Trolley Pub Holiday Lights Tour in Columbus

A Festive Ride Through Columbus’s Holiday Lights Scene

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy Columbus during the holiday season that’s both lively and relaxed, the Trolley Pub Holiday Lights Tour is worth considering. For just $30 per person, you get about 2 hours and 15 minutes of exploring some of Columbus’s most decorated neighborhoods, all from the comfort of an electric-assisted trolley. The tour covers The Short North Pole, the Arena District, Downtown, and stops at Bicentennial Park and Columbus Commons—two areas renowned for their stunning holiday displays.

What we love most about this experience is its casual, social vibe—you’re encouraged to bring your own drinks (beer, wine, cider, or seltzers—no glass or liquor), which means you can toast to the season as you glide past twinkling lights. Plus, the enclosed trolley ensures you stay warm and cozy, making it a perfect activity even in colder weather. Another highlight is the friendly, knowledgeable driver who keeps the atmosphere fun and informative, often adding interesting tidbits about the city’s holiday displays.

A potential consideration is dressing warmly, especially if temperatures dip, since most of the tour involves outdoor stops and open-air moments. Also, while the tour is family-friendly, alcoholic beverages are limited to those over 21, so it’s best suited for adult groups or families with older children.

This tour is ideal for locals wanting a festive night out, visitors seeking a relaxed way to see holiday lights, or groups of friends ready for some holiday cheer on wheels. It’s a lively, affordable, and uniquely Columbus way to mark the season in style.

Key Points

• Affordable and Fun: At $30, it offers a lively holiday experience without breaking the bank.
• BYOB Convenience: Bring your favorite drinks to sip as you tour the city’s festive neighborhoods.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with optional helmets and blankets for comfort.
• Enjoy the Lights: Experience the stunning decorations at Short North Pole, Bicentennial Park, and Columbus Commons.
• Enclosed, Electric Trolley: Ensures comfort and ease, especially in colder weather.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 15), making it intimate and personal.

In-Depth Review of the Trolley Pub Holiday Lights Tour

The Route and Its Highlights

The tour kicks off at 152 N Young St in downtown Columbus, a central spot easy to reach via public transit or on foot if you’re already exploring the city. From the start, the atmosphere is lively, with your “sober trolley captain” guiding the way. The electric-assisted trolley is enclosed, which is a real plus if temperatures are chilly.

The first stop is the Short North Pole, where the neighborhood transforms into a winter wonderland. We loved the 15-30 minute ride through High Street, which feels more like a parade of sparkling lights than just a neighborhood stroll. The reviews mention that this part is especially stunning, with many appreciating the chance to see the area lit up from a comfortable vantage point.

Next, the trolley heads along the Scioto Mile to Bicentennial Park. Here, we found the free admission a bonus, as you can stroll around the park’s holiday displays without additional cost. The park’s scenic views of the river and city skyline add to the festive mood, especially at dusk when the lights reflect off the water.

The final main stop is Columbus Commons, a beautifully decorated park where you can wander around, take photos, and soak in the holiday atmosphere. Many reviewers highlight the delight of walking around here, enjoying the lights and local vendors. The surrounding bars and restaurants are perfect for grabbing a warm drink or a bite after the tour, making it a great spot for extending your evening.

The Downtown Pedal Tour

Between stops, the trolley meanders through Downtown Columbus for about 45-minute segments. This part is where the group really gets to see the city’s landmarks decorated for the holidays, adding a touch of local charm. The small group size fosters a friendly vibe, and many visitors have said they enjoyed waving at passersby or blasting holiday music.

What’s Included and What You Should Bring

The tour provides ice packs, blankets, helmets (optional), and a cooler for your drinks, making it comfortable and practical. The stereo system lets you play your favorite holiday tunes, which really amps up the fun. You’ll need to bring your own drinks—up to 36 oz of beer or 18 oz of wine per rider—so come prepared with your favorites, but avoid glass bottles or liquor.

Warm clothing is essential, especially if you plan to linger outdoors at stops. The enclosed trolley adds a layer of comfort but remember, the outdoor segments will require layers and perhaps a hat or gloves.

The Experience and the Reviews

Authentic feedback paints a vivid picture. One reviewer describes it as “a fun activity for the entire family,” noting that all ages enjoyed stopping to see the Christmas lights. They also mention, “Be prepared for the cold, if the temps are low,” which is good advice for anyone planning to join.

Another guest highlights the professionalism of Zack, the driver, calling him “great” and “very knowledgeable”, which enhances the experience by providing interesting context about the city and its holiday decorations. The friendly atmosphere is a common theme, with many mentioning the music blasting, waving at cars, and the camaraderie among riders.

The Value of the Tour

At $30, this experience offers excellent value. It combines transportation, sightseeing, and the festive spirit—all wrapped into a small group setting that feels personal and engaging. The ability to BYOB adds to the relaxed, party-like atmosphere, especially since no additional fees for drinks or entry are required. The free stops at Bicentennial Park and Columbus Commons allow you to explore at your own pace, making the tour flexible and adaptable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This holiday lights tour is perfect for locals wanting a different way to see familiar neighborhoods, visitors looking for a fun, relaxed activity, or groups of friends seeking a festive night out. Families with older children will appreciate the casual, family-friendly vibe, especially since the trolley is equipped for limited mobility and offers seat belts and seat backs for safety.

It’s also a good fit for those who enjoy social experiences with drinks in hand, but still want to see the city’s best light displays. If you’re after a romantic date, this tour can be fun, especially if you bring some wine or cider. Just remember, dressing warmly makes a big difference in enjoying the outdoor parts of the trip.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, and children can enjoy the lights and the ride. Keep in mind, alcohol is only permitted for those over 21.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, including stops and travel time.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Absolutely. You’ll want to bring beer, wine, cider, or seltzers—up to 36 oz of beer or 18 oz of wine per rider—no glass or liquor allowed.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly! The trolley is enclosed, but you’ll be outside at the stops and in transit during colder months. Layers, hats, and gloves are recommended.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 152 N Young St in downtown Columbus and returns to the same spot at the end.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the group small?
Yes, the maximum group size is 15 travelers, making it intimate and allowing for personalized attention.

The Bottom Line

For a fun, affordable, and festive way to enjoy Columbus’s holiday season, the Trolley Pub Holiday Lights Tour offers a lively mix of sights, socializing, and comfort. The small group vibe, combined with the opportunity to BYOB, creates a relaxed yet spirited atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of travelers.

You’ll find that the twinkling neighborhood displays, the scenic river views at Bicentennial Park, and the decorated Columbus Commons make for memorable holiday moments. The experience is well-suited for those who want a casual, social way to explore and enjoy Columbus’s festive spirit without the fuss or expense of more formal tours.

Whether you’re a visitor wanting to see the city in a new way, a local looking for a holiday tradition, or a group of friends ready to celebrate, this tour promises a cheerful and memorable outing. Just bundle up, bring your favorite drinks, and prepare to soak in the holiday glow from the comfort of your electric trolley.

Enjoy your trip and the magic of Columbus’s holiday lights—on wheels!