Cozy and Fun Indoor Activities for Cold Days

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When winter rolls around and temperatures plummet, it’s the perfect time to embrace the comfort of indoor living. But staying inside doesn’t have to mean giving up on creativity or connection. With the right activities, you can keep both your mind and body engaged while enjoying the charm of the season.

At FeatherStone at Hickory Hill, we know how important it is for older adults to find ways to stay busy, creative and socially connected—even on the chilliest days. Here are some of our favorite cozy and fun indoor activities to brighten up your winter and keep you feeling vibrant. 

Creative Projects to Spark Joy

Explore Your Artistic Side


Why not use those chilly days as an opportunity to unleash your creativity? Painting, knitting or trying your hand at pottery can bring relaxation and a sense of accomplishment.

The art studio at FeatherStone at Hickory Hill offers a welcoming space to explore your passions. Whether you join a group workshop or focus on individual projects, it’s a chance to unwind and share your creations with loved ones.

Scrapbooking and Photo Albums

Winter days provide the ideal backdrop for reflecting on cherished memories. Organizing old photos and arranging them into meaningful scrapbooks is a heartwarming way to spend time, especially with family or friends.

These fun indoor activities aren’t just creative. They’re opportunities to preserve stories and strengthen connections.

Activities to Keep Your Mind Active

Dive into a Good Book


Few activities rival the comfort of curling up with a good book and a warm blanket. Reading stimulates your mind, fuels your imagination and provides a much-needed escape.

Our cozy library at our retirement home in Iowa City is stocked with genres ranging from mystery to historical fiction. There’s always something new to discover and enjoy.


Host a Game Night


From board games to trivia nights, indoor games bring people together for a little friendly competition. Games like Scrabble or chess not only challenge your mind but also make winter evenings more enjoyable.

A night spent around the table with friends and laughter is the perfect remedy for chilly weather.

Cozy Movement and Relaxation


Stay Active Indoors


Don’t let cold weather keep you from moving. Gentle exercises like yoga or stretching are great ways to maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness.

Our retirement home in Iowa City boasts a wellness center that makes it easy to stay active with state-of-the-art fitness equipment and a supportive environment. Remember to consult your doctor before starting any new routine.

Try a Puzzle or Brain Teaser


Puzzles like crosswords or Sudoku are a wonderful way to pass the time while keeping your brain sharp. Tackling one solo can be meditative, but working together with a friend adds an extra layer of fun.

Social Activities to Foster Connection


Movie or Documentary Nights


A themed movie night or documentary screening is a fantastic way to spend a cozy evening. Add some snacks, gather a group and settle in for an entertaining experience.

Our on-site theater at FeatherStone at Hickory Hill is the perfect spot for group viewings.

Baking or Cooking


Fill your home with the delicious aroma of fresh-baked treats. Spend an afternoon experimenting with new recipes or baking your favorite comfort foods.

Baking together with friends or family is a joyful way to embrace the season and enjoy delicious results.

Indoor Gardening


Bring a touch of green indoors by starting a small herb garden or caring for houseplants. Gardening may feel like a summer activity but nurturing plants during winter can brighten up your space and your mood. From planting seeds in pots to arranging succulents in decorative containers, this activity offers a peaceful way to spend time and reconnect with nature.

We love seeing how residents add life to their indoor spaces with greenery. Plus, the fresh herbs you grow can be used to elevate your cooking projects and double the reward!

Embrace the Season Indoors


Winter is a time to slow down, reflect, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. By finding meaningful ways to stay engaged, the season can feel just as enriching as any other time of year.

FeatherStone at Hickory Hill creates spaces and opportunities to make winter days enjoyable. From creative workshops to social gatherings, there’s always something to look forward to.

If you’re ready to embrace winter with warmth and creativity, we’d love to show you how our retirement home in Iowa City can support your lifestyle. Let’s make this season one to remember. Contact us today to learn more!

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