Best Practices for Visiting Recreational Areas During February Vacation Week
by Josh Harrington, WinterKids Family Programs & Outreach Manager
February vacation week is one of the busiest and most exciting times to get outside in Maine. Whether your family is hitting the slopes, lacing up skates, or exploring Nordic trails, a little preparation goes a long way toward a smooth, stress-free day. With the WinterKids Passport in hand, you’re already set up for savings and fun. Here are some best practices to help your family make the most of your visit during this peak week.
Be Passport-Ready Before You Go
The WinterKids Passport is your key to free and discounted junior admission at downhill ski areas, cross-country ski centers, ice rinks, and more. To keep things easy and avoid last-minute scrambling, make sure you’re ready before you hit the road:
- Log in to your WinterKids account on the mobile app before you arrive.
- Load all family members into your Passport profile so everyone is ready to redeem offers.
- Find the offer you plan to redeem at your chosen location ahead of time so you’re not searching at the ticket window.
Being prepared helps keep lines moving and lets you get out there faster, which is what everyone’s stoked about.
Arrive Early and Be Patient
February vacation is super popular, so expect bigger crowds than usual. Think about arriving early, which will help you find a better parking space and shorten lines for tickets, rentals, or lessons. This will mean more time on snow or ice. Also, know that staff at recreation centers and ski areas work hard to make everyone’s day great, so a little patience and kindness go a long way.
Save Money in the Base Lodge
A day on the mountain or at the rink can add up quickly, but a few easy tips can keep things budget-friendly:
- Pack extra layers, hats, gloves, and socks so you don’t need to buy gear on the spot.
- Bring lunch and drinks to enjoy in the car or designated picnic areas.
- Throw in some pocket snacks like granola bars, fruit, or trail mix to keep everyone fueled and happy.
- Planning ahead means more money for lessons, tickets, and fun with fewer impulse purchases.
Consider a Lesson
If someone in your family is new to skiing, snowboarding, or skating, February vacation is an awesome time to take a lesson. Many WinterKids Passport partners offer beginner lessons led by instructors who make learning fun and approachable. Lessons help kids (and adults) build confidence, learn the basics safely, and have way more fun once they’re out there on their own. It’s a great way to kick off a lifelong love of winter sports.
Make It a Family Adventure
The WinterKids Passport is all about getting families outside together. Try something new, visit a new location, or revisit a favorite ski hill or rink. Get a great deal for the whole family at one of the four WinterKids Family Days over February vacation week. Take breaks, warm up, laugh at the wipeouts, and celebrate the wins, whether it’s a first run, a full lap around the rink, or a snowy trail explored. Be sure to share your favorite moments from your outing to the WinterKids Passport Photo Contest!
Enjoy the Winter
February vacation week is the perfect time to unplug, get outside, and make memories as a family. With a little prep, your WinterKids Passport, and a sense of adventure, you’ll be ready for an awesome week – on the slopes, on the ice, and on the trails.
The WinterKids Passport is your ticket to outdoor winter fun!
An annual family membership unlocks free tickets and discounts for kids at winter sports destinations statewide, including skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and even discounts on outdoor gear to help your family get outside together.
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