Columbus, Ohio, makes for an ideal home base for all your winter adventures! Just a short drive from some of Ohio’s top winter destinations like Snow Trails and Mad River Mountain, it’s the perfect spot for a seasonal getaway. After a day on the slopes, head back to the city and enjoy a buzzing mix of restaurants, bars, live music, sporting events and more!
Snow Trails
Located near Mansfield and roughly one hour from downtown Columbus, Snow Trails is an excellent spot for skiing near Columbus. This resort offers skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing for all skills! Ideal snow conditions are maintained from December through mid-March.
No gear? No worries! Snow Trails provides equipment rentals and lessons tailored for beginners eager to hit the slopes. On select evenings, enjoy live entertainment at the cozy Snowflake Loft. For added convenience, the resort features a fully stocked ski shop and two on-site restaurants to round out your experience.
Vertical Descent Tubing Park
Vertical Descent Tubing Park, part of the Snow Trails family, is the ultimate destination for tubing and sledding fun. With a perfectly groomed hill and a convenient conveyor belt to whisk you to the top, you can enjoy endless rides without the hassle. This exciting winter activity requires no experience, making it perfect for all ages.
For an added thrill, try Glow Tubing after dark, where colorful lights illuminate the lanes for a magical nighttime experience. Glow Tubing is available at dusk, Thursdays through Sundays —don’t miss it!
Mad River Mountain
Mad River Mountain, Ohio’s largest ski and snowboard resort, also features an exciting tubing park. Located in Zanesfield, just about an hour from downtown Columbus, this winter destination is a favorite for locals and visitors. The resort offers lessons, equipment rentals and the thrill of night skiing. Bubly Tubing Park provides endless fun for all ages, with a conveyor belt that takes you to the top of the hill for quick and easy access.
Winter Hotels in Columbus
After a day on the slopes, settle into one of Columbus’ best stays, each offering something unique.
The Junto: This boutique hotel blends modern design with thoughtful amenities, featuring on-site dining options like Little West Tavern and Maudine’s for craft cocktails and coffee. Its location near the Scioto Mile puts you close to parks, museums and winter events.
Hotel LeVeque: Set inside the historic LeVeque Tower, this upscale hotel offers Art Deco elegance, luxurious bedding and skyline views. The celestial-inspired décor and in-room telescopes make it a standout stay in downtown Columbus.
Drury Plaza Hotel: A top pick for families, this hotel offers spacious rooms, complimentary hot breakfast and an evening kickback with drinks and snacks. It’s within walking distance of Nationwide Arena, perfect for hockey and volleyball fans and concertgoers.
Hilton Columbus Downtown: This sleek, art-filled hotel is home to Stories on High, Columbus’ tallest rooftop bar, offering panoramic city views. Located in the Short North Arts District, it’s surrounded by top restaurants, art galleries and winter events.
Beyond the Slopes: Columbus Winter Attractions
Columbus itself is home to lots of winter fun! After a day of skiing, enjoy a vibrant restaurant scene and fun activities for the whole family.
If sports are your thing, take in a hockey game with the Columbus Blue Jackets or a Columbus Fury match at Nationwide Arena. Stroll through Wanderlights, a free downtown light display that will be lit through Feb. 16, 2024.
Head to The Wintergarden at Land-Grant Extension for heated igloos, ice bumper cars and brewery curling. Pins Mechanical Company is home to duckpin bowling, arcade games, ping pong and more! It’s a great place to spend an evening with friends after a day on the slopes.
