It’s school vacation week, it’s the last few days of 2023 and whether your kids are two or twenty, there’s something truly wonderful about getting outside together as a family! This winter break, we encourage you to step outside, take a break from the crowds, food, and screen time, and enjoy quality time in nature together.

Explore with the Kids

Wrap two activities into one with an outing to Crane Beach in Ipswich for CraneExplorer: Holiday Crafts. Start with a beach walk to collect coastal treasures and then sit down to make crafts with our educators. You and your family find the treasures and we will provide craft supplies and inspiration! This program takes place on Thursday, December 28 and is best suited for 5+

Spent enough money these last few weeks? Take the family to Powisset Farm in Dover to hunt for an elusive herd of wooden reindeer, found throughout the farm. Along the way, snap some photos and run off some energy. This is a free, self-guided program. If you are closer to Southborough, a similar program can be found at Chestnut Hill Farm!

Drop Off Options for You

Time to get the kids out of the house? At Appleton Farms in Ipswich, join the team to explore a farmer’s life through chores, farm adventures, and crafts. Your kids will spend the day outside exploring and learning. This is a drop off program for ages 5-11. See you on the farm!

At Rocky Woods in Medfield, your kids become Junior Rangers and discover this special place in the winter. After spending time outside, kids head back to the cabin to warm up and work on crafts and other nature projects while enjoying hot cocoa. Come to one session during school vacation week, or both!

Cabin Fever Cures

Having everyone home for the week can be a blessing, but stay ahead of cabin fever by taking some opportunities to get outside We are offering some of our favorite outdoor recreation activities during vacation week. We are still on the hunt for a snowy owl this season, join us at Crane, for a few different options, including a family one on Friday, December 29.

An option for solo self-care or something with older kids, includes the Full Moon and Folklore Walk at Appleton Farms in Ipswich on December 28. On the hike, learn about the mysteries that the full moon holds, and hear folk lore from around the world that celebrates her presence.

Weeknights are the perfect time to visit Winterlights at three of our signature properties. This week is your last chance to take in the sparkle at Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens in North Andover. The experience at Bradley in Canton and Naumkeag in Stockbridge runs thorough January 6. All three sites are open on Tuesday, December 26 in celebration of vacation week.

Spend the day at deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum in Lincoln, MA. Take in the sculptures, shop in the store, and enjoy a treat at The Twisted Tree Café.

Last Day Hikes

Another option for solo exploration or time with older kids home from college, last day hikes take place at a number of our special places. Celebrate 2023 and set intentions for 2024 at Cornell Farm in Dartmouth or East Over Reservation in Rochester.