Discover Ideas for Cold-Weather Birthdays
by Discover Central Massachusetts
When it comes to hosting a wintertime birthday soiree, colder weather can mean getting creative. Central Massachusetts has options for every party-goer, from the adventure seeker to the hop sipper.
X-Golf Worcester
Central Massachusetts is a hub for action-packed venues for competitive crews. X-Golf Worcester, the sports spot for new and experienced golfers, has nine simulators, a bevy of beverages, bites, televisions and tournaments—making for a uniquely year-round destination. On their state of the art simulators, you can play any one of over 100 world renowned courses, and consider golf leagues, lessons and club fittings if your adventure leaves you wanting more.
APEX Entertainment
APEX Entertainment sits at the nucleus of food, attractions and events, offering 100,000 square feet of serotonin. APEX features party packages based on group, age and interest, with boundless activity options. Think: luxury bowling, arcade games, a multi-level go-kart track, bumper cars, laser tag, glow-in-the-dark mini golf and sports simulators. The team offers a variety of catering options, too, planned alongside their on-site event managers. Party requests are to be submitted at least seven days prior to the date of inquiry and are subject to availability. Connect with a coordinator at 508-251-8666 ext. 3 to book.
EcoTarium
The EcoTarium serves as New England’s leading museum of science and nature, dedicated to inspiring a passion for both with every visitor who passes through. With hands-on activities (like make-your-own stomp rocket) and an entire museum to explore, birthday parties here are a true combination of excitement and education. The venue also boasts a playground, train ride and planetarium, adding movement and joy to the many lessons being learned. Head here for all the info you need on birthday packages for the little ones, or to host a family-friendly event.
Cornerstone Ranch
Celebrations at Cornerstone Ranch happen through every season, with a gorgeous new pavilion heated by a wood stove to warm any wintertime attendee. Kiddos and adults can peruse the Ranch grounds on their big day with horseback riding in the ring and leisurely horse-drawn wagon rides. Date availability, pricing and customizable options can be found on their site here.
Live Action Escape Room
Live Action Escapes brings an immersive environment to Worcester, one for solving puzzles and challenges with customizable experiences for two to 25 players per hour. Become part of a story, find hidden clues, solve puzzles and crack the code to escape the room. Here, you’ll get a variety of escape room settings, all with their own theme and storyline.
Brush It Off Paint & Sip Bar
Located inside a rustic mill in Sturbridge, Brush It Off Paint & Sip Bar encourages attendees to “bring out your inner Picasso.” Foster your kiddo’s creativity with a private room rental and several package options, from Splatter Room Parties to Mega Glitter Paint Parties. For the adults in the crowd, Brush It Off specializes in private and/or traveling parties. Think: bridal showers, baby showers, fundraisers, retirements and the like. Call 774-241-3444 or click here for all the colorful details you need to start planning.
Bars & Breweries
For the 21+ folks, explore local hops and cocktails to get a taste of the Central Massachusetts scene. Breweries like Wormtowm Brewery and Redemption Rock Brewing Co. feature creations by hardworking brewmasters along Shrewsbury Street, while Canal District Wines offers an intimate atmosphere for one-of-a-kind birthday soirees, with a bottle shop and tasting room of 60+ wines, flights and food pairings for up to 35 people.
Weekend Getaways
To experience the quintessential charm of New England during your birthday weekend, visit the Publick House Historic Inn. This Sturbridge landmark is a historical ode to the area and a wonderful spot for winter dining and overnight stays.
For the ski bunnies in the crowd, Beechwood Hotel offers a warm welcome after a day on the slopes at Ski Ward. With 52 sleekly decorated guest rooms and 21 elegantly appointed suites, the exceptional service, amenities and accommodations make this AAA Four-Diamond boutique hotel a coveted destination for a winter escape. Think: plush robes, fine wine, a good book and your very own fireplace.
Wachusett Mountain & Ski Ward
Celebrate your day at a summit elevation of 2,006 feet with 26 trails. While the longest trail at Wachusett Mountain, known as Balance Rock, is a mile and a half, there is a wide variety of terrain for skiers of all abilities. The 38,000-square-foot lodge, cited for excellence in architectural design, offers a warm, comfortable atmosphere with exposed beam construction, a huge fireplace and sun decks surrounding the building.
Minutes from Worcester and less than an hour from Boston, Ski Ward is open year-round offering skiing, snowboarding and tubing. Ski Ward is also host to the Slopeside Bar & Grill—serving lunch, dinner, beer, wine and ice cream, both indoors and outdoors on a patio with fantastic views. The mountain offers nine trails, four lifts and eight tubing lanes for any snowy-day celebratory needs.
Whether you’re enjoying indoor entertainment or braving a chilly-weather adventure, celebrations are always in order in Central Massachusetts.
