The holidays are over; we survived 2023; now what? Thankfully, we’ve had plenty of snow and weather mild enough to enjoy January. We’ve got our fingers crossed that it continues. We’re trying different teas and are stocked up on fresh books, games, and puzzles from gifts for the days we need to stay in. How are you preparing for the colder days ahead?
We hope you’ll find some inspiration from our list of fun things to do this month in Northeast Wisconsin, from Oshkosh to Appleton to Green Bay (and beyond) for your family!
Looking for activities or things to do with your family in the winter month of January in Northeast Wisconsin? There are lots of options for FREE or cheap events and activities for families! Make sure to check out all the events on our calendar.
The Snow Man
One of our favorite things about a big snowfall is seeing what The Snow Man in Appleton creates! His artwork can be found in his front yard near Appleton Medical Center on the corner of Glendale and Racine Street.
Sledding Spectacular
Sledding and snow tubing is one of the best things to do this time of year with the whole family! Many of the hills here in Wisconsin require no experience and can be completed at any age!
Titletown in Green Bay also offers tubing on Ariens Hill beginning in December.
A truly unique option in Stevens Point is a cool toboggan run at Iverson Park Winter Sports Area.
Ice Skating
Ice skating is a wintertime favorite for many families throughout the state! There are so many fantastic family-friendly ice rinks throughout Wisconsin.
One of the newest ice skating locations is in Neenah, called The Plaza. It’s a beautiful outdoor ice rink nestled in the charming downtown area, with a quaint cafe, coffee shop, fire pits, and outdoor seating.
More Winter Fun
No more “I’m bored” or winter blues! We have a list of more than 100 things to do during winter in Northeast Wisconsin, including Appleton, Oshkosh, Green Bay, and the greater Fox Cities. These ideas will help you get out of the house and have fun!
Sip on Hot Chocolate
There’s just something about sipping hot chocolate by a crackling fire, isn’t there? We have rounded up the BEST hot coca in the Fox Cities! If you’re in Menasha, Fireside Cafe has yummy hot chocolate, a beautiful fireplace, and a play area for toddlers and preschoolers. Sip on hot chocolate and roast marshmallows by the fire at The Plaza in Neenah.
If you’re up for some snuggling action, the Pawfee Shop Cat Cafe in Appleton is the spot for you. You can enjoy hot cocoa while cuddling with adorable cats.
These coffee shops have play areas for kids that make meeting a friend the perfect date for everyone!
We also have a lot of fun igloo dining experiences!
Indoor Play Dates
We all know by now that Wisconsin’s weather seems always unpredictable. Here are some handy lists for indoor play during rainy and cold November days.
- Indoor Playgrounds, Parks, and Play Areas
- Coffee Shops with Play Areas in the Fox Valley & Beyond
- Indoor Swimming Pools in the Fox Cities
- Indoor Waterparks in Wisconsin
No School Snow Days
Snow days with kids are a magical blend of traditions and superstitions! From pajamas inside-out to spoon-under-the-pillow tricks, we’ve got our snow rituals down pat. When the flakes start falling, you’ll find us crossing our fingers and eagerly awaiting the snow day call, all while secretly hoping our snowy superstitions work their frosty wonders!
Have a winter movie marathon! Snuggle up with blankets and pillows for a family movie night featuring your favorite winter films. Pajamas are highly encouraged! We also like making epic blanket forts! Here are some of our favorites.
- Frozen
- Happy Feet
- Ice Age
- Smallfoot
- TinkerBell and the Secret of the Wings
- The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
- Abominable
Here are 15 fun activities to enjoy at home during a snow day:
- Build a Snow Fort: Get creative and build a snow fort, igloo or snowman in your backyard.
- Winter Baking: Whip up some homemade cookies, brownies, or a delicious cake to enjoy.
- Hot Cocoa Bar: Set up a hot cocoa bar with various toppings and have a hot chocolate taste test.
- Board Games: Dust off your board games and have a family game day.
- Indoor Picnic: Lay out a picnic blanket in your living room and enjoy an indoor picnic.
- DIY Crafts: Get crafty with DIY projects like making snowflakes or homemade ornaments.
- Storytime: Read books or tell stories to each other by the fireplace. No fireplace? No problem, there are lots of options on YouTube.
- Puzzle Time: Work on a jigsaw puzzle together as a family.
- Snowy Science Experiments: Try snow-related science experiments like making snow crystals.
- Scavenger Hunt: Organize an indoor scavenger hunt with clues and treasures.
- Build a Blanket Fort: Use blankets and pillows to construct a cozy fort.
- Home Spa Day: Pamper yourselves with DIY facials, manicures, and massages.
- Write Letters: Write letters or cards to family and friends you haven’t seen in a while.
- Karaoke: Have a karaoke session and sing your hearts out.
- Plan Future Adventures: Use the time to plan future vacations or dream about your next adventures.
Looking for activities or things to do with your family in the winter month of January in Northeast Wisconsin? There are lots of options for FREE or cheap events and activities for families! Make sure to check out all the events on our calendar.
