Holiday Lights Tour with Trolley Pub Columbus

The Holiday Lights Tour with Trolley Pub Columbus offers a lively, family-friendly way to enjoy Columbus’s most dazzling holiday displays. For $45 per person, this 2.5-hour evening tour cruises through the city’s vibrant districts, including The Short North Pole, Arena District, and Downtown Columbus. The tour features stops at iconic locations like Bicentennial Park and Columbus Commons, making it a festive way to experience the city’s holiday spirit.

This tour is especially appealing for those seeking a fun, casual outing with friends or family, thanks to its enclosed, electric-assisted trolley that keeps everyone warm. With the ability to BYOB—up to 36oz of beer or 18oz of wine per person—guests can toast the season while singing along to Christmas carols on the onboard stereo. It’s a cost-effective and entertaining way to see Columbus lights, but participants should be aware that a minimum of 6 riders is required to run each tour.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $45 per person for a 2.5-hour evening ride from November 22 to January 4
• Accessible and Cozy: Fully enclosed trolley with electric assistance and small propane heater
• Highlights: Stops at Bicentennial Park, Columbus Commons, and festive districts like The Short North Pole
• BYOB Allowed: Bring beer, wine, cider, or seltzers (no liquor or glass) with up to 36oz beer or 18oz wine per person
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, but over 21 with valid ID for drinking; limited mobility seats available
• Easy Booking and Cancellation: Reserve now with pay later option, cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Columbus’s Best Holiday Light Displays

The tour takes you through some of Columbus’s most festive areas, with stops at The Short North Pole and Downtown neighborhoods. These districts are decorated with elaborate holiday lights and decorations, creating a magical atmosphere that can be enjoyed comfortably from the enclosed trolley. The trolley’s fully enclosed design ensures guests stay warm despite the winter chill, making this experience suitable even on the coldest nights.

During each stop, guests get the chance to see Columbus’s brightest holiday scenes, perfect for photos or just soaking in the seasonal cheer. The tour’s route also includes notable public spaces such as Bicentennial Park and Columbus Commons, both beautifully lit and bustling with holiday life.

How the Electric-Assist Trolley Enhances the Experience

The electrically assisted trolley is a major highlight, providing a smooth and effortless ride. It features a Bluetooth stereo system that plays Christmas carols, encouraging everyone to sing along. The full enclosure from November through March ensures that weather conditions don’t dampen the fun, and the small propane heater boosts warmth during colder nights.

There are five non-pedal seats for those with limited mobility, demonstrating the tour’s effort to accommodate different needs. The helmet option is available for safety, and ice packs are included, adding to the comfortable and thoughtful setup of the experience.

Stops at Iconic Columbus Neighborhoods

The Short North Pole is a highlight, where the colorful holiday lights create an enchanting scene perfect for family photos. The Arena District and Downtown are also decorated spectacularly, with lights that brighten each neighborhood’s unique vibe. The tour makes stops at Bicentennial Park and Columbus Commons, two lively spots with impressive holiday displays and festive crowds.

Guests will enjoy brief pauses at these locations to appreciate the intricate light displays. These stops are carefully chosen to showcase the best of Columbus’s holiday decor, making the ride both scenic and festive.

The Festive Atmosphere and Onboard Carols

A standout feature of this tour is the live holiday spirit. The Bluetooth stereo system plays a selection of Christmas carols, allowing everyone to participate in singing. The lively, holiday-themed playlist enhances the cheerful mood, making the experience more engaging and memorable.

The trolley’s decorations and lights complement the surroundings, transforming the vehicle into a moving holiday display. This combination of visual festivity and sing-alongs creates a joyful, communal vibe that suits groups of friends or families alike.

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Practical Details and Meeting Arrangements

Guests meet outside along the red garage, which serves as the check-in point. The check-in process is straightforward, and walking through the garage is encouraged to access the meeting spot. Tours run every evening from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm, giving flexibility for different schedules.

Reservations can be made with the “reserve now & pay later” option, offering flexibility. The tour requires a minimum of 6 riders to proceed, so booking in advance is recommended during busy holiday periods. Liability waivers must be completed prior to riding, and ID or passport is needed for check-in.

The Value of the Holiday Lights Tour

At $45 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to celebrate the season. The included amenities—such as ice packs, cups, cooler, and full enclosure—add value and comfort. While alcoholic beverages are not included, guests can bring their own beer or wine, making for a relaxed, social experience.

The tour’s live guide ensures a friendly and informative environment, with the focus on sightseeing and holiday cheer rather than demanding physical activity. The 2.5-hour duration provides a relaxed pace to enjoy the lights without feeling rushed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, friends, and holiday enthusiasts looking for a festive, interactive way to see Columbus. It works well for groups of friends celebrating together or families with kids who enjoy holiday lights and singing. Limited mobility riders are accommodated, and the enclosed trolley makes winter outings comfortable.

However, participants should be aware of the minimum rider requirement and that no liquor or glass is permitted onboard. The seasonal timing from late November through early January means it’s perfect for holiday gatherings, but availability may vary based on weather and group size.

Columbus Holiday Lights Tour: A Bright, Cheerful Ride

The Holiday Lights Tour with Trolley Pub Columbus delivers a cheerful, relaxed way to experience the city’s holiday displays. The fully enclosed, electric trolley ensures comfort, while the festive playlist and decorations create a lively atmosphere. The stops at iconic spots like Bicentennial Park and Columbus Commons highlight the best of Columbus’s holiday spirit.

While the minimum group size and BYOB rules require some planning, the overall experience offers great value for the price. It’s a fun, family-friendly way to celebrate the season and see Columbus in a new light. Whether for a couple, family, or group of friends, this tour makes the season brighter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but alcohol is only permitted for guests over 21 years old with valid ID. Children can enjoy the sights and the festive atmosphere.

What should I bring on the tour?
Guests should bring ID or passport for check-in. Since it’s a winter ride, dressing warmly is recommended due to the full enclosure and propane heater.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, the tour is BYOB, with a limit of 36oz of beer or 18oz of wine per person. No liquor or glass containers are allowed onboard.

What is the meeting point?
Guests meet outside along the red garage designated as the check-in spot. Feel free to walk through the garage door to check in.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 2.5 hours and is available in the evening hours from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm.

Are the trolleys accessible for limited mobility?
Yes, there are five seats without pedal access for guests with limited mobility.

How do I reserve my spot?
Reservations can be made with the “reserve now & pay later” option, with full payment due later. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

What if minimum riders are not met?
If the tour does not meet the minimum of 6 riders, it may be canceled. Advance booking helps ensure your spot.

Is there a guide?
Yes, the ECI Certified Trolley Captain leads the tour, providing commentary and managing stops.

Can I participate if I don’t want to pedal?
Yes, non-pedal seats are available for guests of limited mobility, ensuring everyone can enjoy the ride.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of festive decor, holiday carols, and a cozy, enclosed trolley makes this a warm, cheerful way to see Columbus’s holiday lights in style.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby