Happy first day of Winter! On one hand, I’m glad our days are going to get a bit longer each day, but I know the snow and cold have just begun. I’m an extrovert, but even I have to force myself out of the house to try new things during the winter months. So this year, I’m crossing off items from my own Philly winter bucket list.
Riverrink
The Blue Cross Riverrink on the Delaware River Waterfront is a winter classic for a reason! I wouldn’t say that I’m a good ice skater, but I do’t have to grip the walls when I skate anymore. I almost always end up going to the ice rink on closing weekend, but this year I’m determined to make it there at least twice. They also have cozy cabins and wintery drinks so it’s nice to unwind after all your skating.
Philadelphia Distillery Trail
Breweries are a big deal in Philadelphia, and a fun place to spend weekend afternoons. It’s time to branch out though by visiting a distillery — if you’re feeling ambitious, you can tackle the whole Philly Distillery Trail. I think I’ll start with visiting Red Brick Distillery; I enjoy their whiskey and it’s in my neighborhood. Perfect way to warm up on a winter afternoon. Wine more your thing? Take a day trip to a local winery for a tasting — here are some wine destinations perfect for a winter day.
Restaurant Week
Center City Restaurant Week is coming (January 14-26, 2018, FYI)! East Passayunk also usually hosts their own restaurant week in the late winter. I haven’t picked out which restaurants, but it’s always fun to try new places and new dishes you wouldn’t usually order. Emily at Her Philly has great tips on how to conquer restaurant week too!
Winter Hike
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you have to be inside 24/7. Fresh air is necessary, though I’d suggest saving a winter hike for a sunnier day. I have plans to bring Arya to the Wissahickon this weekend, but my new hiking boots are begging me for a trip to the Poconos. (Don’t forget to check out my pet-friendly list of Airbnbs near the Pocono Mountains.) Prefer exercising indoors? Winter is a great time to try a new fitness class or sign up for Classpass!
Philly Theatre Week
I admittedly did not know this was a thing until LaNeshe told me about it! Philly Theatre Week makes theatre more accessible to the community by having free and discounted events (tickets are no more than $30!). Tickets go on sale Tuesday, January 16 and the celebration runs February 8 through February 18. You can see the shows available here. (Bonus: lots of options in the suburbs too.)
Let me know what’s on your winter bucket list, whether you’re in Philly or another city!
~ Sarah