Here in Ohio, winter can be a fun and magical time---if you know how to embrace the season, anyway. From epic winter slides to North Pole train rides, there's likely a winter adventure waiting just minutes away from you. Here are 10 awesome places in Ohio to visit in the winter. See how many you've been to before:
1. Visit the Midwest's #1 Terrain Park.
Although ski resorts and chair lifts are probably some of the last things that come to mind when you think of Ohio, you should know that Ohio is home to a pretty epic winter resort. Mad River Mountain in Zanesfield, Ohio, features all the wintertime fun you could possibly want—and then some. It’s the largest ski and snow tubing resort in Ohio, featuring 144 acres.
2. See as many Christmas lights as possible.
All throughout Ohio there are impressive drive-through and walk-through displays that are truly enchanting. It makes for a family fun night everyone will love. Pictured are the Legendary Lights of Clifton Mill. For a list of best holiday lights in Ohio, check out this article!
3. Take a ride on an epic winter slide.
Cleveland Metroparks features a truly spectacular toboggan chute you need to experience this winter. The Chalet in Strongsville’s Mill Stream Run Reservation is home to the tallest and fastest ice chutes in Ohio. Read all about this epic winter slide in Ohio before you go!
4. Go ice skating at Public Square (or Fountain Square.)
Ice skate at Cleveland's Public Square (pictured) or go ice skating at Cincinnati's Fountain Square. Some other ice skating rinks in Ohio even boast ice bumper cars!
5. Visit a reindeer farm.
Pine Acres Reindeer Farm and Event Center in LaRue, Ohio will open this holiday season for a full day of Christmas cheer, reindeer magic and holiday festivities. Some of the most beautiful reindeer are hiding on this Ohio farm. Pictured is Tinsel. For more information, check out our feature article about Pine Acres Reindeer Farm.
6. Take a train to the North Pole.
This holiday season, consider boarding the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway's Santa Train. Travel to the "North Pole", enjoy the scenic Hocking Valley and even meet Santa himself. For directions and details on this Christmas train in Ohio here.
7. Go on a winter horseback riding adventure.
Experience a winter wonderland adventure this season at Equestrian Ridge Farm in New Plymouth, Ohio, which features customized horseback riding year-round. During the winter months, this 200-acre Vinton County farm is a true winter wonderland. For directions and more information about this winter horseback ride in Ohio, check out this article.
8. Take a scenic drive.
Driving the Amish Country Scenic Byway during the winter is a special experience. It warms your heart in ways you can’t describe, making you long for home, family and simpler times. For specific routes and other information about the Amish Country Scenic Byway in this article.
9. See the lights at your local zoo.
Most of Ohio's zoos and botanical gardens feature spectacular light shows each holiday season. (Pictured is the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium WIldlights.)
10. Take a hike.
Hiking in the winter might sound challenging—but with the right trail, it can be downright magical. Fortunately, Ohio is full of several beautiful hiking trails that transform into a winter wonderland once snow falls. Frozen waterfalls, snow-covered trails and sparkling trees are stunning sights to see. For a list of some of our favorite winter hiking trails in Ohio, check out this guide!
So what do you think of these places in Ohio to visit in the winter? Will you add any of these fun destinations to your winter bucket list this season? What else would you add to this list? Share your thoughts and recommendations with us!
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