Let's paint a picture of your average winter day: you've been crazy busy at work, running the kids around, shopping, decorating, going just absolutely wild on all your daily responsibilities. After you've spent some time in the cold and maybe some snow as well, what do you reach for to warm your body like nothing else can? You guessed it. It's gotta be hot chocolate. The elixir so good that men have fought wars over the coveted Hot Chocolate Well of Wisdom that divided the two countries one from another. Don't look up that fact just... just trust me. 

When you're on your way to use the GetOutPass with that awesome free admission, what do you use to fuel the trip? In my opinion, you've got to get the body going with a nice, hot cup of hot chocolate from one of your favorite locations. I've compiled quite the list for our favorite hot chocolate locations in throughout the states for you to discover on your way to bowl. Let's dive in! (No particular order) 

1. 7/11 

Gas station hot chocolate is arguably some of the best hot chocolate. "Have a taste of our decadent, chocolatey-than-ever hot chocolate. Its rich and creamy texture makes every sip go down irresistibly smooth. And for the real hot chocolate lovers out there, enjoy free toppings like marshmallows, and a delicious range of flavoured creams and syrups." Believe me, this is one you're going to want to visit PRONTO, and I highly recommend the vanilla syrup to pair with your drink. So, so choice. 

2. McDonald's 

McDonald's does a great job with their hot chocolate. The only negative thing I would have to say about it is that it comes out hotter than the combined energy and heat of 4,000 suns. Patience is not an easy thing when it comes to enjoying a delicious beverage. It's just not, ok? 

3. Bob Evan's 

If you're in the midwest and wish to stop for a bite to eat before or after your day of fun via the GetOutPass, do be sure to visit your local Bob Evan's for some great pancakes and hot cocoa. I'm from Cincinnati, and on my small list of "cons" in moving out west is the lack of Bob Evan's around me. If you're one of my midwest readers, get a hot chocolate for me, won't you? 

4. Ski resorts 

If you're visiting a ski resort on the GetOutPass or are in the neighborhood of one, I would highly recommend the cafes there. It's a little bit on the expensive side, but you can usually find some delicious and local bakery foods and yummy hot drinks. Some of the best hot chocolate I've ever had was found at a ski resort. It also might be because I was skiing for four hours and I was super cold and hungry. Either way... very good. 

5. A little cafe at the top of the gondola ride above the Austrian village of Dorfgastein

Uh... this is one I got from my brother, who has spent more than his fair share of time in the German and Austria area. I lived in Germany for a couple years as well, and I must admit that the Germans don't often do hot chocolate, but when they do, it's pretty good. If you haven't found your way over to Europe yet, I must say, I highly recommend it. The food is spectacular and not too pricey. The sights are great. The chocolate is superb. As for this particular cafe in this village... I think we're just going to have to take Tony's word for it. I'll buy you a GetOutPass if you wind up getting hot chocolate from this village. Send me a postcard! 

6. TRUreligion Pancake and Steakhouse

The next time you're in town to watch your favorite college team get smoked by the Brigham Young University Cougars, do be sure to stop by TRUreligion. It's gotta be the best breakfast joint I've ever been to. Incredible crepes, pancakes, French toast, omelettes, and best of all, their hot cocoa is excellent. They have a s'mores one with a roasted marshmallow floating on the top. SO GOOD. 

7. Black Bear Diner

Scattered across the United States west of the Mississippi is the awesome Black Bear Diner. These guys know how to make some MASSIVE portions of food. One plate could feed two full sized adults AND a very hungry hobbit. Yeah, you read that right. Their food is so good with the "mamma's cookin'" feel. And their hot chocolate is, as the list suggests, very worth your time. 

8. Maverik

I'm not kidding when I say that, for being a gas station, Maverick's has some of the best fast food you can get. Tons of options and tons of taste that doesn't make you feel like you're eating "gas station food". Maverik is very popular in the Utah, Colorado, and Wyoming areas. Next time you're coming out to do some skiing, be sure to stop by Maverik. Clean stores, great drinks, good times all around. Usually on the cheaper end of gas, too. 

9. L.A. Burdick 

I know where I'm gonna take my wife on our next trip. This tip came in from my sister-in-law who, to be frank, has white the sugar tooth. So when she recommends L.A. Burdick for having awesome hot chocolate, you and I both best believe her. It looks like they've got some locations out east in Chicago, DC, New York, and a couple others. The stores look awesome, too! I feel like I'd feel underdressed if I went inside in some sweats. Gonna have to dress up for this one, but the hot chocolate looks fantastic. Apparently you can mix and match flavors. Mouth-watering. 

10. IHOP

To wrap up our list, I've got to give a special shoutout to my love, IHOP. I worked there for a good time while in college. Great place. You've been there. You KNOW they have the best pancakes in the world, and I don't want to hear anything else about it. Have you tried their hot chocolate? It's awesome. You can mix and match flavors as well, though you might need to check with the staff on what they have. So, so good.