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WINTER WONDERLAND — It's been an unusually dry winter so far, but that doesn't mean there still aren't bitterly cold days ahead and times when the weather forces you to take shelter. With more storms on the horizon, this seems like the perfect time to look at some family activities (both indoor and outdoor) to enjoy during the winter months.
Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum
This museum is full of gorgeous displays and plenty of discoveries for kids, making it perfect for foul-weather days. Highlights include the Apex Predators display and the Protect Your Planet exhibit with its full mount elephant. Even if you don't live in Utah Valley, this destination can be worth the drive.
The Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum is located in Provo and is open on weekdays from 2-8 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is always free. Please be sure to remember that masks are required for entry.
Fielding Garr Ranch at Antelope Island State Park
Any trip to Antelope Island is a blast for kids, as you'll likely spot some of the majestic bison that call the island home. You might also see antelope, mule deer, coyotes, badgers, or even an elusive bobcat.
But kids particularly love the opportunity to step back in time at Fielding Garr Ranch. With historic buildings and equipment at every turn, you can easily spend an hour or two exploring the grounds. The ranch is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is free once you've paid the day-use fee for visiting the island.
Hill Aerospace Museum
There's no other place in the state quite like the Hill Aerospace Museum. Your kids can get up close and personal with iconic aircraft such as the Blackbird and the Flying Fortress, while also learning stories about the individuals who maintain and pilot them.
The museum is located on the northwest corner of Hill Air Force Base, just a few minutes south of Ogden. It's free to the public, though donations are always appreciated. You can visit anytime from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Please be sure to remember that masks are required for entry.
Ice Castles
If you haven't already been to the Ice Castles in Midway, you've likely seen photos that your friends have posted on social media. With tunnels, sculptures, and even the chance to go down an icy slide, this is a truly unique experience. And the addition of LED lights gives the whole place an other-worldly feel.
The dates and hours for the Ice Castles depend on the weather, so be sure to check their website for the latest details. It's best to come on a weekday when the crowds are smaller and ticket prices are a bit lower. Adult tickets are $13.99, with youth admission (age 4-11) costing $9.99. Children under the age of 4 are free.
Snowshoe to S'mores Tour
While there are lots of opportunities to go snowshoeing in Utah, it can be a bit harder if you have small children and don't have your own equipment. This awesome excursion makes it simple by providing you with snowshoes and a friendly guide who will lead you on a fun (but low intensity) trek across flat terrain. Once you reach the Deer Valley Gazebo, you'll sip hot chocolate and make s'mores with bakery-fresh marshmallows and graham crackers.
The Snowshoe to S'mores Tour costs $39 per person, and the trips depart from lot five at Deer Valley at 4:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. This is an especially fun excursion on nights with a full moon, so plan accordingly if possible.
