Ohio Christmas Destinations: What You Should Not Miss

Looking for the best Ohio Christmas destinations? Whether you’re looking for a festive getaway or some ideas to add to your holiday bucket list, we’ve got you covered! From charming small towns to bustling metropolitan areas, this state has something for everyone during the holidays. And after a magical pastime, you can get a tattoo to keep the moments in your memory. At Ink-Match you will find many masters from Ohio who can help you with that.

So, here are some of our favorite spots that are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit. Let’s get started!

Ohio Christmas places for a festive getaway

Ohio is full of quaint towns that are perfect for a festive getaway. From ice skating rinks to caroling tours, there’s plenty to keep you busy during your stay. Below we’ve listed a few of our favorite places in Ohio for a Christmas getaway. 

Cleveland 

Cleveland is the perfect destination for a Christmas getaway. The city is home to some of the most beautiful holiday light displays, including the festive Illumination at Wade Oval and Light Up Lakewood. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as ice skating rinks and caroling tours, plus holiday-themed performances at Playhouse Square. Don’t forget to visit Santa’s Workshop in the Tower City Mall for a truly magical experience.

Plus, you can catch a performance of The Nutcracker at Playhouse Square or take part in a candlelit caroling tour along the Cuyahoga River. It’s a winter wonderland waiting to be explored!

Grand Rapids 

Grand Rapids is a charming small town with plenty of holiday spirit. Donate to the Goodfellows Toy Drive, explore the Christmas lights at Heritage Hill Historical Park, or take a ride on the Holiday Express Train. Don’t forget to visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum for their special “Holiday Magic” exhibit! 

Then you can find unique gifts at the local markets and get into the holiday spirit with a festive outdoor movie night. And after a full day of fun, you can cozy up to a warm drink at one of the town’s many pubs.

Cincinnati

Cincinnati is known for its vibrant holiday celebrations, including the magical lights and decorations of Fountain Square. Take a stroll through the neighborhood and explore the festive displays or take part in one of their many holiday events. Every year, they host an annual holiday market featuring local vendors selling handmade gifts, live music, and delicious food. 

But if you’re looking for a more traditional experience, don’t miss the German Christmas Market in Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine district. Here you can sample authentic German food and pick up handmade souvenirs to add to your holiday decorations.

Cambridge 

If you want to experience a more traditional holiday celebration, head to Cambridge. This small town is home to some of the best Christmas markets in Ohio, with vendors from all around the state selling handmade gifts and decorations. And for an extra special treat, visit their beautiful Christmas tree farm and pick out your holiday centerpiece. 

Morrow 

Don’t forget to check out the small town of Morrow. Here you can admire the charming holiday lights and decorations throughout town, or explore one of their many outdoor activities. 

They also host a special “Christmas in Morrow” event each year with plenty of festive music and entertainment for the entire family. And when it’s time to head home, you can pick up some unique gifts from one of the many shops in town. 

Kirtland 

Also, be sure to visit Kirtland for a magical Christmas experience. Here you can take part in their annual “Light Up the Night” parade, explore their Winter Wonderland holiday lights exhibit, or enjoy a festive outdoor movie night. 

If you’re looking for something more traditional, visit the historic Kirtland Temple for some of the best choir performances in Ohio. Here you can also find unique gifts for your family and friends, perfect for giving during the holiday season. For example, you can pick up a bottle of Kirtland’s famous “Kirtland Cider.” 

Also, don’t forget to take a picture with the life-size nativity display in the town square – it’s a sight that you won’t want to miss! 

Steubenville 

No list of Ohio Christmas destinations would be complete without a mention of Steubenville. Here you can explore the city’s amazing holiday lights, take part in their “Festival of Trees” event and visit the quaint downtown shops for unique gifts and decorations. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a ride on one of the city’s historic trolleys. 

There’s something magical about Steubenville during the Christmas season, and it’s sure to make for a memorable holiday experience. 

Medina 

Last but not least, don’t forget to add Medina to your list of Ohio Christmas destinations. Here you can take part in festive activities like a gingerbread house decoration contest, caroling, and horse-drawn carriage rides. 

And if you’re looking for a unique holiday shopping experience, be sure to visit the many local craft and antique stores around town. There you can find some truly unique gifts for your loved ones. 

Christmas trip tips to spend an amazing holiday in Ohio

Christmas in Ohio has something to offer everyone, from traditional holiday events to unique activities and shopping. Below we will share some trip tips for a great Ohio Christmas experience.

1. Plan your trip: Before you head out, check the weather and plan accordingly. This may mean bringing extra layers of clothing or switching up the dates of your trip. Also, research places to visit and activities that you’d like to take part in.
2. Set aside time for sightseeing: Ohio has plenty of beautiful natural scenery to explore, such as Hocking Hills State Park and Cuyahoga Valley National Park. There are also plenty of historic sites to visit, including Toledo’s National Museum of the Great Lakes and Columbus’ German Village.
3. Plan some outdoor activities: From skiing to ice skating, there are plenty of winter-themed activities you can enjoy during your stay. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, why not take a stroll through one of Ohio’s many Christmas light displays?
4. Shop ’til you drop: No trip to Ohio is complete without a shopping spree. You’ll find plenty of unique stores and boutiques to explore in the state’s major cities, as well as traditional malls and outlets.
5. Enjoy some local flavors: Ohio is home to many delicious restaurants that offer up classic dishes with a twist. From Cleveland’s pierogis to Cincinnati’s chili, you won’t be disappointed.

Summary

Ohio is home to some of the most spectacular Christmas destinations in the United States. Whether you’re looking for a light display, a festive shopping experience, or a winter wonderland of activities, Ohio has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best Ohio Christmas destinations so that you can make the most of your holiday.

Liam Mills is a Product Expert and ex-Supplier Quality Assurance Manager at Walmart, and the Founder of ValueHunta, a contributor to Ink-Match