A Christmas Vacation in Chalk Hill, PA: Festive Fun, Cozy Lodging, and Winter Magic

Emily Humes • December 5, 2025

The Laurel Highlands are beautiful during the winter season. Snow gathers on the rolling hills, small towns glow with warm light, and the pace of life slows to something peaceful and inviting. Chalk Hill, just minutes from Ohiopyle State Park, is one of those places that genuinely feels like a holiday getaway. 


Whether you're visiting for the scenery, the holiday traditions, or to unwind before the new year, Christmas in Chalk Hill offers a thoughtful blend of festive activities, cozy comfort, and winter charm.


From strolling through an antique Christmas shop to enjoying local light displays or exploring snowy trails, this guide will help you plan a memorable and relaxing winter escape to the Laurel Highlands.


Explore The Christmas Shop & Downer House Antiques


No holiday visit to Chalk Hill feels complete without a stop at The Christmas Shop, a long-standing local favorite located inside a historic home. The moment you step inside, you're greeted by rooms decorated from floor to ceiling with holiday ornaments, garlands, and winter-inspired décor. Each space has its own character, making it easy to lose track of time as you browse.


Shoppers can expect to find:


  • Handmade ornaments and artisan decorations
  • Holiday candles and fragrances that fill your home with the scents of the season
  • Nativity sets and traditional décor for classic holiday styling
  • Vintage Christmas collectibles are perfect for those who appreciate nostalgia.
  • The building adds to the experience, with its wooden floors, antique fixtures, and cozy layout that encourages guests to slow down and relax. It's the kind of place where you can discover a meaningful keepsake or find a gift that feels personal and unique.


Just next door, Downer House Antiques offers even more opportunities for holiday shopping. The shop is known for its curated pieces—collectibles, vintage home goods, artwork, and furniture. It's an excellent stop for anyone who loves history, craftsmanship, and one-of-a-kind finds.


Together, these shops help set a festive tone for your trip. Start your holiday getaway here to gather inspiration for your own decorations or pick out gifts that carry the charm of small-town Pennsylvania.


Experience the Cedar Hill Farm Traditions Christmas Light Show


A Christmas vacation isn't complete without a night spent admiring twinkling lights, and the Cedar Hill Farm Traditions Christmas Light Show is one of the Laurel Highlands' most beloved seasonal attractions. Families, couples, and weekend travelers come year after year to enjoy this glowing winter tradition.


The display typically features:

  • Expansive light arrangements, illuminating the farm's natural surroundings
  • Walk-through or drive-through routes, depending on the year's setup
  • Seasonal music that adds a warm and familiar holiday atmosphere
  • Hot cocoa and treats, perfect for keeping warm on chilly nights
  • Family-friendly activities, such as wagon rides or themed scenes
  • Occasional visits from Santa make it a favorite for children and families.


What makes the Cedar Hill light show particularly memorable is its connection to local holiday traditions. Many visitors make it an annual event, and travelers often plan their winter weekends around it. The experience is relaxed and welcoming, offering a peaceful way to unwind after a day of exploring Ohiopyle or shopping in Chalk Hill.


If you enjoy holiday light displays, this one is well worth adding to your itinerary.


Shop, Eat, and Explore at the Ohiopyle Winter Market


Just a short drive from Chalk Hill, there are plenty of Ohiopyle Christmas events to enjoy. The Ohiopyle Winter Market, hosted by Wilderness Voyageurs, brings together the spirit of small-town holidays with the creativity of local artisans. The market typically appears during the winter season, offering a mix of handmade goods, comfort foods, and community-focused festivities.


Visitors can browse:


  • Local artwork, handmade crafts, and woodwork
  • Seasonal foods, from freshly baked treats to hardy winter favorites
  • Warm beverages, including hot cider, cocoa, and specialty coffees
  • Holiday gifts made by artisans throughout the region
  • Live music or small performances, depending on the schedule
  • The market décor features evergreen accents, twinkling lights, and rustic wooden stands. Whether you're picking up gifts or enjoying a winter outing, the market provides an inviting place to slow down, chat with local vendors, and appreciate the creativity of the Laurel Highlands community.


Make the most of your visit by spending the day in Ohiopyle: stroll through town, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant or café, then take the short drive back to The Lodge at Chalk Hill for a quiet, cozy evening.


Outdoor Adventures and Winter Activities in Ohiopyle State Park


Winter in the Laurel Highlands isn't just about holiday lights and warm indoor spaces—it's also one of the most scenic times to explore Ohiopyle State Park, especially for visitors who enjoy crisp air and snowy landscapes.


Here are some of the most popular winter activities in and around the park:


Snowy Trails and Winter Hiking


The park's trails take on a completely different mood in winter. Snow-covered paths, quiet forests, and views stretching across frosted valleys make winter hiking both peaceful and visually rewarding. Popular trails, such as the Ferncliff Trail or Great Gorge Trail, offer accessible routes with beautiful seasonal scenery.


Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing


When snow conditions allow, open meadows and forested paths in the area ideal terrain for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. These activities offer a slower pace, allowing visitors to explore areas of the park that often feel untouched during the colder months.


Cucumber Falls in Winter


Cucumber Falls is one of Ohiopyle's most photographed landmarks, and winter brings a new perspective when the water flows beneath icy coverings and frost gathers along the rocks. It's a popular spot for winter photography and a convenient stop for even casual travelers.


Local Dining and Breweries


After exploring outdoors, warm up at a nearby eatery or brewery. The Laurel Highlands region offers a variety of casual restaurants, taverns, and breweries where you can enjoy hearty meals and seasonal drinks. Dining in winter often feels especially cozy, with warm lighting and scenic views that overlook snow-covered hills.


Outdoor recreation adds a refreshing balance to the holiday festivities in Chalk Hill, making your winter getaway feel both active and relaxing.


Stay Cozy and Close at The Lodge at Chalk Hill


When planning accommodations near Ohiopyle, PA, many travelers look for places that provide convenience, comfort, and a warm atmosphere during the winter months. The Lodge at Chalk Hill provides all of that in a setting that reflects the natural beauty of the Laurel Highlands.


Just minutes from The Christmas Shop, Cedar Hill Farm, and Ohiopyle State Park, the Lodge is ideally located for those hoping to experience both holiday events and outdoor activities.


As the top choice for Chalk Hill, PA lodging, guests can expect a range of amenities, including:


Warm, Inviting Rooms


The Lodge provides comfortable rooms and suites with rustic décor that complements the winter season. Select rooms also feature outdoor firepits, adding to the coziness. 


The main lodge also features a fireplace for guests' enjoyment. 


Scenic Mountain Views


Many rooms overlook the surrounding hills and forested areas, giving guests a peaceful view of the winter landscape.


Modern Comforts


Amenities include free Wi-Fi, updated bathrooms, convenient parking, and thoughtful touches that help make your stay comfortable after a full day of exploring.


A Family-Run Atmosphere


The Lodge is locally owned and managed, offering a personal and welcoming atmosphere that sets it apart from larger hotels or chain accommodations.

Whether you're planning a romantic holiday getaway, bringing family for a festive weekend, or exploring the Laurel Highlands with a group of friends, The Lodge at Chalk Hill offers a calm place to relax and recharge.


Plan Your Laurel Highlands Christmas Getaway


Chalk Hill's holiday season offers a mix of festive traditions, small-town charm, and the area's outdoor beauty that make this a meaningful destination for winter travelers. Whether you're stopping by the Christmas Shop for décor inspiration, spending an evening under the glow of the Cedar Hill light show, exploring the Ohiopyle Winter Market, or hiking through snowy valleys, your time here can be as peaceful and engaging as you choose.


To make the most of your Christmas vacation:


  • Plan ahead for popular events, such as the Cedar Hill light show.
  • Book your accommodations early, especially if you're visiting on December weekends.
  • Dress warmly for outdoor adventures and photography in Ohiopyle.
  • Explore both festive attractions and natural sites to experience the full Laurel Highlands.
  • With welcoming community events, cozy lodging, and scenic winter landscapes, Chalk Hill is the perfect choice for holiday travelers seeking an enjoyable and memorable Christmas getaway in the Laurel Highlands.


For inquiries or reservations, contact us today! 


author silhouette

Author: Emily Humes


As the new owner of the Lodge at Chalk Hill,  Emily has been working tirelessly with the staff and contractors to renovate the property and put a wealth of knowledge and and professionalism into practice for an improve guest experience.


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