Winter Wonderland Destinations in Cleveland, United States
1. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo's WinterLights
Experience over a million lights illuminating animals and landscapes at the zoo during the winter season.
- Nighttime Adventure: Offers an enchanting nighttime activity in Cleveland
- Animal Light Displays: Unique light displays featuring various animals not typically found during the day
- Seasonal Food Options: Enjoy warm beverages and festive treats while exploring the lights
2. Cleveland Botanical Garden's Glow
Stroll through a garden filled with vibrant, glowing lantern displays during the holiday season.
- Cultural Exhibit: Includes traditional Chinese lantern art and cultural performances
- Nightly Entertainment: Offers music, storytelling, and other seasonal entertainment
- Indoor and Outdoor Experience: A mix of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy the winter weather
3. Wade Lagoon Ice Skating Rink
Enjoy ice skating on a picturesque lagoon amidst downtown Cleveland's cityscape.
- Downtown Atmosphere: Ice skating in the heart of Cleveland's business district
- Skate Rental Services: Rent skates on-site for a small fee
- Food and Drink Options: Warm up with food and beverages at the nearby concession stand
4. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad's North Pole Express
Take a scenic train ride to the North Pole for a magical Christmas experience.
- Holiday Storytelling: Storytelling and holiday-themed activities along the journey
- Visit with Santa: Meet and take photos with Santa Claus at the North Pole
- Scenic Train Ride: Enjoy a picturesque ride through Cuyahoga Valley National Park
5. The Christmas Story House
Visit the real-life setting for the classic Christmas movie 'A Christmas Story'.
- Film Trivia: Learn about the making of the iconic film and its cultural impact
- Prop Replicas: See replicas of props and sets from the movie
- Holiday Decorations: Experience a holiday-themed house decorated for the season
6. Cleveland Museum of Art's Winter Lights
Walk through a stunning outdoor light display that complements the museum's art collections.
- Artistic Light Show: Inspired by masterpieces from the museum's collection
- Nightly Performances: Enjoy live music and seasonal entertainment
- Art Museum Access: Access to the museum during the light show for additional exploration
7. Cleveland's Holiday Village at Voinovich Bicentennial Park
Experience a European-style Christmas market with food, drinks, and shopping.
- European Market Feel: Authentic European-inspired holiday market
- Unique Gift Shopping: Shop for handmade crafts, ornaments, and other unique gifts
- Festive Food and Drink: Try traditional holiday treats from various countries
8. Cleveland Cultural Gardens' Festival of Lights
Explore the beauty of Cleveland's Cultural Gardens as they are illuminated by thousands of lights.
- International Culture: Experience diverse cultures through lighting displays representing each garden
- Nightly Entertainment: Enjoy live music and cultural performances during the event
- Holiday Lights Tour: Guided tours of the gardens to learn about their histories and significance
9. The Cleveland Monster's Winter Classic Game
Watch the Cleveland Monsters hockey team play outdoors at FirstEnergy Stadium.
- Outdoor Hockey Experience: Experience a unique outdoor hockey game in Cleveland
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: A fun, family-oriented event with activities and entertainment
- Food and Beverages: Enjoy food and beverages from local vendors throughout the game
10. Cleveland's Winter Solstice Parade
Join the city in celebrating the winter solstice with a vibrant and eclectic parade.
- Community Celebration: A beloved annual event bringing together Cleveland's diverse communities
- Artistic Expressions: Includes elaborate costumes, puppets, and floats from local artists
- Cultural Performances: Showcases traditional dances, music, and performances from various cultures
11. A Christmas Story House & Museum's Holiday Lights
Experience the magic of 'A Christmas Story' with a holiday lights display at the museum and house.
- Film-Themed Decorations: Features iconic scenes from the movie, decorated for the season
- Scavenger Hunt: Participate in a scavenger hunt to find props and characters from the film
- Museum Access: Includes access to the museum's exhibit detailing the making of the film
12. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo's Wild Winter Lights
Wander through the zoo after dark as it comes alive with stunning light displays and animal sculptures.
- Animal Sculptures: Life-sized light sculptures of animals throughout the zoo
- Nighttime Safari: A unique nighttime exploration of the zoo's grounds
- Seasonal Food and Drink: Enjoy warm beverages, snacks, and other festive treats
13. Cleveland Ballet's The Nutcracker Performance
Watch a spectacular performance of Tchaikovsky's 'The Nutcracker' by Cleveland Ballet.
- Classical Ballet: Experience the beauty and grace of classical ballet
- Holiday Tradition: A cherished holiday tradition in Cleveland
- Live Orchestra: Performed with a live orchestra, enhancing the performance's magic
14. Cleveland Museum of Natural History's Wild Lights
Explore the museum after dark as it transforms into a winter wonderland with stunning light displays.
- Natural History Themes: Includes light displays inspired by dinosaurs, sea creatures, and other natural wonders
- Nighttime Safari: A unique nighttime exploration of the museum's exhibits
- Seasonal Food and Drink: Enjoy warm beverages, snacks, and other festive treats
15. Cleveland's New Year's Eve Fireworks on the Flats
Ring in the New Year with a dazzling fireworks display over the Cuyahoga River.
- New Year's Celebration: A festive way to welcome the New Year in Cleveland
- Fireworks Viewing: Excellent viewing locations along the Cuyahoga River
- Music and Entertainment: Live music and entertainment leading up to the fireworks show