It is finally that time of year when the weather gets chilly. Even if you love winter vibes and cool temperatures, it can be hard to come up with fun activities for the cold season. Luckily, St. Louis has plenty of options. I am here to share my favorites with you! I have choices for those who want to stay cozy inside or those who want to brave the elements of nature outside. Either way, you are sure to find a great way to spend a winter day with this list.Â
Go sledding at Art Hill
My first option for all the cold-temperature lovers is to go sledding, specifically at Art Hill! This is a classic choice for St. Louis natives that you have to do at least once in your life. Art Hill is an iconic attraction located in Forest Park. Seeing groups of all ages sledding and enjoying the ride yourself is so much fun. Next time it snows, this should be your priority!Â
Check out your local libraryÂ
If you want a warm and cozy activity, I highly recommend checking out a library near you. St. Louis has lots of great options for this, but the St. Louis Public Library – Central Library might just be the best. Located in a historic building downtown, this library is absolutely beautiful. It features stained glass windows, ornate staircases and, of course, plenty of books! Just as it may be easy to get lost in this huge library, it is easy to get lost in a good book. Finding and then cuddling up with a good book is truly the perfect activity for a cold day.Â
Go outdoor ice skating
Another option in Forest Park includes hitting up the Steinberg Skating Rink. It is actually the largest ice rink in the Midwest, but even off the rink, you will have fun sitting by a fire pit or enjoying food from the restaurant. Unfortunately, Steinberg is under renovation until fall 2026, but it will be better than ever when it reopens. While Steinberg is a must-do next year, you are not out of luck if you want to put on your skates at an outdoor rink this winter. You can check out Centene’s seasonal outdoor rink to attend an open skate or even learn to skate. If you do not mind the cold and possibly taking a few falls, this is a great activity to do solo or with friends! Â
Try a new coffee shop
One of the best ways to stay warm is with a cup of coffee or tea. It is even better when you find a cute new place to secure your favorite drink. St. Louis is filled with great options, so this is an activity that you could do over and over again. One of my new favorites is Colleen’s Cafe in Clayton. They have amazing drinks, but you have to try one of their cookies! What could be better than enjoying a sweet treat and a hot drink in a cozy coffee shop while it is freezing outside?Â
Ski or Tube at Hidden Valley
If you are feeling up to a more adventurous winter activity than sledding or skating, then Hidden Valley is the perfect place for you. It is the only place near St. Louis that offers skiing. They have 15 trails and the option to rent equipment. If skiing is not your thing, I still recommend tubing on the Polar Plunge at Hidden Valley. It is like sledding but on a whole other level. This is a great way to spend a cold day with family or friends!Â
See a movie in theatersÂ
My last recommendation is a classic. Go see a movie! Bring a blanket, wear your pajamas and gather all the snacks you want. Personally, I always prefer going to one of the fancy theaters like the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema with the heated seats! There are so many great movies coming out this season, so this option is definitely repeatable. No matter what theater you are in, watching a good movie will never disappoint on a winter day.Â
Whether you like staying inside or having fun in the cold, I hope this list gives you some good ideas on how to spend your time this winter. St. Louis is full of options, so unless you want to have a lazy day, there will always be something to do, no matter the season.