecticut, such as Gay City State Park in Hebron, and the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center in Mystic.
• Drop your line into the cold water by ice fishing. The Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection offers tips on safe ways to ice fish.

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.