As weather quickly plummets and smoke clouds exit chimneys, many people lay in their beds in fuzzy blankets unsure of how else to spend their time. But what they don’t know is that throughout Northeast Ohio, many locations have been inspired by this winter weather to give family activities they can enjoy and hold in memory together.

Sled Riding

One of my favorite outdoor activities when there is nice slick snow on the ground is sledding. There are many different areas in which families can access hills within parks and local neighborhoods to sled. These areas include but aren’t limited to Cuyahoga, Medina and Richland which offer this fun friend and family experience. So if you want to enjoy a fun bumpy ride on your sled, check out your nearest location.

Skiing

Alpine Valley Ski Resort

The most popular winter attraction across Ohio is skiing. I know multiple people who even travel across the country just to enjoy this sport.

Alpine Valley in Geauga County (10620 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026) is known for receiving more natural snow than any other resort. This resort includes seven trails from beginner to advanced level, so Alpine Valley is open to both skiers and snowboarders from any age or skill level. While their Season and Epic Day passes are unavailable to be purchased at this time, you can still purchase lift tickets. Tickets can be purchased online or at the lift ticket window line, but I would recommend buying online to save time. Night skiing and riding begins at 3 p.m.. You can check out the prices by clicking on the link provided and selecting your desired date and time.

Alpine Valley also provides lessons and rentals for skiers and snowboarders. You are also able to check out the mountain’s terrain and its conditions on the website.

Boston Mills Brandywine Ski Resort

Boston Mills Brandywine Ski Resort (7100 Riverview Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264) is one of which I’m familiar with because of how many people I know attend these two resorts. They are a short five minute drive from each other, with Boston Mills having seven trails and Brandywine having a total of eleven. Their trails range from beginner to black diamond levels, black diamond being steeper than 40% and ungroomed. Their ticket prices are the same as Alpine Valley, as they also provide lessons, rentals and information about their ranges and conditions.

All these resorts also offer a thrilling experience of snow tubing in which you can enjoy alone or with family to have that desired adrenaline-rush.

Check out more resorts by clicking on the link provided.

Indoor/Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks

Another lively activity provided in Northeast Ohio is indoor and outdoor ice skating. I believe everyone should try ice skating outdoors because it gives such a magical experience and an all-winter feel, and which gives the perfect Christmas combination.

Check out some Ice Skating Rinks near you using this link.

Before jumping into these festivities, I have to mention some entertainment options when you are snowed in your home.

At Home Leisure

Before jumping into these festivities, I have to mention some entertainment options when you are snowed in your home.

There are plenty of classic movies for an individual or group to watch. Some of these films include The Nutcracker and the Four Realms, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe and my personal favorite movie The Shining. Even though the Shining may be considered a horror movie, much of the plot/setting occurs during the winter time.

There are also a variety of songs that can put you in the mood for snow, and Billboard rated 26 songs such as “Vienna” and “Sparks” as their chosen best, so if you’re interested, click on the link to check it out!

Staying outside during the winter season when you can, catching snowflakes on your tongue, and spending time with your loved ones under white snow blankets is an opportunity that shouldn’t be ignored. Go outside, smell the crisp air and live life under this snow globe.