As a Cleveland newborn and family photographer and a mom of four little ones ages 1 to 8, I know firsthand how long and chilly Ohio winters can feel. Once the holidays pass, it’s easy to fall into hibernation mode, but getting out and making memories together during these colder months can be so refreshing. Whether you’re looking for indoor adventures to escape the cold or outdoor fun to burn off energy, Northeast Ohio has plenty of family-friendly things to do all winter long.
Here are some of our favorite winter activities around Cleveland, Akron, and beyond, perfect for families with little kids.
1. Go Sledding at Hinckley Reservation
Few things say “Ohio winter” like bundling up the kids and heading out for a sled ride. The hill at the Hinckley Reservation in the Worden’s Ledges area is the perfect size for families with younger kids, just steep enough for excitement but not too scary for the little ones. Pack a thermos of hot chocolate and a few extra mittens because someone always loses one, and make it a full family outing.
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can also explore the scenic trails or check out the frozen ledges. The sandstone formations covered in snow are absolutely magical, plus they make for some beautiful family photo backdrops if you’re planning winter portraits.
2. Visit the Cleveland Children’s Museum
When it’s too cold for outdoor play, the Cleveland Children’s Museum is a lifesaver. This hands-on museum is designed to encourage imaginative play and discovery with interactive exhibits for all ages. My kids could easily spend hours in the water play area or the construction zone building towers taller than they are.
What I love most as a mom is that everything here is meant to be touched and explored, so there’s no need to worry about your toddler grabbing something they shouldn’t. There’s even a soft play area designed specifically for babies and toddlers, which makes it great for families with mixed ages like mine.
3. Explore the Akron Children’s Museum
If you’re closer to the Akron area, the Akron Children’s Museum is another great stop for hands-on learning and fun. It’s a bit smaller than Cleveland’s, which makes it less overwhelming for younger kids but still packed with creative activities. From climbing structures to pretend play exhibits, there’s something for every child’s imagination.
It’s also conveniently located near Lock 3 in downtown Akron, so if the weather cooperates, you can bundle up and walk over to see the ice skating rink or winter light displays.
4. Step Back in Time at the Akron Fossils & Science Center
This one is such a hidden gem! The Akron Fossils & Science Center is perfect for your little explorers who love dinosaurs, fossils, and hands-on science fun. My older kids were fascinated by the real fossil dig and the live animal exhibits. Even my toddlers enjoyed the sensory activities and the chance to touch replica fossils.
During winter, the museum offers a variety of educational programs and workshops, which can be a great way to break up the routine of being indoors. It’s both fun and sneaky learning, so it’s a win for everyone.
5. Visit the Greater Cleveland Aquarium
If you’re craving a bit of “under the sea” magic in the middle of winter, the Greater Cleveland Aquarium is a wonderful place to warm up and explore. The aquarium features everything from local Lake Erie species to tropical fish, sharks, and stingrays.
My kids’ favorite part is always the Shark SeaTube, where you walk through a tunnel surrounded by swimming sharks. It’s such a cool experience for little ones. The touch pool is another highlight where kids can get hands-on with sea creatures (and yes, hand sanitizer is provided right there for all the moms like me).
The aquarium is stroller-friendly and not too large, so it’s easy to manage with multiple kids, even if you have a baby or toddler in tow.
6. Learn and Play at the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum
Located in Canton, the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum might sound like it’s just for history buffs, but it’s actually one of the most family-friendly museums in Northeast Ohio. There’s a fascinating science center inside with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and even a small dinosaur area.
My kids love “Discover World,” which has everything from fossils to space exhibits and a miniature pioneer village. It’s educational, interactive, and fun for all ages. You can easily spend a full afternoon exploring everything here, and it’s a great mix of learning and play.
7. Celebrate at the Medina Ice Festival
One of our annual winter traditions that the whole family loves is the Medina Ice Festival in our hometown.
Set in the charming downtown square of Medina Public Square, the festival features more than 130 ice sculptures on display around the square, plus exciting speed carving and team carving competitions.
The sculptures remain on display through the holiday weekend, so you can stroll through the square, pop into warm shops, enjoy seasonal refreshments, and take family photos in front of the icy art. It’s truly one of my favorite outings of the winter, and with little kids in tow, it strikes the perfect balance between outdoor fun and manageable.
8. Check Out Local Winter Festivals and Ice Skating
Beyond Medina, throughout the Cleveland and Akron areas, winter brings tons of family-friendly events. From outdoor ice rinks to light displays and cozy downtown strolls, there’s something special about bundling up and enjoying the lights, music, and seasonal treats together.
If your kids are old enough, try ice skating at one of the outdoor rinks. Many places offer skate helpers, little supports kids can push, to make it easier for beginners. And if skating isn’t your thing, grab a cup of hot cocoa and watch from the sidelines, it’s just as fun.
9. Enjoy Cozy Family Time at Home
Of course, sometimes the best thing to do in winter is to simply slow down and enjoy the coziness of home. Build a blanket fort, bake cookies, have a family movie night, or let the kids help make snow ice cream after the next big snowfall.
As a family photographer, I always remind parents that these quiet moments at home are just as meaningful as the big adventures. They’re the heart of what family life really looks like, snuggles, giggles, and maybe a few crumbs on the couch.
10. Plan a Winter Family Photo Session
Winter sessions have such a special kind of beauty. The soft light, the muted colors, and the peaceful atmosphere can make for stunning family photos. Whether you love snowy outdoor portraits or cozy lifestyle sessions at home, winter is a perfect time to capture your family’s story.
If you’ve been thinking about updating your family photos or scheduling newborn photos for a winter baby, I’d love to chat with you! My studio is warm, fully stocked for newborn sessions, and designed to make your experience easy and enjoyable, especially with little ones.
You can view my family and newborn galleries and session details here.
Gift Ideas That Don’t Take Up Space
If you’re stuck on Christmas gift ideas (especially for families who already seem to have everything), experience-based gifts are always a win. Gift cards to places like the Cleveland Children’s Museum, Akron Children’s Museum, Cleveland Aquarium, or even for sledding day hot chocolate stops make wonderful presents that don’t clutter the house. These kinds of gifts create memories, not mess, which is something every parent can appreciate. Experiences like these bring families together and give kids something fun to look forward to during the long winter months.
Final Thoughts
Ohio winters may be cold, but they’re also full of opportunities to make memories with your kids. Whether you’re sledding down the hills at Hinckley, exploring the wonders of the Cleveland Children’s Museum, watching sharks glide by at the aquarium, or wandering through the magical ice sculptures at the Medina Ice Festival, every season brings its own magic.
So bundle up, get out there, and enjoy all that our beautiful state has to offer this winter, and don’t forget to bring your camera (or your favorite family photographer 😉) along for the ride.
