Outdoor Attractions to Visit This Winter

Coast through the cold months at these outdoor adventures the whole family can enjoy.

Start: McHenry

Finish: Baltimore

Distance: 3 days, 3 stops, 201 miles

Wist mountain coaster — Photo Credit: Wisp Resort

STOP 1

Wisp Resort Mountain Coaster

296 Marsh Hill Rd, McHenry, MD 21541

Tis the season for winter sports at Wisp Resort, in McHenry, not only has snow tubing, a popular winter thrill at many ski locations, but also a pretty unique side activity in the form of its self-powered mountain coaster. You can take in the sights around the mountain as you control your own speed using hand brakes. Corkscrews keep riders on their toes while still giving them a few moments to relax and enjoy the view.

Keep the fun going by exploring Swallow Falls State Park and other gems in Western Maryland!

Outdoor Ice Rink in Rockville — Photo Credit: Rockville Town Square Outdoor Ice Skating

STOP 2

Rockville Town Square Outdoor Ice Skating

131 Gibbs St, Rockville, MD 20850

Located just off I-270 in Maryland’s Capital Region, Rockville Town Square Outdoor Ice Skating is a great place to pull over and kick off a road trip in style. The rink is open until mid-March, which gives you plenty of time to plan a visit (or several). They offer rentals and tickets include an hour of skating.

Satisfy your post-skating hunger with nearby tasty vegan eats.

STOP 3

The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore

1 Safari Pl, Baltimore, MD 21217

The adventure and excitement of the zoo can be enjoyed year-round. The two main areas to explore are the African Journey—where you’ll find exotic creatures such as elephants, lions, giraffes, and rhinos—and the Maryland Wilderness, full of native species such as otters, turtles, snakes, and bobcats. Another new attraction is the Main Valley, which tells the story of the zoo’s beginnings in the 19th century and describes how best practices have changed.