We’ve Been Dreading Winter All Pandemic Long. Now That It’s Here, Let’s Make the Most of It
It’s time to lean into the cold. Here’s how.

Here’s how to make the most of a COVID winter. Photograph by Elizabeth Sallee Bauer/Room/Getty Images
When the safest options are staying outdoors and sticking closer to home, making the most of a winter in Philly is simple: Lean into the cold. Here’s how.
1. We Embrace the Outdoor Hang
Three seasoned pros school us on how to actually enjoy (socially distant) winter socializing.

These pro tips will make your outdoor winter hangouts warmer, safer, and more fun. Illustration by Sol Cotti
From great portable heaters to a smokeless fire pit, here’s the inside scoop on staying warm outside. Keep reading here.
2. We Try New Sports
Downhill skiing and ice skating aren’t the only options around these parts.

From horseback riding to snowshoeing, there are plenty of winter activities to keep you busy. Photograph by Sitikka/iStock/Getty Images
From horseback riding to snowshoeing, there are plenty of winter activities to keep you busy. Keep reading here.
3. Our City Adapts to the Season
Four ways Philly could make the winter of COVID-19 more livable.

Here’s a few ways this Philadelphia winter of COVID could get better. Illustration by Sol Cotti
From making the most of parks to re-routing SEPTA, how Philly could and should adapt to the season. Keep reading here.
4. We Get Away by Sticking Around
Three nearby and newish cold-weather-ready getaways.

Plan one of your mini winter getaways at a Lushna cabin at Eastwind. Photograph by Lawrence Braun
Embrace the cold weather at these nearby destinations where you can take in the great outdoors, hit the spa, and go glamping in some gorgeous cabins. Keep reading here.
5. We Warm Up With the Right Kind of Food
These rich, filling dishes satisfy the soul after a long day outside.

Photograph by Michael Persico
From Peking duck to a Sunday roast, these meals are perfect after a long day outside. Keep reading here.
Published as “The Big Chill” in the January/February 2021 issue of Philadelphia magazine.