Fun Things to Do This Winter at Port Discovery

a women with 2 girls holding balloons during new years

Don’t let the chilly season cool off your fun! Join us at Port Discovery, where we’re kicking off the Winter Break season with non-stop excitement and hands-on experiences. From sensory-friendly Sundays and cozy storytimes to interactive at-home activities the whole family can enjoy, there’s something for everyone to discover this season! 

To purchase tickets this winter, visit our ticket page

Winter Break: 12 Days of Play at Port Discovery!

Tis the season for a winter break filled with fun and special educational activities from our Learning & Visitor Experience team! Port Discovery will be open for extended hours, offering children and their caregivers the chance to enjoy a variety of interactive, hands-on activities each day during our “12 Days of Play” celebration.

Noon Time New Year | December 31 

Kick off the New Year with a Pop of Play! This fun-filled event features themed programming and is included with museum admission, making it the perfect way for families to welcome the year ahead. Learn more about Noon Time New Year. https://www.portdiscovery.org/cls/newyears/ 

Homeschool Adventures Await at Port Discovery! 

Get ready for a day of fun, learning, and discovery at Port Discovery! Explore three floors of hands-on adventures and dive into special workshops made just for homeschoolers. Learn more here. https://www.portdiscovery.org/visit/field-trips-group-experiences/homeschool-days/ 

  • Map Detectives | January 30 

Go on an exciting adventure in this hands-on workshop that focuses on geography, navigation, and creativity! Purchase tickets for Map Detectives. https://portdiscovery.ticketing.veevartapp.com/groups/view/list/homeschool-days 

  • Back to School Science | March 20 

Take a closer look at all the colors our world has to offer with this hands–on experience that combines scientific exploration and artistic creativity! Purchase tickets for Back to School Science. https://portdiscovery.ticketing.veevartapp.com/groups/view/list/homeschool-days 

  • Sand Art | April 24 

Combine visual art, science, social studies, and fine motor skills in this sensory sand experience! Purchase tickets for Sand Art. https://portdiscovery.ticketing.veevartapp.com/groups/view/list/homeschool-days 

  • Puppets | May 29 

Students will design and build their own unique puppets using found materials. They will explore how to create a character and bring them to life! Purchase tickets for Puppets.  https://portdiscovery.ticketing.veevartapp.com/groups/view/list/homeschool-days 

The Coolest Winter Events are Here! 

  • Sensory Friendly Sundays | December 21, January 18, & February 22 

Enjoy two hours of quiet, sensory-friendly exploration before the museum opens, creating a comforting and calm space for families. Learn more about Sensory Friendly Sundays. https://www.portdiscovery.org/visit/programs-events/access-inclusion-and-sensory-friendly-programs/sensory-friendly-mornings/ 

  • Community Days | January 26 & February 23 

Have a blast with play, learning, and family fun at Port Discovery’s Community Days—now at a special discounted rate! Explore three floors of hands-on adventures, from The SkyClimber to Tiny’s Diner and beyond. Learn more about Community Days. https://www.portdiscovery.org/visit/programs-events/discounted-admission-programs/community-days/ 

  • Stuffies Day Out | January 17 

Bring your favorite stuffed friend and dive into a day of imaginative play, creative crafts, Teddy Bear games, and plush-filled fun for the whole family! Learn more about Stuffies Day Out. https://www.portdiscovery.org/event/stuffies-day-out-2/ 

  • Special Guest: Danny Joe’s Tree House | January 17 

Join Danny Joe and Teddy for a fun playdate all about exploring feelings! Sing, dance, and play while fostering social-emotional skills for little ones and their grownups. Learn more about Danny Joe’s Tree House. https://www.portdiscovery.org/event/storytime-puppet-show-with-danny-joe-me-and-my-teddy-bear/ 

  • Hops and Vines | January 31 

Sip, savor, and play at Hops & Vines, a grown-up (21+) night at Port Discovery! Enjoy unlimited tastings from local breweries and wineries, delicious bites, fun games, music, and a night-of-the-museum adventure across three floors. Learn more about Hops and Vines. https://www.portdiscovery.org/event/hops-and-vines-5/ 

  • Let It Shine | February 7  

Celebrate Black culture at Port Discovery’s Let It Shine! Explore Maryland’s Black history, achievements, and future through hands-on activities, creative projects, STEM programs, and connections with local community partners. Learn more about Let It Shine. https://www.portdiscovery.org/event/let-it-shine-2/ 

At Port Discovery, we create experiences that welcome all visitors, so everyone can find something to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring with little ones or the whole family, you’re sure to leave with smiles and happy memories. Be sure to stay up to date on all our upcoming events by checking out our Special Events & Program Calendar (https://www.portdiscovery.org/cls/winter-break/). We can’t wait to welcome you and share a day full of fun and discovery!