When the weather gets cold, sometimes it’s hard to think of things to do outside of the house. But, don’t fret, we’ve got ideas to help keep you entertained on a winter’s day. Did you know that many of the libraries offer more than just books? In addition to community reading hours & play dates, many have free or discounted museum passes you can take advantage of! These passes can be used by library patrons for a number of museums, aquariums, gardens and more. But be sure to reserve the passes, as they’re often shared between networks and in limited supply.
First things first, make sure you’re a member of your local library. It’s typically free, you just have to bring proof of residency to get your jazzy library card. When in doubt, call. Librarians are the most helpful and informative people in our communities!
Here’s a list of local town libraries. Don’t see your library? We can help you find it online, just ask!
Museum passes vary by Library, so be sure to check with yours to see what’s available at yours before planning that itinerary! Here’s a list of all the places we found with the aforementioned local libraries, many of which were new to us! We hope this will at least prove to be a great resource for exploring new places with your friends and family.
New Hampshire
- Seacoast Science Center: “From sweeping vistas and salty air, to up-close interactions with the most fascinating of creatures — our special place by the sea will draw you back again and again.” The touch tank shows you the wonders of the ocean up close and personal. They also have a Marine Mammal Rescue division that could be super fun to learn about.
- Castle in the Clouds: The Castle Preservation Society’s mission is to preserve, interpret and share the buildings and landscape of the Castle in the Clouds as a cultural and educational resource for the benefit of the public.
- The Libby Museum of Natural History: The Libby Museum, founded over 100 years ago by local resident and collector, Dr. Henry F. Libby, is the oldest natural history museum in New Hampshire.
- Squam Lakes Natural Science Center: Open meadows, mature forests, and marsh boardwalks connect interactive natural exhibits where native animals reside: black bear, mountain lion, raptors, river otter, bobcat, and more. Plan approximately two-and-a-half hours to walk the exhibit trail.
- Children’s Museum of New Hampshire: Their mission is to actively engage families with hands-on discovery. From dinosaurs to a play post office to STEAM exhibits, this museum is sure to be a pleasure to children of all ages.
- Bedrock Gardens: Bedrock Gardens is a public garden that integrates unusual botanical specimens and unique sculpture into an inspiring landscape journey. This 30-acre site has recently transitioned from a historic farm and private garden to a public oasis of horticulture, art, and inspiration.
- NH State Parks: State managed trails for hiking and UTVs, campsites, historical properties, beaches and more. Your next adventure is waiting for you!
- SEE Science Center: The SEE Science Center is an interactive learning center in Manchester, New Hampshire. SEE engages children of all ages with hands-on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics exhibits and live demonstrations!
- NH Farm Museum: The New Hampshire Farm Museum consists of two adjoining farmsteads situated on 50 acres on Plummer’s Ridge in Milton, New Hampshire. In addition to our collection of historic buildings and barns, agricultural exhibits, displays, and collections, we are also a working farm, keeping a selection of heritage breed farm animals and a variety of gardens on the property.
- NH Historical Society: The mission of the New Hampshire Historical Society is to educate a diverse public about the significance of New Hampshire’s past and its relationship to our lives today. In support of this mission, the Society collects, preserves, and interprets materials pertaining to New Hampshire history.
- Wright Museum of WWII: Located in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, the Wright Museum is a nonprofit educational institution dedicated to recognizing and honoring the contributions and enduring legacy of WWII-era Americans.
- Currier Museum of Art: Check out their current exhibits and classes today!
- McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center: Visitors of all ages agree, there’s something for everyone at the Discovery Center! Whether it’s a drop in or a day trip, you and yours will have an unforgettable experience!
- Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum: Through partnership with Native peoples, exhibits, and workshops, Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum serves as a living center for artistic expression, traditional values, and contributions from past and contemporary Native life. The Museum embraces cultural diversity and encourages environmental action based upon respect for nature and a deeper understanding of Native cultures.
- Strawberry Banke Museum: If you visit the events page on our website, you’ll see events from Strawberry Banke often. Check out their museum events today! Your Library pass may entitle you to discounts on skating at Puddleduck Pond, Pickwicks, and free passes to special events at Strawberry Banke, so read the fine print to take full advantage of your benefits!
- Somersworth Public Library has a Seed Sharing Library to share with residents. This is a great initiative and you should stop by and learn more today!
Massachusetts
- Boston Museum of Fine Arts: The MFA is open—to fresh ideas, all visitors, and the infinite possibilities inspired by art. Our renowned collection tells a multifaceted story of the human experience—a story that holds unique meaning for everyone. We look forward to seeing you soon!
- Boston Museum of Science: In order to create a world where science belong to each of us for the good of all of us, the Boston Museum of Science is looking to inspire lifelong love of science in everyone.
- Boston Children’s Museum: Boston Children’s Museum is the second oldest, and one of the most influential children’s museums in the world.
- New England Aquarium: Check out the penguins and other sea life at this beautiful aquarium.
- Isabella Stewart Gardener Museum: Isabella created her installations to evoke an emotional response in visitors. That’s why, unlike at other institutions, there aren’t conventional labels in this museum. She wanted you to find your own meanings.
- Peabody Essex Museum With over 25 galleries and spaces to explore, PEM is a great museum for exploring culture and creativity
- USS Constitution Museum: Visiting the USS Constitution Museum offers a captivating journey into American maritime history. Located in the historic Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston, the museum provides an immersive experience that highlights the legacy of “Old Ironsides,” the world’s oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat.
- Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston: Since its founding in 1936, the ICA has shared the pleasures of reflection, inspiration, imagination, and provocation that contemporary art offers with its audiences.
Maine
- Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens: Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is a people’s garden, a grassroots effort that began as a casual conversation between friends and evolved into the largest botanical garden in New England. Located on more than 300 acres along the MidCoast, the Gardens is a true Maine experience.
- Ogunquit Museum of American Art: The Ogunquit Museum of American Art (OMAA) was founded by Lost Generation artist Henry Strater and opened in 1953.
- Maine State Park Pass: “With a Maine State Park Pass, you can visit state parks and historic sites without paying day-use fees for the season.”
- Portland Museum of Art: The Portland Museum of Art seeks to create an inclusive space that champions open expression and makes art accessible to all.
- North Berwick Public Library has a sensory garden you need to check out!
- Maine Historical Society: The House is open June–October for both guided tours and at-your-own-pace experiences.
- Springvale Public Library has a spice library that you have to check out! Want to try a new recipe with a fun new spice but don’t want to buy a whole container? They let you try the spices. See what they have to offer.
- Seashore Trolley Museum: Seashore Trolley Museum’s Model Railroad Building will be open all winter and spring long, every Thursday-Saturday from 10AM-4PM.