beat the winter blues on a budget

My family loves to get outside in the summer, but in the winter, I have to admit I’m a bit wimpy. I often just want to stay home and watch a movie or read a book–but my kids can only stay home for so long without getting bored. So here are a few ideas for quick little trips to break up the long winter days.

Check out a pet store. My kids love to explore some of the fun pet stores in our area. We recently stopped by a bird-specific shop and the kids had a blast letting the birds sit on their shoulders. Other stores in our area have seahorses, a giant tortoise and even stingrays. It’s an easy (and totally free) way to get out of the house for a bit.

Visit your local museum. I know not everyone has a large museum very close, but a lot of communities have small museums that may bring in fun exhibits. Check out what’s near you. The Grand Rapids Public Museum has a toy exhibit right now with some fun vintage toys and arcade-style games.  There is also a great children’s museum here as well as a free museum in Kalamazoo.

Try a fun bakery or coffee shop. We recently went to a donut place we had heard about.  It was a bit of a hike from our house so we made a morning of it.  Kids were thrilled to have junk food and we had fun checking out a new spot.  We also love to occasionally go for coffee.  We love Palatte, a locally owned art gallery/coffee shop right by the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum.

Get outside.  Even though winter is not my favorite, it’s amazing what some fresh air can do for you.  A walk, a trip to the park or a long hike are great ways to get out of the house.  And if you have snow, sledding or tubing are a super fun way to spend the day!  For more of a splurge, we love to go tubing at spots with rope tows or magic carpets to get back up the hill.

What are your favorite budget-friendly winter activities?