Looking for a way to get out of the house this winter with the kiddos? Once the weather drops below 32º, it can be a bit more tempting to stay in and throw on a movie, but trust us when we say there are still plenty of ways to step out in the winter. From visiting a museum to gaming out at an arcade, we’ve organized a list of fun things to do with your kids this winter, including the recommended age groups for each activity!
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Aquarium of Niagara
Get up close and personal with sea life at the Aquarium of Niagara. Watch a sea lion show, visit the sting rays pool, or even plan an overnight stay.
Recommended Ages: All ages
Billy Beez
Climb around obstacles and slides with this indoor playground located in the Galleria Mall for a fun day indoors. With multiple play zones to choose from, there is something for all ages.
Recommended Ages: All ages but targets kids ages 2-11
Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens
Escape the cold with a visit to the Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens. Here you can explore the plant life or join in on one of their hands on classes & workshops.
Recommended Ages: All ages but targets kids ages 5-12
Buffalo Heritage Carousel
Only $1 to ride, the Buffalo Heritage Carousel is a fun and cheap option to entertain your kids. Plus with their location in Canalside it’s a great way to spend the day downtown.
Recommended Ages: All ages but targets kids ages 2-11
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Buffalo Museum of Science
The Buffalo Museum of Science allows children to learn about space, explore 700,000 specimens and artifacts, and more. They also offer discovery camps that are divided by age group.
Recommended Ages: All ages 2+
Buffalo Zoo
The Buffalo Zoo allows you to get close and personal with wildlife from around the world right here in WNY! Plus they have discounted offers during the school calendar’s winter recess.
Recommended Ages: All ages
Build-A-Bear Workshop
Help your kids create their own stuffed animal at Build-A-Bear Workshop. They have a variety of stuffed animals and clothing choices to choose from as well as offer party packages.
Recommended Ages: All ages
Explore & More Children’s Museum
As their name implies, this museum was created with children in mind. With that being said, they offer a variety of different play/education zones for children’s development.
Recommended Ages: All ages but targets kids ages 2-11
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Genesee Country Village & Museum
Step back in time with the Genesee Country Village & Museum where you can learn about 19th-century America. While general admission is for all ages, they have classes that are great for kids including nature experiences.
Recommended Ages: All ages but kids classes target ages 4-12
Get Air Trampoline Park
If your kids need to release some energy, plan a day a Get Air Trampoline Park. They have trampolines, a kiddie court, dodgeball, and foam pit.
Recommended Ages: All ages
Ice Skating
Take advantage of the winter in WNY by getting outdoors and ice skating. Head downtown to Fountain Plaza, Canalside, or East Aurora. Check out our guide below to popular rinks in the area.
Recommended Ages: All ages
Kids Improv
If your kid has a funny bone in them, get them signed up for an improv class with the Buffalo Comedy Collective. They have classes divided by age to help your child learn improv and play games.
Recommended Ages: Classes target kids ages 9-15
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Lasertron
For kids or kids at heart, Lasertron offers a laser tag gaming experience as well as arcade games and cyber sports. This activity is great for large groups.
Recommended Ages: Generally targets young teens and up
Little Buffalo
If you are looking for a play space for your young children, Little Buffalo offers crafts and sensory play for your child.
Recommended Ages: Ages 3-5
MUSEJar
Feeling artsy? MUSEJar offers a variety of hands on classes that are fit for all ages, including for little ones!
Recommended Ages: All ages
Roller Skating
If outdoor ice skating sounds too cold, you may want to opt in for the indoor alternative by heading to a roller rink. These can be super fun for parties or just a group of friends getting together for a skate night. Check out our guide below for a place to skate near you.
Recommended Ages: All ages
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Rolly Pollies
Rolly Pollies offers open play for young kids at the same time teaching them valuable social and gross motor skills. Classes range from arts and crafts to climbing over obstacles.
Recommended Ages: Under 6 years of age
Sledding
This a pretty common winter activity for all ages, but for good reason. Going sledding after a fresh snow fall never gets old. Check out our guide to snow hills below.
Recommended Ages: All ages
Theatre of Youth
The Theatre of Youth offers programs for youth K-12 to partake in as well as shows specifically catered to young audiences. This is a great opportunity to be involved in if your child has an interest in the arts.
Recommended Ages: Ages 4-12
Tifft Nature Preserve
While you can plan a family hike through the preserve just about any time, Tifft also offers nature classes specifically for kids.
Recommended Ages: Generally their classes are for ages 3-5 and 5+
Urban Air Adventure Park
This indoor playground is full of fun attractions and entertainment including a climbing hill, a tumble track, and a spin zone, just to name a few.
Recommended Ages: All ages
