About Cleveland Zoo Lights
The zoo lights feature costumed characters, carousel rides, ice carvers, model train displays, a musical light show, and live music. The event also features themed areas, including Enchanted Forest, Candyland, Conservation Trail, and Santa’s Workshop, where you can take a selfie with Santa Claus.
Attending the blinking Christmas lights show will give you a memorable holiday experience. It is a festive event that is welcome for all ages.
Cleveland Zoo Lights Festival Dates
The Cleveland Zoo Lights is celebrated from November to January. This year, organizers are yet to announce the specific dates, so it’s best to stay tuned for the latest updates.
With the LED curtain lights, you can make your holidays more colorful and livelier.
Where are the WILD WINTER LIGHTS Cleveland Zoo
The Cleveland Zoo Lights is located at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and Rainforest, 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH, 44109. Getting to the festival of lights is easy due to their accessible transportation. You can also ask the friendly locals to get to your destination.
If you liked this zoo lights, you might want to check out these other great zoo lights as well:
Festival Hours
You can enjoy the light exhibition at the Cleveland Zoo from 5:30 to 10:30 pm. The drive-through option is available on selected Wednesdays and Tuesdays. You can explore the lights show for long hours.
How Much It Cost to Visit the zoo lights Festival
Ticket information for this year’s Wild Winter Lights are yet to be announced. However, to give you an idea, last year’s ticket prices for the festival are:
$19 each person or a four-pack for $57 for zoo members
$22 each person or a four-pack for $66 for non-members
Free admission for kids ages 2 and younger
Drive-through experience: $57 for each vehicle for zoo members and $66 for each car for non-members.
Weather and What to Wear
Cleveland Zoo Lights is held from November to January, which is the winter season in the area. With this, you should bring thick clothing like jackets and sweaters to protect yourself from the cold weather.
Hotels nearby the Cleveland Zoo Lights fest
After visiting the zoo lights at Cleveland, you should look for a safe place where you can sleep conveniently. The following are some of the top hotels that can provide you with the best accommodation.
Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland Downtown
The hotel is close to the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. It has an indoor pool where you can unwind during your stay. Like other hotels, Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland Downtown is also loaded with useful amenities to offer you with rewarding hotel experience. The property has complimentary breakfast, WIFI, a gym, and valet parking.
The hotel staff also follows safety and cleaning standards for the comfort and protection of their guests. It also features a spa tub, air conditioning, 24-hour front desk, restaurant and bar/ lounge, laundry facilities, daily housekeeping, and microwave. The friendly team of the hotel will assist you from start to finish. You can be impressed by their exceptional customer service.
Hampton Inn Cleveland Downtown
Hampton Inn Cleveland Downtown is only a walking distance of Cleveland Public Auditorium. The property offers free WIFI, complimentary breakfast, a gym, a 24-hour business center, a computer station, and valet parking. If you travel with your family, it can be the best option since it is a family-friendly hotel.
The hotel has free cribs/ infant beds, premium TV channels, a private bathroom, and daily housekeeping. There is also coffee/ tea in the common area. There are available connecting/ adjoining rooms. With their clean and safe rooms, you can sleep well after exploring the lights festival in Cleveland.
Crowne Plaza Cleveland at Playhouse Square, an IHG Hotel
The hotel is close to Progressive Field and features an indoor pool for a more luxurious stay. It has free WIFI, air conditioning, a gym, and a free area shuttle. The hotel also has a 24-hour fitness center, premium tv channels, a private bathroom, a terrace, and valet parking.
Crowne Plaza Cleveland at Playhouse Square is a child- and family-friendly hotel. It also has free cribs/ infant beds and connecting/ adjoining rooms. The property can offer you excellent customer service. Their dedicated staff will accommodate your needs, so feel free to approach them.
Hilton Cleveland Downtown
The property is connected to the convention center, close to FirstEnergy Stadium. It has an indoor pool, gym, air conditioning, and internet access. In addition, they also have amenities including a restaurant, 2 bars/ lounges, housekeeping, and a 24-hour fitness center.
Hilton Cleveland Downtown offers room service, 18 meeting rooms, a 24-hour business center, refrigerator, free cribs/ infant beds, a private bathroom, a coffee shop/ cafe, premium tv channels, and connecting/ adjoining rooms ideal if you travel with your family. Apart from their friendly staff, you can stay conveniently in their clean and relaxing atmosphere.
Hyatt Regency Cleveland at The Arcade
Hyatt Regency Cleveland at The Arcade is close to JACK Cleveland Casino. It was a 4-star hotel with a restaurant. It can be a good hotel where you can sleep well while visiting the twinkle lights festival. It is a child-friendly and family-friendly hotel.
There are available connecting/ adjoining rooms if you stay with your loved ones. The rooms in the property have air conditioning, free WIFI, premium tv channels, a private bathroom, and free cribs/ infant beds. The hotel also offers spa services, 9 meeting rooms, a 24-hour business center, a computer station, a coffee shop/ cafe, and room service. The staff of the hotel will give you the best accommodation you deserve.
What to Eat
A food trip is essential for the best travel adventure. So, you should treat yourself to tasty cuisines after enjoying the fairy lights display at Cleveland Zoo. Here are the top restaurants you can visit for delicious dining.
The City Diner
The City Diner will serve you American diner dishes. The restaurant can provide you with quality and tasty meals that will delight you. The eating spot also comes with a lovely and relaxing atmosphere allowing you to eat conveniently. With the comfort food and excellent customer service, you can make it one of your favorite restaurants as you travel for the Cleveland Zoo Lights.
Gyro Guys
The restaurant can offer you fast food, quick bites, and Greek dishes. It serves meals for dinner and lunch. The restaurant is open to everyone who wants to taste delicious foods. It is also wheelchair accessible. The restaurant’s chef only makes quality food to satisfy the taste of their customers. Their staff will assist you in making the best of your dining.
Pizza Joe’s & Deli
Are you a pizza lover? If yes, Pizza Joe’s & Deli can be the best food spot for you. The eatery serves meals for dinner and lunch. The ambiance of this restaurant will make you feel at home. You can always ask their friendly staff whenever you have concerns while eating at the restaurant.
El Rinconcito Chapin
El Rinconcito Chapin can serve you American and Mexican cuisines. If you want a luxurious dining experience, this can be the best restaurant for you. Try their dobladitos, pupusas, tacos, chuchitos, and more! It features takeout or table service. The best about this restaurant is that their food is made hot, fresh, and delicious. So, you can expect the best dining that you’ve always wanted.
Pearl Road Tavern
Pearl Road Tavern provides pub cuisines. It serves meals for dinner and lunch. With their delicious and quality foods, you can have a rewarding food trip on your travel to Cleveland. The staff will ensure that you can eat their top cuisines conveniently. Additionally, they also have a lovely and relaxing ambiance.
More Things to Do in the Area
You should also try other activities to make a satisfying trip during the curtain lights festival.
Cleveland Museum of Art
The museum was founded way back in 1913. It is among the country’s most distinguished cultural institutions and famous attractions. It is housed in a gorgeous preserved neoclassic building made from white Georgian marble. The museum features a collection of over 30,000 works of art that span more than 5000 years. Some works are from ancient Egypt and masterpieces from Asia, Europe, and Africa. If you love arts, the museum can be a good spot for you.
West Side Market
It is among the oldest markets where more than 100 artisans, producers, and vendors can be found. The stalls offer freshly picked vegetables and fruits, fresh flowers, dairy products, nuts, spices, seafood, meats, and more! You can find homemade baked pastries, bread, and other baked goods.
Cleveland Cultural Gardens
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens was made by scholars and students of Cleveland State University as a ‘peace garden.’ It was considered the living monument of the 20th century’s rich history. It features famous gardens, including the Armenian Garden, Albanian Cultural Garden, Slovenian Garden, Czech Garden, and Polish Garden.
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FAQ
1. What are the parking options for the Wild Winter Lights event at Cleveland Zoo?
Answer: The Cleveland Zoo has on-site parking facilities. However, due to the popularity of the Wild Winter Lights, it can get crowded. It’s recommended to arrive early to secure a spot. Some special events might also offer shuttle services from external parking areas.
2. Is smoking allowed during the Wild Winter Lights event?
Answer: The Cleveland Zoo is a smoke-free environment. Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is prohibited throughout the zoo. There are designated smoking areas located outside the main entrances.
3. Can I bring my pets to the Wild Winter Lights?
Answer: While pets are cherished by many, they are not allowed inside the Cleveland Zoo, including during the Wild Winter Lights event, for the safety of both the pets and zoo animals. Service animals, however, are permitted with proper documentation.
4. Will there be food and drinks available during the event?
Answer: Yes, there will be various food and beverage stations open throughout the zoo during the Wild Winter Lights. Both warm drinks and festive treats will be available for purchase.
5. What items are prohibited during the Wild Winter Lights event?
Answer: Commonly prohibited items include glass containers, alcoholic beverages from outside, weapons, drones, and large coolers. As always, it’s best to check the event’s guidelines for a detailed list.
6. Are there specific attractions or areas that are a must-see during the event?
Answer: The Wild Winter Lights offers a multitude of displays and interactive zones. Some highlights include illuminated displays of global wildlife and dynamic light shows. Event maps are provided to help navigate and ensure guests don’t miss out on any attractions.
7. Is the zoo accessible for those with disabilities during the event?
Answer: Absolutely. The Cleveland Zoo is designed to be accessible to all guests. Wheelchair rentals are available, and the paths are designed to accommodate those with mobility challenges.
8. In case of inclement weather, will the Wild Winter Lights event be canceled?
Answer: The event typically proceeds rain, snow, or shine. However, in cases of extreme weather conditions that pose safety concerns, the zoo may decide to cancel or reschedule. Any such changes will be communicated on the zoo’s official website and social media channels.
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