The Ultimate Guide to the Legendary Lights of Clifton Mill (2025)

Everything You Need to Know — Hours, Tips, Things to Do Nearby & Where to Stay

Few holiday traditions in Ohio are as iconic — or as magical — as the Legendary Lights of Clifton Mill. Tucked along the Little Miami River in the tiny village of Clifton, the historic 1802 grist mill transforms each winter into one of the most spectacular Christmas light displays in Ohio. With over five million lights, a sparkling covered bridge, a synchronized light show, and a whimsical miniature village, Clifton Mill has become a must-see holiday attraction for families across Ohio and beyond.

If you’re planning a trip this season, this guide covers everything you need to know — including 2025 hours and admission, where to park, insider tips, nearby attractions, restaurant ideas, and the best places to stay to turn your visit into a festive overnight getaway.

Why Clifton Mill Lights Is One of Ohio’s Best Holiday Attractions

The Legendary Lights of Clifton Mill isn’t just a light display — it’s a full Christmas experience. What originally began with 100,000 lights in the late 1980s has grown into one of the Midwest’s largest and most enchanting holiday shows and earned a place on Ohio’s Holiday Light Trail.

Here’s what makes it so special:

Five Million Christmas Lights

Every corner of the grounds glows — from the mill itself to the riverbanks, trees, cliffside, and historic covered bridge. The result is a glowing winter wonderland unlike anything else in Ohio.

Famous “Waterfall of Lights”

This is one of the most photographed spots at the mill — thousands of lights cascade down the side of the gorge like shimmering water. My daughter claimed this was her favorite part of the display!

Covered Bridge Synchronized Light Show

Every hour on the hour, the covered bridge comes alive with dancing lights perfectly timed to holiday music. It’s a guest favorite and worth the wait to see.

Tip: They do an announcement throughout the property, alerting guests that the show will begin soon.

Miniature Village

Kids love spotting tiny homes, railroads, shops, and holiday scenes in this incredibly detailed display. Trains run through the village, tiny lights flicker in miniature homes, and there’s something new to discover at every turn.

Santa Museum

Inside, you’ll find one of the largest private Santa collections in the country — from vintage figurines to historic ornaments. It was a walk down memory lane as we saw the nostalgic Santas my grandparents had, and even some that have stayed in the family over the years.

Small-Town Holiday Charm

Clifton is a tiny village, but that’s precisely why the lights stand out. The backdrop of a real working historic mill adds a storybook feel to the entire experience.

Santa’s Workshop

Kids of all ages will want to visit Santa in his workshop! While Santa doesn’t receive any visitors inside his workshop, he will wave through the windows and interact with guests. After December 24th, Santa departs for the North Pole.

Where Exactly Is Clifton Mill?

Clifton Mill is located in the tiny village of Clifton, Ohio, just minutes from:

• Yellow Springs (5 minutes)
• Cedarville (10 minutes)
• Springfield (15 minutes)
• Dayton (30 minutes)
• Columbus (1 hour)
• Cincinnati (1.25 hours)**

Address: 75 Water St., Clifton, OH 45316

It’s easy to pair your trip with a day of hiking, shopping, or small-town exploring.

Note: Pets are not allowed at Clifton Mill Lights.

Clifton Mill Lights 2025 Hours, Admission & Parking

Planning ahead makes your visit smooth and stress-free. Here’s what to expect in 2025:

Hours

Clifton Mill Lights are open daily from November 28 to December 30, 2025
(Closed Christmas Eve at 8 PM; closed December 31)

• Gates open: 5:00 PM
• Lights on: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• On Christmas Eve & Christmas Day: lights close at 8:00 PM

Admission

• $15 per person (ages 4+)
• Kids under 3 are free
• Cash is fastest at the gate, although cards are accepted

Parking

• Parking is free
• Lots can fill quickly on weekends — weeknights are much calmer. You can find parking at nearby lots for $10 cash or look for street parking.

Food & Drinks

Available most nights (except Christmas Eve/Day), including:

• Hot chocolate
• Fresh cookies & pie
• Hot dogs, sloppy joes & BBQ sandwiches
• Coffee & warm drinks
• Limited indoor seating

Tips for Visiting Clifton Mill Lights

1. Visit on a weeknight for smaller crowds

Monday–Thursday is ideal. Weekend lines can be long, especially as Christmas approaches. Saturday evenings are the most crowded.

2. Arrive early for the best view

If you’re there right when the gates open at 5 PM, you can explore the grounds before the crowds arrive — and be ready for the lights to switch on at 6 PM.

3. Don’t miss the hourly light show on the covered bridge

It happens once every hour on the hour — easy to miss if you’re inside the Santa museum or by the miniature village.

4. Dress warmly

This experience is mostly outdoors and right by the water, which means the temperature can feel a few degrees colder. Don’t forget to pack some Hand Warmers!

5. Bring a stroller-friendly mindset

The paths are paved but can be crowded. A small stroller works better than a bulky one.

6. Bring cash for quicker entry

Credit cards are accepted, but cash lines move faster.

7. Give yourself 1.5–2 hours

There’s plenty to explore — especially if you want to watch the light show more than once.

8. Take photos early

Once the lights switch on, photography areas can get busy. Arriving early lets you take those postcard-perfect holiday pictures before the crowds.

Things to Do Near Clifton Mill Lights

Clifton is surrounded by some of Ohio’s best parks, holiday activities, and charming towns. If you’re making this a weekend getaway, here are excellent options:

Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve (1 minute away)

This stunning gorge runs right behind Clifton Mill. If you visit during the day, walk the trail for dramatic cliff walls, rushing water, and gorgeous views.

2. John Bryan State Park (3 minutes away)

One of the most scenic state parks in Ohio.
Great for:

• Short winter hikes
• Photography
• Exploring the rim of the gorge
• Daytime picnics

3. Explore Yellow Springs (5 minutes away)

This artsy small town is one of Ohio’s most vibrant communities, filled with:

• Eclectic boutiques
• Local art shops
• Coffee houses
• Craft breweries
• Resturants
• Street murals

Holiday events often include pop-up markets, gallery walks, and festive storefronts. For a festive dinner, head to the Mill Park Hotel to see all the holiday decor and make reservations at Ellie’s before heading to the mill!

4. Young’s Jersey Dairy (10–12 minutes)

Open year-round, this family-favorite stop features:

• Ice cream
• Comfort-food café
• Holiday gift shop
• Mini-golf & family activities (weather-permitting)

5. Glen Helen Nature Preserve ( 2-3 minutes)

A must-visit for nature lovers! Glen Helen is a beautiful, peaceful preserve with over 20 miles of trails, small waterfalls, towering trees, and the famous Yellow Spring that gave the village its name.
Don’t miss:

• The Inman Trail, perfect for families
• The springs and cascades tucked into the forest
• See the Yellow Spring that the town is named after.
• Winter wildlife spotting and quiet scenic overlooks
• Don’t miss the Raptor Center

It’s an ideal day activity before heading to the lights — and one of the best photography spots in the entire region.

Tip: There is a $10 fee to park or you can walk/bike to the preserve for free!

Where to Stay Near Clifton Mill

If you’re visiting from Cincinnati, Cleveland, or Columbus, making this an overnight trip is a wonderful holiday getaway. Here are nearby options for every travel style:

Mills Park Hotel

Built to resemble the 19th-century home of William Mills, The Mills Park Hotel offers guests a luxurious overnight experience with top-notch hospitality. The 28-bed boutique hotel hosts a full-service restaurant, banquet hall, and gift shop. All with a whimsical touch of Corgi.

During the holidays, the Mills Park Hotel becomes a magical holiday escape with beautiful decor and festive events.

Take an inside look at the Mills Park Hotel.

The Wildflower House

Directly across the street from the Mills Park Hotel, guests can rent The Wildflower House. A spacious vacation rental that sleeps up to 10 guests and is full of historic charm. Just steps away from local cafes, galleries, trails, and everything this vibrant town has to offer, the Wildflower House is perfect for those looking for a group getaway.

Sample 1-Day & 2-Day Holiday Itinerary

1-Day Clifton Mill Holiday Trip

Afternoon:

• Explore Yellow Springs (shops + coffee)
• Stop at Young’s Dairy for a snack or early dinner

Evening:

• Arrive at Clifton Mill by 5:30 PM
• Lights turn on at 6 PM — enjoy the magic!
• Watch the covered bridge light show
• Explore the miniature village & Santa museum
• Grab hot chocolate for the walk out

2-Day Holiday Getaway Itinerary

Day 1:

• Arrive in Yellow Springs in the early afternoon
• Check in at your lodging
• Walk shops + grab dinner at Ellie’s or Ye Old Town Tavern
• Drive to Clifton Mill by 6:00 PM
• Enjoy the lights until closing

Day 2:

• Breakfast in downtown Yellow Springs – We recommend Sunrise Cafe
• Morning hike at John Bryan State Park or Clifton Gorge
• Lunch at Trail Town Brewing
• Head home with your memory cards full

Want to add more to your Yellow Springs Itinerary? Check out this list of 15 Awesome Things To Do in Yellow Springs, Ohio.

Whether it’s your first visit or a cherished annual tradition, the Legendary Lights of Clifton Mill is an unforgettable way to celebrate the holiday season. From the glowing mill reflecting off the river to the charming miniature village and festive music dancing across the covered bridge, every moment feels like stepping inside a Christmas postcard.

If you’re searching for the best holiday lights in Ohio, Clifton Mill Lights absolutely belong on your list this year.

Don’t Miss These Great Holiday Getaways

A Festive Holiday Guide To Salt Fork Lake Lodge: Ohio’s Coziest Winter Getaway

A Winter Escape To Hotel Carmichael and Carmel’s Christkindlmarkt

Save This Post For Later