Those of us who'd rather let someone else (or something else) do all the work, take advantage of horse-drawn carriage rides. A journey through a snow-glistened path huddled together with loved ones makes for a romantic retreat. Just ask Tammy Puleo, co-owner of Ma and Pa's. "We had 15 marriage proposals last year," she says. Here's where to go to add a little magic to your ride.
WHIPPLE FARMS
Elegant Friesian horses (the same breed that pulls the Queen of England's carriage) will lead you through streets of twinkling holiday lights. "People like to go out, put a lap robe on, take a thermos of hot cocoa with them, and sing Christmas carols," says owner Michelle Whipple. "And at least once or twice a year, it's snowing when we go out. That's the best." 6091 Cleveland-Massillon Road, Clinton, 330-825-9349, whipplefarms.net
MA AND PA'S
For a quiet country sleigh ride, these horse-drawn sleighs embark from a cozy Geauga County cabin in the woods and traverse wood and field. The evening ends with cinnamon bread and maple coffee by the fire. "The kids like it because they like the horses," Puleo says. 15161 Main Market Road, Burton, 440-548-5521, maandpas.com
GUGGISBERG SWISS INN
Sleigh rides depart from the inn for about a half-hour of snuggling beneath the lap robes. "It's probably one of the most romantic things you can do whether there are stars out or it's snowing," says owner Eric Guggisberg. 5025 state Route 557, Millersburg, 877-467-9477, guggisberginn.com
