Holiday Lights Tour with Trolley Pub Columbus

Thinking about adding some sparkle to your holiday season in Columbus? The Holiday Lights Tour with Trolley Pub Columbus offers a playful, relaxed way to see some of the city’s best illuminated sights. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or a festive group, this 2.5-hour journey promises a memorable experience cloaked in holiday cheer — all while enjoying the comforts of a fully enclosed, electric-assisted trolley.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the novelty of exploring The Short North Pole, Arena District, and Downtown from a cozy, pedal-powered trolley, especially when decorated with holiday lights and cheerful music. The ability to bring your own beverages adds a laid-back, social vibe that’s rare in traditional sightseeing tours. Plus, the sing-along carols with a Bluetooth stereo make it feel like a holiday party on wheels.

However, a small consideration: this experience requires a minimum of 6 riders to run, which might mean some planning ahead if you’re traveling solo or with a small group. But for those who love a spirited, communal outing, this should not be a problem. Overall, it’s best suited for groups looking for a relaxed, fun-filled way to enjoy the festive season, especially if you appreciate a bit of humor and local charm along the way.

Key Points

• Unique city exploration on an electric, pedal-assisted trolley enhances accessibility and comfort.
• BYOB policy makes it a relaxed, social experience — bring your favorite beer, wine, or cider.
• Festive stops at Columbus’s best holiday lights displays, including Bicentennial Park and Columbus Commons.
• Fully enclosed trolley ensures warmth and comfort during winter months.
• Music and singing create a lively, holiday party atmosphere.
• Minimum 6 riders needed; perfect for groups looking for a shared, joyful experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

How the Holiday Lights Tour Works

This tour offers a playful twist on traditional sightseeing — instead of sitting on a bus or walking, you’ll be riding an electrically assisted, pedal-powered trolley. Decorated with holiday lights and festive touches, it’s designed to be more than just a tour; it’s a celebration. The experience starts in the early evening, with two daily departures at 5:30 pm and 8:30 pm, running from late November through early January. Since the tour is fully enclosed and heated, you’ll stay warm and dry, even on the coldest winter nights.

The tour is conducted by a certified trolley captain, who navigates the route while you relax, pedal if you wish, and enjoy the surroundings. With space for up to 36oz of beer or 18oz of wine per person (no liquor or glass allowed), it’s a laid-back way to toast the season. The onboard Bluetooth stereo system invites everyone to sing along to holiday classics, turning the ride into an impromptu caroling session.

What Can You Expect During the Tour?

Itinerary and Stops

The journey covers some of Columbus’s most lively holiday neighborhoods, including The Short North Pole — a local favorite decorated with countless lights and holiday displays. This area is known for its eclectic vibe, with art galleries, boutique shops, and vibrant street murals, all dressed up for the season. The tour then moves to the Arena District, home to sports arenas and lively bars, which host their own festive light displays.

Finally, you’ll cruise through Downtown Columbus, making stops at Bicentennial Park and Columbus Commons — both locations known for their dazzling holiday light displays and seasonal activities. These spots are typically bustling with other holiday events, making your ride part of a larger city-wide celebration.

Onboard Experience

As you relax and pedal (or simply enjoy the ride), the full enclosure ensures you won’t be exposed to winter’s chill. The small propane heater adds an extra layer of comfort, allowing you to focus on the sights and sounds of the season. The ice packs and cups provided help keep drinks cool and convenient, and the blue tooth stereo keeps everyone singing along. Helmets are optional but available, and the small propane heater makes the chilly ride cozy.

Guests rave about the fun atmosphere: “We loved the way the holiday lights were integrated into the tour,” shares one reviewer. “It felt like a party on wheels, with everyone singing and laughing.” Others appreciate the cost-effectiveness of the experience, noting that for $45 per person, the combination of sightseeing, beverages, and entertainment provided great value.

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Accessibility and Group Size

The tour accommodates up to 36 people, but a minimum of 6 riders is required to run. This is worth keeping in mind when planning — larger groups will find it easy to fill a slot, but solo travelers may want to coordinate with friends ahead of time. For those with limited mobility, five seats are designed to not pedal, allowing everyone to join in comfortably.

Analyzing the Value

At $45 per person, the price is fairly competitive considering the inclusiveness of the experience—a guided, festive tour with holiday lights, music, and drinks. The all-weather, enclosed trolley ensures comfort during Ohio’s winter, making it a practical choice for those who dislike braving the cold on foot or traditional open-air tours.

Bring-your-own-beer and wine policy adds a social dimension, allowing groups to share drinks while enjoying the sights. Remember the restrictions—no liquor or glass, and over 21s only for alcohol consumption. This casual approach offers a relaxed, party-like atmosphere that’s perfect for friends celebrating together.

The Experience Provider and Booking

Operated by Cruisin Comfort LLC, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for last-minute plans. You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, which is handy if you’re still finalizing your holiday schedule.

Meeting outside the red garage is straightforward, and check-in is simple. The tour runs rain, snow, or shine — the enclosed trolley ensures weather won’t spoil your fun.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This holiday lights tour is ideal for groups of friends, families, or coworkers looking for a relaxed, lively activity that combines sightseeing with holiday spirit. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy music, social drinking, and a bit of humor. If you’re traveling with kids, note that alcohol is only for 21+ and a parent must be present; otherwise, families with children might prefer a daytime or less alcohol-focused experience.

People seeking a cost-effective, memorable way to see holiday lights without walking long distances will find this a good fit. It’s also perfect for visitors who want an authentic, local experience that emphasizes fun and community during the festive season.

Final Thoughts

The Holiday Lights Tour with Trolley Pub Columbus offers a delightful twist on traditional holiday sightseeing. It combines local neighborhoods, festive decorations, lively music, and social drinking into one easy-to-enjoy package. The fully enclosed, electric trolley keeps everyone cozy, while the cheerful atmosphere makes it feel more like a holiday party than a typical tour.

For those wanting a relaxed, fun, and unique way to celebrate the season in Columbus, this experience provides excellent value. It’s perfect for groups that enjoy a little humor, a lot of lights, and a chance to make some holiday memories with friends or family.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly in terms of sightseeing, alcohol consumption is restricted to those over 21. Any children must be accompanied by an adult, but they won’t be able to partake in drinks.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your ID or passport, especially if you plan to enjoy beverages. Dress warmly, as it’s a winter outdoor experience, and consider bringing a small drink if you want to sip while enjoying the sights.

Can I bring my own alcohol?
Yes, it’s a BYOB experience — up to 36oz of beer or 18oz of wine per person. No liquor or glass containers are permitted, and underage drinking is not allowed.

What if there aren’t enough riders?
Tours require at least 6 riders to run; if the minimum isn’t met, the tour may be canceled. It’s a good idea to coordinate with friends or book in advance to secure your spot.

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically lasts about 2.5 hours, with departures at 5:30 pm and 8:30 pm. The timing makes it perfect for after-work or evening holiday outings.

Is there any mobility assistance?
Yes, five seats are designed without pedal assistance, which helps accommodate guests of limited mobility.

To sum it up, this holiday lights tour offers a lively, authentic way to experience Columbus’s festive neighborhoods. With a balance of comfort, social fun, and local charm, it’s a worthwhile addition to your holiday plans — especially if you love a little music, lights, and a casual drink with friends.

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