It's great to get outside on nice winter days and watch the little ones all pink-cheeked, running around and soaking up the Vitamin D. However, on those days when it's bone-chillingly cold or you're just not feeling the outdoors, it's nice to have indoor alternatives that are fun and engaging for everyone. There are activities, attractions and family-friendly events across the state that your kids will love. File these suggestions away for the next Sunday FunDay or Family Day and you're sure to come up with a hit!
Active
There's plenty of places for the kids to burn off excess energy indoors, between rock climbing, bouncing, go-karting, ice and roller skating, bowling and more. And if the kids are so tired they need a nap after, you can catch up on your latest Netflix binge. Win-win!
Enrichment
Learning and exploring can be fun too - and Rhode Island has plenty of indoor opportunities for enrichment. Visit the Audubon Nature Center & Aquarium to learn about local habitats and wildlife, including a 33-foot life-size model of a North Atlantic Right Whale. At the Biomes Marine Biology Center, visitors can learn about the marine animals of Narragansett Bay, watch weekly demonstrations and children under six can enjoy Ruby's Play Area with puzzles, games and more. Roger Williams Park Zoo has the fantastic, new Rainforest building open to visitors, as well as fun events including Preschool Adventures, Rock-A-Baby concerts, Breakfast with the Animals and more! For your miniature historian, The Breakers offers a special family audio tour, designed to engage parents and children as they tour Newport's grandest mansion. And for your budding artist, the RISD Museum admits children under 18 free and provides a kids activity guide and strollers for your visit. Visit on Super Art Sunday for a day of special family-friendly activities!
Entertainment
Whether it's arcades, hockey or more, there's plenty of indoor entertainment this winter in the Ocean State. The Providence Performing Arts Center has the new musical production of the classic film, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory coming in February for all ages and The Vets is welcoming Paw Patrol Live! Race to the Rescue in February as well!
Whatever your family's interests and whatever your children's ages, there's plenty to amuse them indoors when the weather outside is frightful! And while you're making plans for family fun, be sure to check out our Restaurants page for a great spot to eat afterwards. Having a blast is hungry business!
