The end of January is right about the time us New Englanders start thinking, “We’re nearly out of winter—I can see summer around the corner!” Man, we are such suckers.
If you’re looking to stay inside a little longer, but still enjoy some active family fun, there are quite a few options around the Seacoast area. Although some of these ideas are a little more costly than others, they will certainly make for a memorable visit. And don’t we deserve it for putting up with this weather?
NH1 Motorplex, Seabrook: You know where the old Shaw’s in Seabrook used to be? Well, they cleared out the shelves of dog food and doughnut cases and put in a killer quarter-mile electric go kart racetrack! Speaking from personal experience, these things are not like any rinky-dink amusement park ride. They are super fast and incredibly easy to handle. If you have a competitive spirit, all races are timed and results are posted on the big screens. They even have winner pedestals available for photo ops if you are so inclined. Reservations are highly recommended as this place can get pretty busy. One race is $20 per person, and there is a one-time $7 annual membership license which includes a “head sock” which is to be worn under the helmet for obvious sanitary reasons. You’ll also get a free race the month of your birthday. Check out the after-school specials for kids for $15 and Junior Special (48 inches and under), six laps for $10. For more info, visit nh1motorplex.com.
MetroRock, Newburyport: This gigantic indoor rock climbing gym offers a very cool experience for kids to adults, beginners to experienced climbers. You can choose to free climb or work with a staff guide who will help you learn the basics of rock climbing and route-setting. The entire area is always supervised and everyone is given a safety demo before entering the space. A day climbing pass (stay as long as you want) for kids under 7 is $10, $18 for students and $22 for adults, plus another $10 for the equipment rental. Visit metrorock.com for more info.
SkyVenture New Hampshire, Nashua: SkyVenture completely immerses visitors in the world of high adventure skydiving, without ever having to pack a parachute, pull a ripcord, or jump out of a perfectly good airplane – and yet, anyone over the age of 3 years old can go. There is no falling sensation, you just float above the trampoline floor. In recent years, they’ve also added an indoor surfing simulator, a rock climbing wall and a fishpipe waterslide. This outing is super pricey at $90 to $100 per person, but definitely will create memories to last a lifetime. Visit skyventurenh.com for more info.
Family Skate at Rye Airfield, Rye: I know a few dads (and moms) who wouldn’t mind the opportunity to dazzle and delight their offspring with some skateboarding tricks of yore. You know who you are. Rye Airfield hosts a Family Skate every Saturday and Sunday morning from 9 to 11:45 a.m. for only $20 (for everyone). Bring your own ride-ons or choose to rent equipment (includes pads, helmets and your choice of skateboard or scooter) for only $10 for the entire family. Super economical and a fun way to get active inside on a cold winter weekend. No reservation required. For more info, visit ryeairfield.com.
UNH Wildcats Hockey, Durham: Feeling like more of a spectator with this sports stuff? UNH Wildcat Hockey (both men’s and women’s teams) is a family-friendly event just up the road in Durham. Games are always fun, high energy and full of school spirit. With plenty of concessions, visits with team mascots Wild E. Cat and Gnarlz and the live ice action, kids of all ages are sure to stay entertained. Tickets run $12 to $24. Visit unhwildcats.com for game schedules and to purchase tickets.