At the University of Delaware, a lot of students stay local over Winter Session, whether it be for sports, class, jobs, etc. Below, we have curated some fun activities not too far from campus to make your winter more enjoyable! 

Ice Skating at the Patriot Ice Center (Newark, DE)

Want to give ice skating a go this winter? For only $10 a person and a free skate rental, the Patriot Ice Center holds public skates Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., as well as Saturday to Sunday 12:30 to 2 p.m. 

Winterfest at the Blue Cross RiverRink (Philadelphia, PA)

From ice skating to games, food and fun, Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest at Penn’s Landing is the perfect place to get out of Newark. Enjoy skating any day of the week through March 6, 2022. You can reserve up to a 90-minute slot in advance for a $5 fee and $10 rental. If skating works up your appetite, head to one of their many eateries to enjoy funnel cakes, loaded mac and cheese, tater tot poutine and more creative dishes.

The Delaware Art Museum (Wilmington, DE)

Need to get out of the cold? Check out The Delaware Art Museum to experience some culture and different pieces of art for a $7 student admission with your UD ID. Located in Wilmington, the museum is only a short car ride away from campus (and parking is complimentary).  Grab some friends to hang out and explore the different exhibits with guided tours, audio tours and more. Stop by thecafé for lunch and buy a souvenir in the bookshop.Visit delart.org to check out the exhibits in January and February and plan your visit today!

Polar Plunge (Rehoboth, DE)

On February 2, the annual Polar Plunge will take place in person or virtually to help raise funds for year-round sports training and competition opportunities for more than 4,200 athletes in Delaware. If you are up for the challenge, join other athletes during the height of winter for a dive into the icy water of the Atlantic Ocean. Other events during the Weekend Plunge Festival include the 5K Run to the Plunge, Fire & Ice Festival, Restaurant Chili Contest, Apres Plunge Party and other fun activities for you and your friends. Check out the full schedule of events.

UD Virtual Exercise Classes (Wherever You Are!)

Just because it’s chilly outside, doesn’t mean you can’t work up a sweat inside. Check out the virtual online exercise classes for University of Delaware students, available on demand wherever you are this Winter Session. Some classes include yoga, cardio and core, Zumba, Bodyweight Bootcamp and more!

This blog post is written by our Division of Student Life student intern Elliana Olivo.