Winter break is the perfect time to make memories with your kids while keeping them entertained and engaged. Whether you’re looking for cozy indoor activities, or outdoor adventures to embrace the winter season, there’s no shortage of options around Northeast Ohio.
1. Visit your local library.
If you haven’t been in a while, this is the perfect free thing to do with kids of all ages. In addition to books, you can check out free movies, video games, board games, craft supplies, instruments and more! You can also pop in for a story time or craft time.
2. Learn about a new country.
Travel abroad without leaving your living room. Choose a country that your family is interested in learning about and gather some educational materials. You can practice a few words from the native language, order snacks from the country, prepare a cultural dish or find an authentic restaurant around Northeast Ohio.
3. Visit a local attraction.
Northeast Ohio is home to so many unique attractions. Check our list of Indoor Play Places and Ongoing Attractions.
4. Enjoy outdoor seasonal fun.
Northeast Ohio turns into a beautiful winter wonderland this time of year with lots of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Bundle up and try tobogganing, ice skating, skiing, dining in an igloo and more.
5. Feed the birds.
Pick up some seed and a feeder for your yard (or make your own feeder) and track the different types of feathery visitors in a notebook.
6. Host a family board game night.
Invite a few family members or friends over for some good old-fashioned fun.
7. Do a large puzzle.
Is your family up for a challenge? Grab a large puzzle and designate a puzzle table in your house for a week. Each day, have family members connect a few pieces until it’s finished.
8. Use a free trial of something.
Whether you want to try a new streaming service, mobile app or game, take advantage of the free trial while everyone is home to enjoy it (just don’t forget to cancel when the trial is over).
9. Go to a sporting event.
Check out a Cleveland Monsters hockey game or a Cavilers basketball game. You can also check out the area’s college teams such as men’s basketball or women’s basketball.
10. Visit a nature center.
Many local parks have free nature centers to explore year-round. Learn about native animals, participate in educational activities, chat with park rangers and more.
11. Stroll holiday lights.
Put on some cozy holiday attire, pack up the car and turn up the festive music while you head to your favorite holiday lights displays. Most community holiday light displays stay on through at least New Year’s Day.
12. Grab a sweet treat.
Check out a few family-friendly shops for a tasty treat.
B.A. Sweeties in Cleveland. Shop the massive warehouse for candy or grab a milkshake or ice cream.
Fannie May Chocolate Factory in Canton. Pick up some delicious chocolate and see how it’s made during a free factory tour (advance reservations required).
Malley’s Chocolates. They have multiple stores throughout Northeast Ohio and four ice cream parlors to explore.
