18 Things To Do Near Milford During Winter School Break

MILFORD, MA — Midwinter break in Massachusetts is kind of a weird one. If you haven't planned a vacation to Florida or something, you're stuck in the southern New England vortex between spring and winter with borderline weather conditions.

But that doesn't mean you can't leave the house. We've selected 18 local attractions — both indoor and out — that can occupy the weeklong break. From viewing a tank used in Afghanistan to a place called Corn Cob Crib, check out these suggestions:

Danforth Museum, Framingham

Framingham State University has a diverse permanent collection. The featured exhibit during school vacation week focuses on Indigenous artists, including work by alum Jaune Quick-to-See Smith. Masks required. Hours and admission info.

Cochituate Rail Trail, Natick

It's been open for months, but if you haven't had a chance to check out this new rail trail between Framingham and Natick, this is the week to do it. You can catch the trail in Natick behind the Natick Sons of Italy building, from a spur behind Guitar Center in Natick, in Saxonville or at this parking area in Framingham.

EcoTarium, Worcester

This natural history museum in Worcester offers a lot to do for younger kids, from live animals — including two cougars, a fox and escape-prone pigeon named Pidge — to a train ride and interactive science exhibits. Masks required for anyone over age 2. Hours and admission info.

Tri-State Marker

Why stay in one state when you can be in three? The Tri-State Marker stands in a forest at the intersection of the Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut borders. You can access the marker via a rail trail in Thompson, Connecticut. There's plenty to explore, with 19th century ruins all along the trail.

Callahan State Park, Framingham/Sudbury/Marlborough

This 800-acre state park straddles the borders of three communities and offers 7 miles of hiking trails, including a scenic walk around an old dam. As a bonus, the park also serves as a regional dog park (use Millwood Street entrance in Framingham). Trail map.

Apex Entertainment, Marlborough

This entertainment palace offers just about any activity you can think of, from a ropes course to go-carts and arcade games. Apex also serves food and adult beverages. Hours, prices and menus.

Museum Of Russian Icons, Clinton

A Clinton businessman bought an icon (an artistic representation of a holy person) on a trip to Russia in the 1980s. That was the beginning of this extraordinary museum in downtown Clinton. Masks required. Hours and admission.

Ski Ward, Shrewsbury

This will probably be the last school break in 2022 where you'll be able to learn how to ski. Ski Ward offers a beginner-friendly area and will have expanded hours for school vacation week. Hours and prices.

Wachusett Mountain, Princeton

If you're a more advanced (or even a beginner still) skier, Wachusett will be open all week. Both Wachusett and Ski Ward make snow, but it's still a good idea to check on conditions because of recent unseasonably high temperatures. Lift ticket information.

Worcester Art Museum

On top of the permanent collection and exhibits such as "Flora in Winter," the museum is hosting a week of school vacation workshops for younger kids. Proof of vaccination is required for visitors over age 12. Hours and admission info.

American Heritage Museum, Hudson

View artifacts from wars dating back to the 1770s. The collection includes World War II airplanes, tanks used in Afghanistan and more. February break hours and admission.

Watatic Mountain State Wildlife Area, Ashburnham

A short hike up Watatic Mountain offers some of the best views of Massachusetts this side of the Blue Hills. The hike is about a 2 mile round trip and is suitable for younger children — but watch for any lingering ice and snow. Trail map.

Level99, Natick

Like Apex, Level99 offers a ton to do, including plenty for teenagers to explore. The 40,000-square-foot Level99 offers visitors dozens of "challenge rooms" with mind-bending games. Masks required per Natick town policy. Admission and hours.

Blackstone River And Canal Heritage State Park, Uxbridge

If you're looking for an easy stroll with a little history mixed in, this canal walk in southern Worcester County is worth a visit. A 1 mile walk along the former 19th century canal leads to downtown Uxbridge, where there's antiquing and restaurants aplenty. Trail map.

Wayside Inn Historic Site, Sudbury

Take a stroll around a collection of buildings and artifacts from the Colonial era, including the Wayside Grist Mill, which you might recognize as the Pepperidge Farm logo. Masks required indoors. Site map and hours.

Animal Adventures, Bolton

This zoo offers virtual and in-person visits by appointment with animals ranging from owls to alligators, monkeys, goats and emus. Tickets prices and appointments.

Medfield State Hospital Campus

This might be one of the most interesting spots in the area, and it's definitely worth a special trip. The former state hospital has been converted into a public park, with all the buildings left intact (but boarded up). It also serves as an informal dog park, and you can access miles of trails in the Medfield Charles River State Reservation from the hospital grounds.

Purgatory Chasm State Reservation, Sutton

An awful sounding place that's actually quite lovely. Purgatory Chasm features some of the most stunning rock formations this side of the Connecticut River, including Corn Cob Crib and Lover's Leap. Parking is free in the winter, although the main trail through the bottom of the chasm may be closed if there's still ice and snow.