As the winter season settles around Columbus, the days get shorter, temperatures drop, and the chilly weather sometimes feels like it goes on forever. But just because the winter months bring colder weather doesn’t mean that fun has to stop. In fact, it’s the perfect time to create lasting memories with your family. Here are some of my favorite winter activities that help us make the most of the season.
The WonderLight’s Christmas in Ohio
One of the best parts of the season are the holiday lights, and Columbus does not disappoint! My kids love the colorful displays so much that they often get distracted, giving me and my husband a little mental break while we enjoy the view together. With tickets priced at $30 per car (for up to seven passengers), it’s a budget-friendly outing that lets us all enjoy the dazzling lights.
Additionally, we love checking out some of the city’s other holiday light displays. Butch Bando’s Holiday Fantasy of Lights Alum Creek lights is another great spot where you might even get to meet Santa! You can also drive through various neighborhoods in Columbus, as many families go all out with their decorations. There’s truly a magical spirit in the air during the holiday season here.
Columbus Zoo Wildlights
For those who want to combine festive fun with a bit of wildlife, the Columbus Zoo Lights event is a must. This has been a family tradition of ours for years! The zoo’s holiday light display is something truly special, transforming into a magical winter wonderland. We also love visiting the reindeer, checking out the polar bears and other animals as well. They also serve some hot cocoa that would make the visit worthwhile. It’s an annual outing that never gets old, and an enchanting way to celebrate the holidays while learning about wildlife!
Horse and Carriage Ride at Easton
For a cozy after-work activity, the horse and carriage ride at Easton is a perfect choice. It’s a lovely post-work outing that brings a bit of magic to your evening. For just $10 per person, you get to enjoy a loop around Easton Outdoor Mall, which is beautifully lit up with holiday decorations during this time of year. The friendly staff also shares the history of the horses, and it’s such a relaxing way to take in the holiday atmosphere. It’s an easy and memorable outing with the family.
Snow Tubing
Nothing says winter fun quite like snow tubing, and Mad River Mountain is one of our favorite places to do it! They offer late-night adult tubing sessions, which makes for a fun and exciting evening activity. Plus, the snow is always fresh thanks to their artificial snow machines.
What makes Mad River even better is their convenient pulley system, which takes you right back to the top. So you can skip the tiring climb and get right back to the excitement. This year, my son Jamison finally had the chance to try tubing, and he had an absolute blast!
While winter in Columbus may bring shorter days and colder nights, but it doesn’t have to be a drag.So, Whether you’re marveling at the lights, sipping cocoa while watching the animals at the zoo, or tubing down a snow-covered hill, there’s always something fun and festive to do. So, bundle up, make some memories, and enjoy everything this season has to offer in Columbus!
Whatever you choose to do, I hope your family enjoys the winter months just as much as mine does!
