This week was brutally epic. We are used to the frigid temperatures – we were both born and raised in New England. But the past seven days were unlike anything to hit this area in the last century. We experienced polar vortex temperatures resulting in arctic cold, astronomical torrents caused by the highest tides ever on record, horrific flooding in the streets of Boston and other coastal-lying cities, and bomb cyclone Grayson which dumped over a foot of snow and blew into the area with wind gusts of over 50 miles per hour. It’s safe to say that winter has indeed come.

Who could blame us when our seasonal hibernation behaviors flared up again? Binge watching reruns of The Office, Outlander, and Entourage; baking and cooking hearty meals and desserts to put necessary meat on our bones; and sweaters, fuzzy socks and thick blankets adorning our bodies at all times.

With all of this hours snuggling together on the couch we started to brainstorm. For those moments when cabin fever sets in or when there are glimpses of warmer weather in sight, we are willing to brave the elements. There are cold weather activities and excitement to be had in a city that is accustomed this climate, trust us!

Check out our list of Cold Weather Activities to do in Boston below:

1. Art Museums: From the Museum of Fine Arts and Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum to the Harvard Arts Museums, the Boston area is full of pieces from local and nationally acclaimed artists. Head to any of these establishments to stroll through exhibits that will take your breath away, observe works of art that inflict feelings across the spectrum, or reflect on what ‘art’ means to you. Specifically, we are looking forward to M.C. Escher: Infinite Dimensions exhibit at the MFA later in February.
2. Science Museums: There are two scientific museums in Boston that are sure to be your favorites. It may be too cold for us to take a swim, but the marine life at the Boston Aquarium keeps swimming year round. Spend the day gazing a colorful fishes from warmer clients or feeding the penguins. This award winning museum is perfect for children in age or at heart. If marine life isn’t your thing, head to the Boston Museum of Science to really electrify your day. This place is a go-to on a cold or rainy day due to its interactive exhibits, which are great for people who want to touch everything they see. We can’t wait for the Mirror Maze to open in February!
3. Local Breweries: Boston is full of brewery options. From microbreweries to establishments with national reach and everything in between, this is the city for an afternoon of day drinking . The easiest way to determine which is for you is to to decide what you are looking for in your brewery experience. If it’s a speciality brew in a more intimate setting, head to Aeronaut, Trillium, or Night Shift. These establishments have ever-rotating offerings and games to occupy your time for hours on end. If you’re looking to hit up more established breweries, head to Harpoon or Sam Adams for a pint of your favorite IPA or lager. If these don’t hit the spot, a Anheuser Busch brewery is just a short hour drive from the city in Merrimack, New Hampshire. From Bud Light to Stella, their Biergarten has them all (and a heavenly fire place to huddle around).
4. See a Movie in a Historical Theater: We all know what the new IMAX theaters are like, amazing sound quality, crystal clear images, and even a recliner to make guests feel at home for two hours. There is something though about viewing a film in the older theaters around town. From the Somerville and Cambridge to Brookline and Arlington, these theaters all have showings ranging from the newest releases (think: Pitch Perfect 3) to critically acclaimed films (think: Lady Bird). It’s a great date night idea or even a great way to spend time with friends.
5. Dine Out for Dine Out Boston: Dubbed as “Restaurant Week” by those that live in the city, this two week event happens right as the winter season ends. Trust us, the weather will not change right away so this indoor activity should still be on your calendar. This year the weeks are March 18-23 & 25-30, head over to www.bostonusa.com/dine-out-boston/restaurant-search/ to find a prix fixe menu that suits your palette and book a reservation today!
6. Attend the Boston Wine Festival: The longest running wine and food festival in the nation, this has always been on our list. The festival starts in the middle of January and runs for three and a half months. There are dozens of special events and a chance to sip over hundreds of wines from dozens of vineyards. Held at the amazing Boston Harbor Hotel, we are currently looking at the different events we want to hit up. What better way to spend a bitterly cold day then warming yourself up with a glass of pinot noir? Click here for more information.
7. Sample Chili at Ned Devine’s Chili Cup: This event has gained popularity in the past five years, but it has never left our list. Talk about warming up on a cold night, this event brings over 10 amazing restaurants in the city for a chance to win the coveted Chili Cup. Attendees vote on their favorite stewed chilis featuring meats such as venison, duck, boar, and even vegetarian and prepared in various styles like white, red, Texas, Cincinnati, and Oklahoma. You’re mouth will be burning all night, warming you to your bones. Our tip, get there early with empty stomachs – oh and pace yourselves.
8. Catch a Concert: Boston has two bigger stadium-like buildings (TD Garden and House of Blues) that can hold thousands of people. Major artists like Bruce Springsteen, Coldplay and John Mayer have played here in years’ passed. But the most up-and-coming artists hit the smaller venues. Look at schedules at The Sinclair, City Winery Boston, Paradise Rock Club, and The Middle East for live music and a great time.
9. Snowshoeing or Winter Hiking: When temperatures do rise to or even above freezing, head outside for some winter activities. Our favorite, lucious spots in the summer turn into winter wonderlands in the snow. Check out Middlesex Fells Reservation, Lone Tree Hill, and Minute Man National Historic Park for some amazing hiking. Also, keep your eyes peeled for snowshoeing at Gore Place in Waltham. Occasionally they open up the over 50 acres to individuals looking for some outside winter fun.

What are some of your favorite activities to do when it’s just too cold to go outside, we’d love to hear!