We Pittsburghers tend to fall into one of two categories: we either really love the madness of the holiday rush at the mall or we just dread driving up and down the aisles to find a parking space, only to go indoors and go elbow to elbow with other shoppers. Regardless of what category you fall in, we all deserve some fun time away from the mall this season. Here are seven winter attractions around Pittsburgh that will keep you away from those long lines at the mall. And even if the holiday season is over, these winter activities provide entertainment all season long.

1. Ice skate at Schenley Park Skating Rink

If you're looking for things to do in winter around Pittsburgh, ice skating is always a good option. Glide around the ice rink at Schenley Park for a relaxing winter adventure. Open daily, the skating rink also features a special Skate With Santa in mid-December, a Mascot Skate event at which you can ice skate with your favorite Pittsburgh area mascot, a Valentine's Day Skate, and more. If you want to avoid crowds though, you might want to skate on a day when there isn't a special event.

Visit the City of Pittsburgh website to learn more about the Schenley Park Skating Rink.

2. Go snow tubing at Hidden Valley Resort

Editor's Note: No information is currently available as to whether snow tubing will return to Hidden Valley Resort for the upcoming season.

One of the best ski resorts near Pittsburgh is Hidden Valley Resort and you can go snow tubing here! Spend your day zipping down the mountain for a thrilling winter adventure. Kids between four and nine must be accompanied by a parent on their downhill adventure. Days of operation currently depend on the snow, so make sure you call ahead to make sure the resort is open for tubing.

Visit the Hidden Valley Resort website for more information.

3. Explore Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Step into a magical winter wonderland at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens’ Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden. Explore the botanical gardens, all decked out for the holidays before heading outdoors for the spectacular light show. The show goes on through early January.

Visit the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens to learn more.

4. Go dogsledding at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

Tour the kennel at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, one of the best ski resorts near Pittsburgh, before embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Take a 30-minute tour of the kennel and then climb aboard the two-person dog sled for an enchanting ride around the resort’s property. Winter dogsledding is weather permitting.

Visit the Nemacolin Woodlands Resort website to learn more about dogsledding.

5. Visit Keystone State Park

The 1,200-acre Keystone State Park transforms into a winter wonderland, especially after a fresh snowfall. And, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy on a long winter’s day. Explore the park on cross-country skis; lace up your winter boots for an invigorating hike, or zip down hills on a sled. And you can also go ice skating on the lake when the weather permits. (Ice conditions are not monitored, so if you decide to do this, exercise extreme caution.)

You can read more about Keystone State Park on the webpage.

6. Climb aboard a sleigh for a ride at Dragon Run Forge & Livery

Wrap yourself in a cozy blanket aboard your sleigh at Dragon Run Forge & Livery. For a truly unique experience, reserve an evening sleigh ride where the horses will guide you through the snow by the glow of lanterns. This is one of the best family-friendly things to do in winter near Pittsburgh.

You can learn more about taking a sleigh ride at Dragon Run Forge & Livery in our previous coverage.

7. Go sled riding.

Whee!! Who doesn’t love sled riding in the winter? And, let’s face it. Pittsburgh’s got so many hills that are just perfect for sledding, especially after a fresh snowfall. What’s your favorite sled riding hill in Pittsburgh? Flagstaff Hill? Blue Slide Park at Frick Park? Or, another one?

Read our previous coverage to learn about a few incredible sled riding hills around Pittsburgh.

What other winter attractions near Pittsburgh do you enjoy, or do you prefer to stand in mall lines? If you’re up for a kids-free day, plan a visit to this winery near Pittsburgh that makes the perfect winter day trip destination.