34 Fun Things to Do in Connecticut This Winter: In & Outside

Wondering what to do in Connecticut this winter?! From festive outdoor events to adventures and cozy indoor ideas, this guide includes the best things to do in CT during the winter months.

Living in Connecticut almost all my life I know a thing or two about what to do around here.

Winter may seem like a boring season but I look at it as a time to seek out and enjoy different things and events than my normal routine in spring, summer and fall. (Which pretty much involves hiking every weekend. ;))

I love to hike and be outside and absolutely continue to hike in the winter but I also enjoy finding a cozy bookstore, a cooking class, an amazing cafe – or checking out holiday light displays throughout December.

You could take this list of 34 winter activities in CT and fill up all your weekends this winter times two! 🗓(Thank goodness there are not 34 weekends in the winter. 🥴👏)

This list first includes outdoor activities featuring every place in CT to ski, snowboard, and tube to indoor activities like the Peabody Museum 🦕 (my favorite since a kid!), rock climbing, craft and cooking classes.

There is something for everyone on this list and many of these winter activities in CT are kid-friendly, too.

So grab a hot chocolate or cup of tea, take out your planner, and let’s plan a fun and magical winter in Connecticut! ❄️☕️✨

Top Things to Do in Connecticut in Winter: Your Go-To Guide

🎄Part 1: Holiday Celebrations and Events

Connecticut’s holiday lights and events will get you in the festive spirit! Downtowns and outdoor areas light up with holiday decorations and Christmas lights, helping you to feel the joy and warmth this season.

1. Lake Compounce Holiday Lights, Bristol

Lake Compounce transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland during the holiday season! The Holiday Lights run from late November through the end of December and features over 350,000 lights, including Connecticut’s tallest Christmas tree standing at a majestic 100 feet.

Walk outside and get fresh air and exercise as you enjoy the lights, holiday-themed activities, and festive food. Tickets here. 🎟

2. Mystic Seaport Museum Lantern Light Village, Mystic

“Immerse yourself in evocative lantern light and the sound of music-fueled twinkling displays as you explore the Museum after dark.” The Mystic Seaport Museum offers a unique holiday experience with its Lantern Light Tours.

Wander through the historical grounds and immerse yourself in the recreation of a 19th-century village. Near downtown Mystic and for the whole family with holiday cookies and carolers, a horse-drawn carriage ride, crackling fires, and of course, a visit with Santa.” Fun! Weekends in December from 5-8pm. Tickets here. 🎟

3. Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, North Pole Express, Essex 🚂

This is a very popular event for families so you must get your tickets early! Luckily there are more than ust weekend dates available, rides run from Tuesday to Sunday.

The Essex Steam Train and Riverboat’s North Pole Express is a magical holiday journey that transports passengers on a festive train to “the North Pole”. Decorated with twinkling lights and filled with Christmas music, passengers aboard enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while listening to a lively reading of The Night Before Christmas.

Part 2: Outdoor Winter Activities in CT

Get out and enjoy the beauty of winter! If the sun is shining it’s a great time to get some fresh air and exercise as you take advantage of everything winter has to offer in CT.

4. Go For a Scenic Winter Walk

Bundle up! And get out there. I promise that once you start moving you will warm up and it will feel to be out there. If it hasn’t snowed you don’t have to worry about wearing any special winter gear – just a jacket, hat, gloves, and boots.

Choose a flat and easy place to walk from my post 🌟 easy scenic walks in Connecticut 🌟 and enjoy the winter day. Don’t forget to warm up with a hot chocolate after! ☕️🤎

5. Take a Winter Hike

Hiking in winter can be so beautiful – especially if there’s some snow! But even if the grounds are bare, what I love most about hiking in the winter is the quiet (there won’t be tons of people on the trail).

This is good for us because we like to let our dogs have a break from the leash and run up ahead when there’s no one around. So get out there and choose a hike varying in lenght from my post – 🌟 12 Winter Hikes in Connecticut! ❄️

Unsure how to dress? Check out my post – ✨what to wear hiking in winter✨ & be prepared! 🙂

6. Winter Wildlife Eagle Cruises on RiverQuest, Essex (2/7/25 – 3/12/25) 🦅

A cozy and exciting CT winter adventure you don’t want to miss! Experience the beauty and calm of the lower Connecticut River during this unique time of year. With no other boats on the water and bare trees, the RiverQuest allows the perfect opportunity to see CT wildlife.

As the waters in northern Connecticut freeze, eagles and other wildlife flock to this southern part of our state for food! 🐠 Making it an ideal spot for bald eagle winter sightings.

This 2 hour on-the-water cruise will have Naturalists on board to narrate and help find the wildlife. You’ll have access to binoculars, complimentary coffee, and tea. With a heated cabin and open decks for the best views, it’s a cozy and exciting adventure you won’t want to miss!

7. Visit CT’s Tallest Waterfall – Kent Falls

Why go waterfall chasing in winter?! No crowds of course! Kent Falls is a gorgeous state park and the tallest waterfall in Connecticut (and a very easy walk to get there) so it’s no wonder it’s very busy in summer and fall.

Winter is so much fun to visit as you get to have the views of the rushing water all to yourself or, even better, see it all frozen! Kent Falls, the tallest waterfall in Connecticut, offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere during winter. The moderate 0.84-mile trail to the falls provides various scenic vantage points, ideal for winter photography.

I have a full post outlining everything you need to know for visiting Kent Falls. 🌟 Head there in the winter to see and feel the difference – enjoy!!

8. Ski Sundown ⛷, New Hartford

Located in New Hartford, Ski Sundown is a premier skiing destination with trails for both beginner and expert skiers.

Ski Sundown offers lessons, different packages, and night skiing!

9. Skiing at Mohawk Mountain, Cornwall

Mohawk Mountain is a haven for winter activities in Connecticut located in the northwest corner of CT.

Choose from downhill skiing, snowboarding, and tubing – and if you don’t have the gear, not to worry! Rentals available here.

Glide through winter landscapes and enjoy Connecticut’s snow-covered scenery!

10. Winter Sports at Powder Ridge, Middlefield

Another snow activity in CT as if you don’t have enough choices already! But Powder Ridge is located in central CT so come here if you don’t want to drive to Mohawk Mountain and Ski Sundown.

Powder Ridge runs a WinterFest on weekends and features the largest snow tubing run in the area, along skiing, and even snowbiking! Lessons and rentals available here as well.

11. Cross Country Ski at Winding Trails, Farmington

If you’re more like me and enjoy a more relaxing pace and don’t like going fast on skis fast then give cross country skiing a try at Winding Trails in Farmington.

Cross country skiing is a workout – which I like! It’s like hiking where you get to make your way through scenic woods and snow covered trails except you’re gliding along on skis. 🙂

Winding Trails is the most beautiful spot to cross country ski in CT with a 20-kilometer trail system groomed daily for all skill levels. The 350-acre facility features woodlands, brooks, and ponds, providing a picturesque backdrop for your winter adventure.

After skiing, warm up by the cozy lodge fire and enjoy a hot chocolate or snack!

Part 3: Indoor Winter Activities in CT

12. Yale University Art Gallery, New Haven 🖼

Escape the cold and explore the Yale University Art Gallery in New Haven. With extensive collections of American and British art, this cultural institution offers a rich and inspiring experience for art lovers and those seeking a warm indoor activity!

13. Peabody Museum of Natural History, New Haven 🦖

I have been coming to the Peabody since I was a kid and seeing the TRex in the Great Hall of Dinosaurs never gets old!!

Take a day trip down to New Haven, pop into shops, cafes, amazing restaurants and walk around the Peabody Museum. Part of Yale University and one of the oldest and most renowned natural history museums in the United States the Peabody showcases impressive collections including dinosaur fossils, minerals, gems, and artifacts from ancient civilizations.

The Great Hall of Dinosaurs is a huge highlight with the intricate fossil displays. The museum also emphasizes environmental science and cultural history, offering visitors a blend of educational exhibits and engaging activities that explore the natural world and human cultures.

14. Indoor Rock Climbing 🧗🏽

Feeling cooped up and need an adventure but don’t want to be outside?! Try rock climbing in CT where there are numerous gyms to choose from! These gyms offer climbing walls for all skill levels, providing a challenging and fun experience.

Here are a few places to check out, see which is near you!

• Central Rock Gym, Glastonbury
• Stone Age Rock Gym, Manchester
• Rock Climb Fairfield
• City Climb Gym, New Haven
• Central Rock Gym, West Hartford

15. Mystic Aquarium, Mystic 🦭

We’re so lucky to have Mystic Aquarium in CT! Home to thousands of species of marine mammals, fish, invertebrates, and reptiles.

Mystic is one of only two U.S. facilities holding Steller sea lions, and it has the only beluga whales in New England!

There are interactive exhibits to engage people of all ages, making it an educational and entertaining destination for a cold winter day! It’s a must for a winter activity in CT.

16. Florence Griswold Museum, Old Lyme

Another beautiful indoor spot along the eastern shoreline in CT – check out the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme! A cultural gem known for its American Impressionist art, the museum hosts family-friendly events, making it a delightful winter destination.

17. Cozy Up at a Charming Independent Bookstore 📚

What’s better than a good book and a cut of tea or hot chocolate in a quaint bookstore?! The Book Barn in Niantic offers cozy nooks perfect for a literary adventure.

Connecticut actually has a “book trail” where you can set your sights on visiting all 21 of CT’s independent bookstores. Here’s the full list and below are a few favorites!

• RJ Julia Booksellers, Madison
• River Bend Bookshop, West Hartford
• The Hickory Stick Bookshop, Washington Depot
• Barrett Bookstore, Darien
• The Curious Cat Bookshop, Winsted

18. Day Trip to a new area of CT

Speaking of charming bookstores in cute towns, winter is the perfect time to take a drive and visit a town in CT you haven’t been to before.

I’ve made posts for some of my favorite day trips in Connecticut which you can find linked below! The best part about doing these in the winter is, like more things, it will be less crowded so you’ll feel like you have some of these popular spots all to yourself!

For each post I include the best places to hike and walk around, point out cute cafes, vineyards, breweries, and restaurants! Choose one and enjoy. 🙂

• Day Trip Granby, CT
• Day Trip Salisbury, CT
• Day Trip Washington Depot, CT
• Day Trip Newtown, CT
• Day Trip Sharon, CT
• Day Trip Litchfield, CT

19. Visit a Winter Farmer’s Market 🥔🍠

Winter farmers markets in Connecticut offer fresh, locally grown produce during the colder months. Markets like CitySeed Winter Market in New Haven (held on Saturdays January through March) and Stonington’s Indoor Winter Market at Velvet Mill provide a range of local goods, from root vegetables to seasonal crafts.

These markets offer a cozy indoor activity and a chance to support local farmers and artisans.

20. Cooking Class at Sur La Table, Canton or Darien 👨🏻‍🍳

I loved the baking class at Sur La Table in winter. As part of a Christmas present for my mom and sister we took a croissant and cookie class and it was so much fun!

From baking holiday treats to mastering gourmet dishes, these hands-on classes cater to all skill levels and feature seasonal ingredients.

This is the perfect bonding experience or date and you walk away with a packet of recipes to try at home!

21. Catch a show at the Shubert Theater or other theater 🎭

The Shubert Theatre in New Haven hosts performances throughout the winter season, from popular musicals to dramatic plays. This winter, we’ll be going to see the Nutcracker which is a winter staple for me!

There are other theaters across Connecticut like the Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam that offer a vibrant arts scene that rivals even New York City, providing top-notch performances right nearby.

22. Historic Bed & Breakfasts

For a cozy and romantic winter getaway, consider staying at one of Connecticut’s historic inns or bed & breakfasts. All of these charming inns offer cozy accommodations, New England chard, and fine dining experiences, enhancing your stay.

23. Spa Retreats 🧖🏽‍♀️

Unwind and rejuvenate this winter at one of Connecticut’s luxurious spa retreats. These spas offer top-notch treatments, from massages to facials, designed to soothe both body and mind. A spa day provides a cozy and relaxing escape from the winter chill.

Here are a few well known and highly rates spas in CT! ⬇️

• Water’s Edge Resort & Spa, Westbrook
• The Spa at Norwich Inn, Norwich
• Saybrook Point Resort & Marina, Old Saybrook
• The Litchfield Spa, Litchfield
• A Touch of Bliss Organic Spa, West Hartford

24. Maple Syrup-Making 🍁

Learn about maple syrup-making by visiting local farms in Connecticut this winter! The process involves tapping sugar maple trees, collecting sap, and boiling it down to create syrup. The best time to taste fresh maple syrup is from mid-February to mid-March, coinciding with the sap flow season.

Tours and tastings at local farms offer an educational and fun experience! Below are some of the maple syrup festivities in CT:

• Adopt a Tree Maple Syrup Program, New Canaan
• Maple Sugar House Demonstrations, Woodbury
• Maple Festival: Classes and Tours, East Hartland
• Maple Weekend in Connecticut, click here for dates in March

25. Winter High Tea 🫖

Indulge in a delightful winter high tea at one of Connecticut’s charming tea rooms. These venues offer an elegant experience with fine teas, freshly baked scones, and delicious pastries.

Enjoying high tea is a perfect way to warm up and savor the cozy charm of Connecticut during the colder months! Click here for 20 places to enjoy an afternoon of tea in CT!

26. Check out a Hot Chocolate Spot in Connecticut 🍫☕️

Warm up with a cup of gourmet hot chocolate at one of Connecticut’s top spots like Sift Bake Shop in Mystic or Heirloom Market in Old Wethersfield. These cafes and bakeries elevate hot chocolate with ingredients like melted chocolate bars and homemade marshmallows – no packaged mixes here!

I wrote a whole post dedicated to this topic – Best Homemade Hot Chocolates in CT Paired with Nearby Hikes!

27. Visit a Brewery or Winery 🍺🍷

Connecticut’s breweries and wineries offer a warm and inviting escape during the winter months. Enjoy local brews and wines, including craft beers and rich red wines, at places like Gouveia Vineyards and Stonington Vineyards.

Many have food too which makes it even more fun! Check out my post if you want to bring your dog: 8 Dog-Friendly Breweries in Connecticut🌟

28. Dine by Fireside 🔥

Experience the cozy ambiance of fireside dining at one of Connecticut’s many restaurants that offer this warm and inviting option. Establishments like Max Fish and Connecticut River Valley Inn provide a hearthside setting where you can enjoy comfort food and seasonal dishes.

Fireside dining is perfect for a cold weather winter day, offering both a comforting meal and a cozy atmosphere.

29. Mark Twain House

Visit the Mark Twain House and Museum in Hartford for a dose of history and holiday cheer. This guided tour museum, once the home of Mark Twain, hosts Christmas celebrations that enhance the festive spirit during the winter season.

Explore the entire house and learn about Twain’s life and works, making it a culturally enriching winter activity.

30. Connecticut Science Center 🔭

The Connecticut Science Center in Hartford is a fantastic indoor destination for curious minds of all ages. Engage in a variety of STEM activities and hands-on exhibits that inspire curiosity in science and technology.

The interactive exhibits provide a fun and educational experience, making it an ideal winter outing for families and individuals alike.

31. Mashantucket Pequot Museum

Explore the rich history and culture of the Pequot tribe at the Mashantucket Pequot Museum. This museum offers interactive exhibits that delve into Native American cultural history, providing an immersive and educational experience.

Located in Mashantucket, the museum is a significant cultural destination that adds depth to your understanding of Connecticut museums’ heritage.

32. Eat, play, shop, or catch a show at the Casino 🎰🛍

Connecticut is home to two renowned casinos, Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Resort Casino, both of which offer much more than just gambling. Both are home to live entertainment featuring the best concerts, comedy shows, wine & food festivals and more!

And if you like to shop (or just walk around and get your steps in indoors) then you’ll love the multi floor outlet mall at Foxwoods and the high end shops at Mohegan Sun. Each also has award-winning restaurants and full spas!

33. Go Ice Skating ⛸⛸

Bundle up and try something festive this winter in CT. Head to any of these ice skating rinks below that all offer public skate times! Check their website for details.

• Enfield Twin Rinks
• International Skating Center of Connecticut, Simsbury
• Veterans Memorial Ice Rink, West Hartford
• Winterfest Hartford (outdoor rink open 2 months a year! :))
• Champions Skating Center, Cromwell
• Northford Ice Pavillion

34. Get creative and craft! Take a craft class

Another fun thing to do and look forward to this winter in Connecticut is an indoor craft class! I loved doing one of these with my family on a Saturday. It was our Christmas present to my mom and we all had a great time and was a highlight of the winter.

Get a group together and try one of the following indoor craft classes!

• Board & Brush Creative Studio (various locations across CT)
• Sewing & quilting classes in CT
• Rachel Eve Pottery Classes, Simsbury
• Knit & Pearls, Avon

I hope you enjoyed this guide filled with the best things to do in CT this winter.

I know I wrote down a few new things to try myself from making this list.

As long as winter seems – it will be over before we know it – so make the best of it and make some fun winter plans & memories with the activities on this list!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top holiday events in Connecticut during winter?

If you’re looking for festive fun in Connecticut this winter, don’t miss the Lake Compounce Holiday Lights, the North Pole Railway, and the lantern light tours at Mystic Seaport Museum. These festive events are sure to get you in the holiday spirit!

Where can I go for outdoor winter adventures in Connecticut?

For outdoor winter adventures in Connecticut, check out Ski Sundown, Mohawk Mountain, Powder Ridge, and Winding Trails for various types of skiing, tubing, and snow boarding. Or try a Winter Wildlife Eagle Cruise on the Connecticut River and spy our winter wildlife! 🦅

What are some indoor winter activities to enjoy in Connecticut?

Some favorites include the Peabody Museum, Mystic Aquarium, cooking and crafting classes, and indoor rock climbing.

Are there any unique winter experiences in Connecticut?

Absolutely! You can enjoy bald eagle watching cruises, take part in maple syrup-making tours, or indulge in a lovely winter high tea at quaint tea rooms mentioned in this article.

What cultural experiences can I enjoy in Connecticut during winter?

You can enjoy visiting the Mark Twain House, the Connecticut Science Center, and the Mashantucket Pequot Museum for some great cultural experiences in Connecticut during winter. Each offers a unique glimpse into the state’s rich history and heritage!