Jan. 29--For some, winter can be like that person who comes to visit, sticks around too long -- then makes you jump and shout when they finally leave.

If you're experiencing cabin fever or the winter blues, the cure lies is getting out and doing something to make the time pass faster. Then, before you know it, it's spring. Think about your garden or stand among the blooms and tropical plants inside a greenhouse. Go to a lounge or nightclub and listen to music that makes your body move and spirits soar. Get a natural endorphin rush at an exercise class or warm indoor pool. Soon, spring will have sprung.

Here are a few ways to hurry it along:

Walk among blooms

WHERE Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park, 1395 Planting Fields Rd.,

Oyster Bay

WHEN Open year-round. Main greenhouse, 10 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.; camellia greenhouse, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

WEB plantingfields.com

PHONE 516-922-9200

COST Free admission and parking until April

Tropical plants, orchids, hibiscus and begonias are among the collections of warm-weather plants and flowers that greet visitors to the main greenhouse.

Camellias, arrayed in colorful splendor inside their own greenhouse, are in bloom through March. They're expected to reach their peak around Valentine's Day.

The greenhouses are "sort of a sanctuary for people in the winter," says director Vincent Simeone.

Walk the grounds, dotted with trails and large trees, and clear your head, or visit the Garden Cafe on weekends in February and March.

ALSO TRY Start preparing for gardening season by designing your own home garden, buying tools and other gardening supplies with help from a professional horticulturist at your local nursery or garden center. One worth the trip is Hicks Nurseries, 100 Jericho Tpke., Westbury, 516-334-0066, hicksnurseries.com.

Learn a hot dance

WHERE Winner's Circle,

39 Post Ave., Westbury

WHEN 7-8 p.m. Sunday (or 5-7 p.m. if a band is performing)

WEB clubwc.com

PHONE 516-997-4050

COST $7, $15 on band nights

Take a salsa lesson with dance instructor Mary Piazza, who teaches a group lesson Sunday evenings.

You can meet other people and have a great time -- alone or with a partner, says club owner Pat Barchi.

"Mary has been doing it for over 25 years, and she's very good," he adds. She's also there 9 to 11 p.m. Fridays and willing to give individual dancers personal attention and a few pointers.

After the lesson, stick around and keep the party going. If you get hungry, the club provides a complimentary buffet, featuring a mix of hot and cold dishes, hero sandwiches, salad and fruit.