Winter break is a great time to relax, recharge, and explore new things. As a student staying in town for break, you may be wondering how to spend your time off.
Luckily, there are plenty of things to do in Columbus, that are perfect for college students and young adults alike. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ways to spend your winter break in the area:
Explore the City
One of the best ways to spend your winter break in Columbus is to explore the city.
There are plenty of attractions and landmarks to check out, including the Ohio Statehouse, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Additionally, the city is home to a vibrant food scene, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks to try out.
If you’re looking for a more active way to explore the city, consider renting a bike from CoGo Bike Share or taking a hike on one of the many trails at the nearby Metro Parks. The Olentangy Trail, in particular, is a popular spot for hiking, running, and biking.
Winter Activities
Winter is a great time to embrace the cold weather and try out some winter activities. One of the most popular winter activities in Columbus is ice skating. The OhioHealth Ice Haus, located in the Arena District, offers public skating sessions throughout the winter break.
Another popular winter activity is sledding. There are plenty of great spots to sled in Columbus, including the hills at Highbanks Metro Park and Goodale Park. Just be sure to check the weather conditions before heading out, as some parks may close due to inclement weather.
If you’re looking for a more unique winter activity, consider visiting the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium for their Wildlights event. The event features millions of LED lights, animated light shows, and festive decorations throughout the zoo.
Sports and Fitness
Staying active during the winter break is important for both physical and mental health, studies show. Luckily, there are plenty of sports and fitness options in Columbus. Ohio State University’s Recreation and Physical Activity Center (RPAC) is open during the winter break and offers a variety of fitness classes and activities for students.
If you’re a fan of sports, consider attending a Columbus Blue Jackets hockey game or a Columbus Crew soccer game. Both teams play home games throughout the winter break, and tickets are affordable for students.
For a more low-key fitness option, consider visiting one of Columbus’s many yoga studios or fitness centers. Some popular options include Yoga on High, CorePower Yoga, and Orangetheory Fitness.
Volunteering and Community Service
Winter break is also a great time to give back to the community and volunteer your time. There are plenty of opportunities for volunteering and community service in Columbus.
Consider volunteering at the Mid-Ohio Foodbank or the Habitat for Humanity ReStore.
Another great way to give back to the community is by participating in a holiday toy drive or food drive. Many organizations, such as the Salvation Army and local churches, organize toy and food drives during the winter break.
Relax and Recharge
Finally, it’s important to remember to take some time to relax and recharge during the winter break. After a busy semester, taking some time for self-care is crucial. Consider booking a spa day at one of Columbus’s many spas, such as Woodhouse Day Spa or The Spa at River Ridge.
Another great way to relax and recharge is by catching up on your favorite TV shows or movies. Columbus is home to several movie theaters, such as the Gateway Film Center and the AMC Lennox Town Center, where you can catch the latest releases or classic films.
If you prefer staying in, consider hosting a movie marathon with friends or catching up on some reading. The Columbus Metropolitan Library has several branches throughout the city, and their online library offers access to thousands of eBooks and audiobooks.
Winter break is a great time to explore, stay active, give back to the community, and recharge. As an OSU student, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your time off in Columbus.
From exploring the city to trying out winter activities and staying active, there’s something for everyone. Remember to take some time to relax and recharge as well. With this guide, you’re sure to have a fun and fulfilling winter break in Columbus.