Create Your Winter Bucket List: 71 Snowy Adventures

Winter’s here, and it’s time to break free from the cozy cocoon and dive into a frosty adventure.

Welcome to your Winter Bucket List, where icy days are transformed into unforgettable moments.

This isn’t just a list. It’s your passport to winter’s wonder. So, swap your blanket for boots, and let’s go on a journey through the season’s most magical moments.

Winter’s wonders await – are you ready to check them off your list?

71 Winter Bucket List Ideas You’ll Love

Find a Christmas Tree

1. Get the Perfect Christmas Tree

Start your winter bucket list by snagging the perfect Christmas tree. Head to the mountains or a local Christmas tree farm for the hunt.

There’s something special about finding that ideal tree, making it a winter memory I cherish. With the scent of fresh pine at home and the twinkling lights, a Christmas tree will set the tone for your Holiday season.


2. Go Ice Skating on a Frozen Lake

Get into the winter groove by hitting the ice on a frozen lake. Round up your crew or snag some one-on-one time with your special someone.

I’ve got a soft spot for Lake Louise in Canada—it’s such a fun spot to ice skate on. It turned a simple skate into an epic winter adventure.

Ice skating on Lake Louise, Alberta Canada


3. Snowy Photo Shoot

Get your peeps together for a family winter photo shoot and snap some pics in the snow. A professional photo shoot in a winter wonderland will give you some awesome pictures for your Christmas cards. After the shoot, the only tough part is picking which pic makes it to the cards.


4. Cozy Cabin Getaway

Escape the holiday chaos and chill in a cozy cabin in the snow. I’ve found that a cabin getaway is a perfect break during the hectic holiday season. The simplicity of it—no big plans, just relaxation, and nature—is what makes it so great.

Not to mention good old quality time with your loved ones if you find one with no cell service.

You can find several incredible options on VRBO. That’s where we have found several of our favorites!

Before you pack up and hit the road during one of the busiest seasons read this article first: 38 Holiday Travel Tips to Help Navigate the Festive Frenzy!


5. Visit Leavenworth, WA at Christmas

If you’ve dreamt of visiting a Christmas market in Europe but want the experience closer to home, Leavenworth is the perfect destination. From millions of twinkling holiday lights to Bavarian-style buildings and all the festive vibes, Washington’s Christmas Town is unforgettable!

Of course, Leavenworth is beautiful all year round, but there’s just something incredibly magical about it during the winter season.

Dive into my Ultimate Christmas in Leavenworth Guide for insider tips on all the must-do activities and attractions, and make your holiday dreams come true in this charming Bavarian village.

If you are looking for even more amazing Christmas vacation ideas read this article next: Discover the 15 Best Christmas Vacations USA Has to Offer.

Christmas in Leavenworth

Christmas in Leavenworth, WA


6. Go on a Christmas Lights Tour

Grab a to-go mug of your favorite hot chocolate, cruise through the neighborhoods, and check out the Christmas lights. I love to wait for fresh snow and roll with my windows down, all bundled up, and Christmas music playing on the radio! It’s simple yet so much fun!

If you’re up for a grand tour, U.S. News has listed 25 of the best Christmas light displays in the USA.


7. Build a Gingerbread House

Let your inner architect and designer shine as you build and decorate a gingerbread house. This festive DIY is the only time where decorating is more fun than eating! Sure, there might be icing everywhere and candies flying, but in the end, you’ll stand back to admire your sweet masterpiece.

If you’re not feeling creative, head to Country Living’s article on 35+ Best Gingerbread House Ideas for some inspiration. Whip up your own gingerbread house using a yummy recipe you discovered on Pinterest, and build it effortlessly with this gingerbread house mold. Or if you want to skip all that, just buy a kit.


8. Host a Game Night

Gather your crew for a game night full of laughs and friendly competition. It’s the perfect way to warm up those winter evenings with friends or family. Grab your go-to board game or deck of cards, stock up on snacks, and get ready for some lively banter and good-natured competition.

If you are stressing about hosting a dull game night, these articles have got you covered: How to Host a Game Night for Adults and The 11 Best Party Games for Adults of 2023.


9. Go on a Northern Lights Adventure

Plan a trip to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights—it’s a bucket list adventure you won’t want to miss. The first time I saw them in Iceland, it was nothing short of spectacular. Chasing those dancing colors across the night sky is an experience that stays with you.

So, pick your bucket list destination, bundle up, and get ready for a mesmerizing show.

Let Travel+Leisure help you find the 10 Best Places to See the Northern Lights Around the World.


10. Go Ice Fishing

Bundle up and give ice fishing a shot for a winter bucket list adventure. Sitting on the frozen lake, waiting for that tug on the line—it’s a different kind of winter thrill.

If you hate being cold like I do, choose to do it in an ice shack. With a little propane buddy heater, you will stay toasty warm and enjoy the experience more.

Ice Fishing

Ice Fishing for Salmon in Montana


11. Volunteer at a Local Shelter or Soup Shack

Give back to your community by volunteering at a homeless shelter. It’s a simple yet impactful way to make a difference. Helping out at a local shelter or soup kitchen is a humbling experience that brings people together.

So, find a spot, offer your time, and contribute to making someone’s day a little brighter.


12. Visit Christmas Markets in Europe

Check out the Christmas markets in Europe—it’s a must for your winter bucket list. The holiday vibes there are like no other; they really go all out. Roaming the markets, enjoying hot cocoa or mulled wine, indulging in yummy food, and finding unique gifts sounds like absolute Christmas heaven, doesn’t it?

So, pick one of the Best Christmas Markets in Europe, dive into the festive chaos, and witness the unparalleled holiday spirit.


13. Bake Christmas Cookies

Spend a cold winter day whipping up a bunch of tasty holiday cookies. It’s a simple way to embrace the festive vibes. And you can choose to keep them all to yourself or spread the joy by sharing them with neighbors or coworkers as a sweet gift.

Better yet, why not host a cookie exchange party? I participated in one and baked a whopping 22 dozen cookies! That was a lot of cookies, but it was a blast discovering new recipes and sharing the cookie love.


14. Make Homemade Hot Chocolate

There’s something magical about creating your own hot chocolate concoction, far better than any store-bought mix.

Explore a variety of delicious recipes online, with Pinterest being a particularly great source. Find the one that becomes your go-to favorite! Then, go beyond the basics and throw in some marshmallows, crush candy canes, or experiment with other tasty extras.

If you’re aiming for something extra special, create a hot cocoa bar adorned with all the fun things: chocolate chips, Marshmallows, Peppermint Sticks, Sea Salt, Irish Cream, and Peppermint Schnapps, just to name a few.

Created a Hot Cocoa Bar at home!

15. Have a Snowball Fight

Unleash your inner kid with a lively snowball fight among friends. It’s all about the joy of throwing snowballs and relishing the playful chaos of a winter day. So, gather your pals, bundle up, and let the snowball fight commence for some good old-fashioned fun.


16. Stay in an Ice Hotel

Try something wild—book a stay in an ice hotel for a winter getaway like no other. It’s a unique experience that brings a whole new meaning to chilling out. Interested?

Check out this website listing 12 of the Coolest Ice Hotels Around the World. Pick your frozen hotel, grab your warmest gear, and prepare for a frosty adventure.


17. Go Mulled Wine Tasting

I discovered my love for Glühwein in Leavenworth, Washington. I even tried recreating it at home for the holidays. So, find a winery nearby, gather your pals, and make it a night to remember with some delicious mulled wine.

First time trying mulled wine and I am hooked now!


18. Host an Ugly Sweater Christmas Party

Throwing an ugly sweater Christmas party is the perfect excuse to gather friends for a night filled with lots of laughs and festive silliness. Whether it’s a DIY disaster or a thrift store find, the more outrageous the sweater, the better!


19. Watch All the Christmas Movie Classics

Here’s a winter tradition my husband and I swear by—our annual Christmas movie marathon. It’s a must-do that brings us cozy joy every winter.

Our movie lineup is: Elf, Christmas Vacation, The Grinch, Home Alone, and Home Alone 2. So, with blankets in hand and the familiar glow of the TV, we settle in for a nostalgic journey through our favorite festive films. It’s a simple pleasure that warms the heart and marks the season for us.


20. Go on an Epic Skiing or Snowboarding Trip

Embark on an adrenaline-packed winter adventure on the slopes, and there are some seriously epic destinations waiting to be conquered. From the beautiful peaks of Aspen, Colorado, to the breathtaking trails of Zermatt, Switzerland, the world is your snow-covered playground.

So, gear up, head to the mountains, and experience the thrill of skiing or snowboarding in your epic destination of choice.

For more ski trip insights, check out my blog post titled “Flying with Skis: A Skier’s Complete Guide.” And if you’re gearing up for your own epic ski trip and need some help with packing, don’t miss my blog on the “Ski Trip Packing List: A Complete Guide.”

Ski trip to our favorite ski resort in Fernie, British Columbia, Canada.


21. Build a Winter Bonfire

Finding the perfect spot, whether it’s in your backyard or at a scenic winter locale, a bonfire sets the stage for a memorable evening. The glow of the fire creates a cozy ambiance, making it the ideal backdrop for sharing stories, laughter, and the simple joy of toasting marshmallows. It’s a winter tradition that captures the essence of warmth and camaraderie, making cold nights feel not only bearable but downright enjoyable.


22. Take a Winter Camping Trip

Venture into the winter wilderness with a bold camping expedition. There’s something incredibly peaceful about waking up to a winter sunrise in the great outdoors, surrounded by the hushed beauty of a snow-covered forest or mountain range. Pack your gear with all the essentials for cold weather, and find that perfect spot!

Winter camping trip

Camping in the snow in Montana


23. Go Winter Horseback Riding

Saddle up and explore the winter wonderland, whether it’s a trail through a snow-draped forest or an open field blanketed in white. The connection between you and your horse, combined with the quiet majesty of winter, creates a sensory experience like no other!

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, a winter horseback riding excursion offers a unique perspective on the season’s beauty.

Bundle up, feel the warmth of your horse beneath you, and let the tranquility of the winter scenery unfold around you as you create memories on this unforgettable equestrian adventure.

Winter Horseback riding just outside Yellowstone National Park, MT


24. Soak in a Natural Winter Hot Springs

Indulge in the ultimate winter relaxation by soaking yourself in a natural hot spring in the middle of a snowy landscape. It’s a serene escape where warmth meets the cold, creating a juxtaposition that adds to the magical experience. Imagine sinking into the soothing waters, surrounded by snow-covered vistas, as steam rises into the cold winter air.

One of our favorite hot springs we have to snowmobile to and enjoy surrounded by a snowy forest!

Winter Hot Springs

Soaking in our favorite winter hot springs in MT.


25. Go on a Winter Road Trip

Pack your favorite snacks, make a playlist, and hit the road.

Our winter road trips have taken us on epic adventures, from Utah’s stunning landscapes and through the incredible Canadian Rockies, all in search of exceptional skiing.

Enjoy the freedom to stop and take in the snowy views, take spontaneous detours, and visit charming winter towns!

If you’re sorting out the nitty-gritty of your road trip, check out my guide, “How to Plan an Epic Road Trip: Step-by-Step.” And I’ve got your gear covered, too! Dive into my “Road Trip Packing List” for must-haves, including items you didn’t even think about, plus a handy FREE printable PDF!


26. Visit Santa’s Reindeer

Meet Santa’s reindeer anywhere from the Reindeer farm in Leavenworth, Washington, where I had my first enchanting encounter, to the reindeer sleigh rides in the winter wonderland of Lapland, Finland.

Whether it’s the jingle of bells, the crunch of snow underfoot, or the chance to feed and pet these gentle animals, the experience is sure to be one you’ll never forget!


27. Listen to Christmas Carols

Get in the festive groove by jamming to Christmas carols. Whether it’s the classic “Silent Night,” the jolly “Jingle Bells,” or the heartwarming “O Holy Night,” these tunes bring pure joy to the season. Gather around, sing along if you feel like it, or just let the music sprinkle some holiday cheer into your celebrations.

And if you’re lucky enough to have live carolers at your doorstep, let the merriment come to you for an extra dose of holiday magic.


28. Go Dog Sledding

Feel the excitement of being pulled by a team of energetic sled dogs on a dog sledding adventure. while I haven’t checked this one off my bucket list yet, I’m hopeful to do it soon in Alaska atop a glacier! How cool would that be?

Go Dog Sledding

Dog Sledding Adventure


29. Do a Random Act of Kindness

Spread some unexpected joy by doing a random act of kindness. Whether it’s a small gesture or a grand surprise, the impact can be huge.

One of my favorite anonymous acts of kindness is to pay for a soldier’s meal or ticket. Imagine the surprise and gratitude that ripple through their day, creating a thank you that transcends words.

It could be as simple as buying a stranger’s coffee, leaving a heartfelt note, or helping someone with their groceries. These gestures, big or small, have the power to create a chain reaction of positivity.


30. Take a Polar Plunge

Take a dip in freezing cold water for a wild winter adventure. Whether it’s a chilly lake or a freezing river, the polar plunge is a thrill that’s almost downright crazy!


31. Build a snowman or Snow angels

Embrace the childlike joy of winter by building a snowman or creating snow angels.

For me, the temptation of crafting snow angels in a fresh, powdery snow blanket is irresistible.

However, when it comes to building a snowman, the conditions need to be just right, with a wetter snowfall that’s perfect for shaping and molding. Keep an eye out for those days when the snow is sticky.

creating a snow angel

Creating a snow angel. I couldn’t help myself!


32. Take a winter hike in a snowy forest

Bundle up in warm layers and embark on a winter hike through a snow-covered forest. The hushed stillness of the woods, the crunch of snow beneath your boots, and the occasional glimpse of wildlife make for great winter activities.


33. Plan a winter picnic

Pack a basket with your favorite comfort foods, thermoses of hot cocoa, and cozy blankets. Find a scenic spot and enjoy a unique picnic surrounded by the beauty of winter.

Pro tip: Choose the bed of your pickup truck if you have one for added warmth and comfort. Load it up with blankets and pillows, creating a cozy haven that allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature while staying warm and snug.


34. Learn to make winter cocktails or mocktails

Channel your inner mixologist and experiment with crafting winter-inspired beverages. From hot toddies to festive mocktails, create drinks that add a touch of holiday cheer to your winter evenings.


35. Plan a winter beach getaway for a change of scenery

Swap snow for sand and escape the grip of long winters with a beach getaway.

In Montana, where our winters are particularly long, my husband and I have made it a routine to escape every January. Our go-to destination is Belize, our FAVORITE Central American country!

Just incase you don’t want to travel out of the USA to find a warm escape, I’ve covered the best places to go in this article: Discovering the Best Warm Winter Vacations USA

Beach getaway

Relaxing on my favorite island, Caye Caulker, Belize.


36. Write and send heartfelt holiday cards to loved ones

Who doesn’t like getting mail in their mailbox that isn’t junk mail? I know I do!

So, get into the holiday spirit by sending some handwritten love to your favorite people. Jazz it up by using one of those cool winter photos from your winter photo shoot and brighten up their mailbox!


37. Take a scenic train ride through snowy landscapes

Experience winter magic on a scenic train ride through snowy landscapes.

To help you choose the perfect train ride for your winter bucket list, here are a few recommendations: the White Pass and Yukon Route in Alaska, the Glacier Express in Switzerland, and the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada.

For an extra dose of holiday magic, consider taking a ride on a Christmas Polar Express. Where you will enjoy festive decorations, a cheerful ambiance, and the possibility of a surprise visit from Santa Claus!

All Aboard!!


38. Visit an ice sculpture festival or competition

Witness the amazing intricate ice sculptures at a winter festival. The skill and creativity of the sculptors and the glittering beauty of the ice make for a cool winter bucket list!

To help you choose the perfect ice and snow festival for your winter bucket list, I’ve included my top three recommendations: the Harbin International Ice Festival in China, the Sapporo Snow Festival in Japan, and the Quebec Winter Carnival in Canada.


39. Take a trip to a snowy mountain town

Escape to a snowy mountain town during the winter months.

Banff, Alberta Canada, is one of my all-time favorites—the charm is unreal! Wander through charming streets, visit local shops, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of a winter mountain retreat. These towns, like Banff, are a sweet mix of relaxation and discovery.

Banff Alberta Canada

Took a little trip to Banff! It had always been on my winter bucket list!


40. Visit a winter nature reserve or wildlife sanctuary

Enjoy winter at a nature reserve or wildlife sanctuary. Imagine snow-covered landscapes and the thrill of spotting winter wildlife.

I highly recommend the National Elk Refuge in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. It offers an unforgettable wildlife experience—an elk herd numbering in the thousands, seen from a horse-drawn sleigh ride that goes threw the middle of the herd! It’s an incredibly unique perspective on the wonders of winter in the great outdoors.


41. Go Snowshoeing

Imagine a winter wonderland where you find yourself hiking trails with snowshoes strapped to your feet, surrounded by the hush of snow-covered landscapes. That’s the magic of snowshoeing—a serene adventure that brings you closer to nature in its quiet, snowy glory.

Discover the Top Snowshoeing Trails across the United States with the help of All Trails.

And if you’re in search of the perfect pair, check out my personal favorite snowshoes. They not only provide excellent traction without the duck-walk effect but also spare you the annoyance of snow kicking up on your backside—trust me, that can be a real pain in the Arse!


42. Go Snowmobiling

Feel the rush of adrenaline as you embark on the thrilling adventure of snowmobiling. The excitement of zipping through the snowy terrain on a powerful machine is an experience like no other.

Don’t worry if you don’t own a snowmobile—there are plenty of options to get in on the action. Join a snowmobile tour for a guided and safe journey through the winter wonderland. For those with a bit more expertise, renting a snowmobile is a fantastic way to have the freedom to explore on your own terms.

Let Fodor’s Travel help you find the 11 Best Snowmobiling Places in the U.S. where you can check this adventure off your winter bucket list

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling in the Mountains of Montana.


43. Snuggle up with a Good Book by the Fire

Winter evenings call for cozy moments by the fire, accompanied by a good book. Even when I’m not physically traveling, I explore new worlds through travel books.

Check out my article, “Best Travel Books to Ignite Your Inner Explorer,” for some favorites that transport you to far-off lands.

So, grab a blanket, settle by the fire, and let the words on the page take you on a journey, even if it’s just in your mind.


44. Attend a Hockey Game

Attending a hockey game would be a very fun activity to add to your winter bucket list. The energy, the sound of skates on the ice, and the cheers from passionate fans make it a must-experience event.

Personally, I’ve always wanted to see a Detroit Red Wings game! With my family hailing from Detroit, Michigan, I’ve always felt a special connection to the team.

Let’s go Red Wings! Represent!


45. Decorate Sugar Cookies

Decorate sugar cookies for a festive and tasty activity.

Grab your favorite cookie cutters, icing, and sprinkles. It’s a perfect activity for the whole family or even solo, and the creative possibilities are endless. Roll out the dough, put on your apron, and let the decorating fun begin!

Head to this Pinterest account for some of my favorite sugar cookie decorating ideas!

sugar cookies

Sugar cookies are my favorite!


46. Treat Yourself to a Spa Day

Indulge in some well-deserved self-care by treating yourself to a spa day.

Whether it’s a soothing massage, a rejuvenating facial, or just some quiet time in a cozy robe, a spa day is your ticket to unwind and recharge. It’s a way to show yourself some love amidst the winter chill. So, schedule that spa day and let the stresses of the season melt away.

You’ve earned it!


47. Stay in a Glass Igloo in Lapland, Finland

Imagine staying in a glass igloo in Lapland, Finland, with a clear roof for an unobstructed view of the Northern Lights. It’s definitely high on my winter bucket list, and I’m eager to check off this enchanting experience.

For the ultimate guide on finding the perfect igloo and planning an awesome trip to Lapland, be sure to explore Travel+Leisure’s article, “How to Experience the Northern Lights From a Glass Igloo or Villa in Finland.”

Be sure to add this to your winter bucket list for a unique and magical adventure!


48. Take a Sleigh Ride

Get cozy and feel the winter vibes with a romantic sleigh ride for you and your special someone.

My husband and I took a horse-drawn sleigh in Leavenworth, WA, a place that tops my list for snowy getaways.

Imagine snow-covered forests and the jingle of bells as you glide through the winter wonderland. It’s a moment of winter romance that’s hard to beat. So, bundle up, snuggle close, and let the sleigh bells set the soundtrack for your chilly but charming adventure.

sleigh ride

Winter sleigh ride in near Leavenworth, Washington


49. Visit New York City at Christmas

Experience the magic of Christmas in New York City. From the iconic Rockefeller Center Tree to the incredible window displays on Fifth Avenue, the city comes alive during the holiday season. And, of course, you can’t miss ice skating at Rockefeller Center or exploring the holiday markets.

NYC in winter is a must for every bucket list. So, bundle up and soak in the holiday excitement of the Big Apple.


50. Go Out and Celebrate New Year’s Eve

Celebrate New Year’s in style! Get dressed up and ring in the new year with friends or someone special. Whether you are watching the ball drop in Times Square or at a party, stay up and cheers to the new year!

celebrate new years eve

Celebrating 2020 New Year’s Eve dressed like the roaring 20’s!


51. Visit Santa Claus Village, Finland

Santa Claus Village in Finland is the ultimate Christmas dream for me! I’ve binge-watched so many videos on it from my favorite travel YouTubers! I’m not even kidding a little bit!

Imagine the most magical snowy village where you can meet Santa, share your holiday wishes, and even post letters at the Arctic Circle. It’s like a winter wonderland, complete with reindeer, cozy cottages, saunas, and the enchanting spirit of the season.

Whether you’re a family, a couple, or just someone craving the ultimate dose of holiday magic, Santa Claus Village is the place to be!


52. Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York

Let’s switch gears from all the Christmas stuff and kick off the winter holidays with the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York.

It’s a massive celebration with giant balloons, marching bands, and dazzling performances that I’ve watched on TV every Thanksgiving morning since I was a child.

Whether you’re there in person or watching from home, it’s a must-see American tradition that rings in the spirit of the season!


53. Visit Antarctica, the Ultimate Winter Destination

Antarctica is the ultimate winter destination, in my opinion, and is most definitely number one on my winter bucket list!

It’s a frozen realm of untamed beauty. Imagine vast icebergs, curious penguins, and a silence that defines this remote continent.

It’s absolutely not your typical winter getaway. It’s an epic adventure into the heart of nature’s purest form. If you’re seeking an unforgettable and daring journey, Antarctica promises an experience you will NEVER forget!

But how do you get to Antarctica? Don’t worry, Travel+Leisure has you covered.


54. Roast Marshmallows Over an Open Fire

Roast marshmallows over an open fire. A timeless activity that brings people together.

Whether it’s a camping trip or a winter evening, the process is simple and delightful. Skewer a marshmallow, watch it turn golden brown or black if you like yours burnt like me and enjoy the gooey goodness.

Take it up a notch by sandwiching it between two graham crackers and chocolate for a delicious s’mores treat!


55. Go Sledding or Tobogganing

Remember how much you loved sledding as a kid?

Experience the excitement and maybe a little fear of sledding or tobogganing down a snowy hill again. Feel the rush of the wind as you glide down, making it a simple and joyful winter adventure for everyone to relish this season. I believe you are never too old for the thrill of sliding!

sledding

Sledding is one of my favorite winter activities!


56. Learn Curling

Learn, or attempt to learn, in my case, the unique and captivating sport of curling! Curling offers a chance to embrace the winter chill, learn a new skill, and engage in a little friendly competition with your friends or special someone.


57. Experience Winter Ice Climbing

Challenge yourself with the adventure of ice climbing on frozen waterfalls or ice walls. Learn this thrilling activity at one of these top ice-climbing spots in North America.

Add it to your winter bucket list for an adventurous, comfort zone-pushing experience!

ice climbing

Frozen waterfall in Canada. I love the blue ice!


58. Make Your Family Wear Matching Pajamas at Christmas

Elevate your family’s Winter Bucket List with a heartwarming tradition: have your entire family don matching pajamas for a cozy Christmas celebration.

My family started this tradition a few years ago, and it has become a cherished part of our winter festivities. The coordinated pajamas make for fun photos and memories!


59. Kayak or paddle board on a Glacier in Alaska

When I saw a video on Instagram of this, I immediately knew it had to be on my winter bucket list. Who would’ve thought you could kayak or paddle board in the crystal-clear blue pools of an Alaskan glacier?

If you’re up for a truly unique adventure, make sure to add this to your must-do winter list!


60. Go Cross Country Skiing

If the idea of flying downhill with sticks attached to your feet seems a little to scary for you, consider giving cross-country skiing a shot.

If my 74-year-old mom can do it, so can you! It’s a peaceful experience, gliding down a snow-covered path at your own pace. Some of my favorite trails even allow me to bring along my furry friend for company.

If you don’t own XC skis, no worries. you can rent them first to test the waters before committing to a purchase.

cross country skiing

Breaking trail on my XC skis


61. Explore Ice Caves in Iceland

Venture to the island of fire and ice, where you can explore incredible ice caves. The blue hues refracting the light create a surreal experience, like stepping into a winter fairy tale.

Make sure to bundle up, and if you can, team up with a local guide for a safe and unforgettable journey into the heart of this frozen wonderland.


62. Catch snowflakes on your tongue

Embrace the pure joy of winter by catching delicate snowflakes on your tongue. It’s a whimsical moment that reminds us to find delight in the small wonders of the season.


63. Take a Winter Cooking Class

I’ve taken cooking classes in Italy and Thailand, and let me tell you, the flavors were incredible, and they were so much fun! But you don’t need to travel far to take a cooking class. There are plenty you can find closer to home.

Be sure to add this tasty activity to your winter bucket list – it’s an experience your taste buds will thank you for!

Cooking class

Learning how to make homemade pasta from scratch in Italy


64. Make your New Year’s Bucket List

Creating a New Year’s bucket list has been a transformative thing for me. It’s not just about goals and resolutions; it’s about envisioning moments that will shape your year. From travel aspirations to personal milestones, your list serves as a roadmap through unexplored dreams.

Take a moment with a cup of your favorite drink and sit down with your master bucket list. Go through it and plan the exciting experiences you want to have in the upcoming year.

Whether it’s conquering fears or exploring new landscapes, you’ll be counting down to a year filled with purposeful experiences.


65. Take a Winter Nature Walk

Bundle up in your coziest winter gear, grab a warm drink in a thermos, and venture out for a winter nature walk. It’s a simple yet beautiful way to appreciate the winter season and reconnect with the natural world around you.


66. Go on a Winter Photography Adventure

Go on a winter photography adventure armed with your camera and a passion for capturing the beauty of the season. Head to a local park, a snowy trail, or even your backyard – each place has its own charm.

The key is to embrace the challenge of shooting in colder temperatures and let the winter wonderland be your muse.


67. Go Winter Star Gazing

Wrap up in layers to keep warm, grab a cozy blanket, head to a quiet spot, and lose yourself in the celestial spectacle that winter nights offer. Away from the city lights, the winter sky gives its full splendor, making it the perfect time to spot planets, shooting stars, and even meteor showers.


68. Partake in a Christmas Stroll in a nearby town or city

A Christmas stroll is an invitation to join in on the festive spirit of the season and support your local community. Whether you’re exploring local shops, enjoying seasonal treats, or simply taking in the festive ambiance, a Christmas stroll is a heartwarming experience that captures the essence of the holidays.


69. Build an elaborate blanket fort for a cozy hideaway

Transform your living space into a cozy retreat by building a blanket fort. Add fairy lights, pillows, and your favorite winter snacks for a snug hideaway perfect for a Christmas movie marathon.


70. Learn to knit or crochet and make cozy winter accessories

Discover the joy of crafting by learning to knit or crochet. Create cozy scarves, hats, or blankets that not only keep you warm but also make heartfelt and personalized winter gifts. Or you could sell them at a craft fair!


71. Sell Your Crafts at a Holiday Craft Fair

Sell your crafts at a holiday craft fair and turn your creative hobby into a side hustle. Not only will you share your unique handcrafted items, but the extra income can fund more adventures for your winter bucket list.

If you are interested in more ways to stretch your bucket list/travel fund, then read these articles next: How to Travel More in 2024: With Limited Time and Money and How to Create a Travel Budget That Works.

Selling my Christmas crafts to build my travel fund!


That’s a Wrap

As winter turns your world into a snow globe, there’s a whole slew of exciting experiences waiting to be explored.

It’s your Winter Bucket List – embrace the chill, create unforgettable memories, and let the season’s magic unfold.

Winter’s calling, ready to answer?


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