If you’re looking for a fun, affordable, socially-distanced way to celebrate the season, I highly encourage you to check out the awesome holiday lights at the Columbus Commons. Presented by American Electric Power Foundation, the lights are displayed every evening from Nov. 20 through January 3 (from 5 – 10 p.m.). Over 400,000 LED lights shine throughout the Commons – and my kids loved running around in a “park-like” atmosphere — we even brought our soccer ball to release some of that pent up winter energy.

The experience will truly get you into the holiday spirit (it’s super impressive!), and I would recommend without kiddos if you’re looking for a unique, outdoor date idea!

Parking was a breeze in the underground garage beneath the park, and my kids thought it was especially cool to emerge from the steps in the middle of the lights display!

We used the trip downtown as an excuse to grab take-out from Milestone 229 – which was the perfect way to end a festive evening. Currently offering online ordering with curbside or carry-out pick-up (along with delivery options if you don’t want to venture out), Milestone offers a wide variety of comfort food that is perfect for little ones. The kids menu has all the basics — and my kiddos loved the Cheeseburger (served with fries)…

Along with the cheese pizza that is big enough to share!

My husband and I shared a few dishes, all of which hit the spot after a chilly walk through the park. The Nashville Style Calamari had the perfect amount of heat and was served with fried pickles (yum), hot honey and buttermilk ranch. A fun twist on a classic appetizer, and the perfect way to warm us up!

The Quartered Wedge was a great way to incorporate some greens into our meal – and was served with double-smoked hickory bacon, Roma tomatoes, boiled egg, scallions, Gorgonzola along with two dressing options, balsamic and creamy bleu cheese.

Any finally, we enjoyed the Fried Fish Sandwich which was coated in seasoned cornmeal and panko and served with shaved iceberg and tartar on a hoagie. Really good.

Overall, we were very much impressed with the simplicity of our pick-up (especially with two hungry, worn-out kiddos in the car), the friendliness of staff and the food quality! While I miss the awesome views of the city that Milestone offers when dining in, I’ll settle for a fun adventure at the Commons followed by some quick and easy takeout!

Location

Columbus Commons & Milestone 229 

Grilled Cheese, Chardonnay or both?

Grilled Cheese AND Chardonnay worthy

Dining Tips

While we haven’t tried Milestone 229’s brunch yet, it has been receiving rave reviews! Definitely worth checking out as it was named the #1 Best Brunch in Columbus by Columbus Underground!

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