Sure, winter means shorter days and gray skies. But Dublin doesn’t let colder temperatures stop the fun and neither should you.  

Make the most of the season with the ultimate winter bucket list. (Downloadable list at bottom!)

Warm-Up at Sweetwaters 

No perfect winter day can start without a hot cup of Joe. Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea in Bridge Park combines classic coffee favorites with cultures from all over the world.  The signature Dragon Eye is a blend of their house coffee and sweetened condensed milk to celebrate the Year of the Dragon. Discover the top 5 coffee shops in Dublin here

Sweetwaters Latte

Visit Arctic Animals 

Learn to embrace the cold from the best! The Columbus Zoo & Aquarium is home to over 600 species of animals including the Arctic Fox and Polar Bear, who thrive when temperatures drop. 

Arctic Fox

Cozy Up with Comfort Food 

There's something special about eating your favorite comfort food on a day when temperatures are unbearably low. And Dublin is serving up all of the classics. You’ll feel like a little kid again when you try the Village Chowder from the Dublin Village Tavern.  Still looking for more? Check out these 5 must-try soups in Dublin.  

DVT Chowder

Have an Ice Day

Lace up your skates on one of many ice-skating rinks! Riverside Crossing Park has added winter fun to its repertoire. With a picturesque background featuring the Dublin Link, the park's temporary skating costs just $12 a person, skate rental included, and can be enjoyed in temperatures up to 60 degrees. For those extra cold days make your way over to Coffman Park and take a spin on the free rink. Discover Dublin's rinks here

Outdoor ice skating rink in Riverside Crossing Park

Warm it up with Whiskey 

When hot chocolate just doesn't cut it, it’s time to bring out the big guns. Whiskey! Dublin has several spots to find a whiskey warmer but Beer Barrel has an entire room dedicated to it. Find options ranging from $12 to $200 that can be enjoyed neat, on ice or in a cocktail. Find more whiskey in Dublin.  

Beer Barrel's Bourbon Flights

Hit The (Sledding) Slopes

Eat. Sleep. Sled. Repeat. Just a few minutes from Downtown Dublin lies Scioto Park and a speedy sledding hill that will have you laughing all the way down. You won’t want to miss the views of a captivating snow-covered Scioto Riverscape from the top. Before you go, check if the sledding hill is open here

Sledding in Coffman Park Family

Play Inside 

For those days when the temperatures are too much, keep the fun inside. From getting creative at Busy Bees Pottery & Arts Studio to experimenting at COSI, Dublin has multiple indoor playspaces to make your day great even when the weather isn’t.  

Young girl riding a high wire unicycle inside COSI

Play Outside 

Ready to go outdoors this winter and explore over 60 Dublin Parks? Every month through March the Dublin Community Recreation Center will be hosting Polar Hikes to take you and your family through the winter wonderland that is Dublin during the snowy months. Sign up for Polar Hikes here.  

Watch House Public Art Installation covered in snow during the winter

Wrap up in Local Items 

Nestled in the charming snowy streets of Historic Dublin, Boho 72 is your one-stop shop for clothes and accessories to commemorate your winter day in Dublin. Shop Dublin-inspired clothing items, or grab one of their iconic drink bombs to try once you're home.

Boho 72 Dublin Hat

Dine in an Igloo 

Every season is patio season in Dublin. Enjoy dining al fresco without facing the elements at VASO Rooftop Lounge. These iconic igloos allow you and up to seven guests to feast on unparalleled tapas and handcrafted cocktails with stunning rooftop views while staying warm with cozy fur-covered chairs, blankets and heaters. Discover more unique outdoor winter dining options here.  

Colorful outdoor igloos lit up with on VASO's rooftop patio with people dining inside

Share your winter adventures with us using #SoDublin.