It is growing colder each day, and the nippy weather has Clevelanders craving the warmth and comfort of the indoors. Don't worry, that will soon change. Winter brings with it the unfortunate side effect of cabin fever, leaving locals with an itch to get out of the house and make the most of the season. Fortunately, Cleveland has an abundance of wonderful winter activities that will keep cabin fever at bay all season long.
1. Go ice skating in the heart of Cleveland.
Did you know that you can go ice skating in Public Square? This splendid wintertime experience takes place through February 28, 2018, bringing a super cool activity to the snowy Downtown landscape. Tickets are only $10 per person, which includes skate rental.
2. Visit Jolly Old St. Nick in the most unexpected place in the city.
Ever seen our beloved jolly old friend walk in a winter waterland? Now you can! Scuba Claus makes regular appearances at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through December 24. Tickets are available to purchase online here, so start planning your "seas"-on of fun now!
3. Build a snowman in each Cleveland Metropark you visit.
Get out and explore when you get the chance! Wintertime is a truly magical time of year to see our spectacular parks. Make each visit memorable by bringing the kids and building a snowman or two.
4. Visit the A Christmas Story House.
Clevelanders are well aware that this iconic holiday movie was shot right here in Cleveland, but not all of us have visited the A Christmas Story House and Museum. To put it simply, if you haven't gone, you absolutely must! This dreamy Tremont house has been painstakingly reconstructed to look just like Ralphie's childhood home, and there is no better time to pay it a visit than during the magical winter season.
5. Take an icy dip in Lake Erie for an incredible cause.
The Cleveland Polar Plunge will take place on February 24, 2018,and it's a truly unforgettable event that benefits Special Olympics Ohio. Plungers raise between $50 and $75 each by the day of the event. Interested? You can register and set up your fundraising page here.
6. Go to Glow!
Glow, the unforgettable winter tradition at the Cleveland Botanical Garden, lights up the holiday season with an incredible display of lights. You will be immersed in holiday splendor at this event, with visual experiences ranging from extravagant trees to handcrafted gingerbread houses. The event is ongoing and open through New Year's Eve.
7. Warm up at Brite Winter.
This epic indoor/outdoor celebration brings over 40 incredible music groups to Cleveland each February. If cabin fever sets in this winter, there is no better way to cure it. Head out to the West Bank of the Flats on February 24, 2018 for a free celebration you'll never forget.
8. Go tobogganing at Mill Stream Run Reservation in the Cleveland Metroparks.
With or without snow, a trip down the refrigerated ice chutes will knock your socks off. At The Chalet, twin 700-foot chutes overlook the park land, taking brave souls on adventures all season long. In fact, this attraction is open through the first week in March, so you may want to take more than a few trips down this icy slope! All day ride tickets are only $12 for adults, so it won't break the bank if you want to go back again and again.
9. See a holiday show at Severance Hall.
University Circle is stunning in the winter, and that seasonal cheer is only enhanced by the incredible Cleveland Orchestra at their annual holiday concert. The show takes place December 14 at 7:30 p.m. Ready for an unforgettable holiday experience? You can find tickets here.
10. Take a holiday train ride.
All season long (and well into the new year), the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad takes locals on epic wintertime excursions. Whether you're ready to don your ugly sweater or depart on a traditional celebration of Mr. Jingeling's Holiday Jubilee, there is a ride on the CVSR for you.
Don't let the cold keep you down this season! There is so much to do that you may even be able to keep cabin fever at bay all season long. Do you have any other awesome winter activities that you absolutely love? We'd love to hear your suggestions in the comments! Don't forget to share photos of your adventures on the Only In Cleveland Facebook page or tagging us on Instagram using #onlyincleveland for a chance to see your photos featured!
Looking to celebrate the season with a fun day trip? You must visit this picturesque winter wonderland farm!
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