Imagine cruising through Columbus’s most dazzling holiday displays aboard a fully enclosed, electric-assisted trolley. For just $45 per person, you’ll spend 2.5 hours exploring iconic neighborhoods like The Short North Pole, Arena District, and Downtown, with stops at Bicentennial Park and Columbus Commons. Led by a friendly and knowledgeable ECI Certified Trolley Captain, this tour combines the joy of the festive season with a relaxed, eco-friendly ride.
What truly makes this experience stand out is how it balances fun with practicality. We loved that it’s an enclosed trolley, meaning you’re warm and dry even in the middle of winter, so no need to bundle up excessively. Plus, the onboard stereo system lets you sing along with Christmas carols—adding a dash of holiday cheer to your outing. On the flip side, a potential downside is the minimum group size of six riders; if you’re planning solo or a small group, you might need to coordinate to meet that requirement.
This tour is ideal for families, friends, or couples looking for a relaxed, joyful way to soak up the holiday atmosphere. It’s especially appealing for those who love a bit of music and casual socializing, thanks to the BYOB policy and lively, festive vibe. If you’re visiting Columbus during the holiday season and want a unique, eco-friendly way to see the lights, this tour deserves a spot on your list.
Key Points
- Festive Neighborhoods: Explore The Short North Pole, Arena District, and Downtown Columbus’s best holiday displays.
- Eco-Friendly Ride: Fully enclosed, electric-assisted trolley ensures a warm, comfortable experience.
- Music & Cheer: Sing along to Christmas carols through the onboard stereo system.
- BYOB Convenience: Bring your own beer, wine, cider, or seltzers—no liquor or glass permitted.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with some seats for those with limited mobility.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
An Enchanting Spin Through the City’s Holiday Highlights
This tour offers a fantastic way to see Columbus’s holiday lights in a relaxed, social setting. Starting around 5:30 pm or 8:30 pm, depending on your chosen slot, the tour takes you on a pedal-assisted, electric trolley that is fully enclosed—an essential feature given Ohio’s chilly winter weather. The fully enclosed trolley not only keeps you warm but also provides a safe, climate-controlled environment to enjoy the sights in comfort.
As we rode through neighborhoods like The Short North Pole, we appreciated how this area transforms during the holidays, with twinkling lights and themed decorations. The Arena District dazzles with its festive displays, and Downtown Columbus offers a blend of historic architecture and vibrant holiday cheer. The stops at Bicentennial Park and Columbus Commons give you a chance to stretch your legs and admire beautifully lit public spaces without the hurried feel of a typical tour bus.
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What to Expect During the Tour
The itinerary is straightforward but thoughtfully organized. You’ll meet outside the red garage, where the crew checks everyone in and ensures all liability waivers are signed—important for peace of mind. Once onboard, the trolley — which comfortably seats 36 with five non-pedaling seats for those with limited mobility — begins to glide through Columbus’s illuminated streets.
Your ride features a Bluetooth stereo system, which allows everyone to sing along to Christmas favorites. We loved the way this added a playful, communal vibe to the evening. The full trolley enclosure from November through March means you stay cozy even if the weather turns chilly or snowy, and the small propane heater provides an extra warmth boost.
The Neighborhoods and Stops
- The Short North Pole: This trendy neighborhood practically transforms into a winter wonderland, with colorful light displays and festive window decorations. It’s a lively area, and the trolley’s proximity makes it easy to admire the lights without straying too far from your cozy ride.
- Arena District: Known for its professional sports teams and entertainment venues, this district’s holiday lights are impressive, with spectacular displays that reflect off the glass buildings and streets.
- Downtown Columbus: The glittering lights along the streets, paired with historic buildings and public parks, make downtown a perfect spot for holiday photos.
Stops at Bicentennial Park and Columbus Commons are highlights, as these parks host some of the most dramatic and thoughtfully curated light displays. Plus, you have the chance to hop off briefly for closer viewing, which is especially convenient given the small group size.
Why We Loved This Experience
One of the standouts was the ability to stay warm and dry thanks to the enclosed trolley. Unlike open-air trolley or bus rides, this feature allows you to focus solely on the lights and atmosphere, not the weather. Also, the BYOB policy adds a personal touch—whether you prefer a cider, wine, or beer, you can bring your favorite drink to toast the season. Just remember, no liquor or glass to keep things safe and legal.
The music aspect was another big hit. Singing along to Christmas carols with friends or family created a lively, joyful atmosphere that amplified the holiday spirit. Plus, the cost—$45 per person for 2.5 hours—feels quite reasonable considering the cozy, intimate experience and the number of neighborhoods covered.
More Great Tours NearbyConsiderations Before Booking
The main consideration is the minimum group size of six riders. If you’re traveling alone or as a couple, you might need to coordinate with others or join a group with a similar booking. Also, alcohol consumption is strictly regulated—you must be over 21 and adhere to the limits of 36oz of beer or 18oz of wine per person. No liquor, and no glass containers, to keep everyone safe.
Lastly, since tours are only scheduled in the evening, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a night-time ambiance. If you’re more of a daytime explorer, this might not fit your schedule.
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Who Is This Tour For?
This experience is perfect for groups of friends or families who want a relaxed, fun, and festive way to enjoy Columbus’s holiday lights. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate music, socializing, and a bit of creative freedom with BYOB. The eco-friendly electric trolley makes it a responsible choice for travelers mindful of their environmental impact. It’s also suitable for those with mobility needs, thanks to five non-pedaling seats.
If you’re looking for a laid-back, engaging, and comfortable way to see Columbus during the holiday season, this trolley tour checks most boxes. The cost-effective price, combined with the warm, enclosed environment and flexible booking policy, makes it a good value. The stops at notable neighborhoods and parks mean you’ll see a broad cross-section of the city’s festive spirit, with plenty of opportunities for photos and memories.
This tour is best suited for those who enjoy music, social interactions, and a casual sightseeing experience. It’s particularly appealing if you’re traveling during the winter months and want to avoid the cold while still soaking up the holiday cheer. Families with children, groups of friends, or couples looking for a cozy, memorable night out will find this experience a delightful way to celebrate the season.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy multiple neighborhoods and displays.
What neighborhoods does the tour visit?
You’ll explore The Short North Pole, Arena District, and Downtown Columbus, including stops at Bicentennial Park and Columbus Commons.
Is the trolley enclosed and heated?
Yes, the trolley is fully enclosed and has a small propane heater, making it comfortable in cold weather from November through March.
Can I bring alcoholic drinks?
Absolutely, it’s a BYOB experience—up to 36oz of beer or 18oz of wine per person—but no liquor or glass bottles are allowed. You must be over 21 to drink.
Are there seats for people with limited mobility?
Yes, the trolley has five non-pedaling seats suitable for those with mobility needs.
What should I bring?
Just your ID or passport for age verification, and your preferred drinks if you plan to bring alcohol. It’s also good to wear warm clothing given the outdoor stops.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans change.
This holiday lights tour combines the joy of sightseeing with the comfort of a cozy, eco-friendly ride, making it a memorable addition to your Columbus visit. Whether you’re celebrating with friends or family, it offers a friendly, festive way to enjoy the city’s winter sparkle.
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