Those of us who don't head south for the winter, (and consider ourselves hearty New Englanders,) know that there's always something to do, even on the coldest days. We have gone in search of new ways to keep ourselves entertained during these winter months since, by now, we have baked all the bread, we finished Netflix, and we’ve even made an Ina Garten sized cocktail, (or two…) So, we brainstormed with our pals and scoured the internet for a list of winter-friendly activities. Here’s a fresh(er) list of things to do that we hope will contribute positively to your sanity as we await the spring thaw.
Learn to ski. We are blessed with some great local ski areas, just a short drive away, that are perfect for beginners and fun for die-hards including Wachusett, Ski Butternut, or just outside Boston at Blue Hills Ski Area.
Go for a hike. There are great trails to hike on the South Shore, and beautiful nature reservations to explore thanks to The Trustees, and the trails at Mass Audubon's Tidmarsh Wildlife Sanctuary are here in Plymouth right next door to The Pinehills. (Which, incidentally, has more than 10 miles of paved and unpaved trails among the trees to enjoy!)
Re-enact a scene from your favorite movie. Take a break from watching another movie. Find your favorite movie script here to re-enact with your quarantine pod. We call dibs on Moonstruck!
Plan your next trip (real or otherwise). When it’s safe to travel again you’ll want to be ready. The editors at Travel and Leisure share their favorite destinations to inspire you!
Write a letter. Brighten someone’s day. A friend, family, or anyone who will appreciate a letter in the mail. Have a look at Letters Against Isolation.
Send a care package. Receiving a package is exciting - even in the era of Amazon. More so when it's a surprise from a friend or family member.
Host a Zoom game night. Have some fun with friends and family. From Bingo, to an indoor Scavenger Hunt, to Charades. If you aren't sure how, Good Housekeeping has the scoop.
Gaze at the stars. Grab a blanket and a cup of hot chocolate, and go stargazing with the help of the Star Chart app downloadable on both iOS and Android.
Grocery shop for someone else. If you are able, next time you are at the store, shop for some extras to donate to your local food bank. The Greater Plymouth Food Warehouse always appreciates donations and The Market at The Pinehills is a drop off location.
Take a virtual art class. The Plymouth Center for the Arts has classes for kids and adults. Oil Painting, Watercolor, Ceramics, Jewelry, Drawing and much more!
Have a themed movie night. As simple or over-the-top as you want. For example, make a pizza (or order from Mamma Mia’s) and settle in for Mystic Pizza.
Take a drive. Our friends at New England Today put together a list of the Best 5 New England Winter Drives including one just over the bridge.
Have a living room camp out. Roll out your sleeping bags and curl up in front of the fire. Even the non-campers can enjoy.
Invite a Food Truck to your neighborhood. StrEATs can help, just like they did for The Pinehills neighborhood of Vista Point!
Go cross country skiing. It's fun, healthy, and family friendly. Lucky for us, many of our state parks offer this fun outdoor activity. Here's a list. Don your best Nordic attire and head out on a scenic trail here in Plymouth and beyond.
