It’s officially feeling like winter! So it’s time for a new bucket list featuring my favorite things to do around Grand Rapids this season. Sometimes when it’s snowing and the wind chill is brutal it’s challenging to even leave the house or find the motivation to do something. But, this year’s Winter Bucket List is full of fun ideas to make the most of this winter season. Everything from decorating Christmas cookies, building a snowman, volunteering, visiting a museum, and going to a Griffins game is on the list. I’ve also left a couple of open spots so you can add your own winter activities to this winter bucket list.
1. Go Ice Skating
Ice skating in Rosa Parks Circle is a must for date night or with your family and friends. Bundle up and enjoy some laps around the ice rink and enjoy the city lights. Warm up with some hot chocolate from Kilwins after skating!
2. Build a Snowman
My nephew and Cory built this adorable snowman last weekend. That snow we got on Sunday was perfect for building a snowman! Bonus points for his arms with mittens to keep him warm.
3. Make Hot Chocolate
My mom has a secret recipe for making homemade hot chocolate. I might share it on the blog soon…Either way making hot chocolate from scratch or buying it from the store is perfect for a cold winter afternoon.
4. Volunteer
There are so many places in Grand Rapids that are looking for volunteers, especially during the winter season. Check out Mel Trotter, Dégagé Ministries or Kids Food Basket for volunteer opportunities.
5. Decorate Cookies
Decorating Christmas cookies is something I look forward to each year. My mom has a recipe from her childhood that we absolutely love making before Christmas. My sister and I always have so much fun decorating the cookies with fun colors and sprinkles.
6. Make Homemade Soup
Chilly weather and soup go together perfectly right? I want to try making some homemade soup in my Instant Pot this year. Do you have any recipes you love?
7. Send Christmas Cards
I really enjoy sending Christmas cards out every year. I ordered mine from Minted this year and loved how they turned out!
8. See a Christmas Movie
One of my favorite movies to see right now is Frozen 2! My nephew absolutely loved it and it was great for the whole family.
9. Go Bowling
Bowling is such a fun activity during the winter since you’re inside. I need to work on my bowling game this season…
10. Read a Book
My favorite part about the winter season (after the holiday) is the slow time in January and February. This is the best time to pick up a book you’ve been dying to read and relax after the holiday season.
11. Go Skiing
I have to admit I’m not much of a skier…but I’m trying. Last winter Cory and I did some cross country skiing at Hotel Walloon and even though it was challenging we had a good time.
12. Go Sledding
If skiing isn’t your thing (I totally understand) have some fun sledding in Grand Rapids. There are some great hills to take your sled and enjoy the winter weather.
13. Griffins Game
Going to a Griffins game is a must during the winter. Cory and I always love going with our friends and doing dinner before the game.
14. Visit a Museum
The winter months are a great time to visit our amazing museums in Grand Rapids. My favorite is the Grand Rapids Public Museum and the Grand Rapids Art Museum.
15. The Nutcracker
Seeing The Nutcracker with the Grand Rapids Ballet is one of my favorite childhood memories. This is a great thing to do with family and friends during the holiday season.
16. Winter Beer Festival
If you love beer you can’t miss the Winter Beer Festival happening February 22 at Fifth Third Ballpark.
17. Donate a Toy
Cory and I love to donate toys to Toys for Tots during the holiday season. There are many drop off centers around town to bring a toy to donate.
18. Do a Puzzle
I really enjoy doing puzzles and on a cold afternoon with some hot chocolate and Christmas music it’s just perfect.
19. Have a Staycation
The winter time is a great opportunity to have a staycation in Grand Rapids. Cory and I loved staying at City Flats Hotel downtown earlier this year because of the proximity to our favorite restaurants, and the beds are super comfortable!
20. Act of Kindness
During this holiday season I challenge you to try doing an act of kindness at least once this month. If you need some ideas check out this post.
Here is the winter bucket list that you can also download here. Enjoy!
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