The temperatures may be dropping in Columbus, but the possibilities for entertainment are hot around the city. Take a break from winter hibernation, and heat up your season with a range of winter activities.
Get sporty:
Columbus Blue Jackets: Grab your jerseys and head to Nationwide Arena for some icy fun. The NHL team plays throughout the winter and into the spring season. Hit the town for the big game, or cozy up and cheer them on from the comfort of your home.
Columbus Fury: 2025 marks the second season for the Pro Volleyball Federation, and The Columbus Fury is one of seven teams to compete in this groundbreaking season. Come cheer on this new team at their home opener at Nationwide Arena on January 11, or catch another one of their 14 home games this season.
Skate around the city:
Whether you’re looking to brace the cold at an outdoor rink or skate away indoors, there are multiple rinks to explore:
- Dublin Ice Rink at Riverside Crossing: 6635 Riverside Dr., Dublin
- Blendon Woods: 4265 E Dublin Granville Rd.
- Battelle Darby Creek: 3711 Gardner Rd., Georgesville
- Delaware State Park: 5202 US Route 23 N., Delaware
- Orange Township Glen Oak Park: 7126 Blue Holly Dr.
- Victory Park Ice Rink: 100 Lockville Rd., Pickerington
- Coffman Park Ice Rink: 5200 Emerald Parkway, Dublin
- Obetz Ice Rink: 4390 Lancaster Ave., Obetz
- The Ohio State University Ice Rink: 390 Woody Hayes Dr.
Date night:
Land-Grant Brewing’s Wintergarden: Whether you’re looking to sip on your favorite IPA in style or feed your athletic side, Land-Grant’s seasonal wonderland is the perfect destination. Book a lane to curl with friends, bring your competitive edge to the ice with Ice Bumper Cars or get cozy in a Beer Garden Igloo – the Wintergarden has it all.
Lumin Sky Bar and Kitchen: Unlock good views in igloos on the top floor of the AC Hotel Columbus Downtown. When you reserve an igloo, you can experience the best views of the city while cozying up with a delicious cocktail.
Sled the day away:
Grab your best sleds and take the kids out for an adventure at these sledding spots:
- Battelle Darby Creek: 8645 Alkire Rd., Galloway
- Clinton-Como Park: 301 W. Pacemont Rd., Clintonville
- Fryer Park: 3899 Orders Rd., Grove City
- Quarry Trails Metro Park: 2600 Dublin Rd.
- Scioto Park: 7377 Riverside Dr., Dublin
- Sharon Woods Metro Park: 6911 Cleveland Ave., Westerville
Winter Events:
Winter Ice Festival: Franklin Park Conservatory’s Winter Ice Festival, happening January 16–20, features exciting evening events on January 17 and 18, including Fire & Ice, a competitive ice carving showdown from 6:30–8 p.m. Guests can enjoy nightly ice skating on a synthetic rink, photo ops with ice sculptures, food trucks, drinks, and fun activities like winter crafts and games. For a cozy retreat, explore the tropical Orchid exhibition indoors, blending warmth with winter magic.
Wonderball 2025: Join the Columbus Museum of Art on January 25 for Wonderball 2025, a vibrant celebration of creativity featuring black-and-white fashion, live performances, art and music. This year’s theme, Reflection, invites attendees to incorporate turquoise accents, metallic fabrics or layered textures into their attire, symbolizing harmony and introspection.
NHL Stadium Series at Ohio Stadium: Watch the Columbus Blue Jackets face the Detroit Red Wings at the Ohio Stadium on March 1.
Megan Brokamp is a contributing writer at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.
