It’s the most wonderful time of the year as schools across the U.S. let out for a two-week vacation. But for many parents, this means finding fun activities to keep their little ones busy despite the blustery cold. Although our region is typically thought of as a hotspot for summer fun, with beaches, coastal walks and Waterfire, there are also plenty of winter activities to enjoy with the kids this holiday season. We’ve compiled a list of ideas, including special events in various spots, as well as classic local traditions going on all season long.
1. Seal-Watching Tours on Narragansett Bay
(Nov. 24th, 2018—Apr. 28th, 2019)
Newport/Narragansett, RI
Rhode Island’s beautiful waters can be enjoyed in the wintertime, too. Nonprofit organization Save The Bay offers guided boat tours where riders can catch a glimpse of our native harbor seals—officially named Rhode Island’s state mammal in 2016—swimming and playing in their natural habitat. Ranging from one to two hours, the boats depart from Bowen’s Ferry Landing in Newport. These captivating encounters with the sea creatures of the Bay are a perfect way for families to enjoy a winter afternoon on the coast.
For more info: https://www.savebay.org/family-fun/seals/
2. Old Fashioned Christmas at the Hearthside House Museum
(Dec. 28th and 30th, 2018)
Lincoln, RI
For a post-Christmas activity that’s both entertaining and educational, take a peek into the past and visit Lincoln’s Hearthside House Museum for a truly unique experience of a Victorian-era holiday. Families can take a full tour of the historic house, which will be decorated from floor to ceiling, and feature tour guides dressed in the attire of the Victorian period. Visitors can also enjoy homemade cookies and hot cider during the tours.
For more info: https://www.hearthsidehouse.org/old-fashioned-christmas
3. Skiing and Snow Tubing at Yawgoo Valley
(Mid-December 2018—Mar. 3rd, 2019)
Exeter, RI
Families in search of outdoor adventures this winter need look no further than Yawgoo Valley, Rhode Island’s ski and snow tubing park. With 36 acres of skiable area, 8 snow tubing lanes, lighted night skiing and convenient lifts up to the tops of the hills, Yawgoo is a great winter sporting spot for kids of all ages and skill levels. The park offers season passes as well as single-day tickets.
For more info: https://www.yawgoo.com/
4. Polar Express Train Ride in the Blackstone Valley
(Nov. 16th—Dec. 23rd, 2018)
Woonsocket, RI
No need to travel far to experience the magic of this classic children’s story. Guests board a vintage train car for a 90-minute ride, complete with hot chocolate, stories and sing-alongs, plus a souvenir mug, golden ticket and silver bell for each child. The train passes through the magical North Pole and riders get to enjoy the view from the train car windows, with entertainment going on inside for the entire duration of the ride.
For more info: https://www.blackstonevalleypolarexpress.com/site/tickets/
5. The Nutcracker at PPAC
(Dec. 21st—23rd, 2018)
Providence, RI
Festival Ballet Providence’s performance of The Nutcracker is a family classic, and a must-see this holiday season if you’re new to the area. The company’s dancers and sets have made The Nutcracker a critically acclaimed production in the RI arts community.
For more info: https://www.ppacri.org/events/detail/festival-ballet-providence-presents-the-nutcracker
Learn more about Festival Ballet Providence: http://festivalballetprovidence.org/
6. Giant Gingerbread Lighthouse at Newport Marriott
(Dates TBD)
Newport, RI
During the holidays, a massive lighthouse made entirely of gingerbread and held together with 50 gallons of icing adorns the lobby of the Newport Marriott hotel. Standing about 16 feet tall, the working lighthouse is the product of more than 100 hours of baking and building. It’s truly a sight to behold.
For more info: https://globenewswire.com/news-release/2018/11/09/1649145/0/en/Newport-Marriott-Rings-in-the-Holidays-with-an-Exclusive-Offer.html
7. Sparkle! An Outdoor Family Event at Blithewold Mansion
(Dec. 14th and 21st, 2018)
Bristol, RI
Later on in the evening, enjoy the decorated gardens of Bristol’s Blithewold Mansion in warm comfort. A blazing bonfire illuminates the center of the garden, where families can gather for s’mores and hot chocolate, plus holiday sing-alongs and special performances. The festivities will be held December 14th and 21st, with separate sessions beginning at 5, 6 and 7 pm.
For more info: https://www.blithewold.org/event/sparkle-an-outdoor-family-event/
8. Bumper Car Rides at the Alex & Ani Skating Center
(November 2018—March 2019)
Providence, RI
Providence’s downtown rink isn’t just for skating anymore. The Alex and Ani center, located in the heart of the city, now features bumper car rides as well—the first of their kind in New England. Kids ages 6 and up can operate a car alone, and 3—5-year-olds can ride alongside adults for free. One ticket gets you 20 minutes of slipping, sliding, and bumping across the 14,000 square foot rink. Reservations are recommended for this popular attraction.
For more info: https://theprovidencerink.com/bumper-cars-2/
