By Meg Berno
Posted On: Nov 12, 2021
Whether you're already in the holiday spirit or seeking a quick trip to inspire your holiday cheer, read on for your getaway inspiration! From unique overnights to winter wonderlands and even Christmas all-year-round, you'll find it here in Ohio!
Northeast
Stay: Surround yourself with all things Christmas when you stay in the Mr. Kringle Suite at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown. The suite features not one - but two! Christmas trees fully decorated, holiday-inspired games for you to play during your stay and velvet bedding in those classic Christmas colors.
Eat: Grab a cup of java to start your holiday getaway from a local coffee shop, like Milk + Honey. For your evening out, try Marble Room - known for it's steaks. It'll serve up an elegant dinner perfect for a cozy vacation. Or head over to the Rowley Inn before your visit to an iconic Christmas movie attraction.
Visit: Not only was part of the holiday movie classic A Christmas Story filmed in Ohio, you can visit the house. Walk through the rooms and tour the museum to feel like you're right in the movie. Don't forget to check out their gift shop for stocking stuffers or to get your very own leg lamp! For even more holiday fun, book an overnight stay at A Christmas Story House or the Bumpus House.
Photo credit: Destination Dresden, Facebook
Southeast
Stay: Head to the hills for a picturesque stay at The Inn at Dresden. As the former home of Dave Longaberger - founder of the Longaberger Company - the 9,000 square foot inn connects you to an iconic piece of Ohio. The beauty and charm of the house, along with its 10 guest rooms, means you'll experience stunning craftsmanship during you trip. And a stunning view is always a plus during Ohio's wintery season.
Bonus: Before you head out, stop by Smore Baskets and do some holiday shopping. This festive store features a variety of home decor, gifts and ornaments that'll make the perfect present. If you're around on Dec. 4, pop over for Dresden's Home for the Holidays Parade. Maybe you'll catch a glimpse of Santa during the event!
Eat: Make your way to nearby Zanesville for Bistro B In The Square. With dishes made using the best seasonal fruits and veggies, you'll enjoy a delicious savory meal. If you're in the mood for something sweet, Giacomo's is the perfect spot to pickup a tasty treat.
Visit: Get into the holiday spirit thanks to A Storybook Christmas. This holiday season, several local businesses and attractions in Zanesville decorate according to their favorite holiday storybooks. You can also watch the Christmas Parade on Dec. 1 or visit Santa's House throughout December.
Northwest
Stay: Overnight at the Renaissance Toledo Downtown Hotel, which boasts amazing skyline and river views. During your stay, wonder at the Christmas Tree all light up in Promenade Park. If you're in town on the weekend of Nov. 19, you can catch the Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting that evening.
Eat: While you're at the hotel, enjoy a meal at their own Brim House Restaurant. You can order classic American cuisine, with an inspiring flare. If you're looking for a classic holiday drink, try The Wassail from Rustbelt Coffee - apple cider, spice, and all things cozy and nice.
Visit: If your holiday travels are taking you to Northwest Ohio, you won't want to miss Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center's Hayes Train Special in Fremont, where model trains run throughout intricate Victorian holiday scenes (opening day Nov. 26). If you're stopping by in December, check out Hayes Home Holidays: Spirit of Christmas. This event series features tours, tales and a cup of wassail.
Bonus: If you visit after Christmas, book a sleigh ride through Spiegel Grove, part of Hayes' beloved estate.
Photo credit: Welsh Hills Inn - Granville, OH, Facebook
Central
Stay: Enjoy a lavish, yet cozy retreat at the Welsh Hills Inn in Granville. This awarding-winning spot is popular among locals and out-of-town guests. With reclaimed wood floors, an array of artwork and antiques, plus special touches you can add onto your stay (like massages, yoga, a collection of local hand-made chocolates), you'll feel like you've found your own slice of Holiday respite.
If you're in town on Dec. 4, then explore this New England-style village during their Christmas Candlelight Walking Tour. Or simply stroll around the charming town that's been decorated to bring out the holiday cheer and see the Granville Village Tree.
Eat: Grab a memorable meal (and an overnight stay) at the Granville Inn or Buxton Inn – both iconic spots located right along Granville's bustling Broadway street. And in the morning, you can walk along this main stretch to pickup a cup of coffee from Village Coffee Company.
Visit: Head towards Columbus for Conservatory Aglow at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. You'll be transported to a holiday wonderland as you walk through the building and grounds that feature indoor and outdoor light installations, horticulture displays, and so much more.
Southwest
Stay: The 28-room Mills Park Hotel, just steps from the tiny downtown of Yellow Springs, is a picturesque retreat for the holidays. Modeled after the 19th century of William Mills (who came to this charming town in 1827), its character adds a special touch to your getaway. If you stay runs through the second week of December, check out their Brunch with Santa special event on Dec. 12 for more holiday fun.
Eat: You can always dine at Ellie's Restaurant, which is part of the Mills Park Hotel. Or head on over to Yellow Springs Brewery and try a draft of Magical Moments - a Winter Warmer Ale ideal for holiday sipping and reminiscing.
Visit: For your evening entertainment, don't miss the nearby Legendary Lights of Historic Clifton Mill which have dazzled visitors for over 30 years with more than 3 million lights (including a must-see, 100-foot waterfall of lights). You can also make it a whole getaway experience when you stop into their restaurant. Or book a special holiday package with the Mills Park Hotel. Don't forget to check out their Country Store so you buy some freshly made pancake mix or flour for your holiday baking!
Bonus
Stay: Feel like you're in a romantic holiday movie when you stay at Landoll's Mohican Castle in Loudonville. This breathtaking castle places you in the heart of your own fairytale filled with holiday magic. Relax with spa services to pamper away all that holiday shopping stress.
You can also have Breakfast with Santa, if you book your stay in December. Landoll's is hosting three delicious breakfasts with the man in red on Dec. 5, 12 and 19. The castle will be decorate for the holiday, marking the return of their popular Christmas at the Castle. From Nov. 26 - Dec. 31, you'll be able to stroll the grounds which are decorated with over 100,000 lights and several Christmas tress.
Eat: Keep the magic going by booking a table at The Copper Mug. Landoll's restaurant offers dishes for everyone's taste. Or head off the castle grounds and check out Black Fork Bistro. This recently opened restaurant along downtown Loudonville's Main Street has a can't-miss exterior and welcoming vibe.
Visit: Pop over to Malabar State Park Fram in Lucas for a tour of the Louis Bromfield Big House. The author's home sits atop one of Ohio's most serene State Parks. You can enjoy hiking several trails there, and in the winter, it's possible to enjoy in sledding, snow-shoeing and cross-country skiing.
For more #OhioForTheHolidays inspiration, check out #OhioFindItHere at Ohio.org.
