Fun Things to Do Near Me in January: A Delmarva Parent’s Guide for Kids
TL;DR
The new year is here, and if you're in the Delmarva region searching for fun things to do with kids nearby, this blog highlights some of the area's top choices. Skip the weekend stress and enjoy popular activities like bowling, ice skating, VR experiences, martial arts classes, and indoor play spaces - spots the whole family will love and want to revisit.
How to Read This Blog
This guide is written for parents who are looking for some genuine recommendations, and not a long list of ideas. Each section explains who the place is best for, how long to plan for, and how local families actually use it. So, skim it, save it, or come back when you need a quick decision.
Starting the Year With Easy Family Fun in Delmarva
The start of a new year often brings a small sweet reset for families. Routines settle, weekends open up a little, and there’s space to think about spending time together without the rush of holidays or packed calendars.
For parents, that usually means looking for outings that feel close, familiar, and easy. Not big day trips. Not perfectly planned schedules. Just some places where kids can enjoy themselves and parents don’t feel drained before they even leave the house.
This blog shares fun things to do near me that local families rely on because they’re simple, flexible, and work across different ages. Think of it as a short list you can come back to when you want an easy yes instead of another long search.
Bryan’s Bowling Center (Laurel, DE)
Bryan’s Bowling Center is one of the easiest outings to say yes to when you want something that works for everyone.
It’s a full bowling alley with 14 lanes, an arcade, food options, and even ice cream on site. You don’t need to explain much or manage complex rules-kids already know what bowling is, and that familiarity helps.
Best for:
Families with mixed ages, kids who enjoy friendly competition, and parents who want to participate instead of supervise.
Good to know before you go:
- 1103 S Central Ave, Laurel, DE
- Typically open late mornings through evenings (hours vary by day)
- Most families stay 60–90 minutes
- Indoor, medium-energy activity
Why parents like it:
Everyone can play at their own pace; younger kids focus on rolling the ball, older kids care about scores, and parents don’t feel left out.
Tip to remember:
Plan for two game, not multiple - ending early keeps it fun and avoids the post-game meltdown.
Talbot County Ice Skating Rink (Easton, MD)
Ice skating at the Talbot County Community Center is a classic Delmarva winter activity that feels special without being complicated.
The rink offers public skate sessions, rentals, and programs for different ages and it’s a great way for kids to move their bodies and try something that feels new but familiar.
Best for:
Big kids, tweens, and families who enjoy active outings.
Good to know before you go:
- 10028 Ocean Gateway, Easton, MD
- Public skate sessions run multiple times a day (check schedule ahead)
- Plan for 60–90 minutes
- Indoor rink, need higher physical energy
Why parents like it:
Kids build confidence quickly, even if they start off unsure. Watching them improve within one visit is part of the fun.
Tip to remember:
For first-timers, shorter sessions are better than longer, difficult ones. Also, gloves and warm layers make a big difference - so please consider bringing these along.
Another World VR (Salisbury, MD)
Another World VR is a solid option when older kids want something exciting that isn’t another play place.
This Salisbury location offers free-roam virtual reality experiences, meaning kids actually move around and interact inside the game instead of sitting still.
Best for:
Big kids and tweens who enjoy technology, teamwork, and fast-paced challenges.
Good to know before you go:
- 1303 S Salisbury Blvd, Unit D, Salisbury, MD
- Mostly open weekends and select hours
- Sessions typically last about an hour
- High engagement, mentally stimulating
Why parents like it:
It’s focused and contained. Kids are fully engaged, and parents don’t have to manage transitions or wandering attention.
Tip to remember:
Treat this as the main activity of the day because one good experience is better than stacking multiple activities.
How Funfull Helps Parents Skip the Planning Stress
Remembering all these places-and deciding which one fits today’s mood-is often harder than the outing itself.
That’s where Funfull helps! With its FunPass, families can get access to a wide mix of local, family-friendly activities all under a single pass. That means less searching, less comparing, and fewer last-minute debates.
For parents, this looks like:
- Faster decisions
- Short outings that still feel worthwhile
- Options for different ages
- More focus on being present
It’s not about doing more-it’s about making family time easier.
We Rock the Spectrum (Academy Rd, PA)
We Rock the Spectrum is one of the most parent-friendly indoor play spaces for younger kids in the region. It’s an inclusive sensory gym, designed so kids can move, climb, swing, and explore at their own pace in a welcoming environment.
Best for:
Toddlers and early elementary kids.
Good to know before you go:
- 12357 Academy Rd, Philadelphia, PA
- Hours vary weekly
- Typical visits last 45–90 minutes
- Medium energy, very flexible
Why parents like it:
There’s no rush and no pressure. Kids can repeat activities, take breaks, and play freely-making outings calmer for everyone.
Tip to remember:
This is a great repeat spot and familiarity helps kids feel confident and keeps outings smooth.
Mitchell’s Martial Arts (Salisbury, MD)
Mitchell’s Martial Arts is to offer something different from open play: structure.
Here, classes focus on discipline, movement, and confidence building, making it a good fit for kids who enjoy routines and working toward goals.
Best for:
Kids around age 5+ who respond well to guidance and physical challenges.
Good to know before you go:
- 1305 S Division St, Salisbury, MD
- Class-based schedule
- Sessions are structured and time-bound
- Medium to high energy
Why parents like it:
Kids gain focus and confidence over time, not just during the class itself.
Local parent tip:
Start with a trial class before committing. Consistency matters more than intensity.
Parent Tips for Smooth Family Outings
A good outing isn’t just about where you go - it’s about how you plan the little things around it. These are the habits many local parents rely on to keep outings calm and enjoyable.
- Pack easy snacks
Even short trips feel smoother when kids aren’t hungry. A small snack can prevent rushed exits or cranky transitions. - Dress for flexibility
Layers work best, even for indoor spots. Kids often go from cold to overheated quickly. - Plan the ride home
Decide ahead of time if you’re heading straight home or stopping for food. Clear expectations help avoid last-minute meltdowns. - Keep the visit shorter than you think
Most kids do best with about an hour. Leaving while things are still fun makes them excited to come back. - Bring a backup distraction
A book, small toy, or game helps during waiting times or unexpected delays. - Lower the pressure
Not every outing needs to be “worth it.” Sometimes the goal is just getting out together and resetting the day.
Key Takeaways
- The best family outings are nearby and flexible
- One good activity is enough
- Familiar places reduce stress for everyone
- Different kids need different kinds of fun
- Having fun things to do near me makes family time easier and more enjoyable
FAQs
- Do family outings need to last all day to be meaningful?
No. Short, positive experiences often create better memories. - Is it okay to repeat the same activities often?
Yes. Kids love familiarity, and parents benefit from easier planning. - How do I choose between active and calm activities?
Match the activity to your child’s energy level that day-not what you planned earlier. - What if kids lose interest quickly?
That’s normal. Ending early is better than pushing through frustration.
