Skiing & Winter Sports

Ski Free All Spring with the 2019 Ikon Pass - And Save $100 on Kids’ Passes

Submitted by Jessica Laird on Tue, 03/05/2019 - 9:00am

If you hit the slopes at least one week a year, a ski pass can mean serious savings for your family. Ikon Pass is an annual ski pass that gives you access to over 30 skiing and snowboarding destinations across 12 states, 4 Canadian provinces, and 4 continents. And even better, if you buy your pass now, you get this year’s spring skiing for free!

While you might think of skiing as a quintessential winter activity, the higher temps, longer days, and shorter chairlift waits make spring break the perfect time for a family ski trip. Whether you're a bunch of black diamond die-hards or some of your gang's still all about the bunny hill, an Ikon Pass will definitely help you make the most of spring on the slopes—and since the pass for the 19/20 season literally just went on sale, you can use it for the rest of this season, as well as all of next year.

Go-Kart and Slot Car Racing Destinations for LI Kids

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Tue, 02/12/2019 - 10:45am

Want to go for a spin? Then check out one of Long Island’s go-kart or slot car tracks.

Parents of kids who love being in the driver’s seat will love what these high-speed destinations offer. Inexpensive and thrilling, they’re ideal for kids who refuse to take a back seat to anyone. Gentlemen (and ladies), start your engines.

For more indoor fun, see our guide to play spaces and fun zones. If your kids prefer to pedal, our guide to Long Island biking trails offers great rides in Nassau, Suffolk, and the East End.

Hunter Mountain Expansion Offers New Family Skiing in New York

Submitted by James Smith on Mon, 02/11/2019 - 11:30am

It’s expensive to expand a ski resort. The folks at Hunter Mountain invested $9 million to construct an 80-acre addition to New York’s second most-visited ski destination.

Did they get their money’s worth without compromising all that made Hunter one of the top ski destinations for families near New York City?

After visiting the now 320-acre Catskills resort that is 2½ hours north of the city, one is tempted to say, yes.

Indoor Ice Skating Rinks in New York City for Every Season

Submitted by Stephanie Ogozalek on Thu, 01/31/2019 - 2:40pm

As much as we love ice skating outside, sometimes it's just too cold, hot, or rainy for New York City's seasonal outdoor rinks. Indoor alternatives let NYC kids skate year-round. Some in-the-know parents with young skate enthusiasts tell me they prefer indoor rinks because the quality of the ice is better, making for a smoother glide, which is especially helpful for newbies.

Here are six NYC indoor ice skating rinks to check out, whether your kid is just starting out on the ice or is practicing their hockey or figure skating moves. Many offer birthday party options, skating lessons, and rentals—plus, most are open in summer if you ever need to cool down.

10 Places to Take Kids Ice Skating for Free in Boston

Submitted by Elyse Andrews on Sun, 01/20/2019 - 8:00pm

We're huge fans of the many outdoor ice rinks that open every winter around Boston, but these popular (and touristy) spots can get pretty crowded and just a bit pricey. What’s a Boston mom or dad to do? Don't worry: Boston happens to have lots of public skating options that are totally free! Here’s what you need to know to have a fun, no-cost time as a family at these 10 free skating rinks around town.

12 Places LA Families Can Drive To Pretend It's Winter

Submitted by Arianna Menon on Tue, 01/15/2019 - 11:11pm

When most of the country is covered in snow, LA is typically enjoying fall temperatures with highs in the 70s. This is great for those who of us love the warm weather, but if you or your little snow angels are longing to chill out and experience ice and snow, all it takes is a drive to higher elevations and the whole family can experience the thrill of winter sports, explore alpine landscapes, and take in the magic of winter for the day. Other people survive winter; Angelenos visit it.

The Best Family Sledding Spots on Long Island

Submitted by Ian Stark on Tue, 01/08/2019 - 1:00pm

Say it ain't snow. But it is.

Parents with kids eager to brave the outdoors don't have to leave Long Island to find ideal sledding spots. We've rounded up a host of places where you can challenge the local powder for FREE. Safety first though, so be sure to check surroundings for sticks, rocks, and more; wear a helmet and proper snow gear to keep warm; and be extra careful after dark. Bring your own equipment to these snow-covered destinations and be ready for some fun.

Don't forget to check our Long Island winter fun guide for more seasonal entertainment ideas for your family, whether the weather outside is frightful, or delightful. There, you'll find information on skiing destinations, ice rinks, hot chocolate spots, i ndoor play centers, and more.

Top Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks in New Jersey

Submitted by Kristen Haas on Mon, 01/07/2019 - 11:00am

Looking for an outdoor winter activity for the whole family? There are a number of outdoor ice skating rinks in NJ where you can take a skating lesson, play hockey, or just grab a hot chocolate and go for a spin during a public session. Of course, if you feel like staying indoors, you can always check out our list of the Best Indoor Ice Skating Rinks in NJ. And for more wintry sports, try our Ski & Snow Guide.