As the nights grow longer and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to get outside for a winter walk. From illuminated paths and scenic displays to quiet neighborhood strolls and peaceful park trails, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors this time of year. Whether you’re heading out with family, meeting up for a relaxed evening walk, or simply looking for a reason to move and breathe in the cold, fresh air, these spots offer an easy way to slow down and reset. We’ve gathered some of the best places around town to stretch your legs, take in the scenery, and make the most of winter—no special occasion required.
Garden of Lights
Brookside Gardens in Montgomery County is open through January 4, offering plenty of time to enjoy the lights into the new year. This sparkling outdoor display transforms 50 acres of flowerbeds and walkways in Wheaton with more than one million vibrant LED lights, all placed by hand to create scenes inspired by flowers, animals, and other natural elements. The display is open daily from 5:30 to 9 PM. Walk-up tickets are not available, and tickets must be purchased in advance online. Prices range from $15 to $17, with free admission for children under five.
Maryland Holiday Lights
Held at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium, the second annual Maryland Holiday Light Spectacular runs for three weeks, with its final night on December 30, 2025. This half-mile display features more than one million lights arranged across 25 interactive scenes. In keeping with the fairgrounds setting, visitors can also enjoy a winter carnival, a Ferris wheel, rides, and more. Tickets range from $10 to $40 depending on the date and time, and free parking is available on site.
North Pole Lights Walk
An absolute favorite of mine, this half-mile trail offers a quaint and magical winter outing, guiding visitors through a garden filled with flowers and arctic-themed displays on the way to the North Pole Palace. Along the path, the North Pole Fairy leads the way, and Santa makes special appearances for photos, complete with his sleigh. The event runs through December 28 on select nights from 4:30 to 8 PM at Willow Oak Flower and Herb Farm in Severn. Tickets are $8 for children and $12 for adults.
Winter City Lights
Voted the number two best light show in the country by Newsweek Readers’ Choice 2026, this spectacular display is well worth the drive to Olney. Featuring more than one million lights, a 52-foot Christmas tree, dozens of firepits, free face painting, snow tubing, photo opportunities, the Polar Pub Bar with adult beverages, and a variety of hot drinks and seasonal food, the site comes alive as the DMV’s largest winter holiday light show. Tickets range from $26 to $38 per person, with timed entry available.
Walkable Parks in Anne Arundel County
If you’re looking to get outside and enjoy a quieter kind of winter beauty, Anne Arundel County’s parks offer plenty of scenic spots for a refreshing walk. While these locations may not feature holiday light displays, they shine in their own way with peaceful trails, waterfront views, and wide-open spaces.
Quiet Waters Park is a favorite for leisurely strolls, with paved and natural trails that wind through wooded areas and along the water. Kinder Farm Park offers wide paths, open fields, and historic farm buildings that create a cozy setting for a winter walk, especially with kids. Downs Park is known for its scenic waterfront trails and expansive views of the Chesapeake Bay, making it ideal for brisk walks and quiet moments by the water. Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary features flat trails and boardwalks through wetlands and forests, offering a calm, nature-filled escape and chances to spot winter wildlife.
Whether you’re seeking fresh air, peaceful scenery, or a chance to slow down, these parks are perfect for savoring the season close to home.
Whether you’re strolling under millions of lights, warming up by a firepit, walking through a park, or simply getting the kids outside to burn off some energy, these are all wonderful ways to spend quality time outdoors during the holidays. However you choose to celebrate, take a moment to slow down, savor the season, and create a few sparkling memories along the way.
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