By Julia Train
January tends to be a slow month. Now that the bustle of the holidays is in the rearview mirror, we can let out a sigh of relief as we enter a new year.
For some, the calmness is welcomed after the busyness of the previous month, but for others, the lull in activities is disappointing.
Here are eight activitiesyou may enjoy this month.
Visit Lucy the Elephant
The roadside attraction is open every day in the summer, but only on the weekends in the winter and offers a quirky and fun stop. There is no charge to visit the grounds or the gift shop, but there is a fee for tours. For those 19 and over, it’s $9; ages 13-18 is $8.50; kids 3-12 are $5 and those under two and military are free. The attraction’s hours differ so visit lucytheelephant.org before you go.
Climb Absecon Lighthouse
If you’re up for a bit of exercise, the Absecon Lighthouse is open in winter. Climb up the 228 steps for views of Atlantic City and the surrounding coastline. It’s open Thursdays through Mondays 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Special discounts are available in celebration of the lighthouse’s birthday. See page 3 for details.
Try roller or ice skating
A fun indoor activity for those of all ages is roller or ice skating. Listen to music with friends and family while getting some exercise in. Check out Young’s Skating Rink in Mays Landing or Atlantic City Skate Zone ice skating.
Visit Downtown
Ocean City
Holiday shopping might be done, but you can still shop for yourself! Take a stroll down Asbury Avenue in Ocean City and visit various quaint shops.
Go bowling
Grab your family, co-workers or a few friends and go to King Pin bowling alley in Egg Harbor Township. This family-friendly entertainment spot features bowling, an arcade and a full service bar and grill.
Walk the beach
The best part about living at the Jersey Shore is the beaches, even in the winter. Although you can’t bathe in the sun anymore, take a stroll along the beach in any shore town in Atlantic and Cape May counties. Take advantage of the empty beaches and try beachcombing while you’re there!
Go to the park
It’s important to get some fresh air, even when it’s chilly. While beaches are abundant in Atlantic and Cape May counties, so are parks. There’s Estell Manor Park, which has playgrounds for the little ones to run off their energy and trails for those who are grown up. There’s also the Egg Harbor Township Nature Reserve, Kennedy Park and Tony Canale Park with a plethora of activities.
It’s cold out, so make sure to bundle up!
Visit the library
The libraries often offer workshops and other activities. Check out your local library’s website for information.
While January may feel like a quiet month after the holiday rush, there are still plenty of ways to stay active and engaged in the area, with both indoor and outdoor activities. Embrace the calm and take advantage of these local activities to make the most of the winter months.
