If you’re avoiding the madness at shopping centers and stores and instead choosing to #OptOutside today, you’re not alone.
There are a ton of free and low-cost outdoor activities for you to take advantage of this weekend in central Ohio. Here are our top eight picks:
Work off your Thanksgiving meal this morning with a tempo ride with Performance Bicycle. The road ride starts at 9 a.m. at their Sawmill Road location. Make sure to dress for the weather!
52 Hike Challenge Central Ohio Hike
Join Columbus-based Hashtag 59 and 52 Hike Challenge at the Buzzard’s Roost Parking lot at Slate Run Metro Park and enjoy the beautiful trails, creeks, and ravines of the park. The hike starts at 9:30 a.m. and can be a bit of a challenge due to a few steep inclines. Please RSVP by tapping or clicking here.
Head over to Sharon Woods Metro Park and join a naturalist for a 1.2- or 2.8-mile hike through the forests and fields of the park. The hike will begin at 2 p.m. and end at 3:30 p.m.
If you’re up for an adventure with the family, head over to Darby Bend Lakes at Prairie Oaks Metro Park and take a brisk 4-mile hike through fields and forests on this moonlit hike. The hike begins at 5 p.m.
Fast-paced Adult Full Moon Hike
Prefer a moonlit hike without kids? Check out the Sharon Woods Metro Park tonight for a fast, 2.8 mile hike along gravel, paved and natural surface trails. This hike is limited to participants ages 18 and up. The hike starts at 5:30 p.m.
Grab your dog and a flashlight and head over to the Highbanks Metro Park Nature Center at 5:30 p.m. for a 3.5-mile hike.
Can’t make it to Performance Bicycle’s morning ride? Join them at Hilliard’s Station Park at 8 p.m. for a 6-mile ride under the full moon. Remember to bring your lights and dress for the weather.
Columbus Christmas Lights
If you’re not feeling particularly athletic today but still want to do something outside and celebrate the season, take a tour around Columbus and check out all the spectacular Christmas lights! From the Scioto Mile to Wildlights at the zoo to amazing residential displays, the Christmas spirit is alive and well here in the metro area. Use the Christmas Light Finder and map your own route!
