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 NH

You know where the old Shaw’s in Seabrook used to be? Well, they cleared out the shelves of dog food and donut cases and put in a killer quarter-mile electric gokart race track! 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 opps if you are so inclined. Reservations are required. 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” and under), 6 laps for $10. For more info, visit nh1motorplex.com.

MetroRock, Newburyport NH

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 routesetting. 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, NH

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 $90-100 per person but definitely memories to last a lifetime! Visit skyventurenh.com for more info.

 

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