(WTNH) — The weekend is nearly here and if you are looking to get out of the house and enjoy it, we’ve got your back. We’ve got some fun ideas for you and your family – whether you want to enjoy the warmer weather outside or stay inside.
When there are no leaves on the trees there’s no better time to check out wildlife. The Eagle Flyer will be running all weekend long. You will leave from Essex Station and a vintage diesel engine will pull you through the forest and by the Connecticut River. There are departures at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars!
If you are feeling brave on Saturday go for a dip in Long Island Sound! Yes, you read that correctly, but you will be freezin’ for a reason. Money raised at the Colin’s Crew Polar Dip in West Haven will send kids with life-threatening illnesses and their families to camp. Registration begins at 11 a.m. at the Savin Rock Conference Center. Too afraid to go in the water in February? Do the chicken dip – you will only put your toes in the water.
If the February weather has you in the mood for some maple syrup, why not see how it’s made? Stop by the Stamford Museum and Nature Center on Sunday afternoon at 3 o’clock for a very sweet treat. See how sap becomes the syrup you put on your pancakes.
Want to enjoy an outdoor adventure without the cold temperatures? Head to the Bushnell in Hartford for the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour. The films you see on Saturday night might leave you wanting to go explore.
If you and your kids want to get outside this weekend check out the Winter Carnival at Mount Southington Ski Area. You will find a winter wonderland on Saturday with food, music and a special visit from a clown. While you’re there check out a one of a kind sled race – you will head downhill in a cardboard box!
How would you like to spend your Saturday playing with trains? Get on board at the Windsor Historical Society. Trains for Kids begins at 10 a.m. You will learn some railroad history – even some secret train whistle codes. You will get your very own whistle to take home.
If you’re ready for some warmer weather and want to pretend you’re on a tropical vacation, why not head to a luau? Warm up at the Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, where you will feel like you’re in Hawaii all weekend long. Try out a surfing machine or enter a Spam carving contest.
If you love the winter weather and you would like to try something new, why not go snowshoeing? Head to McLaughlin Vineyards in Sandy Hook on Sunday at 10 a.m. You’ll get to explore trails in the forest along the Housatonic River. If you’re lucky, you might spot a bald eagle!
