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

Winter may be here, but the fun doesn’t slow down in The Lymes. 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.

Connecticut Sportsplex Family Fun Center - Arcade, Laser Tag & Indoor Entertainment

Address: 216 Foxon Rd, North Branford, CT 06471
Phone: (203) 484-4383
Details: Nearby in North Branford, you can explore a full arcade with over 35 games at the Connecticut Sportsplex Family Fun Center. Test your skills as you take on a spacious, multi-level laser tag arena powered by upgraded technology. See website for hours and pricing.

Connecticut River Museum - Historic Exhibits & Galleries

Address: 67 Main St, Essex, CT 06426
Phone: (860) 767-8269
Details: The Connecticut River Museum is located right along the river on historic Steamboat Dock dow the road in Essex. Inside, you can explore hands-on exhibits and galleries that share the stories of the Connecticut River and the people who shaped it, then step outside to enjoy the waterfront grounds and views of Essex Harbor. See website for hours and ticketing info.

Florence Griswold Museum - Art Museum

Address: 96 Lyme St, Old Lyme, CT 06371
Phone: (860) 434-5542
Details: The Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme is a landmark of American Impressionism set along the scenic Lieutenant River. Visitors can explore historic galleries, rotating exhibitions and the beautifully landscaped grounds that once inspired the Lyme Art Colony. Hours and pricing can be found online.

Gillette Castle State Park - Winter Hiking & Guided Tours

Address: 67 River Rd, East Haddam, CT 06423
Phone: (860) 424-3200
Details: Nearby, East Haddam is home to a dramatic stone castle that overlooks sweeping views of the Connecticut River. Guests can explore Gillette Castle, a unique medieval-style mansion, on guided tours, hike wooded trails that follow the path of a former miniature railroad and enjoy scenic overlooks throughout the park from 8 a.m. until sunset.

Lyme Art Association - Art Gallery

Address: 90 Lyme St, Old Lyme, CT 06371
Phone: (860) 434-7802
Details: The Lyme Art Association is a welcoming gallery with deep roots in the historic Lyme Art Colony. You’ll find rotating exhibitions of contemporary, representational art displayed in a bright, classic gallery space that’s easy to explore at your own pace. See website for hours, pricing and upcoming exhibits and events.

Niantic Children's Museum - Interactive Kids’ Exhibits

Address: 409 Main St, Niantic, CT 06357
Phone: (860) 691-1111
Details: Nearby, the Niantic Children’s Museum offers a hands-on, interactive space for children from infancy through early elementary age. Kids can explore exhibits centered on art, science and world cultures, with both indoor discovery rooms and an outdoor playscape. See website for hours and admission information.

Northford Ice Pavilion - Ice Skating

Address: 24 Firelite Pl, Northford, CT 06472
Phone: (203) 484-4054
Details: Take advantage of public skating sessions open to all ages down the road in Northford. The open ice is for casual skating (no figure skating moves permitted), and skate rentals and walkers are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Public skate hours are Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12-1:30 p.m., but check online for the most up-to-date information.

Pinspiration - Art Studio

Address: 15 Chesterfield Rd, Unit 2, East Lyme, CT 06333
Phone: (860) 850-4138
Details: Pinspiration is a DIY art studio where guests can work on craft projects using provided tools, materials and workspace. Options include guided projects, open crafting and the Splatter Room, with no setup or cleanup required. Book a session or stop in to create something hands-on and unique.

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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