Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes, explore quaint small towns, or indulge in cozy cabin getaways, there are endless options for winter road trips within a few hours’ drive of Cincinnati. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best weekend getaways from Cincinnati during the winter season, providing you with plenty of inspiration and ideas for your next adventure.
If you’re looking for a winter wonderland escape, then a road trip from Cincinnati to the mountains is just what you need. Just a few hours’ drive away, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking snow-covered peaks, serene landscapes, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
One popular destination for winter enthusiasts is Gatlinburg in the Smoky Mountains. From skiing and snowboarding at Ober Gatlinburg to exploring the charming downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and cozy cabins, this mountain town has something for everyone.
There are endless attractions and plenty of fun things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids of all ages. You can even go indoor snow tubing! Pigeon Forge is the perfect place to make lasting memories, cozy up in a mountain chalet, soak in the hot tub, and take in the snowy views of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.
Discover these 25 Fun Things To Do In Pigeon Forge, TN
For a truly unique winter experience, head to Hocking Hills in Ohio to stay in a hobbit-inspired cabin. If a hobbit hole isn’t your speed, there are plenty of unique and traditional lodging options throughout the Hocking Hills area.
Our guide to cozy cabin stays can help you find a few cabins that we have personally visited and loved!
Hocking Hills is a nature lover’s paradise. Still, it especially shines in the winter, when it is coated in frost and frozen waterfalls, and the peaceful stillness of the winter air surrounds you.
This 3-day itinerary will guide you through the best hikes, scenic spots, and activities to maximize your time in Hocking Hills. From exploring caves to checking out the Hocking Hills Children’s Museum, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful region of Ohio. So grab your hiking boots and camera, and prepare for an unforgettable weekend adventure in Hocking Hills!
Nestled amidst a serene forest, the rustic Great Ohio Lodges beckon visitors with an enchanting rustic charm. Cozy leather couches by a crackling of the fireplace welcome travelers, while the floor-length windows showcase a wintery wonderland.
Great Ohio Lodges are a favorite escape for travelers of all kinds. Families will love their indoor pools and game rooms, couples can sneak off for a romantic dinner at their onsite restaurants, while friends can gather together to catch up or have a game night!
Many of the lodges have undergone beautiful and much-needed renovations in 2024 and 2025, including Hueston Woods and Salt Fork Lodge. Many even offer cabin rentals and pet-friendly options.
Known for its iconic Arch, which symbolizes the Gateway to the West, St. Louis offers a weekend full of adventures, including the unique City Museum, cold Budweiser beers, and top-notch attractions.
Forty-eight hours in St. Louis is not nearly enough time to see everything the city has to offer. Luckily for you, we’ve put together this guide on the best things to see, do, and eat when visiting Mound City.
Fun fact: it received the nickname Mound City because the indigenous people built many major earthworks within the city’s boundaries.
Known as Michigan’s “Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth is full of activities and attractions for the whole family. You will want to spend a few days exploring this magical town that appears to have popped out of a Hallmark movie.
Grab a cold beer at Michigan’s oldest brewery, tour a working historic farm, or visit Brommers, the world’s largest Christmas Store. Don’t forget to stay at Michigan’s largest indoor waterpark. There are tons of fun things to do in Frankenmuth, MI.
Get our guide to Frankenmuth, Michigan, and start planning out your winter escape!
Columbus, Ohio, is a great spot to spend the day or a weekend. Known for its thriving arts scene, this city is home to world-class museums, galleries, and theaters. Stroll through the Short North Arts District, where you’ll find local artists showcasing their work, or catch a performance at the historic Ohio Theatre.
Food enthusiasts will find that Columbus has upped its gastronomical game with many acclaimed chefs and award-winning restaurants. Take a food tour or plan your own tour to taste all that Columbus has to offer.
Families will love exploring COSI, Otherworld, Legoland, and the Franklin Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Those brave enough to face the cold can even venture to the Columbus Zoo!
Explore the world’s largest and longest cave system by experiencing Mammoth Cave National Park. Stroll through the vast caverns of this natural wonder by participating in various tours for all types of adventurers.
Mammoth Cave makes a great winter activity because temperatures inside the cave stay a balmy 54 degrees year-round
Sign up for one of their guided cave tours, explore the visitors center, or tackle on the park’s many trails for a winter hike.
For even more caving adventures, dip down into Bowling Green, KY, to go to Lost River Cave!
Visiting Cleveland in the wintertime is truly magical. While adventures on Lake Erie are on hold till warmer weather, winter is the perfect time to discover world-class museums throughout the city.
Step into the world-renowned Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame Museum, stroll the Cleveland Museum of Art galleries, or check out the newly renovated Museum of Natural History. Cleveland’s stunning parks and trails transform into a winter wonderland for those who love the outdoors, ideal for enjoying activities like ice skating or snowshoeing. Additionally, the city is renowned for its delectable food scene, featuring diverse cuisines and cozy restaurants where one can warm up with a delicious meal.
Tip: Check your current museum memberships to see if there is an opportunity to use reciprocity!
For those who have a fondness for history and a yearning for a relaxing winter getaway, the Midwest is dotted with charming towns that offer a glimpse into the past. Just a short drive from Cincinnati, you can immerse yourself in the rich history and unique character of these hidden gems.
One destination that should be on your list is Madison, Indiana. Located on the banks of the Ohio River, this small town is home to a well-preserved collection of historic buildings and sites. Take a stroll through the Madison Historic District, which boasts over 133 blocks of beautifully restored homes and mansions. Don’t miss the Lanier Mansion State Historic Site, a Greek Revival-style mansion that offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of a wealthy 19th-century family.
If you’re looking for a town that feels like stepping back in time, head to Marietta, Ohio. Nestled along the banks of the Muskingum River, this picturesque town is known for its well-preserved architecture and charming downtown area. Take a tour of the Castle, a grand Victorian mansion that offers a glimpse into the opulent past of the town’s residents. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Ohio River Museum and learn about the region’s rich riverboat history.
Another historic destination that is worth a visit is Old Washington, Kentucky. This small town is known for its beautifully preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings, many of which are open to the public as museums and shops. Take a stroll down Main Street and immerse yourself in the town’s rich history. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Washington Opera House, which has been a cultural and social hub for over 150 years.
These quaint towns offer a perfect winter retreat for history enthusiasts. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on a weekend getaway that will transport you back in time. Discover the Midwest’s hidden historical treasures and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Winter in Lake County, Ohio, transforms the region into a picturesque wonderland, inviting adventurers and families alike to explore its seasonal charm. With a diverse array of activities, from snowshoeing and cross-country skiing at the scenic Lake Metroparks to cozying up at local wineries for tastings and fireside gatherings, there’s something for everyone.
Discover what we did during our winter visit in our Winter Lake County Guide!
We hope these Winter Weekend Road Trips from Cincinnati will help inspire a few fun getaways this coming year!
Looking for more winter weekend getaway ideas:
10 Reasons To Attend the Richmond Meltdown Festival
A Last Minute Getaway To Shawnee Lodge
A Guide To Perfect North Slopes
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