Embrace the Chill: Winter Fun in Medina County
Medina Ice Festival
Take a stroll down Main Street Medina and amble around historic Medina Square to take part in the fantastic Medina Ice Festival, February 16-19. Wonder at the expertly carved ice sculptures that in the past have ranged from chilled-out penguins to a realistic-looking big foot carrying off a donut to plucky parrots and even an ice-bound R2D2 of Star Wars fame. Watch it happen as craftsmen create vivid ice statues of your favorite winter characters.
A nearly 30-year tradition, the Medina Ice Festival has doubled in size over the past five years, enduring the pandemic to bring locals and visitors alike the best in ice sculpture. And for the Scrooges who might cry “bah, humbug” at the cost of attending, the event and parking are free! So, be sure to attend the Medina Ice Festival, the largest in Ohio!
Historic Medina Square
When you’ve become a little too chilled, visit the shops and restaurants that surround the square to warm up, then dive back into the festival. Browse the stacks at Blackbird Records, 10 Public Square. Consider the goods on offer at Eastwood Furniture, 23 Public Square, stop by La Placa Jewelers, 13 Public Square, touted as Medina’s gold and diamond headquarters, or look through Lyle’s Jewelry & Coin Shop, 4 Public Square. Medina Gem Company, 23 Public Square, specializes in unique, handcrafted jewelry.
Did you bring your dog along? Stop by One Lucky Dog Bakery, 45 Public Square, for homemade treats, collars, and chew toys for a Homo sapiens’ best friend. Love collecting? Stop by Operation Fandom, 10 Public Square, for vintage toys, trading cards, and collectibles, or visit Reverie, 56 Public Square, a home-spun gift shop. For the strider in the family, stop by Second Sole, 122 Public Square, the seller of running shoes, apparel, and accessories. Hungry after all this shopping? Stop by Something’s Popping for popcorn in all flavors imaginable. Medina’s Public Square is where you can also stock up on award-winning olive oil and balsamic vinegar at The Olive Tap, 30 Public Square. Visit The Uptown Shoppe, 32 Public Square, a gift shop and arts & crafts store.
Blue Heron Outdoor Dining in an Igloo
The Blue Heron Brewpub, 3227 Blue Heron Trace, Medina, Ohio offers a unique dining and gathering experience open through March 2024. That’s right, they’re bringing back their private, heated outdoor igloos!
With casual seating for up to eight, the igloos are ideal for holding reunions or forging new relationships. Rentable in two-hour increments, they’re also available for weekend rentals. Move fast because reservations are required! Enjoy the Blue Heron’s menu, including beef stroganoff, Mediterranean cod, burgers, sandwiches, and a wide array of appetizers, along with selections of house beers, glasses of wine, and cocktails.
Places to Stay near Medina
Check-in at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Medina, 5185 Gateway Dr, Medina, OH 44256, where you’ll find pet friendly accommodations along with a pool and free breakfast. While the Hawthorn Suites, 5025 Park Ave W, Seville, Ohio, has a pool and offers free breakfast and plenty of parking. Both hotels are an easy 15 minute drive from both the Historic Medina Square, and Blue Heron Brewpub.
