By Diane Steinbach
Things to Do in Ohio for the Holidays
Ohio is a snow-covered delight in the winter, and holiday-event lovers won't let a little cold and snow slow down the party. Whether you want to sing along with Victorian Carolers, have breakfast with Santa or take a
romantic sleigh ride, Ohio has you covered. No matter where you live, you'll find something special to do for the holidays.
Holidays on the Harbor
Cleveland dwellers can't wait for this annual fun-fest, which features family events such as ice skating, holiday movies, festive light displays and, of course, breakfast with Santa. Daily from Thanksgiving to the end of December, bundle up for a day of fun.
Holidays on the Harbor
Great Lakes Science Center
601 Erieside Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44114
Phone: (216) 694-2000
Dickens Victorian Village
Nothing says Christmas like Charles Dickens, and the Dickens Victorian Village brings all the old-world charm of England to historic downtown Cambridge. You'll feel like you've stepped into "A Christmas Carol" as you wander among the 40 displays and Victorian-attired carolers. Shopping and tasty holiday treats round out this holiday tradition. Visit from early November to mid-January.
Dickens Victorian Village
Historic Downtown Cambridge
Cambridge, Ohio
Phone: (800) 933-5480
Horse-drawn Sleigh Rides
Continue your journey through time with Ma and Pa's Horse-drawn Sleigh Rides. Bundle up for an unforgettable family ride (or a romantic ride for two) on an old-fashioned sleigh pulled by well-kept draft horses. An icy trip through the woods to view the crystal-clear, blue-black night sky will be rewarded with some delicious hot chocolate and home-baked cookies back at Ma's cabin.
Ma & Pa's Horse-drawn Sleigh Rides
Main Market Road (State Route 422)
Troy Township, Ohio
Phone: (440) 548-5521
Capitol Holiday Lighting
State House
For those in Columbus, viewing the lighting of the capitol's holiday tree and 7-ft. candle (also known as the Brightster) is an annual tradition. Nothing is merrier than an evening among the colorful lights, surrounded by holiday music and family fun both indoors and out. Every weekend in December offers visitors a different delight.
Capitol Holiday Brightster Lighting
Ohio Statehouse
W. Broad St.
Columbus, Ohio
Phone: (888) 644-6123
New Year's Eve Train
Finish your holiday celebrations in style by boarding the New Year's Eve Train in Hocking Valley. Suitable for families or couples, train passengers can enjoy a fun train ride in the Pepsi-and-pizza car or a wine-and-cheese party car and bring in the New Year with a world-class fireworks display. Reserve ahead of time and take a nap, as the train departs at 10:30 p.m. on December 31.
New Year's Eve Train
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
33 E. Canal St.
Nelsonville, Ohio 45764
Phone: (740) 753-9531
About the Author:
Diane Steinbach has been writing for a variety of professional, educational and entertainment publications for over 15 years. Her work consists of three books on art therapy including : "Art as Therapy: Innovations, Inspiration and Ideas" (Steinbach, 2005.) She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in art therapy and behavioral science from Mount Mary College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Photo Credits:
geocam20000 flickr.com, DDFic flickr.com, Aunt Owwee flickr.com.,pmarkham flickr.com, geocam20000 flickr.com, Thorne Enterprises flickr.com
