According to the world’s most famous groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, we’re in for six more weeks of winter (a fact our East Coast friends need no reminding of as they dig out from the latest snowmageddon). While it’s tempting to curl up in front of the fire and hibernate, there are still some great winter experiences to be had. We’ve gathered our favorite cold-weather activities to seek out before the frost melts and spring has sprung.
Ice Skating in Rockefeller Center, New York City
Don’t let the fact that the Rockefeller Center’s famous tree in is no longer looming stop you from lacing up those skates! The world’s best-known rink is open through April, so why not throw on some mittens and take the kids (or just yourself!) for a glide?
Restaurant Week, Chicago
When the weather turns cold, people don’t eat out as much, and restaurants take a hit. To drum up business, over 160 Chicago area restaurants are participating in Restaurant Week. From February 19th to the 28th, a three-course prix fixe lunch will cost twenty-two dollars and a dinner is just thirty-two dollars. With delicious eateries such as David Burke’s Primehouse participating, Restaurant Week is a pretty great way to warm up to Chicago.
Whale Watching, San Diego
With year-round mild weather and sunshine, do San Diegans even bother to use the term “winter”? At least they have the Pacific Gray Whales to remind them of seasonal change as they pass by on their annual migration south to Mexico’s warmer waters. Pack a picnic and don’t forget the binoculars when you head up to Cabrillo National Park to get a great view of these giant beauties making their winter passage.
Winter Olympics, Whistler
If you’ve read all our suggestions, and sitting on the couch with a steamy mug of chamomile still sounds more inviting, that’s OK. Winter’s very best offering is available in your own living room, in the form if the Winter Olympics. After all, it’s hard to feel crabby about the weather whilst contemplating Johnny Weir’s faaaaaabulous outfits.
Originally published on SeeJaneFly
