Beat The Winter Blues With These Events In Manchester

If you've run out of movies to stream and you're going stir crazy hibernating from the cold in your home, there's good news: there are lots of fun things to do in and near Manchester.

Whether you're looking for family outings, day trips or seasonal events, there are a lot of options for Manchester residents.

Just remember to double-check hours, keep an eye on weather updates and ticket details before heading out.

Explore the stars at Robert J. Novins Planetarium

Address: Ocean County College, 1 College Drive, Toms River

Phone: 732-255-0343

Details: The planetarium offers a range of events from laser light shows matched with music from popular musicians to movies to events for a variety of ages that share a look at the stars. There are numerous events to choose from. The planetarium staff urges people to buy tickets in advance because tickets often are sold out and not available on the day of an event. See the schedule and buy tickets online.

Skate with a DJ at Winding River Skating Center

Address: 1211 Whitesville Road, Toms River

Phone: 732-244-0720, ext. 1 or 5

Details: The ice rink in Toms River offers public skating sessions several times a week and fun events such as Skate with a DJ on Fridays and Saturdays. Rental skates are available. Check the website for details.

Take an art class with the Ocean County Artists Guild

Address: 22 Chestnut Ave., Island Heights

Phone: 732-270-31111

Details: The Ocean County Artists Guild is one of the oldest in New Jersey. It offers art classes for children and adults, art exhibitions and more. See the options on the Guild's website.

Learn about wildlife at Cattus Island County Park

Address: 1170 Cattus Island Blvd., Toms River

Phone: 732-270-6960

Details: The county park has trails to explore on the days when the weather is nice, and the Cooper Environmental Center offers hands-on educational displays such as a live view osprey cam, habitat tree and tunnel, bird viewing area, children's activity corner and a spectacular collection of live reptiles and fish. Learn more on the county's website.

See fish and seals and penguins at Jenkinson's Aquarium

Address: 300 Ocean Ave, Point Pleasant Beach

Phone: 732-899-1212

Details: It might be too cold to go to the beach, but you can still spend time surrounded by the ocean at Jenkinson's Aquarium. Their touch tanks offer up-close experiences for kids and adults alike, and their programs offer learning in a fun environment. Check the website for upcoming programs, special events and ticket information.