Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Short North Elf Trail
Holiday Elf Trail scavenger hunt for kids
About
Experience the magic of the holidays in Columbus's Short North Arts District with the Elf Trail. This festive event invites children under 12 to embark on a delightful scavenger hunt, searching for hidden elves in participating shops. Completing the trail earns them stickers and exciting free offers, making it a memorable holiday adventure for the whole family.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children, holiday shoppers
Vibe
Festive, cheerful, community-oriented
Energy Level
Low to moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- Exclusive free offers upon completion of Holiday Shopping Trail
- Free coffee, hot chocolate, or cider rewards for Elf Trail completion
- Curated gift selections under $20 at 'Lil Shops
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
$
Duration
Varies by visit
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Short North Arts District
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Short North Alliance
Practical Information
Parking
Multiple parking garages and street parking are available. Visitors can park for free for the first hour from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily at participating garages (Second and High, The Hub, The Joseph, The Short North Garage) with validation from a participating business. The ParkColumbus App can be used for contactless payment.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Food & Drink
Participating businesses offer coffee, hot chocolate, and hot apple cider as rewards. Various restaurants and eateries are available throughout the district.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Plan your visit on a weekday to avoid larger crowds, especially if bringing young children on the Elf Trail.
- Download the ParkColumbus App in advance to easily find and pay for parking, and check for garage validation opportunities.
- Review the list of participating businesses for the Elf Trail and 'Lil Shops beforehand to strategize your route and potential gift purchases.
- Take advantage of the free first hour of parking in select garages by making a purchase at a participating business.
- Combine your visit to the Elf Trail with exploring the diverse shops and restaurants in the Short North Arts District for a full day of holiday enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates for the Elf Trail and Holiday Shopping events?
The Elf Trail and Holiday Shopping events run from November 29th to December 31st.
Are there any age restrictions for the Elf Trail?
The Elf Trail is specifically designed for children under 12 years old.
How do I redeem my free offer after completing a trail?
You can redeem your completed trail card for one of the exclusive free offers at designated participating businesses.
Where can I find a list of participating businesses?
A list of participating businesses for the Holiday Shopping Trail and Elf Trail can be found on the Short North Alliance website.
What are the parking options in the Short North Arts District?
There are multiple parking garages and street parking options available. Many garages offer the first hour free with validation from a participating business.
