If you have heard, “I’mmmmmm bored!”, lately, it may time to head out to explore a few of the fun winter activities around Central Ohio. Although it might be cold outside, with a warm coat and the right holly jolly attitude, you and your family can enjoy some of these local events and activities together … and may be even create a new tradition or two!
Our Favorite Winter Activities
Columbus Zoo’s Wildlights
Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo is an annual highlight and tradition for many Central Ohio families. Enjoy the Zoo in a whole new light, lit up for the season with three million twinkling lights, special events and attractions to celebrate the holidays, and of course, the Wildlights Santa Clause Experience! It is truly an experience the entire family will love. Be sure to check out the Wildlights hours, ticket options, and schedule of events to ensure you don’t miss a second of the holiday fun!
Conservatory Aglow
Conservatory Aglow at Franklin Park Conservatory is back to illuminate winter nights. This outdoor experience will be twinkling, glowing, and magical thanks to thousands of lights presented in stunning displays. This experience also includes a Canydland scene complete with a life-size gingerbread house and a train display, Paul Busse Garden Railway. Don’t miss this holiday favorite nominated for a USA Today’s 10 Best Award!
State Auto Christmas Corner
The beloved Central Ohio tradition returns with State Auto’s Christmas Corner located in Downtown Columbus at 518 E. Broad St. The historic live-sized nativity scene can be enjoyed throughout most of December, with lighting times daily from 6-8 AM; 5-11:30 PM – with special hours on weekends and holidays.
Grand Illumination at Easton Town Center
With over 2 million lights, the Grand Illumination at Easton gives you the opportunity to shop and stroll through the sidewalks of The Strand. Enjoy the sight of the tree as it reflects on the fountain and grab something festive to drink from one of the many vendors. The lights illuminate the Center at 7PM daily.
Fantasy of Lights
Butch Bando’s Annual Fantasy of Lights drive through light show and Santa House is located at Alum Creek State Park Campground, and has been delighting all ages for more than twenty years! Enjoy the magic of the holidays from the comfort of your own car, with the light show running into early January each year. Of course, no visit is complete without a stop at the Santa House for a photo opp with the jolliest elf of them all.
While these are a few of our favorite winter activities in Central Ohio, there many more activities to keep you busy during these cold, snowy months. From our Compass Homes family to yours, we hope that you embrace the beauty of the season and enjoy all that it has to offer.