It’s that magical time of year when you can hop in the car and explore the rural, wintry landscape of Union County. Marysville and our surrounding small towns are filled with cold-weather fun, so bundle up, winter is one of the very best times to visit! While some may stay inside waiting for spring, let this be your invitation to get out and experience the many things to do in Union County this season.

See Two Covered Bridges with Christmas Lights

Merry and bright perfectly describe the Pottersburg and Bigelow Covered Bridges during the holiday season. Grab your hat and mittens, take a scenic drive into the countryside, and capture Instagram-worthy photos at these festive landmarks. While you’re there, take a moment to read the historical markers to learn more about each bridge’s storied past.

Visit Festive Fun Throughout Union County

Each small town in the area puts on its best Christmas decorations and decks the streets with bright lights

Each town in Union County goes all-out for the holidays.
Plain City transforms its downtown with a large, beautifully lit Christmas tree and hosts its beloved Christmas Under the Clock celebration. Before you head out, be sure to drive through the free light display at Pastime Park.

Richwood lights up it's lake with a charming light display and a fun event for the family you can't miss with Christmas in the Village.

Marysville brings the magic to life early with Christmas Walk in Uptown. Visit Santa, grab a hot chocolate from one of the local coffee shops, admire the decorated storefronts, and check those last gifts off your holiday list.

Take a Spin on the Iceless Skating Rink

Merry on Main returns for another season, and what better way to spend the afternoon? Kids of all ages can enjoy this winter fun for free during regular operating hours. Laughter and merriment fill the air as kids race around the iceless skating rink. While the kids play, adults can warm themselves by the heaters and enjoy the decorated Christmas tree, Santa’s house, festive music, and stunning Christmas lights.

Pro-tip: What is an iceless skating rink? Instead of real ice, the rink is constructed of synthetic/fake ice panels. Synthetic ice consists of connected polymer plastic sheets that are treated with a special additive to reduce surface friction. Since its creation in the 1960s, synthetic ice has become a popular training tool for hockey players and figure skaters alike.

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Build a Gingerbread Covered Bridge

Make lasting memories throughout the holiday season with a new take on a gingerbread tradition. If you have fallen in love with the covered bridges, make your own with the delightful kits that can be purchased at Kitschen Bakery.

Pro-tip: Grab your kit early! Once these gingerbread covered bridge kits are gone, they won’t be back until the next holiday season!

Take a Winter Family Weekend Getaway

One of the best ways to enjoy winter is a getaway in rural America. Stay and play in Union County for a fun family weekend in central Ohio. Just a short drive from Marysville’s well-appointed hotels is the Columbus Zoo Wildlights where you can visit the animals and give Santa your Christmas wish list. If your crew loves the outdoors, go for a winter hike on the 1.2 mile nature trail located at Maclvor Woods. A winter horseback ride at Marmon Valley Farm during “Christmas on the Farm” is the perfect family activity.

Enjoy a holiday classic at the newly opened Avalon Theater. Experience an evening of family fun while munching on popcorn and watching one of the movies playing during the month of December.

Pro-tip: Find more information about the hotels here

Stroll and Shop Uptown Marysville

If Norman Rockwell could choose a holiday town to paint, Marysville would surely make the list. Historic Uptown twinkles with lights and seasonal décor, making it the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of shopping.

Park at Partners Park and explore a collection of stylish boutiques and specialty shops.

  • Betsy’s Boutique blends Midwest style with unique finds

  • Union Station offers naturally crafted gifts made in Ohio from over 80 vendors.

  • Plumm House has one-of-a-kind vintage treasures and handmade gifts

You’ll find something for everyone on your list.

Go Skiing or Snow Tubing at Mad River Mountain

Adrenaline junkies unite! Plan a thrilling winter weekend experiencing Mad River Mountain for a day or night of skiing down central Ohio’s slopes. Mad River has been a staple for “snow fun” for years and continues to be one of central Ohio’s go-to places. If skiing is not your thing, check out the tubing park. Tickets are for as much tubing as you can get in during your two-hour time slot.

Pro-tip: Warm up the family in the Mad River Cafe, and if you are 21+, have a few signature cocktails at The Loft while watching the skiers from Mad River’s iconic view.

With so many winter experiences for every type of traveler, Union County and its small towns offer a holiday season that you’ll remember—and want to return to—for years to come.