Ohio’s Shores & Islands Holiday Day Trip: Christmas Lights, Markets and More

At-a-Glance

• Location: Shores & Islands Ohio (Sandusky, Catawba, Marblehead, Huron)
• Drive Time From: Cleveland (1 hr), Toledo (1 hr), Columbus (2–2.5 hrs)
• Best For: Couples, friends, families, multi-gen travelers
• Season: Winter / Holiday Season
• Budget Level: $$ (with plenty of free festive experiences)

Why Visit Shores & Islands During the Holidays

Shores & Islands Ohio has always been one of my favorite places to visit. Some of my happiest childhood memories were made during summer days along the lake. For years, I thought of this region strictly as a warm-weather destination—known for its beaches, lake views, and outdoor adventures. But over the past few years, I’ve discovered something special: Shores & Islands doesn’t lose its magic when winter arrives. In fact, it shines.

During the holiday season, you’ll find twinkling lights, charming Christmas markets, and cozy wineries, restaurants, and resorts that invite you to slow down and truly savor the season. If you’re looking for a festive Ohio getaway that feels magical without feeling overwhelming, this is it.

Things to Do

Must‑See Stops

Gideon Owen Wine Company – Holiday Market
📍 3845 E. Wine Cellar Rd., Catawba, OH

Steeped in more than 150 years of history, this beloved winery blends old‑world charm with beautifully updated spaces. During the holidays, the property transforms into a festive wonderland filled with twinkling lights, local artisans, seasonal treats, and cozy firepits. Sip hot chocolate, visit the vendors for unique gifts,  and soak in the joyful atmosphere with fun photo ops. Admission is free, and the market continues the weekends of December 12-14 and December 19-21.

Marblehead Lighthouse State Park
📍 110 Lighthouse Dr., Marblehead, OH

Seeing the Marblehead Lighthouse decorated for the holidays is a simple but memorable experience. The grounds are open year‑round, and winter brings peaceful lake views, fewer crowds, and a quiet beauty that feels especially fitting for the season. It’s a perfect stop for photos and a reflective walk along Lake Erie but be warned, the wind coming off the lake is no joke so bundle up!

Sandusky Christmas Market
📍 Schade‑Mylander Plaza, downtown Sandusky

Downtown Sandusky transforms into a festive European‑style Christmas market complete with wooden shanties featuring local artisans, food vendors, live entertainment, kids activities and plenty of holiday cheer. Be sure to stroll over to the nearby Jackson Street Pier to see the ice‑skating rink overlooking the water. It’s a lively, family‑friendly stop that captures the spirit of the season. The market wraps up December 13.

Ørchard Farm Stand & Christmas Coop Pop‑Up Bar
📍 3350 N.E. Catawba Rd., Catawba, OH

Ørchard Farm Stand is a year‑round favorite, but it feels extra special during the holidays. Shop for local goods, French linens, kitchen items, wine, and seasonal treats, then stay for wood‑fired pizza or dinner at Orchard Bar & Table. In the evenings, the Christmas Coop pop‑up bar opens, adding a festive twist to an already cozy space. I loved this stop and can’t wait to return to buy more jams, wines and dip mixes!

Lights on the NorthCoast
📍 Erie County Fairgrounds 3110 Columbus Avenue, Sandusky, OH

With more than one million lights, this drive‑through and walk‑through display is a holiday highlight. In addition to the lights, you’ll find an interactive Christmas village, indoor holiday putt‑putt, food trucks, and more—making it a fun and festive evening stop. Open until December 31st. Cost is $20 a carload.

Finding the entrance was a bit challenging for us so make sure you visit the website and check out the map before your arrival.

Hidden Gems

Merry-Go-Round Museum + Cedar Point Historical Museum
📍 301 Jackson Street, Sandusky, OH

Housed inside one of the only remaining former round post office buildings, this museum features a rideable 1939 carousel, festive holiday train displays, and a nostalgic look back at more than 150 years of Cedar Point history. Make sure you save a few pennies for their pressed penny machine! Visit the website for current admission pricing and hours.

Follett House Museum- Sandusky Library
📍 404 Wayne Street, Sandusky, OH

The Follett House Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Sandusky’s past, with an important collection that tells the story of the city’s role in the Underground Railroad, early industry, and everyday life along the lake. One of the highlights is the widow’s walk, which offers an incredible view of the Sandusky Bay though I wouldn’t necessarily recommend for those with an intense fear of heights. Free.

Where to Eat & Drink

• Gideon Owen Wine Company – Enjoy lunch, dinner, or brunch alongside wine tastings and live music in a casual, upscale setting. When near the lake, you can’t go wrong with the perch or bass and my Winter Sangria was delicious. 
• Ørchard Farm Stand – Coffee, bakery items, sandwiches, wood‑fired pizzas, cocktails, and vineyard views. We oredered a Margherita Pizza and loved it.
• Wake Up & Waffle – A Sandusky brunch favorite serving hearty Liege waffles and fresh squeezed orange juice. My husband could not get over the little pops of sugar in the waffles- so tasty! 
• Mr. Smith’s Coffee House – A relaxed downtown coffee stop perfect for warming up with espresso, cocoa, or baked treats. The vibes in this coffee shop are simply perfection.

Shopping & Local Finds

• Artisan booths at Gideon Owen’s Holiday Market
• Local makers at the Sandusky Christmas Market
• Gourmet food items, gifts, and home goods at Ørchard Farm Stand

Family‑Friendly Tips

• Christmas markets and light displays are great for all ages
• The Merry‑Go‑Round Museum offers a classic carousel ride kids will love and the new admission ticket doubles as a souvenir! It’s so cute!
• Ice skating near the Sandusky Christmas Market adds extra fun

Tips for Planning Your Day

• Visit outdoor attractions earlier in the day and save light displays for evening
• Dress warmly—layers are key near Lake Erie
• Check market dates and times in advance, as they are weekend‑only

Budget‑Friendly Ideas

• Free admission to holiday markets
• Marblehead Lighthouse grounds are always free
• Follett House Museum Holiday Open House offers free seasonal programming but for all other visits, you will need to call in advance to schedule a tour via the library. Minimum of two people.  

What to Pack

• Warm coat, hat, and gloves
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Phone or camera for photos

Sample One‑Day Holiday Itinerary

This will be a very full day, I highly suggest turning this into an overnight trip so you’re not rushed.

Morning: Breakfast at Wake Up & Waffle, tour the Merry-Go-Round and Cedar Point Museums (two museums, one location) followed by coffee at Mr. Smith’s Coffee House

Midday: Drive to Marblehead to see the lighthouse decorated for the holidays, continue to the Orchard Farm Stand for a wood-fired pizza and shopping and pop over to Gideon Owen’s Holiday Market.

Afternoon: Evening: End the night with the Sandusky Christmas Market and Lights on the North Coast.

Extend Your Stay

Turn your day trip into a festive overnight getaway by staying at Sawmill Creek Resort in Huron. Beautifully decorated for the season, the resort offers cozy guest rooms, on‑site dining, and easy access to nature at nearby Sheldon Marsh. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a full day of holiday exploring. Check rates and book your reservation here.

Know Before You Go

• Official Visitor Info: www.SHORESandISLANDS.com
• Best Time to Visit: Late November through December
• Hashtag: #LakeErieLove

Final Thoughts

Shores & Islands Ohio proves that winter travel can be just as memorable as summer adventures. From twinkling lights and Christmas markets to cozy meals and peaceful lake views, this region offers a holiday escape that feels both festive and refreshing. It’s a reminder that Ohio shines year‑round—you just have to know where to look.