Watch CBS News

Top Winter Road Trip Destinations Near Philadelphia

No one wants to spend the winter locked up in the house letting the blues set into their system. Fortunately, whether it's active sports or family time you crave, there are plenty of destinations with activities waiting that are just a quick drive from Philly. The Poconos are well-known for their winter sports, but the mountains aren't the only ones with winter fun this year. These are the best road trip destinations near Philadelphia.
Blue Mountain Ski Area
1660 Blue Mountain Drive
Palmerton, PA 18071
(610) 826-7700
www.skibluemt.comBlue Mountain is paradise to snowboarders and skiers. It has Pennsylvania's highest vertical of 1,082 feet, 39 trails made for all abilities and ages and a variety of terrain. There are also programs to teach the not-so-experienced and turn casual skiers or riders into racers. A fun feature is the BigAirBag, a large air-filled stunt cushion and the landing spot for aerial maneuvers.
Great Wolf Lodge
1 Great Wolf Drive
Scotrun, PA 18355
(800) 768-9653
www.greatwolf.comFamilies may access tropical weather without the use of an airplane by visiting Great Wolf Lodge. The lodge features a 79,000-square-foot indoor water park where the temperature is always 84 degrees. Everyone, from toddlers to thrill seekers to those just looking to relax in the warming pools, will find their needs met. In addition to the water park, the lodge offers indoor mini golf, a kid-sized bowling alley, an arcade, adult and kid spas, and a magical adventure game. Every day ends with storytime by the fire.
Hershey
27 W. Chocolate Ave.
Hershey, PA 17033
(800) HERSHEY
www.hersheypa.comEven though the roller coasters are closed for the winter, Hershey is still a great family destination, especially during the holidays. Then, Hershey becomes a winter wonderland with 30 rides open (weather permitting) at the theme park, holiday lights, breakfast with Santa, and hot chocolate and s'mores. After the holidays, Hershey's entertainment venues offer shows from "Sesame Street Live" to "Jersey Boys." For sports fans, the Hershey Bears hockey club plays at the Giant Center throughout the winter.

Related: Getaway Guide: Weekend Road Trip To Lake Harmony

Mountain Creek
200 Route 94
Vernon, NJ 07462
(973) 827-2000
www.mountaincreek.comOver the years, the peaks of the Vernon Valley and Great Gorge have merged into one large resort that's now known as Mountain Creek. The resort offers skiing, snowboarding, snowtubing, luxury day spas and the nation's largest wine cellar. Last winter, the resort improved its learning area, making learning to ski and ride easier and less tiring, no matter your age or skill level.
Strasburg Railroad
301 Gap Road
Ronks, PA 17572
(717) 687-7522
www.strasburgrailroad.comLiterature links trains with the holiday season, and a short drive from Philly is a train-lover's dream. Strasburg, in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, has two museums dedicated to trains: the National Toy Train Museum and the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, as well as America's oldest short-line railroad. Leading up to Christmas, the railroad hosts Santa's Paradise Express, in which Santa visits riders as they travel in beautifully restored trains. Nearby, there's plenty of shopping, as well as Amish tours and buggy rides.

Related: Top Scenic Drives Within 60 Miles Of Philadelphia

Samantha Sinclair is a freelance writer who lives in South Jersey. She has two boys who love "adventuring." Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.