Winter is only a couple of days away and that means soon the kids will be on their winter break. After the festivities are over and the presents are forgotten you’re going to need to entertain them. In Minnesota that can be tricky because you never know what the weather will have in store. In the Twin Cities there are some great activities for the whole family indoors and out and many for little to no cost.

US Pond Hockey – Experience hockey the way it was intended – outdoors and on a pond – by watching (or taking part in) the US Pond Hockey tournament January 15th through the 18th, 2015.

The Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul is one of the most entertaining, educational and downright fun places to spend your free time whether you’re 2 or 102 years old. Right now through January 8th, 2015 the Science Museum of Minnesota is throwing a spotlight on the monarch butterfly and the mystery of their migration. Click here to see the trailer to the Omnitheater film. If butterflies aren’t your thing then take a stab at creating a video game in the Design Zone exhibit running now through January 4th, 2015.

Get your art on at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. Love fashion? Then be sure to visit the Italian Style exhibit happening now at the MIA. This stunning exhibit is courtesy of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Trace the evolution of Italian design, from Gucci and Prada to Missoni, Versace and more. A major retrospective of the fashion that has defined a nation—and a rare chance to see Milan’s finest in Minneapolis.

Minnesota Historical Society – History has never been so much fun! Visit the ongoing Toys exhibit where you can see some of the classic toys from the 50s, 60s and 70s. After that experience Minnesota from the past. Sit in an authentic tipi, catch a ride on a streetcar or see how Interstate 94 changed the lives of thousands of people.

Minnesota has two amazing zoos, uniquely different and amazingly fun. Spend the day at the Como Zoo and the Conservatory. Wander at your own pace to see the monkeys, lions, penguins and even the new baby giraffe. Warm up in the Conservatory to see beautiful flowers and foliage you won’t see outside for months to come. Pack a picnic lunch and head on down to Apple Valley to visit the Minnesota Zoo where you can take your time seeing indoor and outdoor animal exhibits.