January is the month of fresh starts and setting your sights on goals of all sizes.
Make the most of your new year by getting out to see what’s happening across Montgomery County. From amazing shopping and miles of trails to top-quality restaurants and dozens of entertainment venues, there’s no shortage of awesome things to do and see right in our backyard.
Check out our top picks for this month below!
Get Your Steps In
The New Year always encourages us to get up and get moving. Whether your goal is to hit 10,000 steps a day or simply to get outside and enjoy the sunshine, Montgomery County has over 96 miles of trails spread throughout our borders. Some highlights include the gorgeous riverside Schuylkill River Trail, which was named the “Best Urban Trail” by USA Today, and the walking-only Wissahickon Green Ribbon Trail. We’re also the home of the world-famous Valley Forge National Historical Park, which boasts miles of trails that you can walk, run or bike through year-round.
Hit the Slopes at Spring Mountain
As we head into the thick of the winter season, why not get out and make an adventure on a lovely winter day? Spring Mountain has everything for winter thrill-seekers. Snowboarding, skiing, and snow tubing abound! Are you not a huge fan of the cold? Don’t worry, there are plenty of spaces in and around the lodge (and by the nice warm fireplaces) for you to relax and enjoy the season from a comfortable seat.
Attend an Event
If you’re looking for more exciting events and unique experiences, check out the calendar for The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, which hosts a range of public and private events. January’s schedule includes everything from sporting competitions to trade shows to the Philadelphia Area Gaming Expo and Greenberg’s Train and Toy Show.
Make it Main Street
Montgomery County is famous for quite a few things, but our small towns and main streets are where the heart of the county truly beats. Spread out across Montco are a variety of bustling downtown areas, complete with amazing restaurants and bars, boutiques, and entertainment spots. From Ambler’s award-winning entertainment to Conshohocken’s vibrant restaurant scene, and Jenkintown’s picturesque downtown to King of Prussia’s incredible dining and nightlife, each of Montco’s main street towns offers unique experiences and one-of-a-kind small businesses, plus plenty of shopping opportunities. When you make your way down to any of our small towns, you’re sure to be in for a day full of fun.
Check out our Make It Main Street page for more information!
Explore the Arts
With so many unique towns, it’s no wonder that Montco has a vibrant arts scene. Sign up for the Arts Montco Pass for a self-guided tour of 30 handpicked arts and culture locations throughout the county. January is an excellent time to see a live performance at one of the many theaters. From toe-tapping concerts at the grand Keswick Theater to plays performed by touring or local theater companies and talent at places like Act II Playhouse, there are many diverse shows sure to entertain and delight.
There’s also a wealth of art museums and galleries you can visit to explore the visual arts. Exhibit B Gallery’s winter show runs until January 25th, or discover new, mid-level, and established artists at the Moody Jones Gallery. You can also nurture your inner artist by taking a class at the Abington Art Center, which offers one-day workshops as well as multi-week classes for adults and children in a variety of mediums such as drawing, painting, photography, jewelry making, ceramics, and printmaking.
Experience Some History
Montgomery County is steeped in history. Explore the area where Washington and his army spent the winter of 1777-78 at Valley Forge National Historical Park. Or check out one of our many museums, including the stunning Glencairn Museum. If you’re interested in Pennsylvania history, check out the Mennonite Heritage Center or the Center for Pennsylvania German Studies. Discover American cars, music, and memorabilia by touring the American Treasure Tour Museum. For something lighter, make an appointment to visit The Stoogeum, the world’s only Three Stooges museum.
Dine-In & Take-Out
One of Montco’s best features is the assortment of uniquely different and similarly delicious restaurants. With over 1,600 amazing restaurants, there is truly something for everyone from the adventurous omnivore to the chicken finger connoisseur. Our restaurants are open for dine-in and take-out, so you can choose your preferred way to try out all of Montco’s best restaurants. You can also stave off the cold with a warm drink from one of our many cafes and coffee shops or a fresh-baked pastry from one of Montco’s best bakeries. January is also an excellent time to explore the dozens of breweries, wineries, and distilleries throughout Montgomery County. Many offer tastings, tours, and events, and some even serve food. (Please remember to drink responsibly and don’t drive if you’ve been drinking.)
Hang Out with Your Best Friend
In addition to being a favorite destination for human travelers, four-legged visitors are more than welcome in Montco! We know that pets are more than just pets — they’re family. Bring your favorite travel buddy along for the ride when you visit any of Montco’s 30+ pet-friendly hotels, a plethora of restaurants with dog-friendly seating, and 14 designated dog parks. We even have pet spas, pet bakeries, and specialty pet shops so you can pamper your dog and give your best friend the getaway they deserve.
