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15 Best Day Trips from Columbus (Ohio)

Columbus is the capital of the mid-western state of Ohio, and also its largest city.

Known for its numerous parks and world famous university, Columbus is also centrally located between Ohio’s two other big cities: Cleveland and Cincinnati.

It is in the perfect location to be used as a base to gain access to the entire state.

Within reach of Ohio are many opportunities for day tripping, with many historic mid-west cities and towns, such as Newark and Dayton, just a short drive away.

Nature lovers will find plenty of State Parks with hiking trails, cascading waterfalls and beautiful woodland scenery to explore.

Far north of Ohio lies the huge Lake Erie, along with the state’s only National Park: Cuyahoga National Park.

Around the state there are underground caverns, caves and even ancient Native American earthworks: lasting relics from a time long ago that have survived to this day and are an important part of the region’s long history.

1. Hocking Hills

Just southeast of Columbus is the Hocking Hills State Park, a must do day trip from the city that takes you to some of the most unusual rock formations in Ohio.

Hocking Hills is the site of caves, cliffs and crevasses, with short and long hikes connecting different parts of the park, as well as opportunities for kayaking, rock climbing and even zip lining.

The real highlight of the Hocking Hills is the cavernous Ash Cave, which forms a huge open recess in the rock that can be walked in and around.

Aside from the Ash Cave, there are many other rock formations to visit; don’t miss out on Cedar Falls, a spectacular waterfall which plunges over giant rocks.

2. Cuyahoga National Park

Cuyahoga National Park is Ohio’s only National Park.

Found north of Columbus and close to the city of Cleveland, it is a stunning area of natural beauty that follows the course of the Cuyahoga River, containing walking and cycling trails, waterfalls, and caves to discover.

The National Park also has an historical canal that can be traversed on foot.

This was the first canal in the state, stretching to Lake Erie in the north.

It allowed Ohio to be opened up to the rest of the country and the world by providing a means of entry and exit for people and goods.

The small, unassuming city of Dayton has played a huge role in the history of aviation.

This is where the Wright Brothers came from, and where they built their first aircraft; going down in history as the pioneers of modern flight.

Dayton, just a day trip away from Columbus, should be visited to see where flight really began.

Today it is also home to the National Museum of the United States Air Force, a very fitting location for one of the largest aviation museums in the world.

Newark is just 40 miles away, and is a great retreat from the big city.

Here you can find the world’s largest basket, which is actually a huge, company headquarters building shaped and designed to look like a basket.

There is also the interesting Works Museum: a museum dedicated to Newark’s industrial and technical history, where you can learn about glass blowing and canal building alongside the history of the region.

Around Newark there are also numerous ancient earthworks: huge mounds constructed by old Native Indian civilizations, that have survived to this day.

5. Miamisburg Mound

The Indian mounds aren’t only found around Newark, but exist in most of the state of Ohio.

One of the most interestingly shaped is the towering, conical Miamisburg Mound, raised on a high ridge and visible from miles away.

At 65-feet tall, it features a staircase through the center of the grassy mound which takes visitors to the top for panoramic views out over the surrounding area.

The Mound is one of thousands that have been discovered, the relics of lost civilizations, but Miamisburg is unique because of its height; few other surviving mounds can match it for size.

6. Olentangy Indian Caverns

If you are interested in Native American history, then another great day trip from Ohio is a journey to the Olentangy Indian Caverns.

This natural cave system was used by the local native Huron people as shelter.

The caverns stretch over three floors and would have provided a refuge and safe haven in times of war, being difficult to find from above ground, let alone enter.

The caverns can be explored on underground tours led by local guides.

7. Tecumseh

Tecumseh is not a place, but a historical show that has to be seen when visiting Ohio.

This is an outdoor drama set in the hills of Ohio, and it tells the story of the local Indians; in particular the chief Tecumseh, who tried in vain to defend his land and people from colonization in the 1700s.

Because it is held outdoors, the show is only performed in the summer months, but it is worth scheduling your Columbus trip to coincide with a showing, as it receives accolades worldwide.

8. Amish Country Ohio

Northeast of Ohio is Amish Country, made up of several towns and cities, the largest of which is Millersburg.

This is a completely different world, where the Amish communities live in varied ways according to their beliefs in the Bible, meaning there is little technology and lots of faith.

You will see horse drawn carriages on the roads and traditional houses in the towns, while many of the communities actually speak Pennsylvania Dutch as their first language, rather than English.

9. Seneca Caverns

Seneca Caverns is a huge underground cave system with miles of passageways and underground rivers that feed the region’s entire water system.

The cave is multi-layered and to date there are seven underground levels which can be explored.

Guides will take intrepid visitors through the system; exploring the caverns and narrow passages that lead further and further down.

It’s not known how deep the system really goes, but it’s certainly a long way.

10. Ludlow Falls

Ohio has an abundance of beautiful waterfalls due to its rocky landscape, but Ludlow Falls stands out amongst them as a spectacular cascade.

Located near Dayton, not far from Columbus, Ludlow Falls is in fact hidden away beneath a bridge, making it difficult to spot.

The walk there is easy as long as you know where you are going, and it’s a quiet, secluded spot to enjoy Ohio’s enticing natural scenery.

11. Clifton Mill

Clifton Mill is a beautifully scenic piece of Ohio heritage which dates back to 1802. The Mill is on the banks of the Clifton River, and is spectacular to see, with man-made waterfalls cascading down from its position above the river.

The Mill is water powered, and these days is more of a tourist attraction than a working mill.

There’s an on-site restaurant, and at Christmas time they put on an extravagant light display that’s famous across the state.

12. The Wilds, Cumberland

The Wilds is a unique, open-air Safari in Cumberland Ohio, where the animals roam free and visitors are taken around on big safari trucks to see rare and endangered wildlife in natural settings.

The Wilds is a non-profit organization; they put the animals first, and that’s why the facility is so popular.

They have species from across the world and educate people on conservation and responsibility rather than just providing entertainment at the expense of the captive animals.

13. Salt Fork State Park

Salt Fork State Park is the largest of Ohio’s state parks, covering huge areas of forest east of Columbus.

It’s a beautiful place to hike, bike and get into the heart of Ohio’s natural environment, but it’s also known locally for the legend of Big Foot.

Believe what you will, but local lore says that it’s the home of this mythical creature.

Reported sightings have been made all across Salt Fork since the first European settlers arrived in the 1700s.

Documentaries have been filmed here and hardcore explorers head out into the wild to try and find this legendary creature.

They even hold a Big Foot conference here to celebrate this monstrous legend.

14. Cincinnati

An hour and a half south of Columbus is the city of Cincinnati: the third largest city in Ohio.

It’s the home of the Cincinnati Reds, the oldest baseball team in America.

Once just a sprawling industrial city, Cincinnati has reinvented itself as a tourist destination, offering great food and a growing cultural scene, all spread along the banks of the Ohio River.

The cityscape itself is one of the best reasons to visit, as the center has a huge concentration of distinct, 19th century architectural buildings from Cincinnati’s industrial boom days.

15. Cleveland

Cleveland, Ohio’s second largest city, is found in a beautiful setting on the banks of the huge Lake Erie.

It is a culturally and historically significant city, dating back to the early days of European exploration of the Great Lakes.

Today it is most famous for being the home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: a museum showcasing the best of rock from across the world.

15 Best Day Trips from Columbus (Ohio):

• Hocking Hills
• Cuyahoga National Park
• Miamisburg Mound
• Olentangy Indian Caverns
• Amish Country Ohio
• Seneca Caverns
• Ludlow Falls
• Clifton Mill
• The Wilds, Cumberland
• Salt Fork State Park

Rooted in Ohio

31 Unique Day Trips From Columbus Ohio | Fun Ohio Day Trips

If you live in Ohio, you know all about Columbus, the state’s largest and capital city. Along with being home to Ohio State University and the Buckeye football team, it’s situated halfway between Cincinnati and Cleveland. This means that day trips from Columbus Ohio are already off to a good start.

Whether you want to go north, south, east, or west, you’re not too far from your next adventure if you start in Columbus. You can take a day trip to do some shopping, explore a new nature walking trail, or check out a new city. Here’s a list of perfect day trips, road trips, and weekend getaways.

31 Best Day Trips from Columbus Ohio

• Newark (45 minutes from Columbus)
• Ohio Caverns (1 hour from Columbus)
• Yellow Springs (1 hour from Columbus)
• Mansfield (1 hour from Columbus)
• Malabar Farm State Park (1 hour from Columbus)
• Cedar Bog Nature Preserve (1 hour from Columbus)
• Hocking Hills State Park (1 hour from Columbus)
• John Glenn Astronomy Park (1 hour from Columbus)
• Kings Island Amusement Park (1.25 hours from Columbus)
• The Wilds (1.5 hours from Columbus)
• Miamisburg Mound (1.5 hours from Columbus)
• Loveland Castle & Museum (1.5 hours from Columbus)
• Salt Fork State Park (1.5 hours from Columbus)
• Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum (1.75 hours from Columbus)
• Cincinnati (1.75 hours from Columbus)
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park (2 hours from Columbus)
• Pro Football Hall of Fame (2 hours from Columbus)
• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2.25 hours from Columbus)
• Chagrin Falls (2.25 hours from Columbus)
• Cleveland (2.25 hours from Columbus)
• Cedar Point Amusement Park (2.25 hours from Columbus)
• Lake Erie Shores & Islands (2.25 hours from Columbus)
• Newport Aquarium (1.75 hours from Columbus)
• Fort Wayne (2.75 hours from Columbus)
• Indianapolis (2.75 hours from Columbus)
• Ann Arbor (3 hours from Columbus)
• Pittsburgh (3 hours from Columbus)
• Louisville (3.25 hours from Columbus)
• Coopers Rock State Forest (3.5 hours from Columbus)
• Dunbar (3.5 hours from Columbus)

Ohio Day Trips From Columbus

Check out attractions in newark ohio.

45-minute drive from Columbus

Located just 40 miles from Columbus, Newark is a great spot to go if you’re looking to get out of the city for the day. Fans of quirky landmarks can get an up-close-and-personal look at the world’s largest basket, which actually houses a company headquarters.

The Interesting Works Museum, which is dedicated to Newark’s industrial history, is worth visiting too. Here, you can learn about canal-building and glass blowing, as well as the history of the region. Keep an eye out for ancient earthworks, which were constructed by Native American civilizations in the area.

Also, consider going in early June. Not only will you be able to check out the sites, but you’ll be able to soak in the atmosphere of the Newark Strawberry Festival and nosh on strawberry shortcakes and other delicious dishes.

Experience the Ohio Caverns in West Liberty Ohio

1-hour drive from Columbus

If you’re looking to explore during your next day trip, head northwest to the Ohio Caverns in West Liberty. These Ohio caves are recognized as some of the most colorful in the United States because of their amazing collection of stalagmites, stalactites, and other formations.

If you’re going to go exploring, take a jacket and a camera. The caverns maintain a constant temperature of 54 degrees, and a jacket will keep you comfortable. With your camera, you can get amazing photos of the formations up close and be able to show them to family and friends.

Guided tours lasting about an hour are offered, so be prepared for some walking.

A Trip to Yellow Springs Ohio

There are many fun options for day trips from Columbus Ohio to Yellow Springs. In particular, Young’s Jersey Dairy Farm has excellent ice cream and a restaurant.

You can also visit the  Glen Helen Nature Preserve , which has a nice visitors center, and you can learn about the area as you walk through the pathways. There’s a grotto and some interesting wildlife.

In and around Yellow Springs, is Clifton Ohio with a covered bridge and Historic Clifton Mill . There are less than 100 mills still in existence today, and this is one of them.

What to See in Mansfield Ohio

If you’ve seen “Shawshank Redemption” (if you haven’t, come on it’s a classic), you’ll really enjoy Mansfield. Even if you haven’t seen the movie, this city is very interesting.

The Ohio State Reformatory is fascinating and intriguing. You’re allowed to wander around and freak yourself out with all the nooks, crannies, and peeling wallpaper in every room. The audio guides enrich your time and point out things that you would probably never notice.

For example, there’s an ‘x’ of light that’s made between four doorways that’s always there because of the symmetry of the building. Interesting, but most people don’t notice.

Beware that there’s no heat in the building. We went in February and nearly froze to death. However, we still loved it and can’t wait to visit again.

A Visit in Lucas Ohio

About 20 minutes from Mansfield, is another wonderful site worth visiting — Malabar Farm State Park . It features lots of events, like Wildflower hikes and Maple Syrup Festivals . The home was built by a man named Louis Bromfield in the 1940s and has all the original furnishings.

It features paintings from France, a grand piano, etc.

The home is interesting to explore, and the history is fascinating. Many celebrities visited the home, and in fact, Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall got married here. The home was donated to be part of a state park and is very well-done.

The state park, which is also near Mohican State Park , features hiking trails and look-outs. The tallest point in the area, Mt. Jeez, is a great overlook to see the entire farm.

We visited Malabar Farm State Park in the summer and enjoyed some of the hiking trails we’d heard about in February.  We also visited the farm and saw some of the animals, and then ate at the Malabar Farm Restaurant , which uses local ingredients in their dishes.

Cedar Bog Nature Preserve in Urbana Ohio

Less than one hour from Columbus, you’ll find a 450-acre nature preserve. Thousands of years ago, glaciers carved through much of Ohio and left behind what are now protected wetlands.

Visitors will be pleased to learn that boardwalks go through the wetlands, so you won’t have to put on heavy-duty gear to go exploring. You can explore the preserve year-round, but visiting in springtime is something special when the lady slipper orchids bloom.

There’s a small fee for each entrant to help with the upkeep of the park. But it’s worth it considering all the rare plants and animals you’ll get to see. 

Hocking Hills State Park in Logan Ohio

Almost every local knows about Hocking Hills State Park as a destination for day trips from Columbus Ohio . There aren’t many places to hike and see hills around Columbus (obviously), so this area is close enough it’s a hot place to visit.

However, it’s worth mentioning regardless. There are many trails and sites worth mentioning, including Old Man’s Cave .  

John Glenn Astronomy Park in Logan Ohio

There are lots of great day trips from Columbus Ohio, but a visit to John Glenn Astronomy Park makes for a great night trip. If you go on a clear night, you’ll have a great experience and be able to see the night sky during one of the many weekly programs that are held.

Visitors can plan their own evenings of fun too. It’s open at all times, and admission is free. So, if you’re into stars and astrology, grab your telescope, and make the drive.

Kings Island Amusement Park in Mason Ohio

1-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus

Located just north of Cincinnati, this amusement park is a favorite spot for people of all ages to visit.

There are plenty of thrill rides to delight roller coaster fans, but there’s also Planet Snoopy and Soak City water park. A brand new coaster, the Orion, was added recently.

This is the perfect place if you’re looking to have some fun after a long week of work.

Explore Greater Dayton Ohio

When you think of Ohio, you likely think of Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland. But if you’re looking for a fun day trip, don’t discount the numerous Dayton Ohio things to do .

If you love planes and aviation, Dayton is a place you absolutely have to visit. Famed pioneers of flight Orville and Wilbur Wright are from Dayton, and the city is where they built their first aircraft.

Also, Dayton is home to the National Museum of the US Air Force , one of the world’s largest aviation museums. You can marvel at more than 350 aerospace vehicles, missiles, and exhibits that tell of the country’s aviation history. You can test out a flight simulator and check out a 3D theater too.

While you’re near Dayton, head to Lebanon Ohio and the Gentle Breeze Hot Air Balloon Company. You can take aerial tours of either Dayton or Cincinnati , as well as see the wonders of the Ohio countryside.

A Trip to Cumberland Ohio

1-hour and 30-minute drive from Columbus

If you can’t go to Africa, go to The Wilds on day trips from Columbus Ohio! It has open-air safari rides that are $30 a person, and you get to see animals in a “more natural habitat.” (Obviously, they were stolen from their original habitat, but those of us who have a complex with visiting zoos will enjoy this option more.)

The safari takes you around so you can view animals grazing or watering. Animals we saw — zebras, camels, deer, giraffes, and other animals I can’t pronounce.

A Visit to the Miamisburg Mound in Ohio

If you’re looking for a quick getaway with the family for the day, head to Miamisburg Mound, where you’ll find spectacular man-made mounds. These are conical and easy to climb, so if you’re willing to climb up, it makes for a great family photo op.

Miamisburg Mound has a playground area for kids and a picnic area. So you can make a day of it without having to go too far.

Historic Loveland Castle & Museum in Loveland Ohio

You may think the best and most magnificent castles can only be found overseas in Europe. That’s where you’re wrong.

Just over an hour from Columbus, you’ll find Loveland Castle, which came to be when a WWI veteran was inspired to build a French-style castle of his own. Not only can you go exploring, but the castle offers many other services, such as weddings and Cub Scout sleepovers.

As you explore and marvel at the architecture — a mix of German, French, and English construction — you can learn all about Harry (the man who built the castle), play games and puzzles, and keep an eye out for ghosts that reportedly roam around.

If you like medieval swords and weapons, those are displayed throughout the castle as well.

Salt Fork State Park in Lore City Ohio

If you’re a fan of cryptids and cryptology, day trips from Columbus Ohio to explore Ohio’s famous Bigfoot territory are right up your alley. The park has been featured on Animal Planet and is reportedly full of the famous bipeds.

This is also where the annual Ohio Bigfoot Conference is held. So grab your Bigfoot exploration gear, and prepare to go hunting for sasquatch.

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum in Hamilton Ohio

1-hour and 45-minute drive from Columbus

As you’ve already read, Ohio is home to some truly great historical sights. At this Hamilton museum, you can take a scenic drive in your car to see this more than 300-acre sculpture park. If you want something a little more adventurous, rent a golf cart for a closer look.

While you’re here, stop at the Ancient Sculpture Museum, where you can see sculptures from many civilizations, including the Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians.

Explore Greater Cincinnati Ohio

There’s a lot to do in Cincinnati.

The second time we went to Cincinnati, we visited a few other places worth mentioning — such as the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center , which discussed the harrowing effects of slavery in the United States and current slavery that still exists in the world.

It’s one of those places that you want to be mentally prepared for. It’s thought-provoking and extremely intense to walk through. It features large printed slave ship sketches, a slave pen, etc.

Right outside of the Freedom Center is a waterfront area with a park and suspension bridge to walk on. The suspension bridge goes over the Ohio River and connects Covington Kentucky with Cincinnati.

We also visited the Cincinnati Art Museum , which is free and has a fantastic clothing exhibit and other amazing artwork! It was a beautiful museum to visit. Other places we visited there were Spring Grove Cemetery, which had some beautiful graves and other structures within the arboretum. 

Even though there was a wedding going on and we couldn’t explore the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption completely, we were able to see the nave inside and the beautiful building on the outside. I would like to go back when it’s not full of wedding guests to explore the rest of it.

After sightseeing, we ate dinner at a restaurant called Taft’s Ale House , which boasts a very decadent menu. It was in an old building and had great food, beer, and cocktails.  

Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Brecksville Ohio

2-hour drive from Columbus

Believe it or not, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the only national park in the state of Ohio. You’ll find it north of Columbus and close to Cleveland. If you love nature, you’ll be blown away by the natural beauty found along the Cuyahoga River, including caves, Brandywine Falls , and the Blue Hen waterfall.

If you’re up for hiking trails, there’s a historic canal that you can traverse on foot. That canal connects Ohio to the rest of the country by stretching to Lake Erie in the north.

Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton Ohio

The Pro Football Hall of Fame is a wonderland for fans of the gridiron and day trips from Columbus Ohio. You can take a guided tour or tour the Hall of Fame at your leisure, soaking up the history and checking out the busts of some of the greatest players in the National Football League.

Much like the rock hall, you can see exhibits from some of the greatest players. Additionally, you can see some of the game’s greatest artifacts — including jerseys and balls from memorable games.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland Ohio

2-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus

If you’re a fan of rock and roll, you’ll be as happy as a kid in a candy store with a visit to this Cleveland hallmark. You’ll find multiple floors packed with guitars, costumes, and other memorabilia from all your favorite rock stars — including the Who, the Beatles, and Jimi Hendrix.

Not only can you see iconic pieces of rock history, but there are plenty of chances for fans to interact. The Garage also allows fans to play instruments along with instructional videos.

A theater lets you see iconic moments in rock-and-roll history, and listening stations let you hear songs that shaped that history.

What to See in Chagrin Falls Ohio

Chagrin Falls is an adorable little suburb of Cleveland. The main area has an old-timey popcorn shop , Jeni’s Ice Cream, and the actual waterfall to view. The town is fun to walk around and explore.  

When we went, we had a Groupon for an adorable bed and breakfast called The Club at Hillbrook . The rooms are beautiful, spacious, and elegant. We ate dinner in the main restaurant, which had cute string lights and overlooked the large property.

You can also walk around the property and enjoy some of the interesting trails and nature nearby.

Enjoy Greater Cleveland Ohio

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Chagrin Falls shouldn’t be the only things you see while you’re in C-town. If the weather is cooperative, you can tour some of the city’s most historic neighborhoods.

If you’re itching to shop, the historic West Side Market offers some of the freshest food you’re likely to find anywhere. Also, check out the Cleveland Arcade, which is home to equally impressive stores and restaurants.

If you’re a fan of “A Christmas Story,” the house used in the movie can be found in the Tremont neighborhood and has been renovated to look exactly as it did in the movie. There are even more  Cleveland day trip  ideas to explore too.

Related: 30+ Amazing Things to Do in Canton Ohio | Top Attractions, Dining, Lodging, & More

Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky Ohio

If you like the roller coaster theme, you can travel a little further on day trips from Columbus Ohio to visit the Cedar Point Amusement Park, dubbed by some as the “roller coaster capital of the world.”

If you’re looking for extreme coasters, take a ride on the Magnum, Maverick, Millennium Force, and Raptor — just to name a few. If you’re not into coasters, there’s also a water park and resort-like amenities.

Lake Erie Shores & Islands in Sandusky Ohio

Aside from roller coasters, there’s plenty of fun to be had in Sandusky. If you’re up for exploring, visit Paddle and Climb and rent a kayak or paddleboard. Once you launch your vessel of choice, you can spend the day on the water.

Make no mistake, Lake Erie is beautiful all year round. If you go during the summer months, wear a hat and sunscreen, and drink plenty of fluids.

Related: 13 Best Indoor Things to Do in Sandusky Ohio

Day Trips From Columbus Outside of Ohio

Newport aquarium in newport kentucky.

Just across the river is Newport Kentucky, where I’ve visited the wonderful Newport Aquarium and waterfront area. If you love the sea, you’ll see plenty of animals — including a giant Pacific octopus, sharks, sea turtles, rays, and a giant grouper.

If you’re looking for a fun family day trip from Columbus, especially with young kids, this is the place to go. Your children’s eyes will light up in wonder as they see rare white alligators, penguins, and thousands of the most exotic creatures in the world.

There’s even a rope bridge that crosses over the top of a tank full of sharks. Also, check out one of the newest exhibits, Shipwreck: Realm of the Eels, where you can see a sunken ship and the creatures that live in and around it.

I’ve been to Cincinnati twice to see the aquarium, which is amazing. The aquarium is a great place to visit at any time of the year , but winter is a fun time to visit the turtles and alligators.

The sharks that swim overhead while you’re walking through is a wonderful feature.

Explore Fort Wayne Indiana

2-hour and 45-minute drive from Columbus

You may be thinking to yourself, why would I plan day trips from Columbus Ohio to Fort Wayne? Well, the city has a lot to offer and is home to a lot of history. It has three different rivers, so you have ample opportunity to kayak, canoe, and paddleboard.

The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo has consistently been named one of the nation’s best. And, you can visit the “Old Fort,” a reconstruction of Fort Wayne from 1815.

On top of that, Fort Wayne is home to a thriving cultural district, where you can visit the Fort Wayne Civic Theatre and the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, among other attractions.

A Visit to Indianapolis Indiana

During a day trip from Columbus to Indianapolis, you’ll see a beautiful skyline, a thriving sports scene, and lots of history.

If history is your thing, take a gander down Canal Street. You’ll find the Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial and the Indiana State Museum on one end of the street. On the other end is a monument to the U.S.S. Indianapolis.

You can also check out the Indianapolis Zoo and the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway. If you’re hungry, stop for a brew at Rathsekllar, and marvel at the Indy skyline. You can get some delicious German food there too.

Enjoy Ann Arbor Michigan

3-hour drive from Columbus

Columbus locals may roll their eyes at taking a trip to visit “That School Up North,” but beyond the Michigan-Ohio State football rivalry, Ann Arbor is a town worth checking out. It has been named one of the coolest small towns in America with plenty of shopping and more than 300 bars and restaurants.

If you’re feeling adventurous, visit Gallup Park, Ann Arbor’s most popular recreation area. Here you can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats. You can go on nature walks, or stop to have a family picnic. If you own a boat, there’s even a boat launch, so you can spend the day fishing or tubing.

Experience Pittsburgh Pennsylvania

Believe it or not, the major Pittsburg metropolis isn’t too far from Columbus, and there’s no shortage of things to see and do. If you love sports, head to PNC Park to catch a Pittsburgh Pirates game.

If you love museums, head to the Carnegie Museum of Art, where you can see awe-inspiring exhibitions that change annually. If you’re looking for great food, you can’t go wrong with a stuffed sandwich from Primanti Bros. or a succulent steak at Butcher in the Rye.

What to See in Louisville Kentucky

3-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus

Even outside of the Buckeye State, there are awesome destinations for day trips from Columbus Ohio. If you like bourbon, Louisville is the place for you.

There are many bourbon distilleries around the city, and you can pick up a passbook and follow the trail. Also, you can do bourbon tastings, although you won’t see how it’s manufactured.

Some restaurants and bars offer tastings, and the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience is a fun option within the city.

In addition, the boardwalk is a nice place to walk around, and there are good views of the river. There are a lot of places to eat and bars with all sorts of live music. 

Coopers Rock State Forest in Bruceton Mills West Virginia

3-hour and 30-minute drive from Columbus

I just visited Coopers Rock State Forest on our way back from Maryland.  The views are beautiful, and I didn’t get a chance to explore the entire place.

The main lookout point was very crowded with people, although I think it was the time of year and time of day we went. There was perfect October weather in the afternoon! I suspect if you aim to go here in the morning, it will be less crowded, and when you get to some of the main trails it won’t be so bad.

There’s a main overlook area, with pay-to-view finders, and then there are hiking trails you can take that will bring you off the main overlook to an underlook. There’s also a gift shop and a park. If it’s nice out, I think you can really make a full day of it.

Consider visiting other attractions on day trips from Columbus Ohio to West Virginia .

A Tasty Visit in Dunbar Pennsylvania

In Dunbar Pennsylvania, you can see some Frank Lloyd Wright homes and caverns, sample some berry pie, and view the rolling hills of Western Pennsylvania. There are plenty of things to do on a day trip from Columbus to Western Pennsylvania , and it’s all less than four hours from Columbus!

More Tips for Taking Day Trips From Columbus Ohio

There are a lot of museums in Ohio that have some great history to share. They also do a lot of public programming.

If you’re a history-lover, you should check out the Ohio History Connection’s calendar of events to get ideas for what’s going on not only in Columbus but also in all the historic homes, museums, and outdoor sites managed by the Connection.

You may find a self-guided hike at Wahkeena Nature Preserve, the art of historical cooking at Fort Hill Earthworks , or a White House chef visit at the Hayes Presidential Center . Those would make great day trips from Columbus Ohio as well.

Frequently Asked Questions About Day Trips From Columbus Ohio

What cities are an hour away from columbus ohio.

There are quite a few cities that sit just a short distance from Columbus. Within a one-hour drive, you can visit Urbana, Yellow Springs, Lexington, Fairborn, Bellefontaine, and Cedarville — just to name a few.

What cities are 3 hours from Columbus?

One of the best things about Columbus is its central location. Within a three-hour drive, you can explore Dayton, Cleveland, Indianapolis, and Pittsburgh — not to mention lots of exciting, small, and unique towns in Ohio.

Which cities are within a 4 hours drive of Columbus Ohio?

As you’ve read, there are a lot of cities within a four-hour drive of Columbus. Depending on what you want to do, you can easily travel to Fort Wayne or Indianapolis in Indiana; Dayton, Cincinnati, and Cleveland in Ohio; and Ann Arbor in Michigan.

What is there to do in a one-day trip to Ohio?

A better question is “What isn’t there to do?” The only limit to what you can do in Ohio is your imagination. If you’re a state resident looking for day trips from Columbus Ohio, you can go in any direction and find something amazing.

If you love sports, head to Indianapolis or Pittsburgh. If you love art, drive to Pittsburgh or Fort Wayne. If you want great eats, pick a direction and head for the nearest big city.

What is there to do between Columbus and Cleveland?

This is a case of there just being too many options to choose from. If you’re planning road trips from Columbus Ohio up to Cleveland, there are a lot of stops you can make in just over two hours.

You can get in touch with nature at Brandywine Falls at Cuyahoga National Park. Or, soak up some history at Thomas Edison’s birthplace in Milan or the Harding House Presidential Suite in Marion. You can also stop in Akron to visit the Akron Zoo.

Explore Amazing Things to Do on Day Trips From Columbus Ohio

No matter what you want to do or where you want to go, fun is only a short distance away from Columbus, Ohio. Whether you want to take a spontaneous day trip with the family or plan the perfect weekend getaway with friends, you can literally pick a direction and drive.

You can squeeze even more fun out of day trips from Columbus Ohio by making stops as you drive to a bigger city, such as Pittsburgh or Cleveland. So, grab your friends and family, ready the car keys, and hit the open road!

Looking for More Day Trips in Ohio?

Maybe you’re not starting your day trips in Ohio from Columbus… no worries. We’ve put together a few other Ohio day trip starting guides:

• Explore Ohio & Beyond: 20 Excellent Day Trips from Cleveland
• 21 Amazing Day Trips from Cincinnati in Ohio, Kentucky, & Indiana

Unique Day Trips From Columbus Ohio

A lover of new experiences and fun road trips, Nina enjoys local and worldwide travel. She seeks authentic adventures ranging from wilderness camping to fine dining. Her passion is to share her experiences with others, so they can get the most out of their travels. Nina manages a local history museum in Columbus, Ohio, where she lives with her husband. Her travel motto comes from a woman she met locally who told her, "Always have a trip planned." She's the author of the book How to Be Your Own Travel Agent available on Amazon

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Lots of great ideas for our next day trip! You can travel 45 minutes North of Columbus to Marion and see the largest monument to a U.S. president outside of Washington DC, the historically accurate and beautifully restored home of President Warren G. Harding and the newly built presidential museum. A unique experience for sure!

You did not mention Put-in-Bay

No mention of Amish country in Holmes County, one hour and a half south east of Columbus. Enjoy the laid back rural Holmes County, we have the largest Amish population in Ohio. Plenty of shops, hotels, restaurants, Holmes county is visited by people from all over the country and the world. No better place to spend the weekend away from all the hustle and bustle.

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25 Unique Columbus Day Trips

Looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of Columbus? Whether you’re a long-time resident or just passing through, Ohio and its neighboring states offer an incredible array of day trips that cater to every type of adventurer. From the serene beauty of natural parks and the thrill of amusement parks to the rich tapestry of Midwestern culture and history, there’s something within a four-hour drive for everyone.

We’ve curated a list of 25 unique destinations, each offering its own set of unforgettable experiences. These spots have been meticulously ranked from closest to furthest from Columbus, ensuring you can make the most out of your travel time. So, whether you’re looking to explore outdoor wonders, dive into the culinary scene, or simply enjoy a change of scenery, you’re just a short drive away from your next adventure. Let’s discover the hidden gems and popular attractions that lie within a stone’s throw of Columbus. Buckle up for a journey through picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and the heart of the Midwest’s warm hospitality.

1. Yellow Springs, OH (Approx. 1 hour drive)

READ MORE: The Best Things To Do In Yellow Springs

2. Hocking Hills, OH (Approx. 1.5 hours drive)

READ MORE: The Best Things To Do In Hocking Hills

3. Cincinnati, OH (Approx. 2 hours drive)

READ MORE: This Unique Cincinnati House Has An Awesome 30-Foot Swing

4. Dayton, OH (Approx. 1 hour 15 mins drive)

READ MORE: These Massive Troll Sculptures In Dayton Are Totally Worth A Road Trip

5. Cleveland, OH (Approx. 2.5 hours drive)

6. Toledo, OH (Approx. 2.5 hours drive)

READ MORE: Cool And Unusual Things To Do In Toledo

7. Put-in-Bay, OH (Approx. 3.5 hours drive, including ferry)

READ MORE: 5 Fun Things To Do On A Weekend Getaway At Put-In-Bay

8. Amish Country, OH (Holmes County) (Approx. 2 hours drive)

READ MORE: The Best Things To Do In Ohio’s Amish Country

9. Pittsburgh, PA (Approx. 3 hours drive)

10. Louisville, KY (Approx. 3.5 hours drive)

11. Detroit, MI (Approx. 3.5 hours drive)

12. Indianapolis, IN (Approx. 2.5 hours drive)

13. Sandusky, OH (Approx. 2 hours drive)

READ MORE: The 10 Best Roller Coasters In Ohio

14. Geneva-on-the-Lake, OH (Approx. 3 hours drive)

READ MORE: This Gorgeous Waterfront Resort Is Worth The 3-Hour Road Trip From Columbus

15. Mammoth Cave National Park, KY (Approx. 4 hours drive)

16. Lexington, KY (Approx. 3 hours drive)

17. Fort Wayne, IN (Approx. 3 hours drive)

18. Ann Arbor, MI (Approx. 3.5 hours drive)

19. The Wilds (Approx. 1.5 hours drive)

READ MORE: Go On A Safari Adventure This Summer At The Wilds

20. Mohican State Park, OH (Approx. 1.5 hours drive)

READ MORE: The Best Things To Do At Mohican State Park

21. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH (Approx. 2 hours drive)

READ MORE: A Road Trip To Cuyahoga Valley National Park Should Be On Your Fall Bucket List

22. Athens, OH (Approx. 1.5 hours drive)

READ MORE: Strouds Run State Park Is A Perfect Summer Road Trip From Columbus

23. Bellefontaine, OH (Approx. 1 hour drive)

24. Newark, OH (Approx. 1 hour drive)

25. Zanesville, OH (Approx. 1 hour 20 mins drive)

Chelsea Wiley

Chelsea Wiley, first of her name, Queen of the Seven Andals... wait. That's not right. Joking aside, Chelsea is a writer and photographer born and raised in Columbus, Ohio. She is an avid reader and a lover of animals.

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60 BEST Things to Do in Columbus, OH (Something For Everyone!)

Explore the top 60 activities in Columbus, OH! From historic parks and zoos to unique museums and fun-filled attractions, find the perfect mix for all.

Columbus, Ohio is a historic destination that has much to offer. From garden attractions to museums, zoos and more, you can do it all when you visit this famous old city. Love a good outdoor adventure? They've got a million. Looking for an educational, informative trip? Columbus is all that and more. From incredible food to an experience that is incomparable, you will love everything about this lively city.

Discover the historic charm of this well-known city. If you're in the mood for an adventurous, informative and scenic vacation with exclusive experiences, Columbus is an ideal choice. Historic parks and monuments are plentiful, exciting attractions are all around and you are sure to love the cool city vibe Columbus exudes. This guide of sixty things to do will have you ready to book your trip with a full itinerary of exciting things to see and do.

1. Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum

Map It: Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum | Website | Phone: (614) 292-0538 | Hours: 1pm-5pm Tuesday-Sunday Entrance : FREE

Appreciate the world of graphic art when you head to Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum. This attraction houses the largest collection of cartoons and comics in the world! You simply must experience the many exhibits and displays if you are a fan of comic art. Check out original artwork, books, newspaper comic strips and more.

You will be surprised to find the world's rarest pieces all created by talented artists across the world. If you don't have knowledge of the comic book world, you will leave with a plethora of exciting information that will have you inspired and appreciating graphic art so much more.

2. Center of Science & Industry

Map It: Center of Science and Industry (COSI) | Website | Phone : (586) 797-6800 | Hours: 10am-5pm Daily | Entrance: $20 Adults, $15 Children

Explore the world of science with the whole family. With over three hundred exhibits, this science exploration museum covers astronomy, ocean life, dinosaurs and more. You will marvel at the life-size cast of a T-Rex and pose next to the thirty-foot-tall Poseidon statue. Revisit all the exciting scientific subjects you covered in grade school and beyond when you visit the Center of Science & Industry.

With a historic appeal that takes a trip down memory lane, you can visit a telegraph office, grocer and more from the early 1960's. This interactive museum is sure to be a hit for the science buff and families alike. All ages will get something out of this trip!

Related Read: 20 Best Hiking Trails in Columbus, Ohio

3. Ohio Expo Center & State Fair

Map It: Ohio Expo Center & State Fair | Website | Phone: (888) OHO-EXPO | Hours: 9am-9pm Monday-Saturday | Entrance: $10 per entry

With a plethora of events year-round, you won't want to miss this Ohio state attraction. It is infamously known for holding the state fair, which is a spectacular, popular event. From equestrian shows to live concerts, you can find a wide array of different things to experience at Ohio Expo Center.

Home of over 200 events, you'll want to check the calendar as you plan your trip to Columbus. Don't forget to check out the historic landmarks on site, along with livestock, and an ice rink among other fun attractions. For a fun, carnival vibe attraction, Ohio Expo Center is ideal!

4. Kelton House Museum & Garden

Map It: Kelton House Museum & Garden | Website | Phone: (614) 464-2022 | Hours: 12pm-4pm Thursday-Sunday | Entrance: Adults $7, Seniors $5, Students $3

This attraction boasts an important piece of history for the city of Columbus. This fully immersive trip brings you back to the 19th century and offers you a guided tour of this spectacular Victorian home. Featuring a beautiful interior and a total lesson in history of the Kelton family, there is much to see when you stop by.

Step outside into the garden for a grand tour of beautiful scenery. The Kelton family was a well-known family that lived during the civil war and practiced abolitionist ways. Their home was once a stop for the underground railroad. Get a dose of the city's history at this unique museum.

Related Read: Top 10 BEST Indoor Water Parks in Ohio

5. Topiary Park

Map It: Topiary Park | Hours: 7am-11pm Daily | Entrance: FREE

Enjoy a unique experience when you visit Columbus's Topiary Park, known for its incredible topiary sculptures. This incredible park has been around since the 19th century and even provides re-creations of many paintings and more. This landscape art is something you and the family won't want to miss.

Head on down and take a self-guided tour for free. It is the only Topiary Park in the world that holds 3D recreations of paintings of its kind. If you want an experience exclusive to Columbus, Topiary Park is the place to go.

6. Columbus Funny Bone

Map It: Columbus Funny Bone | Website | Phone: (614) 471-5653 | Hours: Varies | Entrance: Varies

If you're in the mood for a good dose of entertainment, Columbus Funny Bone is the local comedy club to visit. Well known for hosting popular comedians such as Ellen Degeneres and Drew Carey, this is a comedic attraction you won't want to miss out on. Spend the evening relaxing and laughing the night away.

You can also order food or enjoy a cup of coffee as you sit back and enjoy the show. This incredible venue has booked shows all year round so check out the website for more information on who is entertaining when you visit Columbus.

7. Ohio History Center

Map It: Ohio History Center | Website | Phone: (614) 297-2300 | Hours: 10am-5pm Wednesday-Sunday | Entrance : $13 Adults, $11 Seniors, $7 Children

Head to the Ohio History Center for an afternoon of time travel. You can learn all about the natural history of Ohio and explore artifacts. They even have a taxidermy display of now extinct animals from the area. Go as far back as Native Americans who roamed the land or enjoy some 1950's architecture.

You can learn pretty much everything about Ohio with a trip the Ohio History Center. This all-ages museum is sure to keep everyone interested with its unique objects and interesting exhibits.

Related Read: 30 Fun & Free Things To Do In Cincinnati

8. Franklin Park Conservatory & Gardens

Map It: Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens | Website | Phone: (614) 715-8000 | Hours: 10am-5pm Daily | Entrance: $22 Adults, $19 Seniors, $15 Children

This spectacular conservatory boasts unique exhibits and gardens that you will love experiencing. There is something for everyone to see at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

The conservatory provides you with exhibits that hold poetry and glass collection, in addition to a variety of other brilliant art you will love witnessing. The gardens offer lively presentations of floral arrangements unlike any other. If you head to the children's garden, kids can enjoy an interactive experience as well. Head to the on-site John F. Wolfe Palm House for a dose of history on the park and its ventures over the years. This stunning Victorian-style greenhouse boasts over forty-three species of rare plants. This relaxing trip will be something all ages can enjoy!

9. Shale Hollow Park

Map It: Shale Hollow Park | Website | Phone: (740) 524-8600 | Hours: 8am-9pm Daily | Entrance: FREE

Enjoy the great outdoors when you visit Shale Hollow Park. Embark on a wildlife adventure and spend the afternoon viewing unique rock formations and beautiful trees all around. With animals running around such as deer, raccoons and coyotes, you are sure to find something cute when you head to this park.

Marvel at the beauty of the flowing stream and become one with nature in a serene, beautiful setting. Whether you sit under the trees or set off for an adventurous hike, Shale Hollow Park is worth the trip.

10. Columbus Park of Roses

Map It: Columbus Park of Roses | Website | Phone: (614) 645-3391 | Hours: 7am-11pm Daily | Entrance: FREE

For a breathtaking scenery and a serene background filled with lovely roses, the Columbus Park of Roses is sure to be a hit. You can visit this state park for free, walking the many pathways and marveling at the beauty of all the different roses. If you're a lover of anything floral, this is a must-visit when you head to Columbus.

Being surrounded by all of these vibrant florals means endless butterflies and birds around while you are exploring the wilderness. If you enter the observation tower, you can get a much better view of the park overall and all the beauty it has to offer. With a garden of dogwoods, herbs and more, there are endless flower to see when you visit the Columbus Park of Roses.

Related Read: 20 Best State Parks in Ohio

11. The Ohio Railway Museum

Map It: The Ohio Railway Museum | Website | Phone: (614) 645-3391 | Hours: 12pm-4pm Sundays | Entrance: $9 Adults, $7 Seniors & Military, $5 Children

Adults and children alike will enjoy this train-revolved experience, teaching you all about the history of locomotives. Go back to where it all began with teh history of trains and their importance in the world. You can tour exhibits like actual street and passenger cars. Take a ride on a train and experience a guided tour for an exciting lesson on locomotives.

This museum is great for all ages and sure to impress everyone. The influence railroads had on the United States is a vital part in American history and this museum will teach you all about it.

12. German Village Society

Map It : German Village Society | Website | Phone: (614) 221-8888 | Hours: 9am-4pm Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm Saturday, Noon-4pm Sundays | Entrance: FREE

Celebrate the German community and its part in Columbus, Ohio. When you enter the village, you can view the spectacular architecture and the mid-19th century feel it possesses. Get an idea of German culture when you indulge in their famous cuisine, shop their inspired stores and peruse the old town.

They even have scavenger hunts within the neighborhood if you're feeling adventurous. Grab a golf cart tour to visit all the stunning gardens, restaurants, galleries and more. This unique, cultured town is an experience you won't want to miss.

13. Indian Run Falls

Map It: Indian Run Falls | Phone: (614) 410-4700 | Hours: 24/7 | Entrance: FREE

Enjoy a beautiful outdoor experience when you visit Indian Run Falls. This destination was once the home of the Wyandot tribe so this attraction not only boasts scenery but history. With stunning greenery, unique rock formations and breathtaking waterfalls to view, you can't go wrong with this serene experience.

Walk down the many hiking trails or just have a picnic by the stream, listening to the peaceful sounds of nature and witnessing natural beauty at its finest. Perfect for the whole family, you can easily make a whole afternoon out of adventuring at Indian Run Falls.

14. Columbus Zoo & Aquarium

Map It: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium | Website | Phone: (614) 645-3550 | Hours: 9am-6pm Daily | Entrance: Adults $24.99, Children & Seniors $18.99

This zoo and aquarium is owned by worldwide phenomenon, Jack Hanna and is known for being one of the best zoos in not only the United States, but the world. If you're headed Columbus, you simply HAVE to stop by at this well-loved attraction.

Check out the various habitats that cover rare species from Asia and North America, in addition to coastal animals. From the Alaskan Moose to the Red Panda, you will get to see it all when you visit the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium. Take a behind the scenes tour of animals like sea lions, cheetahs and more. Don't forget to stop by the aquarium to enjoy a compendium of rare ocean life.

15. North Market Downtown

Map It: North Market Downtown | Website | Phone: (614) 463-9664 | Hours: 9am-7pm Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm Sunday & Monday | Entrance: FREE

This market has been a well-known attraction for over 140 years. Boasting small businesses ranging from food to souvenirs, you can't go wrong with a trip to North Market Downtown. Shop small and find the most unique food items, specialty gifts, local flowers, produce and more. This charming little market is perfect for scoping out what Columbus is really about.

Perfect for strolling around on a sunny afternoon, you won't regret checking out this historic Columbus attraction.

16. Olentangy Caverns

Map It: Olentangy Caverns | Website | Phone: (740) 548-7917 | Hours: 9:30am-5pm Daily | Entrance: Adults $25.99, Children $22.99

Head to Olentangy Caverns for a great outdoor excursion. From cavern tours to mini golf and more, there is excitement for the whole family. The caverns boast incredible formations, fossils inside the walls and unique attributes you will have to see to believe. The Wyandot tribe once roamed the area so learn about the history of it became what it is today as well.

Take the kids to the on-site petting zoo to interact with farm animals. Do a treasure hunt or gem mining for extra excitement. This incredible attraction is sure to be a unique experience.

17. Scioto Audubon Metro Park

Map It: Scioto Audubon Metro Park | Website | Phone: (614) 202-5197 | Hours: 6:30AM- 10PM Daily | Entrance: FREE

Head down to Scioto Audubon Metro Park for some more classic outdoor fun. You can explore nearly 28,000 acres that range from forests to grassland, wetlands and more. With loads of activities such as rock climbing, canoeing, fishing and the likes, you will never get bored at this huge outdoor attraction.

In the winter, you can ice skate, sled and more on site. The options are nearly endless. They even boast golf courses and varies activities such as archery at this incredible Columbus attraction. Check out the nature center to learn some informative facts about the land and all the species and findings you will view inside the park. If you're in the mood for outdoor adventure, Scioto Audubon Metro Park is the ideal place.

18. Gahanna Lanes

Map It: Gahanna Lanes | Website | Phone: (614) 471-1111 | Hours: Monday-Thursday 12pm-10pm, Friday 12pm-2am, Saturday 11am-2am, Sunday 12pm-9pm | Entrance: $6 & Up

Keep it basic and fun by spending the afternoon or evening bowling a few games. This family friendly attraction is the perfect wind down activity, while adding some classic arcade fun to your day. Bowl and attempt the variety of games they have inside the arcade. Order some pretzels and pizza from the snack bar and just have a nice, relaxing time. They also have an extensive menu of food to choose from.

If you're looking for a filler activity or night cap, Gahanna Lanes is the perfect place to go.

19. National Veterans Memorial Museum

Map It: National Veterans Memorial and Museum | Website | Phone: (614) 362-2800 | Hours: 10am-5pm Tuesday-Sunday | Entrance: Adults $17, Seniors $15, College Students $12, Children 5 & up $10

Pay homage to all who have served over the years when you visit the National Veterans Memorial Museum. This stunning architectural structure tells the many stories of personal experience by sharing artifacts and more. The history of this museum dates all the way back to the American Revolution.

Learn all about American military history by view personal items of those who experienced it firsthand. This historic attraction is perfect for all ages and anyone who wants to learn more about the lives of soldiers over the years.

20. Heart of Africa Zoo

Map It: Heart of Africa | Website | Phone: (614) 645- 3400 | Hours: 9am-7pm Daily | Entrance: $24.99 Adults, $18.99 Children & Seniors

This incredible attraction is located inside the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. This totally immersive experience makes you feel as though you've stepped into a genuine African Village. Get a close peek at Savannah wildlife and get hands on with some incredible animals.

You can take a ride on a camel, feed giraffes and more. See the rarest mammals Africa has to offer with a guided tour of this beautiful, large exhibit. If you don't have time to visit the whole zoo, stepping into the Heart of Africa Zoo is simply a must.

21. Creekside Park

Map It: Creekside Park | Hours: 24/7 | Entrance: FREE

Enjoy an outdoor excursion when you head to Creekside Park in beautiful Ohio. Just outside of Columbus, you can find this awesome, family and pet friendly park that has all the scenery and hiking trails you could ask for. You will encounter the perfect dose of the wilderness.

Head out on a picnic, go fishing or sit under the trees for an unforgettable view and experience. You can even go into the shallow water come summertime, right near the scenic waterfalls. This must-visit destination is the perfect way to spend an afternoon being active and enjoying the outdoors.

22. Ohio Statehouse

Map It: Ohio Statehouse - Google Maps | Website | Phone: (614) 752-9777 |Hours: 8am-5pm Monday-Friday, 11am-5pm Saturday & Sunday | Entrance: FREE

If you're up for a little lesson in Ohio's history, you can take a guided tour at the Ohio Statehouse. Learn all about the background of Ohio's politics dating back over a hundred years. With lots of fun exhibits to see like the rotunda, the grand stair hall and more, this is a great day trip you can take- and it's free!

You can also view the outdoor sculptures at this incredible landmark. The Spirit of 98 and The Doughboy are just two of the more popular monuments at this historic political structure. If you're in the mood for some facts about Ohio, this is the perfect place to go!

23. Otherworld

Map It: Otherworld - Google Maps | Website | Phone: (614) 868-3631 | Hours: 10am-8pm Sunday, Monday & Wednesday, 10am-10pm Thursday, Friday & Saturday

Embark on a unique experience when you head to Otherworld. This interactive art installation explores mixed realities and 3D art that comes to life. With over 32,000 square feet to peruse, you have entered a true fantasy land like no other in the world. Perfect for all ages, this outing is sure to be a hit.

Get interactive with puzzles, secret passageways and more. For a brand-new experience that will take you out of reality, Otherworld is the perfect solution.

24. Ohio Village

Map It: Ohio Village - Google Maps | Website | Phone: (800) 686-6124 | Hours: 10am-5pm Wednesday-Sunday | Entrance: $13 Adults, $11 Seniors, $7 Children

Take a trip back to Ohio's 19th century period where you can learn all about what it was like to live during that era. You can watch a baseball game featuring the Ohio Village Muffins or just converse with the villagers who are all eager to teach you a thing or two. Tour some local homes and stores that were well known in the area as well.

This family friendly attraction also has events throughout the whole year. War reenactments and classic storybook village days are just two of the amazing events that take place at this throwback attraction.

25. Orton Geological Museum

Map It: Orton Geological Museum - Google Maps | Website | Phone: (614) 292-6896 | Hours: 8am-5pm Monday-Friday | Entrance: FREE

Lovers of rocks and gemstones will rejoice when they visit Orton Geological Musem. This incredible attraction houses more than 54,000 treasures. Head to this museum and take a tour for free. You will marvel at the skeletons, rocks, minerals and more.

Adults and children who love prehistoric archaeology will love the full-size replica of a T-rex skull and the mammoth teeth. These are just a couple of the incredible finds at Orton Geological Museum. This all-ages destination is free for the whole family.

26. 16-Bit Bar & Arcade

Map It: 16-Bit Bar+Arcade | Website | Phone: (614) 222-1616 | Hours: 4pm-12:30am Sunday-Wednesday, 4pm-1:30pm Thursday, 4pm-2:30am Friday & Saturday | Entrance: FREE

For some good, old fashioned arcade fun, you can go to 16-Bit Bar & Arcade. Enjoy a nice cocktail and explore the nightlife that Ohio has to offer. With over forty game classics, you are sure to have fun spending hours at this attraction. The best part? It's free! No charge to enter and no charge to play.

You can even pop in on a themed night event, tournament and more when you head down to this bar and arcade. Keep it low key with a dose of excitement with the video games.

27. Shrum Mound

Map It: Shrum Mound | Website | Phone: (800) 840-6127 | Hours: 24/7 | Entrance: FREE

This important historical landmark provides you with unique experience. It was built over 2000 years ago and remains one of hte last ancient burial grounds. You can learn all about this history of this ancient monument and the importance of the Adena people, the original residents of Ohio.

This mound stands roughly twenty feet tall and is considered sacred- here rests the remains of Adena people. This historic landmark is truthfully a must see when you head to Ohio.

28. ZipZone Outdoor Adventures

Map It: ZipZone Outdoor Adventures | Website | Phone : (614) 847-9477 | Hours: Varies | Entrance: Varies

Thrill seekers will love taking it outdoors with this adventure experience. You can take a unique zip line tour of Columbus or just visit the adventure park for some exciting activity. From challenges to obstacle course, this all-ages attraction is perfect for keeping it active and lively.

If you're bringing the little ones, don't sweat it. The park has an entire section devoted to obstacle courses that are perfect for keeping the kids entertained and busy. You can even host events there or explore their other opportunities like hikes, night tours and falconry experiences.

29. Chadwick Arboretum

Map It : Chadwick Arboretum | Website | Phone: (614) 688-3479 | Hours: 8am-6pm Daily | Entrance: FREE

The Chadwick Arboretum is a wonderful outdoor landscape attraction that is a must-have experience when you visit Columbus. You can learn all about the beautiful floral gardens and what makes them special. This diverse collection of gardens holds a compendium of rare florals and plants that you won't find anywhere else.

You can go on a self-guided tour for free, using OSU's app that can help you to find gardens that interest you. From the Labyrinth Garden to the Green Roof, they are all so unique and beautiful.

30. Thurber House

Map It: Thurber House - Google Maps | Website | Phone: (614) 464-1032 | Hours : 1pm-4pm Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday | Entrance: FREE

Explore the history of local connoisseur, James Thurber. This talented man was a playwright, journalist, cartoonist and more. You can tour his home and environment while you interact with his items, such as his piano. Take a guided tour for free and learn all about this local celebrity.

Personal memorabilia is proudly on display and his original decor still holds up after over one hundred years. This little museum of sorts makes for a great historic, afternoon tour if you're in the area. Cre

31. Fear Columbus Haunted House

Map It: Fear Columbus Haunted House | Website | Phone: (614) 344-4484 | Hours: 7pm-10pm Friday & Saturday | Entrance: $19.99 Per Entry

Those who love a little spooky fun can have just that and more when they visit Fear Columbus Haunted House. This adults-only find is the perfect way to embark on some haunted adventure. This experience is totally immersive, involves an incredible indoor haunted house and lots of interaction with trained actors.

Grab your closest friends for a truly haunted night if you're visiting Columbus on the weekend. Get your heart rate going and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience at Fear Columbus Haunted House.

32. Arne Sletteback Planetarium

Map It: Arne Slettebak Planetarium at The Ohio State University | Home | Website | Phone: (614) 292-1773 | Hours: Varies | Entrance: FREE

Astronomy lovers will enjoy visiting the Arne Sletteback Planetarium. This free experience holds a plethora of information regarding the earth, the cosmos and more. You can marvel at constellation exhibits, get a close-up experience of the night sky and more. Learn all about astronomy and the beauty that surrounds us.

Perfect for the whole family, this planetarium is infamous for being a great opportunity for both residents and tourists alike.

33. Hoover Resevoir Park

Map It: Hoover Reservoir Park - Google Maps | Website | Phone: (614) 645-3300 | Hours: 24/7

Get the perfect view of the Ohio Hoover Dam when you visit Hoover Reservoir Park. With a number of outdoor activities to take part in such as fishing, boating, hiking and more, you will fall in love with the beautiful outdoors of Ohio. Head out for a serene scenery experience or get adventurous and hike the 4,700-acre attraction.

For those with families, there is an on-site playground. Got pets? Take them with you! This attraction appeals to all ages and will provide you with the perfect dose of nature.

34. Hayden Falls Park

Map It: Hayden Falls Park | Phone: (614) 645-3300 | Hours: 6am-10pm Daily | Entrance : FREE

Spend the afternoon outdoors at the beautiful Hayden Falls Park. If you're looking for that simple dose of nature that provides you with a serene vibe, this park is the place to go. Though small, you are surrounded by beautiful rocks and trees that will give you that peaceful nature time you need.

Take in the fresh air and marvel at the 35-foot waterfall. Plan a picnic and set out to enjoy some breathtaking scenery you won't soon forget at Hayden Falls Park.

35. Ohio Stadium

Map It: Ohio Stadium - Google Maps | Website | Phone: (614) 292-6330 | Hours: Varies | Entrance: Varies

Football fans will love to experience a game at Ohio Stadium. Home of the Ohio State Buckeyes, this stadium is sure to provide you with an exciting game to watch. This well-loved stadium even has local nicknames such as "The Horseshoe" and the "The House that Harley Built."

Even if you don't love football, there is something so charming and lively about being at Ohio Stadium. Take the whole family down for an entertaining football game featuring the local team.

36. Short North Arts District

Map It: Short North Arts District - Google Maps | Website | Phone: (614) 228-8050 | Hours: Varies

Head to the Short North Arts District for hundreds of small business shopping, galleries, restaurants and more. One of the finest attractions int he area, you will love checking out what Columbus arts district has to offer. For a truly unique experience, you will want to witness galleries such as Lindsay Gallery, Weiss Gallery and more.

For a great bite to eat, you can stop at Bernard's Tavern or Black Point. With endless options, you will love perusing this incredible destination in the heart of Columbus.

37. Schiller Park

Map It: Schiller Park - Google Maps | Phone: (614) 645-3156 | Hours: 7am-11pm Daily | Entrance: FREE

Named after Friedrick von Schiller, a German poet, this park is a well-known monument in Columbus. Friedrick was a resident in the area and continues to be an honored name throughout Columbus. If you visit the park, you can view the historic statue. This low-key park offers the perfect scenery for a quiet afternoon. Take the whole family, have a picnic and kick the ball around.

The park is popular for hosting outdoor theater productions, so you never know what you'll find when you head down to Schiller Park.

38. Columbus Architectural Salvage

Map It: Columbus Architectural Salvage - Google Maps | Website | Phone: (614) 299-6627 | Hours: 9am-5pm Tuesday-Thursday

Lovers of a good thrift shop will rejoice when they visit Columbus Architectural Salvage. Find the most incredible items- from vintage to modern, people in the area are huge fans of finding treasure at this thrift shop. Marvel at the history of each item and how it fits into the city of Columbus.

If you're on the hunt for a piece of Ohio history, you are sure to find it at Columbus Architectural Salvage. Old fashioned furniture, antique fireplaces and vintage bathtubs are just three of the things you may run into on your trip to this history-oriented thrift shop.

39. Penn & Beech Candle Co.

Map It: Penn & Beech Candle Co. - Google Maps | Website | Phone: (614) 949-1458 | Hours: 11am-8pm Tuesday-Thursday, 11am-9pm Friday & Saturday, 11am-6pm Sundays

Walk in to an aromatic paradise when you visit Penn & Beech Candle Co. This store isn't just a retail store- it's an experience. In addition to perusing a plethora of exclusive candles, you can pour a custom one yourself! This fabulous attraction is popular in the area and will be an exciting experience for all.

Get a little dose of relaxation when you experiment with scents at Penn & Beech Candle Co. All candle lovers will be shocked at the number of scents they can smell when they step foot inside this Ohio store.

40. Huntington Park

Map It: Huntington Park - Google Maps | Website | Phone: (614) 462-5250 | Hours: 24/7 | Entrance: Varies

Well known for being home of the local Columbus Clippers, Huntingpark is an integral part of the city and culture. Head down to watch an epic game with this beloved Ohio team and enjoy the day at this incredible park.

With a concession stand and seats for up to 10,000, this is sure to be an exciting way to spend the afternoon. You can also opt to sit on the lawn. This iconic part is historic to Columbus and is simply a must see when you visit.

41. American Whistle Corp.

Map It: American Whistle Corp - Google Maps | Website | Phone: (614) 846-2918 | Hours: 9am-5pm Monday-Friday

Learn all about the history of whistles and their importance when you visit American Whistle Corp. While whistles were created to inform other of danger and for attention purposes, their use dates back to the Crusades, believe it or not. You can learn all the fun facts and explore the different types at this unique place.

Get an inside look at how each one is made on a guided tour and then take home a souvenir from this interesting attraction. Perfect for all ages, this will give you a dose of history in just one short visit.

42. Mapfre/Historic Crew Stadium

Map It: Historic Crew Stadium - Google Maps | Website | Phone: (614) 447-2739 | Hours: Varies | Entrance: Varies

While you can enjoy a good baseball and football game at various other historic stadiums, Mapfre is infamous for its exciting soccer games. Home of the Columbus Crew, this soccer team knows how to compete and will provide you with a special experience when you head down to watch a game.

This historic stadium can hold more than 22,000 people and sits on fifteen acres of land. Fans of soccer will love bringing their whole crew to witness a spectacular game at Mapfre Stadium.

43. Easton Town Center

Map It : Easton Town Center - Google Maps | Website | Phone: (614) 337-2200 | Hours: 10am-9pm Monday-Saturday, 12pm-6pm Sundays

Go out for a shopping experience you won't soon forget. Easton Town Center is one of the more popular shopping attractions in the Columbus area. With loads of retails stores, restaurants and more, you will have much to do and see.

It was built in 1999 and made to give off an old-town look with rustic charm and distinct style. You will love heading to all your favorite retailers and enjoying local cuisine at Easton Town Center.

44. Ohio Theatre

Map It: Ohio Theatre | Phone : (614) 469-0939 | Hours: Varies | Entrance: Varies

If you're on the hunt for quality theater entertainment, Ohio Theatre can provide just that for you. This gorgeous Spanish-Baroque style theater boasts 2,700 plus seats and is a historic building in the beautiful city of Columbus.

Head down to the theatre for a fantastic production including Broadway, opera, ballet and the Columbus Symphony Orchestra. Plan your trip around a fabulous show and enjoy some incredible entertainment at the Ohio Theatre.

45. Wyandotte Winery

Map It: Wyandotte Winery | Website | Phone: (614) 476-3624 | Hours: 3pm-7pm Thursdays, 3pm-9pm Fridays, 1pm-7pm Saturdays | Entrance: FREE

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and embark on some relaxation and tasty wine when you visit Wyandotte Winery. This family-owned vineyard offers wine tastings, tours and more. You will love the quaint, rustic atmosphere and the outdoor beauty surrounding this cityside winery.

Perfect for winding down after a busy day in the city, the Wyandotte Winery can provide you with a quiet and lovely experience. If you head there on a Friday night, you're in for some local entertainment and cuisine as well!

46. Legoland Discovery Center

Map It: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus | Website | Phone: (614) 407-7721 | Hours: 10am-6pm Daily | Entrance: $30.99 per entry

This thrilling discovery center explores the world of all things Lego. From structures to rides, games and more, you and the family can embark on a new brick building adventure when you visit Legoland Discovery Center. This all-ages attraction is perfect for a thrilling afternoon.

With immersive exhibits where you can participate in building and more, this is perfect for anyone looking for a fun destination. Whether you're a fan of Lego or new to it entirely, this fun discovery center is sure to provide that "wow" factor you've been searching for.

47. The Escape Game

Map It: The Escape Game Columbus - Google Maps | Website | Phone: (614) 412-5372 | Hours: Varies | Entrance: Varies

Looking for a bit of excitement during your trip to Columbus? Try out an escape room at The Escape Game, located in the heart of the city. With themed games that all require thinking skills, teamwork and a bit of thrilling adventure, you are sure to love this amazing experience.

Work together to solve the clues and puzzles in your room in order to escape your way out. This fun attraction is perfect to attempt on a rainy day or evening when you're looking for something exciting to do!

48. Inniswood Metro Gardens

Map It: Inniswood Metro Gardens | Website | Phone: (614) 895-6216 | Hours: 6:30AM-9PM Daily | Entrance: FREE

Located just outside of Columbus, you can have a serene experience in the hidden oasis of Inniswood Metro Gardens. With 122 acres to roam and incredible floral appeal, you will instantly fall in love with this stunning nature preserve. With botanical florals all around and beautiful greenery to view, you can find yourself at complete peace.

Take the whole family down to embark on nature's best adventures. Find woodland animals throughout, listen to the birds and marvel at nature's finest species all around.

49. Wagner Hagans Auto Museum

Map It : Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum | Website | Phone: (614) 271-0888 | Hours: Varies | Entrance: FREE

Lovers of automobiles will adore this museum dedicated to all things car and motor related. You can find dozens of rare and custom vintage cars to marvel at. The museum focuses on lots of models from the 1920's and 1930's such as the Packard's Dual-Cowls. Discover a collection of license plates among other memorabilia you simply have to see to believe.

Head down to this informative and historic museum for free. Meet the owner, who dedicates his life to this fantastic attraction and loves teaching the public about the history of cars and their importance.

50. Zoombezi Bay Water Park

Map It: Zoombezi Bay | Website | Phone: (614) 645-3400 | Hours: 10:30AM-7PM | Entrance: $38.99 Adults, $33.99 Children

This unique water park experience mixes a haunted vibe with classic water park attractions. You will love the horror twist if you're a thrill seeker. You can head to the haunted houses or scare-zones if you want to have an exciting experience. Keep it simple with your traditional waterslides and non-water rides as well.

This fun theme park has an extensive number of rides and waterslides for all ages. Don't forget to check out the on-site food that is well known as being social media approved thanks to its unique presentation.

51. Palace Theater

Map It: Palace Theatre | Website | Phone: (614) 469-9850 | Hours: Varies | Entrance: Varies

For an evening of entertainment in the heart of the city, the Palace Theater is a great place to be. Located at the bottom of the historic LeVeque-Lincoln Tower, this restored palace is a divine, stunning attraction you will love experiencing firsthand.

From touring bands to music artists, ballet, Broadway and more, you can find the best entertainment at the Palace Theater in Columbus. This beautiful theater is a wonder to see, regardless of if you are in the city for a show or not!

52. Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum

Map It : Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum | Website | Phone: (614) 856-2222 | Hours: 9am-5pm Daily | Entrance: FREE

Motorcycle enthusiasts will love visiting the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum where they can find two floors of vintage bikes and more. Get a dose of motorcycle history and learn all about their origin and importance in the world. This fantastic attraction is located right outside of Columbus and will have all motorcycle fans marveling at the beautiful vintage models.

Learn about the lives of Daytona 200 winners and dirt bike racers amongst other famous biographies when you visit the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum.

53. Schottenstein Center

Map It: Schottenstein Center | Website | Phone: (614) 688-3939 | Hours: 10am-5pm Daily | Entrance: Varies

This concert venue is one of Columbus' finest. With entertainment being held all year round, you have a great variety to choose from. This venue is known for hosting Justin Timberlake, Lady Gaga and more. This iconic entertainment center is the perfect place to see your favorite artist perform.

Don't forget to check out the basketball schedule when you're in the area. This venue is well known for its men's and women's basketball games and provide an exciting experience for all ages!

54. Schmidt's Sausage Haus

Map It : Schmidt’s Sausage Haus | Website | Phone: (614) 444-6808 | Hours: 11am-9pm Sunday-Thursday, 11am-10pm Friday & Saturday

In the mood for some authentic Columbus cuisine? Schmidt's Sausage Haus has an amazing menu that will leave you feeling full and happy. With sausage, alpine chicken spatzel and mouthwatering cream puffs, you simply can't go wrong. This German-inspired menu is full of hearty dishes and appetizers you'll be talking about for months.

If you're lucky, you can experience live music when you visit. This well-known restaurant is well known in the city for providing the perfect dish and a wonderful experience when you head down.

55. National Trail Raceway

Map It: National Trail Raceway | Website | Phone: (740) 928-5706 | Hours: Varies | Entrance: Varies

If you're in the mood for that fast and furious type thrill, National Trail Raceway is here to give you just that. This raceway is very well known in the area, located just outside Columbus. Their annual events attract over 120,000 spectators and offer the perfect race experience.

If you're not into the racing portion, you can search their calendar for other events such as car meets and vintage car shows. Any lover of motor vehicles will find something appealing at this cool raceway in Ohio. Perfect for all ages, this attraction is certain to provide you with a unique and entertaining show.

56. Goodale Park

Map It: Goodale Park | Website | Phone: (614) 645-3300 | Hours: 7am-11pm Daily | Entrance: FREE

Visit Columbus' oldest park in the city when you head to Goodale Park. This landmark stands at over 150 years old ad  offers a beautiful greenery, walking trails and more. This local park holds historic ties to the Civil War and is infamous for being a favorite local attraction!

Check out this piece of Ohio history and enjoy the local Victorian homes that surround it. This scenic dose of nature is the perfect place to unwind for the afternoon and just find peace. Feed the ducks in the pond or have a picnic-whatever you choose to do, Goodale Park is a great gathering place if you're looking for somewhere to sit and enjoy the views.

57. Anthony-Thomas Candy Shoppes

Map It: Anthony-Thomas Candy Shoppes | Website | Phone: (614) 274-8405 | Hours: 9am-5:30pm Tuesday-Saturday | Entrance: $2 Per Entry

Chocolate lovers will rejoice when they find out about this once in lifetime experience. Visit Anthony-Thomas Candy Shoppes to get an exclusive tour of their quality chocolate factory. For only $2 per person, tour the factory and discover how each piece is created. Explore the history of this gourmet brand and how they came to be.

Don't forget to buy some samples at the store when you leave- they have a wide variety of specialty chocolates. From nuts to truffles, you can't go wrong with a tour of the Anthony-Thomas Candy Shoppe.

58. Buckeye Raceway Go Karting

Map It: Buckeye Raceway Electric Indoor Karting | Website | Phone: (614) 272-7888 | Hours: 2pm-10pm Tuesday-Friday, 10am-10pm Saturday, 12pm-8pm Sunday | Entrance: Varies

Discover the fast and furious first hand when you step foot into a go-kart at Buckeye Raceway. Grab your buddies and go for that competition vibe. For the perfect adrenaline rush and a fun afternoon activity, go-karting is the perfect solution.

This indoor track is open year-round and ready to provide you with that thrill you've been searching for. Looking for another fun activity? They also offer all-ages laser tag at the same venue. Buckeye Raceway is certain to give you an entertaining day when you head down!

59. Jeni's Ice Cream

Map It: Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams | Website | Phone : (614) 488-2680 | Hours: 12pm-11pm Daily

What would vacation be without a delectable dessert to look forward to? Head to Jeni's Ice Cream for some good old-fashioned ice cream. You can keep it classic with vanilla, chocolate, salted caramel and the likes or branch out to try some exclusive specialties. From Mexican Hot Chocolate to Sugar Plum flavor, Jeni's is sure to be a unique ice cream experience.

Their interesting flavors will have you craving more in no time. If you've got a sweet tooth, this is the perfect place to visit!

60. SegAway Tours of Columbus

Map It: SegAway Tours of Columbus | Website | Phone: (614) 222-3005 | Hours : 9am-6pm Monday-Saturday, 9am-3pm Sundays

Get a different view of Columbus when you hop on a segway to visit all of the city's best landmarks, districts and more. From the Ohio State University campus to the Scioto Mile, you can see it all in style.

If you're not in the mood to walk, grab a segway tour for a fun approach to sightseeing. These high-tech machines are going to bring a whole new perspective to your tour of Columbus, Ohio! Get to all the best places in a jiffy when you travel by segway.

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• Columbus, Ohio
• United States

66 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Columbus, Ohio

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The beating heart of the Midwest and a wildly underrated travel destination, Columbus dishes up a concoction of culture, sport, art, and entertainment to suit every style of traveler.

Home to some of the nation’s most revered museums, wildlife-abundant parks that span acres and acres of lush greenery, and a food and drink scene that even coastal cities envy (there’s an entire ‘Brewery District’, need we say more?), there’s no shortage of exciting and fun things to do in Columbus .

Go on a wine-tasting excursion to the wineries, explore caves and caverns and get an up close and personal view of thousand-year-old stalagmites in person, transport yourself to Europe at the German Village, or spend the day at the iconic Ohio State Fair.

Urban, trendy, artsy and even quirky at times, the city is considered one of the USA’s “Biggest Small Towns.” Throw in spooky-themed waterparks, a handful of Mother Nature’s best work, and an eclectic cast of yearly festivals, and you’re left with one truly unforgettable state capital.

So, if you’re looking for the most unique experiences to plan out for your trip to Discovery City, look no further. What are you waiting for? Start planning!

1 – Kickstart your trip with a day at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Home to more than 10,000 furry and friendly animals of all colors, shapes and sizes, the sprawling Columbus Zoo and Aquarium , about 20 miles drive north of downtown, has been delighting visitors of all ages for years.

Besides housing over 500 diverse species across six themed areas (don’t miss the lions in the largest region, Heart of Africa), the Zoo has recently shot to stardom thanks to Jack Hanna’s Animal Encounters Village, a unique hands-on habitat where curious visitors can get up close and personal with the four-legged residents.

Throw in the 10,000-acre “Wilds” conservation center, plus the thrilling Zoombezi Bay water park (ideal for sizzling summer days) and lush 18-hole Safari Golf Course sitting right next door and it’s no wonder why this place has become an Ohio tourism staple.

2 – Grab a snack at North Market Farmer’s Market

A staple Columbus attraction that’s been serving up quirky and authentic foods, crafts, and energy for nearly 150 years; North Market is the go-to spot to get your daily dose of shopping, eating and good old-fashioned people-watching.

Open seven days a week up on Spruce St, just around the corner from Goodale Park and walking distance from the city’s main haunts, the Market is transformed into a bustling hub of activity that’s not only filled with some of central Ohio’s best artisanal food vendors but also scores of active shoppers circling around to get their hands on one-of-a-kind trinkets.

3 – Catch a football game at Ohio Stadium

Whether you’re a university student, alumni — or just an Ohio State or football fan in general — there’s no denying that this is one of the most iconic universities and college stadiums in America.

When packed to the rafters for a Buckeyes game, the roar is unlike anything else (with crowd sizes often regularly eclipsing that of NFL games) and the tradition and pageantry of the whole experience is truly something to behold!

Hot tip: arrive early and join in on the tailgate action!

• Ohio Stadium tickets

4 – Step into a fantasy sci-fi universe at Otherworld

Part art exhibition, part virtual reality universe, and part interactive playground, Otherworld is the psychedelic, bizarre brainchild of over 40 artists. Their goal? To create a new, immersive reality where guests — both kids and adults alike — are free to roam around and get lost in the many worlds.

Spread across some 32,000 square feet, Otherworld features well over 40 different installations and rooms, each designed to transport you into new dimensions: Kids can get lost in magical coloring books, adventurers can crawl into a giant fuzzy monster’s mouth, and a whole lot more!

5 – Stroll around the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Home to thousands of plant species in a relaxing, open-aired space, the massive Franklin Park Conservatory is an outdoor oasis that’s just as much about exploring as it is about relaxation.

With flowers, greenery and even Dale Chihuly glasswork lining the pathways, and plenty of interactive workshops and activities in store, this sprawling space is easily one of the best outdoor things to do in Columbus.

Don’t miss the children’s garden (fun for ALL ages) and The Paul Busse Garden Railway, a whimsical miniature train that whips through the areas themed around the Wild West, Europe and Fairytales!

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6 – Learn a thing or two at COSI (Center of Science and Industry)

A great family-friendly day out, COSI is a hands-on science museum cross research center that’s been entertaining and educating the masses since 1964.

Spread over 300,000 square feet in downtown Columbus — just south of The Scioto Mile — this unique venue features hundreds of interactive exhibits you can touch and play with. From racing cars to laser shows, there’s something for everyone here!

Still need convincing? COSI has TWICE claimed the coveted award of America’s #1 Science Museum as rated by USA Today’s 10Best column.

7 – Break out of an escape room before time runs out!

Any budding detectives out there? Why not try escaping?

Here’s how it works: at The Escape Game , you and your team will work together to find clues, solve puzzles, and complete a mission. Each game has multiple rooms to explore and you can choose from a variety of themes and difficulties!

Ask your Game Guide for as many hints as you want! Our games are designed to be epic for everyone – from the experienced gamer to the newbie who’s never played. Each experience is thrilling, family-friendly, and a guaranteed good time!

Best of all, adventures only take an hour to complete—so you can be the hero and still make it in time for dinner.

You might escape… you WILL have fun!

• Escape games in Columbus

8 – Explore the famous Scioto Mile

A truly beautiful urban oasis, hope to a popular riverwalk, plenty of parklands, and a string of activities, the Scioto Mile is a much-loved space that’s been transformed from a collection of outdated low-head dams into one of central Ohio’s most popular attractions.

Stretching all the way from the buzzing Arena District to the postcard-worthy Whittier Peninsula, the Mile is scattered with monuments and sculptures as well as beautiful fountains and waterways.

Not sure where to start? Bicentennial Park hosts free concerts on summer weekends; you’ll find both the COSI and artsy Franklinton museum, and there’s both the Scioto Trail and the 13-mile Olentangy Trail for those looking to stretch their legs and burn a few calories!

9 – Wet your whistle on a brewery tour (in the Brewery District, perhaps?)

One for the thirsty travelers, Columbus certainly isn’t shy when it comes to beer! Although it might not be as well known as its East Coast or West Coast counterparts, Columbus’s microbrewery scene has been steadily growing over the years — with over a dozen operating within city limits.

So, if you’re a beer fan who knows their hops from their malts (or just someone looking to explore this burgeoning industry), take your taste buds on a tour, get behind the scenes and try some of the most ahh-worthy brews around the aptly-named Brewery District.

On dedicated tours, not only will you get your fill of local beers, but you’ll also get a sneak peek into the boiler room and learn how your favorite drinks get made too!

Looking to explore solo? Any of the Rockmill Tavern , Endeavor Brewing , North High Brewing , or Barley’s Brewing Company are a great spot to start.

10 – Immerse yourself in the colors and smells of the Columbus Park of Roses

Sitting within the much larger Whetstone Park, with over 350 types of roses (over 11,000 in total!) and a host of wildlife, the Columbus Park of Roses is one of central Ohio’s most beautiful spots.

From around May to September every year, this picturesque park fills with thousands upon thousands of blooming, colorful flowers — making it an absolute must-see for any visitor! Not only can you stop to smell the roses (not literally), but you can also get involved with a whole host of activities.

In addition to regular tours, there’s the annual Spring Rose Show that takes place over Mother’s Day weekend which is one of Ohio’s most esteemed rose shows. If you’re feeling more active, why not try your hand at some local crafts?

11 – Admire the collection at the Columbus Museum of Art

Art lovers, listen up! While this may be news to many, Columbus has some of the finest collections around — and one stop you won’t want to miss is the Columbus Museum of Art .

Home to an impressive permanent collection that’s been expanding and improving since its remarkable inception way back in 1878, as well as traveling exhibitions from all over the world (past exhibits have focused on the likes of Van Gogh, women’s photography, queer art, and a whole lot more), it’s easy to spend hours exploring what this space has on offer!

Don’t forget to stop into the cafe a gift shop on the way out for a quirky souvenir or two — and visit on Sunday for free admission.

12 – Shop till you drop at the Easton Town Center

Dubbed ‘Rodeo Drive of the Midwest’ and deliberately made to look like its own miniature early-to-mid 20th-century American town, the Easton Town Center is a shopping mecca that’s also home to a range of dining and entertainment options.

With close to 300 shops, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs — from Ikea to the Cheesecake Factory and everything in between — as well as the AMC movie theater complex — you’ll be maxing out the credit card in no time!

13 – Step into a painting at the Topiary Garden

A small yet unique green space, the Topiary Garden isn’t your typical park (although it makes for a great picnic spot regardless); with a range of sculptures on display, the Columbus park depicts the scene from a famous post-Impressionist painting: ‘A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte’ by artist Georges Seurat (a painting which itself took two years to create).

Spread throughout the grounds you’ll find expertly manicured hedges, showcasing 54 different people fishing and walking, as well as a host of boats and animals — a truly magical fusion of art and nature.

14 – Watch hockey at Nationwide Arena

Home to the coveted Columbus Blue Jackets , this hockey arena is a vibrant and dynamic space that’s been hosting NHL games since 2000.

With the capacity to hold 20,000 screaming fans for hockey games — as well as everything from Disney on Ice performances to concerts or traveling musicians like Kings of Leon, Dave Matthews Band, or Queen Bey herself (Beyoncé) — there really is something for everyone at Nationwide Arena !

Looking to get behind the scenes and check out the locker rooms? Consider a guided stadium tour!

• Nationwide Arena tickets

15 – Soak in some nature at the Inniswood Metro Gardens

A hidden urban oasis just 15 minutes away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Columbus, the greenscaped Inniswood Metro Gardens is a 122-acre space dedicated to beautiful flora and fauna — part botanical garden, part nature preserve.

Whether you’re looking for some restorative meditation or just want an easy way to get out into nature during your stay (without battling too much city traffic), swing on by for some 2,000 species of plants and plenty of friendly woodland wildlife.

Best of all? It’s open seven days a week, free of charge!

16 – Swing like Tarzan at ZipZone Outdoor Adventures

One of the essential things to do in Columbus for adrenaline junkies and located within easy driving access of the city’s main haunts, ZipZone provides an outdoor experience for the whole family, with a range of canopy-top zip lines and ropes courses to cater to different ages.

Throughout the parklands, you’ll find more than 60 different challenging elements for the thrillseekers to tackle, and a kids park for the youngsters too.

The main event, however, is the guided multi-zipline tour that skirts through and soars above the gorgeous Ohio treetops!

17 – Get building at the LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus

A perfect family outing for young and old, this 30,000 square-foot center located in Easton Town Center is a must — although not to be confused with the outdoor LEGOLAND theme parks.

Boasting a replica of Columbus made from over 1.5 million LEGO bricks, plus a 4D theater as well as countless play areas where kids can use their imagination, there’s truly no better way to spend a rainy afternoon with your little ones!

While you’re there, don’t forget to hit the LEGO Cafe for a bite to eat — and be sure to check out the LEGO store for some one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

• LEGOLAND Discovery Center tickets

18 – Step back in time at the Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum

Any petrolheads out there? Then make sure to stop by this little slice of automotive heaven in the Schumacher Place neighborhood, right next to the German Village.

With dozens of immaculate vintage cars on display — focusing largely on 1920s and 1930s models like Packards Dual-Cowls and limos — as well as a uniques collection of license plates and memorabilia and an owner (Steve) who’s as passionate as any motor enthusiast out there, this affordable museum is considered one of the more underrated things to do in Columbus!

Speaking of affordable, if you’re budget-conscious and searching for a place to stay that won’t break the bank then Hotel LeVeque, the Best Western Premier Mariemont Inn, and The Grand Resort offer great value.

Directions in Google Maps

19 – Cool off at the Zoombezi Bay water park

A quirky mix of refreshing water park and zombie-tastic haunted theme park, Zoombez is the ideal spot for horror movie fans and thrillseekers (especially on sizzling summer days).

Right next to the revered Columbus Zoo, the spooktastic Zoombezi Bay Water Park offers four haunted houses, two dedicated scare zones, a hair-raising Sea Dragon roller coaster, and non-water rides that are sure to give you a good scare!

Arguably the best part, however, is that Zoombezi serves up Insta-worthy food and drink options sure to light up any social media feed — we’re talking things like jello shots in a 60cc syringe!

20 – Explore incredible caverns

Nature lovers, listen up: Ohio is home to over 400 crystal-filled caves and caverns, yet still, thanks to their sheer size and popularity, the tourist-focused Ohio Caverns in the Salem Township just may be the highlight of your trip.

Open year-round and privately run as a family business, the attraction offers educational tours that explore the dimly lit caverns, admire the dangling crystal formations, and typically last around an hour with photography more than welcome.

Recognized as “America’s most colorful caverns,” this wonder of nature takes the cake if you’re looking to put on your explorer hat for the day!

How many times in your life can you say you’ve done yoga inside an ancient cave?! Olentangy Caverns offers unique 45-minute yoga classes in a cave 22 meters underground, but if you’re not much of a yogi, opt for a self-guided tour around the cavern’s seven natural rooms.

Forming millions of years ago, the site opened to public explorations in 1935, and there are various chambers to investigate located at different levels tucked below the earth’s surface.

Guided by audio backup, wander through the Echo Chamber utilized by the Wyandot Native American tribe, the Crystal Room drips in stalagmites and stalactites, spot wall fossils in the Cathedral Hall as well as within the Bell Tower, and uncover artifacts inside the Council Passage.

Apart from the cave exploration, there are family-friendly activities to get involved in like fun gem-mining, attempting the treasure hunt maze and little ones especially love the cutesy petting zoo.

21 – Learn a thing or two at the Ohio History Center

Calling all history buffs! Take a trip back in time at the Ohio History Center and experience whiffs of the past.

If you’re visiting with family, the center offers full interactive days with a range of exhibits. Want to dive deep into your family tree? You can head up to the archives and access a plethora of genealogy and print resources and learn about your roots!

22 – Join in the festivities at the Columbus Commons

A relaxing park space that doubles as a meeting point and event beacon, the Columbus Commons is dotted with gardens, dishes up a gorgeous Pavilion, and boasts a picturesque grand lawn ideal for an afternoon picnic.

Sitting smack-bang in the middle of the city, the Commons attracts flocks of tourists to its carousel and rotating event roster (over 250 events annually!) — so be sure to check the calendar to see what’s on during your trip.

On that note: speaking of prime location, if you’re hotel hunting, the Hyatt Regency and the downtown Hilton are located just a short walk away from a plethora of attractions and restaurants!

23 – Step inside the Kelton House Museum and Garden

Feel a sense of nostalgia towards the Victorian Era? Then make a beeline for the Kelton House , one of Ohio’s cornerstone landmarks. Regularly found on postcards, the Kelton House was part of the Underground Railroad and is distinguished by its impressive elements of Greek and Italianate styles.

Hot tip: to make the most out of your visit, book an educational tour to learn more about the intricacies and history behind the House!

24 – Cheer on the Clippers at Huntington Park

Sports fanatics, get your game face on!

Home to the beloved Columbus Clippers baseball team — the minor league’s representative of the Cleveland Indians — and situated in the gorgeous Arena District in downtown Columbus, sprawling Huntington Park offers an electric atmosphere, plenty of on-site food and ice-cold drinks (read: thirsty for beer?), and the chance to get up close with some of the next-generation baseball players!

Thanks to its minor league status, tickets are often cheaper and easier to come by compared to the MLB – so there are no excuses.

• Huntington Park tickets

25 – Revitalize yourself at Hayden Falls Park

The perfect place to get in touch with nature, Hayden Falls Park is situated on the edge of the Scioto River and offers an abundance of recreational activities.

After a long day of touring museums, you can unwind and re-energize by walking the boardwalk and admiring the whopping 35-foot waterfall, or you can bike, jog or rollerblade the seldom-crowded trails.

Found within the Griggs Nature Preserve, the fall is surrounded by native plants and flora, and much of the growth is considered endangered. Climbing the waterfall is not encouraged to preserve these natural elements, so do take note.

If chasing down waterfalls is a serious pastime of yours — hey, it’s totally a thing! — Indian Run Falls is another cascade not far from Hayden Falls Park (located at Indian Run Falls Park).

The gorge runs throughout the park, but there is a dedicated easy trail through woodlands and forestry following the stream, and it only takes about 20 minutes to complete. There are a couple of observation decks en route and a pedestrian bridge leads down to the water.

26 – Visit the Orton Geological Museum

Geologists, listen up! With a wide range of intriguing gallery displays open on weekdays, the Orton Geological Museum is one of the key research, teaching, and outreach museums in Ohio — get ready to explore rocks, minerals, and fossils from near (Ohio) and far (not just international, but even outer space).

Found on The Oval academic campus, home to the notable bell tower, it makes for an easy back-to-back itinerary.

27 – Admire the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum

A motorcyclist’s dream when visiting Ohio, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame is home to two full floors of themed rooms, vintage motorcycles, raffle bikes, and plenty more.

In addition to the top-notch exhibits, visitors can also check out a historical archive that dives into the wonderful world of America’s motorcycle history.

The arguable highlight, however, is the full floor dedicated to honoring the lives of the Hall of Famers themselves — from Daytona 200 winners like Giacomo Agostini to iconic dirt-track racers like Leo Anthony, Sr., there’s no shortage of famous biographies on show.

28 – Lace on the runners for a jog at Highbanks Metro Park

Aptly named after its humongous 100-foot-high shale bluff which towers over the sparking Olentangy River, the locally-adored Highbanks Metro Park is one of the most underrated things to do in Columbus.

Whether you’re keen on a calorie-burning run or brisk walk in nature, this park offers 10 diverse trails to scratch any itch, ranging from easy to difficult depending on your level!

29 – Spend a day at the Short North Arts District

Whimsically known as the ‘art and soul of Columbus’, the Short North Arts District offers a plethora of activities for art lovers and culture vultures of all ages.

With everything from the weekly Gallery Hop (held most Saturdays) to street festivals, dessert walking tours (yum), live music, and unique shopping experiences out the wazoo, there’s always some action happening at the district!

30 – See who’s performing at the Ohio Theater

Sitting over on State Street in Capitol Square, a stone’s throw from the old Ohio Statehouse, the National Historic Landmark that is the Ohio Theater is a 1920s-era performance palace, boasting some of the most extravagant and ornate architecture in all of Columbus.

What’s more impressive than this architectural wonderland?

The fact that you can step inside to catch a film or take part in one of its regular hot-shot performances: choose from classical music orchestras to modern dance ensembles, annual festivities, and traveling pop stars — simply check the website to see who’s gracing the center stage during your trip!

• Ohio Theater tickets

31 – Be a firefighter for a day at the Central Ohio Fire Museum

Founded to preserve, honor, and showcase local firefighter history, the Central Ohio Fire Museum pays tribute to Ohio firefighters’ past, present, and future.

Both educational and interactive, the museum offers a collection of motorized fire equipment so that visitors can put themselves in the shoes of firefighters and learn about their daily lives in the engine house!

32 – Roll out the picnic rug at Schiller Park

Overflowing with European-style charm, Schiller Park is a hidden gem in German Village and one of the most underrated things to do and places to visit in Columbus.

With gorgeous gardens, majestic trees for shade, and plenty of eateries in the area, it’s no wonder why locals rave about this park — especially during the summer months!

Plant-abundant with a beautiful pond and rich history, and named after the famous German poet Schiller, the park’s focal point is certainly its beautiful statue, so make sure to check it out.

33 – Pay your respects at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum

Out of all American Museums, the National Veterans Memorial and Museum is the only one that honors all veterans across all branches of service and eras!

Through an eye-opening, educational, and all-out fascinating collection of stories, artifacts, and memorabilia, this memorial-museum takes you on a journey that not only explores American military history, but the daily experiences and personal recounts of people who’ve served in decades gone by — an hour or two here and you’ll quickly understand why they call it the “home of the brave!”

34 – Pamper yourself at a spa

After days of exploration and being on your feet all day (or a few too many brewskies in the Brewery District, perhaps?), relax those sore muscles and cure that headache — treat yourself to one of Ohio’s many highly-rated spas!

What sets the Spa Suites at the Joseph apart is the privatized experience. When you book any treatment, it all takes place within your own private therapy space. Sit back and enjoy a massage, body scrub, brush or polish.

The family-run Replenish Spa incorporates herbal remedies with self-care rituals, with a multitude of healing techniques. Offering 15, 30, 60 and 90-minute personalized massages, face sessions and energy therapies, you’re spoilt for choice at this natural wellness spot.

With a bit of spunk and funk in their step, unwind with a special Ashiatsu Japanese massage at Open Sky Day Spa . Couples massages are available too, as well as cupping therapies and ‘dermaplaning facials.’

Woodhouse Spa focuses on curating personalized treatments for all of its customers, depending on your mood and energy levels. Therefore, all therapies and treatments are unique to you, whether you’re seeking more energy, calm in your life or even confidence.

Sporting multiple locations around the Columbus suburbs, if you need a nail refresher or even a trim, PENZONE has got you covered. Book a Thai massage or try one of their restorative Ayurveda Massage services. Note, the different locations offer a slightly different menu at each branch.

35 – Attend a concert at the Schottenstein Center

Whether you’re a fan of dance and music, or simply searching for an activity to do with your better half during your trip — consider attending one of the many concerts held at the Schottenstein Center .

With over 200+ events annually, there’s always something going on here! With artists such as Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake and Tina Turner gracing its stage in the past (to name but a few), the Schottenstein Center is an iconic arena that has hosted notable bands for decades now, not to mention both Ohio State men’s and women’s basketball matches as well!

Simply check out the center’s event calendar before your visit to see what’s on and to lock in your seats.

• Schottenstein Center tickets

36 – Go birdwatching at the Grange Insurance Audubon Center

Home to acres of lush forest and shimmering lakes teeming with wildlife and birdlife of all shapes and sizes, the Grange Insurance Audubon Center is a peaceful paradise located along the Scioto River just a 15-minute walk from downtown Columbus.

With everything from walking trails to beginner birdwatching programs and scenic views of the Columbus skyline in the distance, it’s no wonder why this park has quickly become one of the most popular places to visit in Ohio!

If you’re in the mood for a nature-themed day, hit two birds with one stone (excuse the pun) by visiting the nearby Hayden Park!

37 – Ride the ferris wheel at the Ohio State Fair

A focus point of the Columbus culture scene, hosting a whopping 185 events each year (or thereabouts), the Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds is a hub of activity that attracts thousands each month.

Not only does this expansive complex include over 20 exhibition buildings, but it also has an outdoor amphitheater and a wide open-aired fairground that welcomes all-star events like the All-American Quarter Horse Congress and Equine Affaire, just to name a few!

One of the main events that take place here annually —ongoing every year ever since 1886 — is the famous Ohio State Fair ! For any foreign travelers, this is the type of fair you see in the movies, equipped with classic rides and attractions, games (and prizes to be won), corn dog stands and live music concerts.

Bring the little ones to Kiddieland, board ‘one of the world’s longest portable sky rides’; the SkyGlider, and whizz down the Giant Slide.

Don’t miss checking out the one-of-a-kind Buttercow. Yup, you read that right! As a standout feature of the fair since 1903, look out for the cow and calf sculpture carved completely out of butter!

With differentiating events like creative exhibits, worship sessions, dance and cheer competitions, and much more, a day excursion here is jam-packed!

38 – Explore the Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park

Spanning some 7,000 acres of lush forest, expansive prairies, and wildlife-abundant wetlands where you’ll find bison roaming around freely within enclosed pastures, Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park sells itself as a wonderful place to spend a day or two out in nature!

Feel like biking around? Check. How about kayaking? Check. Hunting? Go ahead — as you’ll see, there’s no shortage of activities on offer.

39 – Experience railroading life at the Ohio Railway Museum!

Wish you could go back in time and experience when rail travel was a part of everyday life? The Ohio Railway Museum offers a unique experience where you can get a taste of America back when rail travel was the dominant transportation system!

Besides its collection of antique and authentic rail cars, locomotives, and artifacts dating back to the 1800s; the friendly, knowledgable, and enthusiastic staff also offer a range of tours that dive into the fascinating history of how railroads shaped America into what it is today!

Oh, and don’t miss the gift shop if you’re after a unique memento.

40 – Wander around the Ohio Statehouse

Towering above the streets with its foreboding facade, the Ohio Statehouse is a must-see for architecture lovers.

Built to echo ancient Greece, the birthplace of democracy, the Statehouse sports columns resembling the Parthenon in Athens, and an 1860s-era dome that sticks out like a sore thumb amid a relatively modern skyline.

Keen to learn more about politics, not just admire the building? Then why not take a walk-in guided tour? Escorted tours operate every day of the week, available either solo or as a group.

41 – Sit front row for a show at the Palace Theater

For a night on the town, nothing beats an evening at the Palace Theater .

Conveniently located downtown, tucked away on Broad Street at the bottom of the LeVeque-Lincoln Tower, this restored red and gold-lined theater boasts first-class entertainment, nearly 3000 seats, and events that range from touring rock bands to family shows to Broadway-style musicals and ballets.

• Palace Theater tickets

42 – Bring the family to the Magic Mountain Fun Center

Unlike most theme parks, there is no entrance fee required when arriving at the exciting, family-fueled Magic Mountain Fun Center .

Instead, have a gander at the individual attractions, pick the ones you most want to try out, and then only pay for where you play!

A great bonding experience for parents and kids, putt-putt around the two miniature golf courses at the Adventure Golf Zone, or for something more thrilling, hop into a single or double kart and race your friends at Magic Track Go-Karts.

Try your hand at one of America’s most beloved sports at the Batting Cages … grab a bat and battle out the automated balls and batting machines!

There are classic bumper cars here too, as well as KidsGym Climbing Playland for tots, and the Mega Arcade combines games both old and new including the latest video renditions!

43 – Book a table at Schmidt’s Sausage Haus

Hungry? One of the top ways to experience a new destination is through food, and if you’re after authentic Columbus fare, the family-run Schmidt’s Sausage Haus offers a mouth-watering menu that has landed the restaurant on TV time and time again.

Dishing up portions as big as your head, this revered eaterie serves a German menu full of sausage, cream puffs, alpine chicken spatzel; is known for being the go-to catering spot (did someone say schnitzel overload?), and tops it all off with rowdy live oompah music!

44 – Grab the popcorn for a film at the Wexner Center for the Arts

Take a seat in one of the world’s largest university art centers, Wexner Center for the Arts , and immerse yourself in an impressive range of film screenings, lectures by visiting scholars from around the country; cutting-edge dance performances, and exhibitions that have been shown far and wide!

Proudly fueled by creative expression, it’s considered one of the top things to do in Columbus for artsy people.

45 – Transport yourself to Europe in the German Village

A historic district with German origins and a 200-year backstory, the charming and romantic streets of this neighborhood will feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard!

With quaint coffee shops, European restaurants (like Schmidt’s Sausage Haus), as well as bars galore — including its very own Hofbrauhaus Columbus — there are plenty of wunderbar places to stop for a bite to eat or drink. And after you’ve stuffed yourself silly, consider kicking your feet up with a good piece of fiction from the uber-popular Book Loft .

46 – Hear the engines roar at the National Trail Raceway

Attracting over 120,000 motorhead spectators at their annual signature event (the National Hot Rod Association’s drag racing Nationals) plus plenty more throughout the year, the National Trail Raceway is a one-quarter mile of motorsport Mecca.

Even if you’re not that into racing, it’s still well worth checking out the event calendar to see when vintage car meets are happening.

47 – Explore the King Arts Complex

Get a total dose of African-American culture at the Kings Arts Complex highlighting pivotal figures in history that impacted society in the US, such as the icon himself, Dr. Martin Luther King.

Through the performing arts, creative workshops, educational programs and community events, gain more knowledge and insights about the ‘cultural expressions of African Americans.’

Since opening its doors in 1987, it’s been the home to a multitude of programs. Today, these include the likes of the award-winning Youth Arts Education Program and ‘First Tuesday Tea’ (designed especially for seniors; spend an afternoon discovering different dances, music and books, and it’s centered around brotherly love and sisterhood).

Stop by the Elijah Pierce Gallery which presents changing exhibitions so you’ll always stumble upon something new. Photographs, paintings, sculptures and other mixed media are the typical works showcased here.

If you’re traveling to Columbus in either July or August, don’t miss the Annual Heritage Music Festival, hosted here every year for the last 24 runs.

48 – Enjoy some fresh air at Goodale Park

Officially dubbed The Friends of Goodale Park , this delightful slice of greenery boasts the claim to fame of being Columbus’ oldest public park — in fact, at over 150 years old with historic ties to the Civil War and a collection of Victorian-era nearby homes, it’s one of the oldest in the country!

With luscious greenery and a sparkling duck-filled pond highlighted by a majestic fountain, this centrally-located park makes a great place for a morning stroll, afternoon picnic, or some wonderful family pictures.

49 – Satisfy your sweet tooth with an Anthony-Thomas chocolate tour

There’s nothing quite like the intoxicating aroma of chocolate to get you in a holiday mood, and if it just so happens that your favorite festive treat is chock-full of pistachios and almonds, then this local tour could be one for you.

As well as getting your hands on a huge selection of chocolates and candies at the hidden gem that is the Anthony-Thomas factory , guided tours also explore the brand’s history (growing to 16 retail outlets) and explain the delicious process of how the Candy Shoppe makes over 50,000 pounds of chocolate every single day!

At just $2 per person (cheaper for kids, AND you can even use your admission fee to buy some samples at the store) it’s a no-brainer for any sweet tooth.

50 – Drift around corners in a go-kart

Looking to quench that need for speed? There’s a reason why the Buckeye Raceway is one of the best-known go-karting venues in Ohio – it really does offer an adrenaline rush like no other.

The challenging, indoor track means that you can race all year round, and as well as individual races they also run corporate events and team-building challenges for groups of friends looking to get competitive!

Still craving more speed? Both Scene75 and Championship Racing Performance dish up noteworthy tracks too!

51 – Turn a few pages at the Billy Ireland Cartoon Museum And Library

Found right next to the Wexner Center on the Ohio State campus, the Billy Ireland Cartoon Museum and Library is a wonderful place to go if you’re an aspiring cartoonist, or just want to learn more about the history of this whimsical artistic medium.

With literally millions of cartoon displays — we’re talking comic books, Sunday strips, editorial cartoons, graphic novels, and 12,000 original artworks by Milton Caniff alone — you could get lost for hours in these pages.

52 – Grab a cup or cone at Jeni’s Ice Cream

Jeni’s ice cream is one of those quintessential Columbus experiences, and if you haven’t tried it yet, now’s your chance.

The locally-based company, founded by Columbus native, Jeni Britton Bauer, has expanded to numerous stores across town (and nationwide) and been delighting taste buds across the city with their delicious artisanal pints since 2002 – from classics like salted caramel to cult favorites such as Mexican Hot Chocolate, Sugar Plum, or Cognac with Gingerbread, their creative flavor combinations will have you hooked in no time.

53 – Fill your creative juices at the Ohio Craft Museum

Calling all you creative souls; for the pure love of art, add the Ohio Craft Museum to your travel bucket list where you can come and get your hands messy, or simply arrive to appreciate local talent.

Also known as the Ohio Designer Craftsmen, the center is all about the arts, whether it’s through its five annual major exhibits (changing yearly) or workshops and programs for artists both young and old!

Plus, entrance is completely free, as well as many of the workshops themselves. Mosey through the Artists’ Demonstrations where specific artists exhibit their work at different times of each new month and join in education classes and workshops handcrafted for all ages, like jewelry-making, weaving, and quilt surface design, among others.

Established artists or budding ones; the artist development programs might tickle your fancy with the opportunity to hone your skills and learn something new. Some of these types of classes include photography, branding, and gallery representation.

54 – Support the Columbus Crew at Lower.com Field

Looking to catch a game this summer? The locally beloved MLS’ Columbus Crew soccer team offers a wonderful day out for any football fans, and thanks to its roar and atmosphere (if the home team’s winning, of course), it’ll be an experience you won’t forget.

• Columbus Crew tickets

The Lower.com Field Stadium is one of the most iconic venues in Major League Soccer – moreover, during the offseason, it plays host to wild festivals and some of music’s biggest names (the likes of Green Day, Fall Out Boy, and Weezer, just to name a few).

• Lower.com Field tickets

55 – Kayak along the Scioto River

Looking for a calmer, more serene way to explore Columbus? Well, this is it.

Whether you opt to rent your own gear or join a guided tour (if you want to learn about all the attractions which float by, opt for the latter) kayaking down the Scioto river offers some incredible views without the crowds and without breaking the bank

If you’re a beginner, no need to worry! The banks are flat and gentle enough for anyone to kayak on (and there are even BBQ spots along the way should you get hungry).

56 – Zoom around the city with a segway tour

Sick of walking around town? Well, thanks to the range of segway tour operators around Columbus, there’s no need — plus, you’ll get to try out the fun, futuristic machines that have become popular all over the world in recent years.

Friendly and knowledgeable tour guides will take you around downtown Columbus with ease on these innovative vehicles, and show off the best attractions that this unique city has to offer – including everything from the Ohio State University campus to the German Village and Scioto Mile, depending on your excursion of choice.

57 – Test your luck at the Scioto Downs horse racing track

Part horse racing track, part casino chock full of slot machines and table games (from penny stakes to high-roller limits), Scioto Downs can be an exciting day out for anyone with a strong risk appetite.

If you’re feeling lucky, back your favorite horse during one of the dozens of harness races throughout the year. Or, simply rock up and soak in the atmosphere. With concessions and games galore, Scioto Downs has something for everyone.

58 – Max out the credit card at Polaris Fashion Place

Shopaholics, do yourself a favor and throw Polaris Fashion Place — the local go-to for all things high-end retail — onto your list of things to do in Columbus.

The double-story mall itself is home to over 200 stores and restaurants – including the likes of Luluemon, Disney, H&M, Apple Store, and countless others – but it also has a movie theater, an escape room, and TopGolf within striking distance!

59 – Investigate the Early Television Museum

Take a step back in time to when television was first invented at the Early Television Museum . What first began as a hobby has transformed into one of the zaniest and most utterly fascinating museums to visit in the city.

Gen Alpha, Generation Z and even Millennials will find the museum particularly intriguing as you scour through galleries of old-school TV sets, electronic broadcast equipment and television accessories like you’ve never seen before!

After the founder Steve McVoy began collecting outdated and antique TVs and restored them as a pastime, he soon had not enough space for all of his collection. Thus, the idea of the museum was conceived.

Here, you can investigate the history of television from its beginnings, to when the first color TV was invented with real-life items on display.

Tech heads, if you know your stuff, some of the sets to see include the Andrea 1-F-5 American set and the British RGD 382RG TV (part of the Early Electronic Television collections), or witness some of the first-ever color TVs like the CBS “Slave”, Crosley Color Wheel Assembly and Philco TV-123.

It’s quite something to see how far technology has developed in just over 100 years!

60 – Snap a photo with the three deers along the Scioto River

A quirky art installation that’s become synonymous with the new, refreshed Scioto Mile , the Three Deers is a collection of, well, three deer statues scattered along the adored tourist route.

Welcoming thousands of photos and all imitating the daily life of locals, the first buck is sitting at the top of the Genoa Park, the second lounges on a grassy hill by the riverfront, and the third stands on its hind legs on the Rich Street Bridge, admiring the Columbus skyline.

61 – Catch a Broadway show at the Southern Theatre

Dating back to the late 1800s, this iconic film and performance venue wields the coveted title of being the oldest surviving theatre in central Ohio (as well as one of the first commercial Columbus landmarks to use electricity!).

At various times throughout the year, you can sit back at Southern Theatre and enjoy independent films, performing celebrities, Broadway-style shows and backstage tours, all within the brilliantly designed gold and red-abundant theater.

Since the theatre falls under the guise of the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts, you can be sure that you’ll be swept off your feet, no matter the lineup.

• Southern Theatre tickets

62 – Roll the dice at the Hollywood Casino Columbus

A slice of Tinseltown in a MidWest Vegas-style venue, you can soak in the electric atmosphere, enjoy a range of entertainment options (ladies, make sure to check out The Lalas – a celebratory show for women, by women) and feast on hearty meals, all while you roll the dice play to your heart’s content at the Hollywood Casino .

With over 2,200 slots, 100 live table games, a live poker room on site (the largest in Ohio, in fact), as well as numerous diverse eateries to choose from, you’ll run out of cash long before you run out of things to do.

63 – Go wine tasting

Did you know that Ohio is one of the top 10 wine-producing states in the USA? Growing mainly Vitis vinifera and hybrid-type grapes, the wine regions in these parts produce some world-class Cabernet Sauvignon, Baco Noir blends, and Riesling wines (and others). So, you can expect to find a handful of wineries around Columbus to go wine tasting!

Wyandotte Winery is a quirky locale that holds the title of the ‘first and oldest winery in Central Ohio’. Operating since 1977, visit the tasting room in an open, laid-back setting and sample their bottles of red and whites, both sweet and dry. They also host food and wine pairing dinners.

Slightly more swanky is Cooper’s Hawk where you won’t feel out of place if you’re in the mood to dress fancy. Designed with a Napa-style tasting room (as well as an artisanal market stocking homemade house brand gourmet goods), enjoy an hour or two sampling their wines — sourcing grapes from wine regions around the world like France and Chile.

Good Vibes Winery is another spot that imports already-grown global grapes, procuring them in Ohio into their own blends. Unlike others, this urban winery is located in town. Visit the tasting bar and enjoy testing over 20 wines by the glass, or you can order cheese and a bottle of vino to share.

With its setting on the waterside, Hidden Lakes Winery is a picturesque option to enjoy a tasting. Ideal for a romantic lunch or dinner around the lake, there are live musicians to add ambiance to your special date.

64 – Check out some sketch comedy at Shadowbox Live

A local institution and one of the top tourist attractions in Columbus, Shadowbox Live is a dynamic theater that has been packing locals and tourists alike into seats since 1988.

Famous for its combination of side-splitting sketch comedy and toe-tapping live music, Shadowbox Live hosts a diverse range of live performances that, combined with the great food, free-flowing drinks, and respected service, deliver one great night of entertainment.

65 – Bust out the dance moves at a nightclub

Time to get a little wild, don’t you think? In a city that truly knows how to party, there’s a whole host of places where you can club until the sun comes up.

Whether it be the dancing into the wee hours at Dahlia Nightclub (often considered Columbus’ premier nightlife venue, regularly welcoming well-known DJs), a drag show at Axis Nightclub , or a fancy drink at the Granero Lounge , there’s a place for you.

For something a little more unconventional, Skully’s Music-Diner  blends old-school nostalgia with modern-day music and a full menu, while The Savoy Club is the undisputed go-to for all things jazz, R&B, and soul.

66 – Pair beer with breakfast at the DogHouse Columbus Hotel

With the claim to fame of being the world’s first craft beer hotel, this novel accommodation doesn’t fail to deliver a unique, thirst-quenching experience.

Boasting a 6,000 square foot interactive craft beer museum on site, as well as a lobby bar with a range of ice-breaker games and activities, and 32 themed beer suites in total, it’s easy to see why the DogHouse has gained such a cult following.

The best part? Every single room boasts beer… on tap!

How to get to Columbus?

If you’re traveling into Columbus via air travel, you’ll land at John Glenn Columbus International Airport. For first-timers to the city, consider booking pre-organized airport transfers from the airport and directly to your accommodation in Columbus.

After landing, grab your bags, get your admin done and after exiting the airport, your private driver awaits you, holding up a placard with your name on it — extra fancy, right? Forget about haggling with taxi drivers and travel in comfort and ease to your stay.

Private transfers are available on your journey back to the airport too if required.

Where to stay in Columbus?

Ensure your time in Columbus is extra comfortable when booking a night (or three) at some of the city’s best hotels.

Super stylish, contemporary and cool, the rooms and suites at Hotel LeVeque, Autograph Collection are beautifully appointed. Expect plush interiors and all of the comforts.

Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph is another stunning luxury stay. When the beds are this comfortable and the bathrooms donned to the nines, you know you’re in for a treat!

With pops of color throughout the hotel and room interiors, Aloft Columbus is a modern ambient hotel. Take a dip in the indoor guest pool, or chill out on the sun terrace.

Rated high for great service, if things like this matter to you, you’ll appreciate the Columbus OSU (by Marriott). All rooms are spacious and extra clean, and the hotel is equipped with all on-site facilities from the gym and swimming pool to the bar and conference center.

If you love a themed room, the funky USA-styled decor at the Graduate Columbus takes inspiration from university days in a very prestigious sort of way. You can’t miss the building either with a massive mural sprawled down the entire one side.

A fabulous option for business travelers is the AC Hotel Columbus Downtown . Done up in a monochromatic palette, rooms are equipped with writing desks, and when you need to catch a break, head to the rooftop and take in the view.

• best hotels in Columbus

Where to go next?

Whilst you’re in Ohio State, consider venturing to other epic and interesting destinations nearby.

Opt to head north and visit Cleveland . Just over two hours away, you can visit the city for a day’s adventure, or if you prefer, spend the night and get to explore its ins and outs. Check out the famous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, visit the NASA Glenn Visitor Center and catch a baseball or basketball game.

Traveling east instead, journey three hours to Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania and get to investigate a new state altogether. It’s a rather special place, where nature, culture, art and history work in harmony.

West of Columbus is Cincinnati , the closest city to Columbus of the lot. Drive 1.5 hours before you arrive at Queen City, which sits next to the Ohio River and the northern Kentucky border.

From markets to race tracks to sports matches, experience Indiana’s finest in its capital city, Indianapolis . It takes roughly three hours and 15 minutes to get to Indy from Columbus, so save this one for an overnight/weekend endeavor.

Final thoughts

From its plethora of art and history to the entertainment options (whether indoors or outside), there are plenty of things to do in Columbus and discoveries to make for the young, old and anywhere in between.

Have you visited this city before, or Ohio State? What are some of your fondest memories or travel highlights? Share with us in the comments.

As always, happy and safe travels!

14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Columbus, OH

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Anietra Hamper is a Columbus native and the author of two books highlighting the best things to do in Ohio's capital city.

The distinct districts of Columbus make visiting Ohio's capital city an exciting getaway. You can appease your culinary side with cream puffs in German Village or experience Columbus on foot with local walking tours. Discover your artsy side in the Short North Arts District or let loose with sports and entertainment in the Arena District .

Experience the many sides of Columbus at attractions that encourage a new adventure, or just kick back along the Scioto Mile downtown and admire the growing city skyline with a lunch, concert, or festival by the river. Whether you are looking for itineraries for 1-day, 2-days, or 3-days ; planning great weekend getaways in Ohio ; or just passing through to Cincinnati or Cleveland, discover the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in Columbus.

See also: Where to Stay in Columbus

1. Visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

2. franklin park conservatory and botanical gardens, 3. get inspired at the center of science and industry (cosi), 4. tap into global cultures at the north market, 5. explore your artistic side at the columbus museum of art, 6. cheer on the home team at huntington park, 7. take in a performance at the ohio theatre, 8. explore local history at the ohio statehouse, 9. the king arts complex, 10. national veterans memorial and museum, 11. go back in time at the ohio history center, 12. plan a picnic at the topiary park, 13. tap into your literary side at the thurber house, 14. zipzone outdoor adventures, where to stay in columbus for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in columbus, oh.

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is one of the top things to do in Columbus for kids because of its expansive collection of animals, educational programs, and changing exhibits. With habitats like Asia Quest, Congo Expedition, Heart of Africa, and Shores & Aquarium, a day at the Columbus Zoo takes you to every continent to explore more than 10,000 animals.

Besides visiting animal exhibits and enjoying live performances and feedings, families can enjoy the rides available for all ages. Bring your bathing suit and beach towel to make a full day out of it by also visiting Zoombezi Bay next door with a spectacular wave pool and waterslides.

There is plenty of ground to cover at the Columbus Zoo but to make the most of your visit, plan some time to enjoy some of the interactive exhibits like Adventure Cove or watch the giraffe and stingray feedings.

If you have the time and want to spend a little extra money, you can book a one-of-a-kind experience, like bathing an elephant or taking a private, guided behind-the-scenes tour in a golf cart.

Address: 4850 Powell Road, Powell, Ohio

You can explore a paradise of flora and fauna at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens . The Conservatory features hundreds of species of plants from around the world in towering glass greenhouses. Walk through the rainforest, desert, orchid collection, and the grand Palm House, where you might spot a wedding in progress on the weekend.

Outside, take some of the walking paths through the Botanical Gardens and Garden Campus. There are regular changing exhibitions, like Blooms & Butterflies in the spring, and visitor events like glassblowing and gardening that you can experience.

The Conservatory is a capital city treasure with a fascinating history. You can find out more about it and the hidden details about other Columbus attractions in the book Secret Columbus that you might want to explore.

Address: 1777 E. Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio

The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) has been a Columbus institution for decades, inspiring adults and children about the wonders of science in our world. Hands-on exhibits throughout COSI educate about outer space, energy, cultural progress, and even an expansive dinosaur gallery in partnership with the American Museum of Natural History.

There are revolving temporary exhibits throughout the year and regular live shows and lab experiments. If you visit COSI, the planetarium is a must-see experience that makes you feel like you are in a dark desert as you learn about the galaxy beneath the 60-foot dome. COSI has a cafeteria on-site, so you can easily spend a full day.

Address: 33 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio

A stroll through Columbus' North Market downtown is a fun way to immerse yourself in local culture. The market has dozens of local vendors selling everything from homemade bread and fresh flowers to an array of small eateries serving up Italian, Indian, Vietnamese, Pizza, German, Sushi, BBQ, and Nepalese food options on two floors.

Columbus is a city that supports independent merchants and the farmers that are the heart of Ohio's agriculture industry. The historic North Market is especially vibrant on Saturdays, when merchants also set up outside selling goods like local honey and fresh in-season farm produce.

If you park in the small North Market lot, be sure to get your ticket validated by a merchant for a discounted parking rate.

Address: 59 Spruce Street, Columbus, Ohio

Explore your artistic side at the Columbus Museum of Art , where exhibitions and galleries showcase the best in paintings, photography, glass, and sculpture. One of the most enjoyable ways to experience the Columbus Museum of Art is during one of their regular programs or community events that use the galleries as a backdrop.

In addition to the galleries, you will want to find the JP Morgan Chase Center for Creativity, which features a free creativity lounge with hands-on products to help inspire your creative side. Before you leave the museum, grab a small bite at the Schokko Art Café, where the culinary creativity is as artistic as the paintings.

If you want to make a full day appeasing your inner artist, plan a visit to the nearby Wexner Center for the Arts on the Ohio State University campus.

Address: 480 E. Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio

If you happen to visit Columbus on dime-a-dog night at Huntington Park , no doubt you will feel like a local. Home of the Columbus Clippers baseball team, Huntington Park is an exciting way to enjoy one of the city's premier attractions in the heart of the Arena District.

With the Columbus downtown skyline peering over the baseball field for an afternoon or evening game, there is an unforgettable energy. Night games often end with fireworks that light up the sky and illuminate the growing downtown skyline. There are several food options at the ballpark, but you might prefer to try one of the many types of restaurants within walking distance of the stadium before the game.

Address: 330 Huntington Park Lane, Columbus, Ohio

A night out at the historic Ohio Theatre is such a memorable experience. With more than 100 performances at the Ohio Theatre each year, it is easy to take in one of the touring Broadway shows, ballet, or symphony acts that come through town. Settle into the red velvet auditorium seats restored from the original 1928 movie house and enjoy the ambience of this local treasure.

Go to your show early to walk around the inside and admire the elaborate Spanish-Baroque architecture. Be sure to look up to see the 21-foot-high chandelier hanging from the elegantly painted ceiling.

If you enjoy performing arts, you might want to check out what's touring at Columbus' two other historic and resorted theaters: the Palace Theatre (built in 1926) and the Southern Theatre , which opened in 1896. Both host performances, from comedy to music, inside the original and restored theater space.

Address: 39 East State Street, Columbus, Ohio

There are so many things to do at the Ohio Statehouse inside and outside on the Capitol Square complex that it is helpful to narrow it down before your visit. The statehouse is where the official Ohio business takes place. There are free guided tours daily that provide the best overview of the history and design of the complex.

If you choose to tour on your own, be sure to observe the grand rotunda inside designed with thousands of pieces of marble, and visit the Museum Education Center. The Statehouse gift shop has unique gifts and artwork from Ohio artists.

You will want to walk the outdoor complex around the statehouse to observe statues, memorials, and tributes to important dignitaries and historic moments in Ohio.

Address: 1 Capitol Square, Columbus, Ohio

One of the great institutions in Columbus honoring African American heritage is The King Arts Complex . It is located in the heart of Columbus's King-Lincoln District and is a community point of interest for exhibits, informational programs, and performance arts recognizing the contributions and achievements of prominent African-Americans.

One of the most compelling areas of the King Arts Complex is a gallery that chronicles the slave trade in America. Other areas of the complex feature artistic works from famous African-Americans, including local artists Aminah Robinson and Elijah Pierce, who made significant contributions to Columbus' culture and the international art scene.

There are many small cafés popping up in the King-Lincoln District, so plan an afternoon visit to the complex and finish with a bite to eat at a local business.

Address: 867 Mt. Vernon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio

An exciting tourist attraction in Columbus is the National Veterans Memorial and Museum . The center will feature stories, photos, and memorabilia from the nation's veterans who served in every branch of the U.S. military.

The museum overlooks the Scioto River, with views of the downtown skyline providing both a sanctuary for reflection and exhibits for learning about every major military event in U.S. history.

History buffs will want to take advantage of the daily guided tours for unique insights about the exhibits and the effort to get the museum a national designation. While visiting the museum and memorial, take time to walk to the Scioto Mile along the riverfront and admire the downtown development.

Address: 300 W. Broad, Street, Columbus, Ohio

You do not have to be a history buff to enjoy and appreciate the museum, library, and village on the grounds at the Ohio History Connection. The Ohio History Center features several floors of interactive and educational exhibits, ranging from Ohio's American Indian roots to Civil War relics, changing neighborhoods, and displays featuring various stages of Ohio history.

If you are an ancestry fanatic, make a stop on the third floor of the history center, where historical archives are housed, and researchers can assist you in uncovering details about your family tree.

The Ohio Village outside the center is a special treat, where you are transported back in time. Experience what life was like in the 1800s as you walk through the village with period-dressed actors and buildings in 19th-century architecture.

Address: 800 E. 17th Avenue, Columbus, Ohio

The Topiary Park is a Columbus treasure that even many local residents forget to visit and appreciate. The park features 54 life-size topiary sculptures designed as the impressionist painting by George Seurat A Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grande Jatte.

The topiary creation is complete with sculpted boats and figures floating on the pond. The park is a peaceful place to visit for reflection or lunch on a bench in the quiet surroundings behind the Old Ohio Deaf School. The best time to visit the park is in the summer, when the shrubs on the topiary sculptures are in full bloom and manicured.

Address: 480 E. Town Street, Columbus, Ohio

Literary lovers will want to put a visit to the historic Thurber House at the top of their list. The former home of literary cartoonist and author James Thurber is renovated into a Thurber and literary museum.

You can take free, self-guided tours of the Thurber House any day of the week or attend one of the regular literary programs, like Evening with the Authors. During the summer, you can enjoy a picnic dinner and presentation by a featured author during the Summer Picnic Series.

Address: 77 Jefferson Avenue, Columbus, Ohio

It is hard to imagine an outdoor adventure like ziplining in the heart of a busy city like Columbus, but ZipZone Outdoor Adventures has done it. On this zipline tour, you can zip your way through the treetops just north of downtown.

The tours range from canopy tours and moonlight tours to zip-rush tours that include a brief freefall and rappel experience. ZipZone offers kid-friendly outdoor experiences in the Kids Park, with pint-size adventures and an Adventure Park with dozens of climbing and zip challenges for both beginners and advanced-level visitors.

The locally owned company puts a premium on protecting the wooded environment that surrounds ZipZone with eco-friendly construction of its ziplines and course designs. Part of the adventure is being immersed in the lush woodlands and nature in the north Columbus area.

Address: 7925 N. High Street, Columbus, Ohio

The best place to stay in Columbus is right downtown, where many of the city's main attractions are located, as well as restaurants and shopping. The city center has a lively entertainment scene centered on the Short North and High Street area. Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• Hotel LeVeque is the place to stay for an extra treat, especially if you are celebrating a special occasion. The hotel sits within one of the most recognizable buildings on the Columbus skyline, the LeVeque Tower, and is in the heart of downtown.
• Le Meridien Columbus, The Joseph is centrally located to the bustling and lively High Street and the Short North Arts District.
• Nearby, the Hilton Columbus Downtown , with an indoor pool, is adjacent to the convention center and connected via a skyway.
• On the Ohio State University campus, just a little bit out from the city center, The Blackwell is a well-appointed luxury hotel, with a free shuttle to trendy High Street in downtown.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• The Drury Inn is conveniently located next to the convention center, a short walk to the Arena District for sporting events.
• The Hampton Inn is just steps from the galleries and restaurants in the Short North District.
• Another option, just a short drive from downtown and on the grounds of Ohio State University, is the Hyatt Place , adjacent to the Buckeye Hall of Fame Grill. All of these properties have good service and indoor pools.

Budget Hotels:

• The recently remodeled and upgraded Red Roof PLUS+ has a central downtown location, across the street from the Convention Center.
• The Holiday Inn Express is another budget option in the city center, with in-room fridges and free breakfast.
• About a 15-minute drive from downtown is the newly renovated La Quinta Inn & Suites Columbus West - Hilliard , with comfortable rooms and an indoor pool.

More on Ohio

100 Fun Things to do in Columbus, Ohio (2024)

By: Author Julie Miller

Posted on Published: February 16, 2023

Planning a trip to Columbus, Ohio ? Or maybe you live here and you just need a push to try something new! Browse this list of 100 things to do in Columbus , Ohio for a little inspiration!

Columbus, Ohio is home to over 800,000 people and the greater metropolitan area is over 2 million people! With a vibrant arts scene, sports teams, theatre, a huge foodie scene and The Ohio State University, you can always find SOMETHING fun to do in Columbus !

I have lived in Columbus since 2008 and I am always finding something new to do! In my experience, the city is always changing and offering new experiences for us to discover! Read on for your own inspiration to explore Columbus, Ohio!

Educational Centers and Museums in Columbus:

Columbus has its fair share of museums and educational centers! If you’re visiting for the first time, and/or with kids, these well known attractions in Columbus are going to be some of your can’t miss stops! 

• Address: 333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215

The Center Of Science and Industry ( COSI ) offers tons of hands on science activities for kids (and adults)! In addition to the permanent displays, there are a number of rotating exhibits and IMAX movies each year. Don’t miss the American Museum of Natural History Dinosaur Gallery inside COSI!

2. Ohio History Center

• Address: 800 E 17th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43211

Learn about the history of Ohio with educational and hands on exhibits at Ohio History Center .  The special events they hold throughout the year (like Night at the Museum) and are super fun for families!

3. Ohio Village

Adjacent to Ohio History Center is Ohio Village, open during the summer and featuring what every day life was like in the 1880’s! Special events are held here throughout the year such as Dickens of a Christmas, All Hallow’s Eve and more!

4. Columbus Museum of Art

• Address: 480 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215

The Columbus Museum of Art includes permanent and rotating exhibitions, classes, special events and an area for kids to explore called The Wonder Room, one of the best things to do with kids in Columbus ! Visit for free on Sundays!

5. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

• Address: 4850 Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065

Consistently rated as one of the best Zoos in the country and one of the best family-friendly attractions in Columbus , the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium offers the chance to see animals up close and personal! Highlights include The Heart of Africa, the polar bear exhibit, and special seasonal events throughout the year!

6. Franklin Park Conservatory

• Address: 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203

Franklin Park Conservatory is home to indoor and outdoor gardens, seasonal displays and events and an amazing outdoor Children’s Garden ! Franklin County residents can visit for free on the first Sunday of each month! (See my list of museum discounts in Columbus for more information!)

While there is a cost to visit Franklin Park Conservatory, you can visit the public park ( Franklin Park ) surrounding the Conservatory for free!

7. Ohio Craft Museum

• Address: 1665 W 5th Ave, Columbus, OH 43212

Museum featuring handmade items, classes, a cool gift shop and more! This museum in the Grandview Heights neighborhood features permanent and temporary exhibitions.

8. Wexner Center for the Arts

• Address: 1871 N. High Street Columbus, Ohio 43210

Enjoy art, events, films, special exhibitions, a gift shop and more! Admission is free thanks to generous donations of sponsors! See my list of art museums in Columbus for more info!

9. Columbus Museum of Art at The Pizzuti

• Address: 632 Park St, Columbus, OH 43215

Visit the Pizzuti Collection , a smaller art collection (part of Columbus Museum of Art) located in the Short North for contemporary art, special programs and rotating exhibits. Free with a CMA membership.

10. Central Ohio Fire Museum

• Address: 260 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215

Learn about the history of fire fighting and visit a collection of fire fighting equipment used throughout the years. There is also a play area for children.

11. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus

• Address: 157 Easton Town Ctr, Columbus, OH 43219

Explore everything LEGO at the LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus with 4D movies, rides, LEGO building areas, workshops, a play area, cafe, gift shop and more!

12. Columbus Metropolitan Library: Main Library

• Address: 96 S Grant Ave, Columbus, OH 43215

The main branch of The Columbus Metropolitan Library is a sight to behold with it’s beautiful old and modern aspects, a cafe, a gift shop and of course thousands of books and audio visual materials for checking out.

13. National Veteran’s Memorial and Museum

• Address: 300 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215

Visit this museum to honor to our nation’s Veterans throughout all eras. Hear their stories, visit exhibitions, and participate in events held at the museum.

Make sure to check out the rooftop terrace and the Memorial Grove gardens outside.

14. Orton Geological Museum

• Address: 155 S Oval Mall, Columbus, OH 43210

Home to Columbus’ own dinosaur, visit this museum on The Ohio State University Campus to see the model Cryolophosaurus found by an Ohio scientist. See other rocks, minerals and fossils from Ohio and beyond! Admission is free!

15. Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum

• Address: 1813 N High St, Columbus, OH 43210

This museum, also on the campus of The Ohio State University, is home to the world’s largest collection of cartoon and comic related art, books, materials, newspaper clippings and more! 

16. Kelton House Museum and Garden

• Address: 586 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215

The Kelton House Museum and Garden is located in the Discovery District of Columbus and was part of the Underground Railroad!

You can visit this house, once owned by the Kelton family and decorated in the Victorian style. Most of the items in the restored house belonged to the Kelton Family. Admission to the museum includes a tour.

Indoor Things to do in Columbus:

17. otherworld.

• Address: 5819 Chantry Dr, Columbus, OH 43232

Part art museum, part interactive experience, Otherworld really defies a category! Take a visit to another world where you can have a one of a kind experience! It’s one of the most unique things to do in Columbus! Otherworld is kid-friendly, but you might want to save it for elementary age and up!

18. The Escape Game

• Address: 3960 Easton Station, Columbus, OH 43219

If you’re looking for a fun group activity, try The Escape Game at Easton Town Center! Groups of up to 8 can work together to solve a mystery and complete your mission within 60 minutes!

Outdoor Things to do in Columbus:

The Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks offer Central Ohio residents many, many opportunities to get outside and explore nature. It’s possible to drive just 20 minutes from downtown and find yourself in the middle of the forest, canoeing on a lake or hiking off trail.

Beyond the Metro Parks there are several other options for outdoor exploring and learning about the animals found in Ohio. There are plenty of fun outdoor activities in Columbus for the whole family !

19. Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks

The Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks offer city dwellers the opportunity to step into woods, forests, prairies and swamps. You’ll be amazed at what you can find inside these parks! They also offer amazing opportunities to see fall color in Columbus when the time is right!

Also there are a plethora of events and activities within the Metro Parks that offer kids and adults alike the chance to get out into Nature. Below I will feature a few of the highlights:

20. Scioto Audubon Metro Park

• Address: 400 W Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43215

Scioto Audubon Metro Park is currently the only Metro Park within downtown Columbus. The Grange Insurance Audubon Center within the park is home to events, an indoor play area and library, bird watching opportunities and more! There is a playground, climbing walls, an outdoor sandbox and much more!

21. Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park

• Address: 1775 Darby Creek Dr, Galloway, OH 43119

Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park has one of the best Nature Centers with a “living stream” inside where you can get up close to, touch and feed the animals and fish in the stream. Bison live within the park and finding them is a highlight of our visits! 

22. Glacier Ridge Metro Park

• Address: 9801 Hyland-Croy Rd, Plain City, OH 43064

Glacier Ridge Metro Park has a unique feature in its new Ninja Course! One of the most unique Metro Park Playgrounds , it’s a highlight for kids of all ages!

23. Inniswood Metro Gardens

• Address: 940 S Hempstead Rd, Westerville, OH 43081

This beautifully curated park has some of themes unique gardens, walking paths and play areas for kids! Inniswood Metro Gardens is a gem with it’s Secret Garden for kids, Herb Garden, Rose Garden and unique water features!

24. Slate Run Living Historical Farm

• Address: 1375 St. Rte. 674 North, Canal Winchester, OH 43110

Slate Run Metro Park and Living Historical Farm is home to a living farm where families can visit, ask questions and participate in chores on the farm! On Saturdays kids can feed the animals and participate in chores!

25. Olentangy Caverns

• Address: 1779 Home Rd, Delaware, OH 43015

Visitors can tour underground caverns used by the Wyandotte Indians. Guided and self guided tours are available. Also at Olentangy Caverns you can visit a petting zoo, complete a maze, do gem mining, play yard games and more! 

26. Ohio Wildlife Center

• Address: 6131 Cook Rd, Powell, OH 43065

Ohio Wildlife Center is home to animals who are being rehabilitated or not able to return to life in the wild. The Center is only open a few times a month so make sure to check the website for dates. Nature story times are held as well as regular open houses and guests can tour the grounds and meet some of the resident animals.

27. Stratford Ecological Center

• Address: 3083 Liberty Rd, Delaware, OH 43015

Stratford Ecological Center in Delaware, Ohio is home to animals, gardens, hiking trails, a pond and more! Workshops and classes are held on a regular basis as well as a story time for kids.

28. Alum Creek State Park Beach

• Address: 3615 S Old State Rd, Delaware, OH 43015

You didn’t think you could go to the beach in Central Ohio? Don’t overlook Alum Creek Beach for a day at the beach! While there are actually many other beaches in Ohio , Alum Creek Beach is the largest inland beach in the Ohio State Park system!

29. Park of Roses

• Address: 3901 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214

This garden is one of the largest public rose gardens in the United States and a very popular attraction in Columbus during the summer! The Columbus Park of Roses features paths for walking through, benches and over 12,000 specimens of roses! Roses are at peak bloom in early summer, but the park is open year round!

Downtown Columbus Parks:

The green space in Columbus has improved very much over the past 10 years. This section is focused on the parks and green spaces specifically in Downtown Columbus!

30. Topiary Park 

• Address: 480 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215

A can’t miss destination in downtown Columbus, Topiary Park is one of the most unique parks in Columbus ! The park is a recreation of Georges Seurat’s painting, A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of LaGrande Jatte. With larger than life size plant sculptures, it’s a sight to behold! Though not the only way into the park, you can visit the park through the Main Library.

31. Columbus Commons

• Address: 160 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215

Columbus Commons is a great downtown park that offers live concerts, exercise classes, a carousel, two food vendors, festivals, Commons for Kids in the summer, and a beautiful green space in the middle of the city.

32. Bicentennial Park

• Address: 233 S Civic Center Dr, Columbus, OH 43215

Home to fountains for kids to jump in during the summer, a stage for concerts, host of the Columbus Food Truck Festival and a beautiful view of downtown Columbus!

33. Genoa Park

• Address: 303 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215

This downtown park, part of the Scioto Mile, has an amphitheater, the Columbus Police Memorial, LED lighting, fountains and more! This park is just outside of COSI.

34. The Promenade on Scioto Mile

Walk a beautiful stretch of the Scioto Mile with views of the Columbus skyline, swinging benches, bridges and more!

Shopping in Columbus:

Columbus is home to many major brands such as The Limited, Bath and Body Works, Abercrombie and Fitch, Big Lots, and the list goes on! If shopping is your jam, you will find nearly every store known to man within the Central Ohio area!

35. Easton Town Center

• Address: 160 Easton Town Ctr, Columbus, OH 43219

One of the largest shopping centers in the US, Easton is home to nearly 200 stores, 60 restaurants, a movie theater, LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus, The Funny Bone (featuring live comedy shows), outdoor fountains, a model train and many special events throughout the year! Check out one of these kid-friendly restaurants at Easton Town Center when you visit!

36. Polaris Fashion Place

• Address: 1500 Polaris Pkwy, Columbus, OH 43240

A large mall with indoor and outdoor areas, events for kids, dining, an outdoor game area called The Yard and a fountain for splashing! Also in the Polaris area are the popular shopping destinations IKEA and Public Lands .

37. The Mall at Tuttle Crossing

• Address: 5043 Tuttle Crossing Blvd, Dublin, OH 43016

This mall is located in Dublin, Ohio, a suburb of Columbus and features over 120 stores and a unique STEM-focused play area for kids !

38. Tanger Outlets Columbus

• Address: 400 S Wilson Rd, Sunbury, OH 43074

This outlet mall is 30 minutes north of downtown Columbus and is home to over 75 stores, restaurants and a playground area.

39. Destination Outlets Jeffersonville

• Address: 8000 Factory Shops Blvd, Jeffersonville, OH 43128

About 40 minutes south of Columbus, this outlet mall has over 60 stores and a food court!

40. North Market

• Address: 59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215

You can’t visit Columbus without visiting the North Market ! With over 30 vendors selling hot food, grocery items, flowers, coffee, pastries and more! North Market is of the best downtown Columbus restaurants because there is something for everyone!

41. Saraga International Grocery 

• Address: Multiple locations

If you’re looking for an international ingredient or a multi-cultural shopping experience in Columbus, check out one of the Saraga International Grocery locations for ethnic groceries you can’t find elsewhere, plus small restaurants inside the store!

*For local, small shops I would suggest checking out the recurring events listed below that take place in individual neighborhoods. There are so many unique, locally owned shops in Columbus – too many to list here!

Interesting Tours to Take in Columbus:

We can explore so much on our own, but sometimes you really need a guided tour to give you the inside scoop. This portion of the list includes factories, restaurants and other cultural attractions where you you can take a tour.

42. Ohio Statehouse Tour

• Address: 1 Capitol Sq, Columbus, OH 43215

Daily tours are available of the Ohio Statehouse and take place every hour on the hour.  You can take a guided tour or pick up a map in the gift shop to do a self-guided tour. There is a Museum Education Center, a great Ohio-themed gift shop and a beautiful rotunda!

43. Anthony Thomas Candy Factory

• Address: 1777 Arlingate Ln, Columbus, OH 43228

Take a tour of this candy factory and watch candy being made. Tours are about an hour long and online reservations are currently required. Tours days change depending on the season so check the link for details.

44. American Whistle Corporation

• Address: 6540 Huntley Rd # B, Columbus, OH 43229

Tour the only manufacturer of metal whistles in the US! The tour takes about 45 minutes and everyone receives a whistle at the end of the tour! Call to make a reservation or book online!

45. Phoenix Bat Factory

• Address: 7801 Corporate Blvd Suite E, Plain City, OH 43064

Learn how a bat is made from start to finish at this factory in Plain City, just outside of Columbus. Tours are about 1 hour long and are available during open tour times or with a reservation. Open tours take place Monday and Friday at 1:30 PM.

46. Columbus Food Adventures

• Address: various locations

Want to experience the amazing food scene in Columbus? Take a Columbus Food Tour. Options include: taco trucks, ethnic food, dessert, breweries, meat lovers, breakfast, coffee, brunch and tours focused on specific neighborhoods!

Trails to Help You Explore Columbus:

Columbus is home to several “trails”: from food to fairies. Grab a passport and make your way through one of these local themed trails!

47. Columbus Coffee Experience

• Address: Pick up a passport at any of the participating coffee shops

Visit 4 coffee shops on the trail to receive a free t-shirt or visit all of them for a collector’s coffee mug! Pick up your passport at any participating coffee shop! Make sure to check out my list of some of the best coffee shops in Columbus to get started!

48. Dublin Cocktail Trail

Pick up a Guidebook or print one online and visit each of the destinations listed. Turn in or mail in your completed Guidebook and receive a koozie or Celtic Cocktail Trail t-shirt! Have fun exploring many of the restaurants and fun things to do in Dublin, Ohio !

49. West Side Ice Cream Trail

Tour the unique ice cream spots located on the West Side of Columbus including several Mexican Ice Cream shops featuring handmade paletas and aguas frescas!

50. Irish Fairy Door Trail

• Address: 9 S. High St., Dublin, Ohio 43017

Visit each of the locations listed on the passport and find the name of each resident fairy. Turn in your passport for a free t-shirt!

51. Twelve Elves of Dublin

During the holiday season (December), visit 12 participating businesses around Historic Dublin, to find the Twelve Elves of Dublin ! Pick up an Elf Card at any of the stops and kids can point out the Elf to the employee and they will receive a small prize and a stamp on their card.

Theatre and Live Performances in Columbus:

Theatres and live performance venues attract many visitors to Columbus each year! If you’re looking for a Broadway show or your favorite band on tour, click the link to see what’s coming to town next!

52. CAPA (Columbus Association for the Performing Arts)

• Address: Various locations

CAPA is an organization that has rehabilitated several theatres in downtown Columbus and oversees performances in Ohio Theatre, Palace Theatre and Southern Theatre (among others). Watch Broadway performances, the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, BalletMet, the Jazz Arts Group of Columbus and more!

Since CAPA encompasses several venues and entities, starting at their website will give you some great date ideas in Columbus , too!

53. PromoWest Live

Featuring indoor and outdoor concerts, check the link for upcoming musical acts at various venues around the city!

54. Schottenstein Center

• Address: 555 Borror Dr, Columbus, OH 43210

Value City Arena at the Schottenstein Center is home to live performances, sporting events, concerts and more! Check the link for the upcoming schedule.

55. Nationwide Arena

• Address: 200 W Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, OH 43215

One of the largest performance venues in Columbus, Nationwide Arena is home to the Columbus Blue Jackets and draws big name concerts and shows. Check the link for upcoming events.

56. ComedySportz at The Nest Theatre

• Address: 2643 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202

ComedySportz is a fun, interactive improv show that takes place on Friday nights. All ages are welcome!

57. Hashtag Comedy

Featuring live shows, improv school for kids and adults and community performances! Click the on the website link for upcoming shows and classes!

58. Shadowbox Live

Shadowbox Live is the largest resident ensemble theater company in the US. The downtown theatre is home to productions all 52 weeks of the year!

59. PBJ & Jazz

• Address: 769 E. Long St, Columbus, OH 43203 from November through March and 480 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215 from June through September.

Throughout the year the Jazz Arts Group puts on kid-friendly jazz concerts designed to introduce kids to jazz music at an early age. During the winter, the concerts are held inside and kids get a packed lunch when they attend. Indoor concerts are $5/person or $20 max. During the warmer months, the concerts are held outside in Topiary Park and are free to attend.

60. Columbus Children’s Theatre

• Address: Most often at Lincoln Theatre, 769 E Long St. Columbus, OH 43204

CCT focuses on family-friendly theatre and introducing kids to the arts! With performances, classes and special performances around town, you can introduce your children to theatre at their level!

This local theatre company features performances for all ages, community involvement, summer camps and more!

Live Sports in Columbus:

Columbus, Ohio is a sports town, that’s for sure. Perhaps best known as a college football town, Columbus is also home to other professional and semi-professional sports teams!

62. Columbus Blue Jackets

Columbus’ very own professional hockey team plays at Nationwide Arena.

63. Columbus Clippers

• Address: 330 Huntington Park Ln, Columbus, OH 43215

A Triple A baseball team, the Clippers play downtown at Huntington Park in the Arena District. If you’re looking to save some money, standing room only tickets can be purchased and there are lots of benches and picnic tables from which you can enjoy the game.

64. Columbus Crew SC

• Address: 96 Columbus Crew Way, Columbus, OH 43215

A Crew match is an electric experience! Especially in the new Lower.com Field in the Arena District ! There’s not a bad seat in the house!

65. Ohio Roller Derby

• Address: 717 E 17th Ave, Columbus, OH 43211

Watching the Ohio Roller Derby is always a fun time. Games take place at the Ohio Expo Center. This is a women’s league featuring two 30 minute periods of full-contact racing on roller skates!

66. Ohio State University Sports

Games played at the Ohio State University are open to the public and while football tickets may be hard to come by, it’s easy to watch hockey, basketball, and much more. Some events are even free for the public to attend!

67. Skull Session with OSU Marching Band

• Address: 410 Woody Hayes Dr, Columbus, OH 43210

If you don’t have OSU football tickets but you want to get into the spirit of the day, attend a Skull Session which takes place 2 hours and 20 minutes before the start of the game at St. John Arena. It’s a pep rally of sorts where the OSU Marching Band (TBDBITL) plays, the coach speaks and the players attend.

Bookstores in Columbus:

Columbus is home to some pretty amazing book stores! 

68. The Book Loft of German Village

• Address: 631 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43206

This amazing bookstore in German Village has 32 rooms on multiple floors full of new and used books! Give yourself time to get lost! (Then check out Pistacia Vera nearby, one of the best bakeries in Columbus !)

69. Cover to Cover Books for Young Readers

• Address: 2116 Arlington Ave, Columbus, OH 43221

This is a magical bookstore in Upper Arlington specifically for kids!

70. Gramercy Books

• Address: 2424 E Main St, Bexley, OH 43209

This is a great bookstore in Columbus with books for kids and adults. Located in Bexley, the shop opens up into Kittie’s Bakery! (Get the Chocolate Chip Face Cookie !)

71. Prologue Bookshop

• Address: 841 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

This bookstore in the Short North features books, games, book clubs and events!

Things to do in Columbus Neighborhoods:

Like any major city, Columbus is made up of smaller neighborhoods and surrounded by vibrant suburbs. Many of these neighborhoods hold their own regular events such as First Fridays, etc. These events are a great way to get a feel for the neighborhood and explore the local businesses. 

72. Franklinton Fridays

Taking place on the 2nd Friday of each month, the community offers art shows, theater, science exhibits and more!

73. Hilltop Hop

This event takes place on the second Saturday morning of each month in the Hilltop neighborhood and features art shows, live music, snacks, local vendors and more!

74. Fourth Fridays in Uptown Westerville

On the fourth Friday of each month, the businesses of Uptown Westerville stay open late for shopping, snacks and more! Check out my list of coffee shops in Westerville for more ideas!

75. Grandview Hop

This event takes place several times throughout the summer and features vendors, food, live music and more on Grandview Avenue!

76. German Village Makers Market

This outdoor artisan market features vendors, food, home goods, personal accessories and more!

77. Short North Gallery Hop

Gallery Hop in the Short North Arts District takes place on the first Saturday of each month on High Street. Galleries, shops and restaurants stay open late for shopping and art showings, often there are street performers and special events!

78. Sunday Fundays in Worthington

One Sunday each month, the businesses of Old Worthington host a themed-afternoon with special events, food and activities!

79. Moonlight Market

This nighttime, outdoor market takes place downtown once a month during April through October and features shopping, dining and entertainment.

80. Sunlight Market

This daytime, outdoor market takes place downtown once a month during April through October and features shopping, dining and entertainment.

“Bar-cades” in Columbus:

“Barcades” (Bar + Arcade) are popping up all over Columbus and they offer a great alternative to just going to the bar. Several of them also offer kid-friendly hours so kids can enjoy the games, too! Some of them can even host birthday parties for kids!

81. 16 Bit Bar + Arcade

16 Bit Bar + Arcade features craft beer, cocktails and classic arcade games. If you purchase a drink, you can play any of the arcade games for free! Kids are permitted before 8:00 PM. Locations include downtown Columbus and Bridge Park in Dublin.

82. Pins Mechanical Co.

Pins Mechanical Co. has three Columbus area locations, Bridge Park in Dublin, Easton Town Center and Downtown Columbus. Available activities include pinball, duckpin bowling, ping pong, foosball and more! Kids are allowed until 8:00 PM.

83. Level One Bar + Arcade

• Address: 130 Hutchinson Ave. Columbus, OH 43235

This is another spot where if you buy a drink, playing arcade games is free! Level One has an 80’s theme and features some of your favorite arcade games from that era. Kids and people under age 21 are allowed into the bar from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.

84. Thunderwing Brewing

• Address: 2419 Scioto Harper Dr, Columbus, OH 43204

Thunderwing brewing features craft beer, pinball games, darts, board games and more! There is a patio and you can bring your own food or order in. Kids are welcome.

85. Old North Arcade

• Address: 2591 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202

Old North Arcade features a great selection of games that you can play for free when you purchase a drink. Activities include arcade games, pinball, air hockey, skee-ball and more! Children are allowed before 8:00 PM. There is a patio and Square Slice Pizzeria is attached for food!

Independent Movie Theatres in Columbus:

86. gateway film center.

• Address: 1550 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201

Gateway Film Center is a non-profit, independent theater that offers a variety of films, documentaries and special events including free and sensory friendly movie showings for families!

87. Drexel Theatre

• Address: 2254 E Main St, Bexley, OH 43209

The Drexel Theatre is a local theatre that provides unique cinematic experiences, family-friendly events and lots more! 

Seasonal Events in and around Columbus:

Seasonal events and festivals are some of the most fun things to do in Columbus! They only come around once a year so you must plan accordingly! These are some of the most popular festivals and events that take place in Columbus each year !

88. Columbus Arts Festival

• Location: Riverfront

The Columbus Arts Festival is a 3 day festival featuring local artists, vendors, activities for kids, live performances and more!

89. Red White and Boom

• Location: downtown Columbus

Columbus’ 4th of July celebration includes live music, vendors and a large fireworks display!

90. ComFest

• Location: Goodale Park

Columbus’ Community Festival features local bands, food, performances and more with a focus on grassroots community partners!

91. Stonewall Columbus Pride Festival

A celebration of Columbus’ LGBTQ community and allies. Takes place in June each year and features a parade, special events, live music and more.

92. Summer Jam

• Location: Westgate Park

This festival in Westgate Park celebrates local artists, local bands and supports the curation of a mural on the west side of Columbus each summer.

93. Jazz and Ribs Fest

• Location: Scioto Mile

Featuring 3 days of live jazz performances and the best rib connoisseurs along the Scioto Mile in downtown Columbus.

94. Ohio State Fair

• Address: 717 East 17th Avenue Columbus, Ohio 43211

The Ohio State Fair is a highlight of summer in Columbus with live entertainment, competitions, special events, rides, concessions, games, Ohio foods and so much more! 

95. Asian Festival

• Location: Franklin Park

The Asian Festival showcases the cultural heritage of the Asian people and provides an educational experience for all ages!

96. Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights

• Address: 3311 South Old State Rd, Delaware, OH 43015

This annual drive through holiday light show is a tradition for many in the Central Ohio area! The show has been taking place for over 20 years and it also supports local charities and organizations!

97. Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

• Address: 4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065

A favorite Columbus Christmas tradition , each holiday season the Columbus Zoo comes alive with LED lights, special performances and shows.

98. Hilltop Bean Dinner

The Hilltop Bean Dinner is a family friendly festival that remembers the role of Westgate Park in the Civil War. The park was the site of a prison camp, Camp Chase, and the festival offers some traditional food (like beans) but much more: food vendors, craft vendors, music and more!

99. The Nutcracker at Ohio Theatre

• Location: Ohio Theatre

Every year many people in Ohio look forward to BalletMet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker in the beautiful Ohio Theatre!

100. Columbus Food Truck Festival

• Location: Franklin County Fairgrounds

Check out the city’s best food trucks! This festival lasts 2 days and features food trucks and live music!

Whether your planning a trip or want to explore more of your hometown, tuck this list in your back pocket for the ultimate Columbus Bucket List!

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Columbus on the Cheap

Good, Cheap, Fun

Fun, Factory Tours in Columbus, and other fun public tours in Ohio

Have you ever looked at something and wondered how it’s made? Ever attend a stage production or sporting event and wish you could peek behind the scenes? 

Ohio is home to a lot manufacturing companies and other cool venues. A few of them invite the public to visit for a more in-depth look at their history, technology, craft, or passion.

Check out these fun and unique Factory tours in Columbus and around Ohio, plus some other fun public tours

Al’s Delicious Popcorn Factory Tour

Pop! Pop! Al’s Delicious Popcorn has been a local favorite since 1985. They pop, flavor, and hand pack all of their popcorn in-house. With more than 65 unique flavors to choose from, this might just be the best tasting tour around!

Tours last about 30 minutes. Each tour begins with a short video, followed by a visit to the kitchen and packaging area. The best part is the complementary tasting at the end. 

Factory tours are scheduled Monday and Thursday at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Advanced reservations are required. The tour is suitable for all ages and groups are welcome. The cost is free.

Al’s Delicious Popcorn is located at 1500 Bethel Rd, Columbus, OH 43220 .

Anthony-Thomas Candy Company

For five generations, Anthony-Thomas Candy Company has been producing fine chocolates in Columbus. It is the largest family-owned and operated candy company in the region, producing 60,000 lbs. of chocolate every day.

Take a sweet tour along a glass-enclosed suspended skywalk to see the candy making process from start to finish. All guests receive a free sample too!

Currently offering open house walk-in tours Monday through Thursday between 10:00am and 2:00pm. Tours begin on the hour.

Admission Fee: 18 years and older – $4.00 per person., 2-17 years old – $2.00 per person. Tours days/hours subject to change; check website before you visit.

Anthony-Thomas Candy Company is located at 1777 Arlingate Ln, Columbus, OH 43228 .

Brewery, Distillery, and Mead Tours

If you enjoy an occasional beer or cocktail, taking a behind-the-scenes tour of a local brewery, meadery or distillery is a fun way to spend a few hours. Gather some friends and try one, or all, of these tours around Columbus.

Brothers Drake on 3RD : Saturdays @ 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. $15 per person. (1025 W 3rd Ave, Columbus)

Middle West Spirits : Friday – Saturday, tour times vary. $10 per person. (1230 Courtland Ave, Columbus)

BrewDog Columbus : Monday – Friday @ 6 p.m. Cost varies per tour type. ( 96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester)

Noble Cut Distillery : Saturdays @ 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. $10 per person. (750 Cross Point Rd, Suite K, Gahanna)

Watershed Distillery : Thursday – Sunday, tour times vary. $15 per person. (1145 Chesapeake Ave, Suite D, Columbus)

Wolf Ridge Brewery : Saturdays @ 1 p.m. $15 per person. ( 215 N 4th St, Columbus)

American Whistle Corporation Factory Tour

The American Whistle Corporation has been making old fashioned brass whistles since 1956. They are the only manufacturer of metal whistles in the United States.

Just how does that little ball get inside a whistle? Find out on a 45-minute guided tour of the manufacturing plant. Everyone on the tour receives a shiny new whistle to take home!

Tours are Monday – Thursday at 1 p.m. Advanced reservations are required. The tour is suitable for all ages and groups are welcome. The cost is $8 per person.

American Whistle Corporation is located at 6540 Huntley Rd, Columbus, OH 43229 .

The Phoenix Bat Company Factory Tours

( Open Tour times have been suspended temporarily . C ontinue to check the website for updates.)

Charley “Lefty” Trudeau, a carpenter by trade, played 19 th century vintage baseball for the Ohio Historical Society. It wasn’t long before he blended his skills and passion to make vintage wooden bats for the team. Today, Phoenix Bats produces wooden bats for all players from little league to the pros.

During a 1-hour tour, learn what goes into making a great wooden bat. Visit the manufacturing floor to see how bats are made. If you’re lucky, they might even be making one for your favorite pro player.

Stop in for a guided tour during Open Tour times on Monday and Friday at 1:30 p.m. Walk-in tours are available during this time. Custom tour times are available for groups (10 or more), if scheduled in advance. The tour is suitable for all ages and groups are welcome. The cost is $10 per person.

The Phoenix Bat Company is located at 7801 Corporate Blvd, Plain City, OH 43064 .

Freshwater Farms of Ohio Hatchery Tours

As Ohio’s largest indoor fish hatchery, Freshwater Farms is a fun and unique place to visit.

Founded in 1983, this family owned, 5-acre sustainable farm grows over 100,000 lbs of rainbow trout, yellow perch, and bluegill each year. The summer season brings the addition of freshwater shrimp.

Visitors are welcomed and encouraged to take a self-guided tour of the farm during regular business hours. There are several outdoor ponds for trout, frogs, etc. The indoor fish barn is home to thousands of stocked pond fish and a hands-on educational area.

The education center offers plenty of informational signs and encourages visitors to TOUCH! The highlight is the Sturgeon Petting Zoo, featuring Flipper.

Freshwater Farms of Ohio is located at 2624 N. US Hwy. 68, Urbana, OH 43078 . 

Honda Auto Plant

The Honda Heritage Center ® takes visitors on a self-guided journey from the company’s humble beginning to its present-day success in North America. Visitors will see historical, current, and future products on display, many of which were manufactured right here in Ohio. 

Interested in seeing how cars are manufactured? Sign up (in advance) for a Honda plant tour as part of your visit.

Witness the production of automotive components in-house, watch large machines and intricate robots at work, and see how materials reach the assembly line where Honda associates work together as a team.

The Honda Heritage Center is open on Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Walk-in visitors are welcome for a 90-minute self-guided tour. A government issued photo ID (adults) is required to check-in. Heritage Center admission and factory tours (when available) are free.

The Honda Heritage Center is located at 24025 Honda Pkwy, Marysville, OH 43040 .

Read more about visiting Honda Heritage Center and other fun things to do in the area.

Ohio State University Tours

OH-IO . Gameday isn’t the only time Buckeye fans can enjoy a visit to campus. Plan an exciting OSU family day with a private tour of Ohio Stadium or the Schottenstein Center.

Ohio Stadium

Learn the history of Ohio Stadium and relive some of Buckeye Nation’s greatest gridiron moments in the “Shoe”. Guided tours take visitors through the band room, players lounges, hospitality suites, media box, and of course…a walk down the players tunnel for visit to the 50-yard line!

Tours last 1.5 hours and are available Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Advanced reservations are required. The tour is suitable for all ages and groups are welcome. The cost is $200 (minimum) for up to 10 guests, so bring some friends! Additional guests are welcome for $20/person.

Ohio Stadium is located at 411 Woody Hayes Dr, Columbus, OH 43210 .

Schottenstein Center

The “Schott” is home to Buckeye basketball and ice hockey teams. It also hosts other events from kids summer camps to star studded entertainment. Go behind the scenes to see backstage dressing rooms for the stars, Buckeye team areas (does not include locker rooms), hospitality spaces, and head to center court on the Arena Floor.

Tours last 1 hour and are available Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Advanced reservations are required. The tour is suitable for all ages and groups are welcome. The cost is $50 (minimum) for up to 10 guests, so bring some friends! Additional guests are welcome for $5/person.

The Schottenstein Center is located at 555 Borror Dr, Columbus, OH 43210 .

Ohio Statehouse Tours

The Ohio Statehouse is part of the Capitol Square complex which also includes the Senate Building and Atrium. Completed in 1861, it is a beautiful Greek Revival building and one of the oldest working statehouses in America.

Take a tour of the Ohio Statehouse to learn about our government’s history, visit the legislative chambers, marvel at artwork in the impressive rotunda and stained-glass dome. Visit the interactive museum to learn about Ohio’s history and the democratic process.

Guided tours are Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. , and Saturday/Sunday from Noon – 3 p.m. (except State holidays)

Walk-in tours occur on the hour and begin in the Map Room, just outside the gift shop. The tour is suitable for all ages. Groups of 10 or more require a reservation. All tours are free !

Self-guided tours are also available, but access to areas may be limited.

Read more about visiting the Ohio Statehouse and upcoming events.

The Ohio Statehouse is located at 1 Capitol Sq, Columbus, OH 43215  .

Ohio Theatre Tours

Whether hosting silent movies of the past or elaborate stage productions of the present, the Ohio Theatre is a local treasure. Opened in 1928, the theater represents nearly a century of film and stage history.

Today the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, BalletMet, and Broadway Series, all call Ohio Theatre home.

The Spanish-Baroque architecture and design details are spectacular, especially the 21 foot high chandelier. Anyone attending a performance at the Ohio Theatre will be wowed by the lush interior and excellent acoustics. 

Each summer, guests can tour the theatre to learn about its construction, storied history, and hear about those who have performed on its stage. Take a seat in the theatre for a thrilling demonstration of the “Mighty Morton”, the original organ installed in 1928. 

Guided tours are available during the summer. CAPA (Columbus Assoc for the Performing Arts)   The 2023 schedule will be available in late spring. The tour is suitable for all ages, but does require a lot of walking, including stairs. All tours are free!

Alum Creek Dam Tours

Alum Creek Reservoir sits in the middle of Alum Creek State Park and provides year round recreation, but ever wonder why it was really created? Join the US Army Corps of Engineers for a behind-the-scenes Dam Tour to learn the history, how it was constructed, and its purpose.

Tours are May – September, Saturday and Sunday at Noon – 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 6 p.m. Bonus tours are available on Memorial Day and Independence Day. Tours require climbing 100+ steps. Recommended for ages 6+. The cost is free!

Alum Creek Dam is located at 4189 Lewis Center Rd, Lewis Center, OH 43035 . (Meet in the Below the Dam Recreation area)

Franklin County Sanitary Landfill (SWACO)

There’s no denying it. The average person creates about 5 pounds of waste daily. Even with recycling, more than 1 million tons of trash ends up at the Franklin County Sanitary Landfill each year.

Learn how the city manages and monitors the landfill, along with the positive impact of improved recycling and waste reduction. The tour begins with a classroom presentation, followed by a guided in-vehicle tour of the working landfill.

There are public tours several times per year. The next tour date is June 17, 2023 at 10 a.m. Tours are 90 minutes long (ages 6 & up). Advanced registration is required. The cost is free. To schedule a tour of the Franklin County Sanitary Landfill, please contact SWACO .

The landfill is located at 4239 London Groveport Rd, Grove City, OH 43123 .

Rumpke Recycling Center Tours

Taking care of our environment is critical, not only for ourselves, but for future generations. We all see and use recycling bins everywhere from public places to our private homes. Ever wonder what really happens to all those items?

Find out with a guided tour of the Rumpke Recycling Center in Columbus. Learn how items are sorted, and which items can be recycled. It’s an eye-opening experience!

Walking tours are scheduled March – November, Tuesdays from 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Tours are 1-hour and limited to 10 participants. Smaller groups can be combined. Advanced reservations are required.

Tours may not be suitable for all ages or those with medical conditions, so call to confirm. The cost is free.

The Rumpke Recycling Center is located at 321 Dering Ave, Columbus, OH 43207 . (Tours also available in Cincinnati location.)

Factory Tours Around Ohio

If you’re willing to travel a bit, here’s a list of interesting and fun factory tours located around Ohio.

Airstream (Jackson Center, OH)

Travel Trailer or Touring Coach manufacturing tours. Monday – Friday, times vary . Cost is free. Reservations required. Guided.

Alan Cotrill Studio (Zanesville, OH)

Watch a living sculptor create bronze statues. Cost is free. Walk-ins are welcome Monday – Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Self-guided.

Bucyrus Copper Kettle Works (Bucyrus, OH)

The only hammered copper shop in America. Call 419-562-6891 to schedule a free guided tour.

Bunker Hill Cheese (Millersburg, OH)

Follow the cheesemaking process from farm to table. Monday/Tuesday and Thursday/Friday from 8 a.m. – Noon. Cost is free. Walk-ins welcome. Self-guided.

Columbus Washboard Company (Logan, OH)

Tour the only manufacturer of old fashioned wash boards in America. Monday – Friday @ 11 am., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Call 740-380-3828 to schedule in advance. Cost is $8/$6/$5. Guided.

Conns Potato Chips (Zanesville, OH)

Potatoes are good in any form, but there’s nothing like a crunchy flavored chips! While they aren’t currently doing tours, you can go to the retail store and buy freshly made warm potato chips in a tin. A new tin is $15 and the refills are $10. Normal store hours are Mon-Thurs 8am to 4pm, Fri 8am to 12pm, and closed Sat and Sun.

Fannie May Factory Store (Akron, OH)

Explore the Fannie May factory with a behind the scenes look at how they craft gourmet chocolates. The Chocolate factory is now open to in-person tours. During your guided tour you will learn about how chocolate is made, Fannie May history and of course taste and experience delicious chocolate.

Tours are Monday-Thursday from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at the top of each hour. Reservations are preferred to accommodate your tour group.

Consider visiting Akron’s Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens while you’re in the area!

Guggisberg Cheese Factory (Charm, OH)

Follow the cheesemaking processfrom farm to table. Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. – Noon. Cost is free. Walk-ins welcome. Self-guided.

Harry London Chocolates (North Canton, OH)

Behind-the-scenes look at production of fine chocolates. Tours Monday – Thursday from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Cost is free. Reservations required. Call 800-321-0444, Ext. 119 to schedule. Masks are mandatory. Guided.

Hawkes Crystal (Tiffin, OH)

Watch as artisans create beautiful hand-cut crystal pieces. Call (419) 448-4286 to schedule a free guided tour.

Indian Creek Distillery (New Carlisle, OH)

Ohio’s oldest working (pre-prohibition) distillery. Distillery Tour & Tasting on Saturdays @ 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Cost is $20 per person. Reservations required. Guided.

KitchenAid (Greenville, OH) 

Tour the KitchenAid mixer manufacturing plant. Tuesday – Friday @ Noon . Walk-ins welcome. Reservations required for groups of 8 or more. Call 800-961-0959 for more info. Guided.

Mosser Glass (Cambridge, OH)

Watch the craft of decorative glass making. Monday – Friday @ 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. Cost is free. Walk-ins welcome. Call 740-439-1827 to confirm the tour schedule. Guided.

Rockwood Pottery (Cincinnati, OH)

Visit the factory where artisans create hand crafted pottery and architectural tile. Saturdays @ 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Cost is $10 per person (can be redeemed for credit in retail store). Reservations required. Guided.

Find more fun things to do in Cincinnati !

Spangler Candy Company (Bryan, OH)

More than 10 million Dum-Dum lollipops are produced every day. Factory tours are currently closed , making way for a new Spangler Candy World is coming in 2023!

Wilson Football Factory (Ada, OH)

The world’s only exclusive manufacturer of footballs, including 100% of those used by the NFL. Factory tours are currently closed , but scheduled to return in the spring of 2023 . Call 419-634-9901 to confirm the tour schedule. Guided.

Winans Chocolates & Coffees (Piqua, OH) 

Chocolate and coffee, what could be better? Check out this “2 for 1” tour. Start with a tour of the chocolate factory and finish across the street at the roastery! Tuesdays @ 1 p.m. and Thursdays @10 a.m. Cost is $5 per person. Reservations required. Guided.

Have other fun tour ideas?

Leave us a comment, or find our contact details here . 

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Columbus, OH   Travel Guide

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8 Best Things To Do in Columbus, OH

Updated Apr. 21, 2022

Columbus offers a good mix of things to do. For instance the Arena District, as well as The Ohio State University area, are filled with bars ideal for a night on the town. You can also kill at least a couple hours in German Village eating bratwurst

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North Market North Market free

Ohio's only public market is in Columbus and certainly worth a walk through. North Market was first established in 1876 and is home to more than 30 vendors selling a range of products, including fresh meat, produce, baked goods, cheese and flowers. On select Saturdays, a portion of the market is set up outside, and on Sundays in June to October local artwork, furniture, jewelry and more is also on display.

Visitors say this market provides a wonderful food selection at affordable prices. Many were impressed with the sheer variety of cuisine types represented at this small market, and say there's something for everyone here. A few warn that the market gets quite congested on the weekends, so it's best to arrive early or visit on a weekday to beat the crowds.

Huntington Park Huntington Park

Enjoying a baseball game at Huntington Park is one of recent travelers' favorite things to do. The homegrown Columbus Clippers are the Triple-A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians and  visitors appreciate the views, the atmosphere and the affordability of games at this ballpark. The park can accommodate 10,000 but most say it's rarely crowded, allowing for visitors to walk around and explore different parts of the stadium. Recent travelers added there's not a bad seat in the house.

Single game tickets cost between $7 and $20 for adults and between $4 and $7 for children younger than 12 and seniors, depending on the seat. Several concessions vendors are spread throughout the stadium for food and drink needs.  You'll find the stadium downtown in the Arena District; parking is available on-site for a small fee. For more information on game times and tickets, visit the  website .

German Village German Village free

This village earned its name from the German immigrants who settled here in the early 19th century. Much of the neighborhood has retained its Germanic roots, evident in the architecture and  cuisine found here.  For delectable sausage, schnitzel and cream puffs,  Schmidt's Restaurant and Sausage Haus is the place to go. There's also an annual Haus und Garten Tour and German Village Oktoberfest . And don't worry: You can walk off all that food with a stroll in nearby Schiller Park, named for German poet Friedrich Schiller. The European aesthetic of the neighborhood, as well as its local shops and restaurants ( The Book Loft and the Golden Hobby Shop, for instance) make it one of the most charming places in Columbus.

Visitors love this quaint neighborhood, citing its authentic feel and charming shops as the perfect atmosphere for an afternoon stroll. However, a handful of travelers warn that other than eating and walking around, there's not much else to do here.

Popular Tours

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Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is filled with flowers, greenery and even Chihuly glass. The attraction's greenhouses are home to more than 400 species of plants found in various climates and regions, including the Himalayas, the Pacific, the rainforest and the desert. Several exhibitions are also scheduled throughout the year, and these range in theme from "Blooms and Butterflies" to "Origami in the Gardens."

Previous visitors had plenty of praise for the conservatory and gardens. Many appreciated the variety of exotic, colorful and verdant plants and flowers on display. Families with children also said the butterfly exhibit was a hit with the kids.

The Scioto Mile The Scioto Mile free

After years of organization and environmental rehabilitation, the Scioto Mile opened in 2015 and comprises several acres of parkland. Miles of trails snake along the Scioto River – perfect for strolling, jogging or biking – and the 15,000-square-foot interactive fountain (and its water spouts) at Bicentennial Park attracts young ones while the park's free summer concert series appeals to the adult crowd. The area is also home to a free outdoor climbing wall and the environmental- and conservation-focused Audubon Center. Recent visitors said a visit here can make for a romantic evening, a fun-filled family day or a place for solo reflection and admiration of the city. Travelers add the sunset views are spectacular and that you should remember to bring your camera to capture the moment.

You'll find the Scioto Mile in downtown Columbus, along the banks of the Scioto River stretching from Broad Street to Rich Street. It's free to access and open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily; parking is available nearby. For a list of events and festivals, or more info about the Scioto Mile, visit its website .

Easton Town Center Easton Town Center free

You'll find the open-air shopping district, Easton Town Center, about a 10 miles northeast of downtown Columbus, up I-670 E. Hosting stores like Nordstrom, Coach and Crate and Barrel, the district also welcomes a farmers market on Thursdays from June to August. The complex is home to a number of restaurants as well, which range from fast and casual (Panera Bread and Cosi) to more upscale establishments like Smith & Wollensky and Mitchell's Ocean Club . Come summertime, Easton Town Center hosts several events, including art shows, yoga classes, movie screenings and concerts.

Travelers say this is a great place to shop, grab a meal and people-watch. However, some say that it's best to visit this shopping complex during the day as lately the nighttime crowd has become a little rough.

Center of Science and Industry Center of Science and Industry

This museum is geared toward kids, but adults don't seem bored by its interactive exhibits either. From a science park and computer simulators to the energy explorers interactive laboratory and live science shows, the Center of Science and Industry (or COSI) is jam-packed with interesting things to do and see. Museumgoers can ride in a space capsule, learn more about ocean exploration technology and "order" science exhibits to work on as a group (three particular traveler favorites). Meanwhile, the COSI Planetarium treats visitors to a presentation on the planets, stars and universe, while the National Geographic Giant Screen Theater shows films on the national parks, Africa's terrain and creatures, and more. 

Travelers agree this is an enjoyable museum to visit with the kids, citing the interactive exhibits as informative and engaging. Some were disappointed with the high cost of admission though.

Columbus Museum of Art Columbus Museum of Art

Even though this museum is not particularly large, visitors say its artwork and exhibits are fascinating. The Columbus Museum of Art introduced a new wing in 2015 with additional gallery space for permanent collections and rotating exhibits. Speaking of traveling exhibits, museumgoers said they appreciated the different collections highlighted, adding that the rotating schedule means new art is showcased every few months. Another perk according to past visitors: the Wonder Room, aimed at engaging children with hands-on activities designed to teach them about art.

Situated downtown, the museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours on Thursday until 9 p.m. It's closed on Mondays. Admission costs $14 for adults, $8 for seniors and students and $5 for kids ages 6 to 17. (Admission is free on Sundays.) Find out more information on the Columbus Museum of Art website .

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Columbus, OH Bus Trips & Bus Tours

Sublime Tours offers exceptional bus trips and bus tours in Columbus, OH

The Best Bus Trips & Bus Tours in Columbus, OH

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Take multi day bus tour in Columbus, OH and find out some exciting places that you may have never known about. Our multi day bus trips in Columbus, OH are accommodating for overnight travel.

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Children of all ages enjoy traveling and taking bus trips from Columbus, OH to explore and learn. Our Columbus, OH bus tours provide a safe environment for kids to travel and experience different places.

Church Bus Trips in Columbus, OH & Columbus, OH Church Bus Tours

Churches and large groups can explore a variety of religious destinations with our fantastic bus tours in Columbus, OH. Our bus trips take you to places that you have longed for and will remember for a lifetime.

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Looking to take a bus tour or bus trip overnight in Columbus, OH? Our Columbus, OH red eye bus tours provide comfortable sleeping accommodations for the whole ride.

Bus Trips Near Columbus, OH

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Northeast Ohio Family Fun

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25 Factory Tours in Ohio: Unique Behind-the-Scenes Experiences

Last Updated: 6/28/2024

Are you ready to discover the process of making your favorite products? One of the factory tours in Ohio is a great, behind-the-scenes activity! From foods you enjoy, to products you love, to operations that help a city run, you have a variety of factories to choose from. We’ve put together a list of fun factory tours throughout the area.

American Whistle Corp Tour

“Whoo,” calling all whistle lovers! The American Whistle Corp is the only manufacturer of metal whistles in the United States. Ever wonder how the little ball gets inside the whistle? You can find that out, and so much more on a tour of The American Whistle Corp.

The tour is welcome and tailored to all ages, so bring the entire family! The 45-minute tour is scheduled in advance online Monday through Thursday. Learn more under the “What to Expect” section for additional details.

The American Whistle Corporation 6540 Huntley Rd., Columbus, OH 43229 Website

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Columbus Washboard Company Factory Tours

Come take a tour of a washboard factory and take a step back in history! Columbus Washboard Company Factory is the only washboard factory remaining in the United States. You will see the plant, as well as the process of making the washboards. Interestingly, the company still uses many of the original tools today in the manufacturing process.

The washboard tour will take around 35 minutes. It is designed for both children and adults. Please book ahead for your tour. Visit the website for costs, hours, and additional information.

Columbus Washboard Company Factory Tours 4 E. Main St., Logan, OH 43138 Website

Mitchell’s Ice Cream Tour

The Mitchell brothers created Mitchell’s Ice Cream with the hope of creating memories over ice cream. Today, you can not only enjoy the fresh homemade ice cream, but you can see the process firsthand at their Ohio City location. Stop by and peek through their window to watch as they handcraft each batch of ice cream in their kitchen.

Check out the website for a full menu of flavors during your visit, and their seasonal offerings. You can also look at their cakes and pies. You can reserve the Ohio City location for private events as well! This would make a fun location for a child’s birthday party!

Mitchell’s Ice Cream 1867 W. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44113 Website

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Original Mattress Factory Tour

At the Original Mattress Factory, each mattress is handmade and built to last! That’s why they invite you to go behind the scenes to see the process of making a mattress. You’ll be able to see each layer from the springs, to the cotton, to the foam.

Original Mattress Factory 4930 State Rd., Cleveland, OH 44134 Website

MVP Dairy Tour

Want to learn about dairy farming? The best way is to come see the entire operation!! MVP Dairy is a non-profit education center that offers tours to the public. With two levels of interactive games and displays, you will learn about the process of milk’s journey. You can also get a close-up look at their milking carousel with real cows. Appointments are encouraged, so make sure to call and book your tour in advance.

MVP Dairy 7124 US-33, Celina, OH 45822 Website

Al’s Delicious Popcorn Tour

At Al’s Delicious Popcorn, they consider you one of the neighbors, and they invite their neighbors in! They have had generations of families tour their locations, and enjoy making memories with you. On the tour, you will learn the history of popcorn and their business. Then you are invited into their kitchen (hair net and all) to learn firsthand from their Popcorn Chefs. They do it all by hand! You end the tour with a popcorn tasting. Yum! 

Plan for 30 minutes to an hour for the tour, the larger the group the longer it will take.  

Al’s Delicious Popcorn Locations in Columbus and Cincinnati, Ohio Website

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Chocolate Factory Tours

Harry london/fannie may fine chocolates.

Are you ready for a mouthwatering, behind-the-scenes look at chocolate? Harry London/Fannie May Fine Chocolates offers a peek into the process of their gourmet chocolates. You will get a lesson in Fannie May history, as well as a chance to taste test their creations. Tours are free and you need to call to book in advance. Make sure to book early because tours fill up quickly, especially during the summer.

Harry London/Fannie May Fine Chocolates 5353 Lauby Rd., North Canton, OH 44720 Website   | Our Review

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Malley’s Chocolates (virtual tour)

Each piece of chocolate is hand-picked off the line to ensure it is of the highest quality! If you grew up around Cleveland, you probably took a field trip or two to tour the factory. Unfortunately, Malley’s no longer offers in-person tours, but you can take a first-hand look at how each piece of chocolate is made in one of their virtual tours. If you are a fan of their melt-in-your-mouth Buckeyes, you’ll definitely want to watch the video of how they are made in their 60,000-square-foot facility.

Malley’s Chocolates Website

Anthony-Thomas Candy Company

Channel your inner Willy Wonka with a tour of the 152,000 square-foot, Anthony-Thomas Candy Company candy factory! You won’t take a glass elevator, but you will have the chance to walk comfortably along their glass-enclosed suspended “Cat-Walk,” where you will view nine lines of 30,000 pounds of chocolate production per shift. Plus, they make sure you get a free sample.

The tour ends in their 2,500-square-foot retail shop, where you can purchase more candy from your visit. You can register on their website, as well as find out hours, admissions, and more details about their tours.

Anthony-Thomas Candy Company 1777 Arlingate Ln, Columbus, OH 43228 Website

Maverick Chocolate Factory Tour

If you’ve ever wondered about the entire bean-to-bar process of making chocolate, the Maverick Chocolate Factory Tour is for you. You will literally use all of your senses as you experience the entire process of chocolate making. You will learn about the history of the Picton family and how chocolate is made and then you’ll have a chance to enjoy free samples.

The tour runs from 30 to 45 minutes. You must wear closed-toed shoes, and a hat or hair net will be provided for your visit. Babies are allowed, but strollers are not permitted in the factory area. 

Maverick Chocolate Factory Tour 2651 Edmondson Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209 Website

Coblentz Chocolate Company

At Coblentz Chocolate Company you can take a peek behind-the-scenes of chocolate making. Their recently remodeled showroom includes a viewing gallery. You get to watch their delicious creations being made!

Their headquarters is like stepping back into an old-fashioned candy store. You can purchase chocolates in the shop or online via their website. 

Coblentz Chocolate Company 4917 Walnut St., Walnut Creek, OH 44687 Website

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Young’s Jersey Dairy Cheese & Ice Cream Tours

At Young’s Jersey Dairy, you can spend a day at the farm and experience their cheese and ice cream production firsthand. One of their dairy experts will walk you through the process, while you can watch through the windows at their ice cream and cheese production facility. Each tour ticket also includes your choice of a cheese item and a pint of Young’s Homemade Ice Cream.

Tickets are required for those 5 years old and up and you can sign up for a tour via their website. 

Young’s Jersey Dairy 6880 Springfield-Xenia Rd., Yellow Springs, OH 45387 Website

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For more than 140 years Rookwood has been transforming “earthen materials into works of art.” On a Rookwood tour, you’ll have a unique opportunity to step inside the studio for a history of the art. Their historian, George, takes you through their 88,000-square-foot facility. You can also use your $10 ticket as a credit for a $50 or more purchase in their showroom after the tour. 

Rookwood OTR Flagship Store, 1920 Race St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 Website

Airstream Factory Tours

Have you ever wondered how an Airstream is built? On one of the Airstream Factory Tours, you’ll get to see how they are made and explore the completed product. You’re invited to take a tour of the travel trailer or touring coach factory, or you can view both. While you’re touring the manufacturers are hard at work around you.

The tour of each factory takes about one hour. Close-toe shoes are required and the tours are only offered during weekdays so make sure to plan accordingly. 

Airstream Factory Tours 1001 W. Pike St., Jackson Center, OH 45334 Website

Rumpke Landfill & Recycling Tour

Do you know what happens to your trash and recycling after you throw it away? A Rumpke Landfill & Recycling Tour allows you to see both the landfill side of the process as well as the recycling side. They offer two separate tours. The landfill tour is done from the safety of one of their buses, and the recycling tour is a walking tour. Tours are free and last approximately one hour.

Rumpke Landfill & Recycling Tour Locations for tours include Columbus, Cincinnati, Colerain Township, and Brown County Website

Clifton Mill Tours

One of the “largest water-powered grist mills still in existence,” is right here in Ohio at Clifton Mill. Dating back to 1802, there is a deep history and unique story to this mill. Today you can visit and tour the property, including the inner workings of the mill. Tours are available on weekdays during spring and summer.  

Clifton Mill 75 Water St., Clifton, OH 45316 Website

Cheese Factory Tours

Guggisberg cheese factory tour.

Take a trip through the scenic Doughty Valley for a Guggisberg Cheese Factory Tour. The same valley you’ll drive through produces the fresh milk that makes the cheese you will taste. You can watch them make the cheese, as well as enjoy their more than 60 varieties of cheese.

The location also includes a retail store. You can purchase “authentic Cuckoo Clocks, beer steins, local goods, cutlery and so much more.” Take a look at the website for tour details.

Guggisberg Cheese Factory Tour 5060 State Route 557, Millersburg, OH 44654 Website

Pearl Valley Cheese Factory Tour

At Pearl Valley Cheese Factory Tour you can not only see your favorite cheeses being made, you can taste the different varieties. Pearl Valley Cheese has more than 30 options to choose from. They also have weekly specials!

Take a look at the website for the best times to visit to see the cheese being made. You can also bring your pets to exercise in their pet-friendly field in front of the shop. They are closed on holidays.

Pearl Valley Cheese Factory Tour 54760 Township Rd. 90, Fresno, OH 43824 Website

Heini’s Cheese Chalet Tour

Want to see how cheese is made? Heini’s Cheese Chalet Tour provides self-guided tours that allow you to see the process. Call ahead to get each week’s cheese-making schedule so you can plan your trip accordingly. Their website includes an interesting PDF on the history of cheese making. 

Heini’s Cheese Chalet Tour 6005 County Road 77, Millersburg, OH 44654 Website

Honda Heritage Center Tour

If you love cars and the history of cars then the Honda Heritage Center Tour is for you! Take a self-guided stroll through the museum at your own pace. You should allow 45-90 minutes for your tour. Walk-ins are welcome and the visit is free of charge. There is plenty of free parking on-site as well. 

Honda Heritage Center 24025 Honda Pkwy., Marysville, OH 43040 Website

Spangler Candy Company Tour

The Spangler Candy Company tours are currently closed. However, they have a new store coming in 2023. The location will include interactive displays, a retail store, and a factory tour up on the big screen. 

Spangler Candy Company 131 South Main St., Bryan, OH 43506 Website

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P. Graham Dunn Production Tour

When you take a trip to the P. Graham Dunn factory store, not only can you enjoy the products of the store but you can also get a peek into the process of their woodworking. The store has windows that overlook the factory. Watch the production process from start to finish!

Visit the website for details on the store hours. You can view the production side of the business anytime the store is open. You can also shop for products in the store and on their website.

P. Graham Dunn 630 Henry St., Dalton, OH 44618 Website

Schwebel’s Bakery (photo tour)

Are you interested in how bread is made? If you visit the Schwebel’s Bakery website, they have a photo tour of their entire bread-making process. They invite you to see how “Schwebel’s time-tested, old-world recipes meet state-of-the-art equipment!”

You can almost smell the fresh bread while taking an online photo tour of the bakery. The website also has a  Family Fun  page featuring funny videos and downloadable coloring pages for kids.

Schwebel’s Bakery Website

Great Lakes Brewing Co.

Great Lakes Brewing Co. is Ohio’s original craft brewery. You can take in a little bit of their history while getting a lesson in the beer-making process…all with a beer in hand! You begin the tour with a sample in the Beer Symposium and then you get to experience the production facility for a behind-the-scenes look at the entire process.

The entire tour takes about 60 minutes from start to finish. Your ticket includes the tour as well as four 5 oz. beer samples and a souvenir pint. Be sure to check out the website for tour details and rules.

Great Lakes Brewing Co. 2516 Market Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113 Website

The Phoenix Bat Company Factory Tours – Tours Canceled!

If you have a baseball fan on your hands, then The Phoenix Bat Company Factory Tours are for you! Unfortunately, the factory tours are currently closed due to minimal staffing. However, they plan to restart them in the future. Check back on the website for details about tours. Their showroom is currently open and they can do bat fittings as well.

The Phoenix Bat Company Factory Tours 7801 Corporate Blvd., Ste. E, Plain City, OH 43064 Website

KitchenAid Tours – Currently Closed for Tours!

A visit to historic Greenville comes with many charms, including the KitchenAid Experience® Retail Center. This location used to offer tours to the public. However, it is currently closed for tours. Greenville is home to the KitchenAid Stand Mixer, well known throughout the area.

KitchenAid 1701 KitchenAid Way, Greenville, OH 45331 Website

More Fun Things to do in Ohio

• Things to do in Ohio  – The ultimate list of fun places to go and things to do
• Things to Do This Weekend  – Top picks for your weekend adventures

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See what's happening in Columbus and central Ohio this weekend

There's always something to do in and around Columbus and with two new events launching this weekend, there's even MORE to do! First, you can put on your jogging togs get a running (or walking) start at the Freedom 5K on Saturday morning, then later in the day, get fancied up for the Haitian Cultural Soiree.

Theater productions aplenty are in store, with offerings from Actors' Theatre of Columbus, Weathervane Playhouse and Otterbein Summer Theatre all opening Thursday night.

In the musical realm, the Columbus Symphony Orchestra will pay homage to composer George Gershwin during its "Patriotic Pops" concert on Saturday, the Wallflowers are coming on Sunday and early next week will bring Broadway and "Pitch Perfect" star Ben Platt to town.

We've only scratched the surface of these events and others happening this weekend. Read more about them below. To receive these ideas in your inbox each week, sign up for the  Life in the 614 newsletter .

Actors' Theatre play explores complex, comical family dynamics

Examine themes of love, forgiveness and healing through one family's hilarious and complex dynamics in "Chicken & Biscuits," to be presented by the Actors' Theatre of Columbus at 8 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays through July 14 in Schiller Park Amphitheatre, 100 City Park Ave.

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The play, which debuted on Broadway in 2021, tells the story of Baneatta and Beverly, two sisters trying to put aside their rivalry and conflicts as they come together to bury their father.

All performances are free; donations will be accepted at intermission. Reserve a blanket or chair in advance: Zero-gravity reclining chairs are $25, blankets are $25, lawn-level lounge chairs are $20. ( theactorstheatre.org )

Franklin Park to bring butterflies to life in immersive art event

Come out of your cocoon and get creative with “Color, Fly, Butterfly,” an immersive art experience running through Nov. 17 at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1777 E. Broad St.

The Cardinal Health Gallery undergoes a metamorphosis as guests color butterflies, then scan the page at a kiosk to release the butterfly into the digital environment of the illustrated Pacific Island Water Garden.

The exhibition is included with admission, which costs $23.50 for ages 13 and older; $19.50 for 60 and older; $16 for ages 3-12; and free for children 2 and younger. Guests who participate in SNAP, EBT, WIC and Medicaid (proof required) and all-access members qualify for $3 general admission. Reserving tickets in advance is recommended. ( fpconservatory.org/exhibitions/color-fly-butterfly )

Weathervane heads under the sea with 'SpongeBob Musical'

Weathervane Playhouse, 100 Price Road, Newark, brings a beloved cartoon to life in "The SpongeBob Musical" at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday. When the citizens of Bikini Bottom learn that their home is under threat by a soon-to-erupt volcano, SpongeBob and his friends must unite to save their undersea world. With lives hanging in the balance and all hope lost, an unlikely hero rises up.

Other performances are at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Saturday, as well as 7:30 p.m. July 2-6. Doors open 30 minutes before the show. Tickets are $36. ( weathervaneplayhouse.org )

Otterbein Summer Theatre to travel back to Golden Age of Radio

Go back in time with Otterbein Summer Theatre as they present "It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play," a reimagined telling of the holiday classic based on Philip Van Doren Stern's short story, “The Greatest Gift." Audiences get a rare peek inside a radio sound studio as a handful of actors play multiple characters, with Foley artists creating sound effects live onstage.

Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Saturday in Fritsche Theatre at Cowan Hall, 30 S. Grove St., Westerville. Tickets cost $28 at 614-823-1109 or online. ( otterbein.edu/its-a-wonderful-life )

'Rent,' 'Barbie' among films to hit the big screen in Topiary Park

Laugh, cry and sing along as you go through the “seasons of love” with Angel, Collins, Roger, Mark, Mimi, Joanne and Maureen — otherwise known as the characters from the film adaptation of the Broadway play, “Rent.” The 2005 musical will be shown Friday in Topiary Park, 480 E. Town St., where the fourth Friday of each month is free outdoor movie night.

Upcoming movies include: July 26: “National Treasure,” Aug. 23: “Barbie,” Sept. 27: “West Side Story” and Oct. 25: “Hocus Pocus.” Bring a blanket or lawn chair — and your appetite because there will be food trucks on-site. Play trivia at 8 p.m. before the movie starts at dusk (approximately 9:15 p.m.) ( bit.ly/3xipKS8 )

Veterans museum to host inaugural Freedom 5K run/walk

Lace up your sneakers and register for the inaugural Freedom 5K coming Saturday to the National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM), 300 W. Broad St. Presented by the NVMM and Red, White & Boom!, the 5K run/walk begins at 10 a.m., winds along the Scioto River and through Memorial Grove, ending on the NVMM rooftop.

Register online or at 8:30 a.m. the day of the race. Registration is $60, plus fees. All registrants will receive a race bib, shirt, finisher medal and a museum admission ticket. Proceeds benefit the NVMM. ( nationalvmm.org )

'Patriotic Pops' to salute the music of George Gershwin

The Columbus Symphony Orchestra celebrates Independence Day a little early with "Patriotic Pops — A Gershwin Celebration," at 8 p.m. Saturday at the John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons, 160 S. High St. In addition to other George Gershwin favorites, a special 100th anniversary performance of "Rhapsody in Blue" is planned.

The program also features patriotic melodies, an appearance by a U.S. Color Guard, a military branch recognition and a flyover by members of the Cincinnati Warbirds, finishing with fireworks.

General-admission lawn tickets are $35 in advance or at the gate; lawn tickets for children 3-11 are $10. Children 2 and younger are free. Purchase tickets in person at the CBUSArts ticket center, 39 E. State St., by phone at 614-469-0939 or online. ( picnicwiththepops.com )

The Wallflowers to play roots rock at The Bluestone

The Wallflowers, known for such songs as "One Headlight" and "6th Avenue Heartache," perform at 7 p.m. Sunday at The Bluestone, 583 E. Broad St. Fronted by vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Jakob Dylan (yes, he's Bob's son), the Grammy-winning band has 15 songs that have reached the Top 10 on Billboard's Adult Alternative Airplay list.

General-admission tickets are $59.50. ( ticketmaster.com )

Haitian Cultural Soiree to make debut with 'Queen of Creole Song'

Learn about the people, music, dance, food and beauty of Haiti during Faveur & Company's inaugural Haitian Cultural Soiree, which is set to begin at 7 p.m. Saturday in the Cardinal Ballroom at the Lincoln Theatre, 769 E. Long St.

The black-tie event will be highlighted by a performance by international recording artist Emeline Michel, known as "The Queen of Creole Song" and "The Joni Mitchell of Haiti." Hailed by the New York Times as “the dancing ambassador with a voice serene and warm like the breeze,” Michel blends traditional Haitian rhythms with pop, jazz and blues.

Space is limited and tickets, which start at $150, are selling fast. ( bit.ly/3KZ4EeF )

Ben Platt to give 'pitch perfect' performance at Mershon

Fresh from his residency at Broadway's Palace Theatre, actor and singer Ben Platt has taken his show on the road and will come to Mershon Auditorium, 1871 N. High St., at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. Brandy Clark, Grammy winner and songwriter for the Tony-winning Broadway musical "Shucked," is Platt's supporting act.

Also known from the first two "Pitch Perfect" movies, Platt won the Tony for best actor in a musical for his performance as Evan in "Dear Evan Hansen" and went on to reprise his role in the adaption with Julianne Moore and Amy Adams.

Tickets prices start at $39.50. ( ticketmaster.com )

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10 shot near downtown in Columbus, Ohio; police seek suspect

Ten people were shot, with one person critically wounded, early Sunday in Columbus, Ohio, police said .

The shooting happened in the Short North Arts District near downtown around 2:30 a.m., with victims from 16 to 27 years old, according to the Columbus Police Department.

All of the victims in Sunday’s shooting appeared to be men, according to NBC affiliate WCMH of Columbus. Nine of the victims were listed as stable Sunday morning, Columbus police said.

Columbus Police Sgt. Joe Albert said a male suspect was found shortly after the shooting but officers lost him during a highway pursuit, according to the station. The suspect was driving a white Honda Civic with tinted windows, authorities said.

This is the third time in just over a year that there’s been a major shooting in the arts district.

On May 6, 2023, two simultaneous shootings happened overnight that left at least 10 people shot , including one person who was shot by an officer, the station reported.

About two weeks later, three people were killed in mass shooting near the district that left at least three others injured, the station said.

Deon J. Hampton is a national reporter for NBC News.

NBC4 WCMH-TV

Jazz & Rib Fest, Chris Stapleton, Ohio State Fair among top summer Columbus events

by: David Rees

Posted: Jun 24, 2024 / 07:00 AM EDT

Updated: Jun 26, 2024 / 10:18 AM EDT

COLUMBUS, Ohio ( WCMH ) — This summer is packed with central Ohio’s favorite festivals, including Red, White & BOOM! , the Jazz and Rib Fest and the Dublin Irish Festival, along with numerous star-studded concerts in the city’s biggest venues.

View all the events, festivals and shows in Columbus this summer below.

AJR | The Maybe Man Tour

Nationwide Arena at 7:30 p.m. on June 28

• AJR will embark on The Maybe Man Tour this spring, a 43-city arena tour across the continent.

Goodale Park from June 28 to 30

• ComFest, a volunteer-organized festival honoring community and activism, is returning to Goodale Park with arts and crafts, community organizations, local vendors and more.

Red, White & BOOM!

Battelle Riverfront Park, Bicentennial Park and McFerson Commons Park from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on July 3

• The largest Independence Day celebration in the Midwest, attracting more than 400,000 people annually to downtown Columbus. 

Disney’s ‘The Lion King’

Ohio Theatre now through July 7

• More than 100 million people around the world have seen Disney’s Broadway production of “The Lion King.” Winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, “The Lion King” features some of Broadway’s most recognizable music, by Tony Award-winning artists Elton John and Tim Rice.

Chris Stapleton | All-American Road Show

Schottenstein Center at 7 p.m. on July 19

• Stapleton is performing in Columbus at the Schottenstein Center on July 19, 2024, with special guests Marcus King and Nikki Lane. The “All-American Road Show” is coming after Stapleton releases his new album “Higher.”

Columbus Jazz and Rib Fest

Scioto Mile from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. July 19 and 20, 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. July 21

• The Summertime tradition offers rib connoisseurs a chance to sample ribs, brisket, pulled pork and more at 20 barbeque vendors, including After Hours BBQ, Chicago Barbeque Company, Fat Boy Q, and Texas Outlaw BBQ. An additional 17 food truck vendors will also offer a variety of menu choices.

Ohio Stat e Fair

Ohio Expo Center and State Fair from July 24 to Aug. 4

• The fair is returning in late July with more than a dozen acts performing, including KIDZ BOP, Boys II Men, Lauren Daigle, Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, Stephen Sanchez and more.

Columbus Food and Wine Festival

Downtown Columbus from July 26 to 28

• Visit the 6th annual Columbus Food and Wine Festival to get a taste of local restaurants and bars. 

Dublin Irish Festival

Coffman Park from Aug. 2 to 4

• Since 1988, the first weekend in August has been reserved for what the festival calls the “world’s largest three-day Irish celebration.” The festival will feature a number of concerts, Irish dance, shopping and more.

Hozier | Unreal Unearth Tour

Schottenstein Center at 8 p.m. on Aug. 7

• Award-winning songwriter Hozier’s most extensive headlining run in North America, The Unreal Unearth Tour, will continue into 2024 adding a whopping 37 new shows.

Blink-182 | One More Time Tour

Schottenstein Center at 7 p.m. on Aug. 13

• The band will be joined by special guest Pierce The Veil for the performance, which is scheduled to be the penultimate concert as part of the North American leg of the tour.

Childish Gambino | The New World Tour

Schottenstein Center at 8 p.m. on Aug. 15

• Gambino, otherwise known as Donald Glover Jr., will promote his newly released album, “Atavista,” with a tour that includes 33 stops across North America.

Jhené Aiko | The Magic Hour Tour

Nationwide Arena at 7 p.m. on Aug. 22

• A six-time Grammy-nominated R&B artist, Aiko announced she would be going on a headlining tour for the first time in five years.

New Kids on the Block | The Magic Summer 2024 Tour

Nationwide Arena at 7 p.m. on Aug. 23

• Reimagining the smash 1990 tour of the same name, Donnie, Joey, Jordan, Jonathan and Danny will bring back the magic for fans old and new, this time with very special guests Paula Abdul and DJ Jazzy Jeff.

Columbus Greek Festival

 Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral from Aug. 30 to Sept. 2

• Festival-goers will get an authentic taste of Greece, with hand-made food and pastries, live dance and music, cathedral tours and more. 

Columbus Oktoberfest

Ohio Expo Center from Sept. 6 to 8

• Dozens of vendors line the expo center with German favorites like brats, cream puffs and, of course, beer. Throughout the weekend, attendees can watch people compete in a variety of games like the stone throw and keg hold.

Weezer | Voyage to the Blue Planet Tour

Nationwide Arena at 7 p.m. on Sept. 7

• Weezer is performing in Columbus as part of the rock band’s upcoming tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of their self-titled debut album.

‘MJ’

Ohio Theatre from Sept. 10 to 15

• Michael Jackson’s artistry comes to Columbus with “MJ,” a jukebox musical that follows the making of Jackson’s 1992 “Dangerous World” tour. MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status.

Bluey’s Big Play

Palace Theatre at 6 p.m. on Sept. 18 and 19

• The beloved family of Australian dogs including Bluey, Bingo, Bandit, and Chilli will come to life on stage, in a show that “features puppetry, live actors and iconic sets.”

Charli XCX, Troye Sivan | Sweat Tour

Nationwide Arena at 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 20

• Pop songwriters Charli XCX and Troye Sivan are teaming up to co-headline an arena tour coming to central Ohio this fall.

The Price Is Right Live

Palace Theatre at 8 p.m. on Sept. 20

• The Price Is Right Live is the hit interactive stage show that gives eligible individuals the chance to hear their names called and “Come On Down” to win. Prizes may include appliances, vacations and possibly a new car.

Sabrina Carpenter | The Short n’ Sweet Tour

Nationwide Arena at 7 p.m. on Sept. 23

• Carpenter, the “Espresso” songwriter who recently opened for Taylor Swift, is kicking off her first headlining tour in Columbus.

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Jennifer lopez & ben affleck at his office, first time hanging out since italy, jennifer lopez & ben affleck spotted together at l.a. office .... first time since italy.

Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck are back in the same country and hanging out ... 'cause the two hit up his office -- though photogs still couldn't snap the two together.

The actor and singer-songwriter both hit his Beverly Hills office Wednesday with Ben arriving in a chic suit around 10 AM and J Lo pulling up a couple hours later.

Check out the pics ... BA's looking dapper -- and pretty dang serious -- when arriving while his wife had her big movie star glasses on when her driver took her away, a few hours later.

Like we said, no shots of the two stars together ... Jennifer reportedly left before Ben did. Unclear why they met up at the Beverly Hills office -- but, it's still a big deal 'cause the pair haven't hung out since before Lopez's European getaway.

As you know ... Jennifer spent the last week parading around Italy -- hanging out on a boat and grabbing dinner with pals sans Affleck. It all culminated in what some have called a classic Jenny from the Block move -- flying commercial to Paris for the Dior Fashion Show .

Before her vacay, she and Ben were last seen about two weeks ago when Jenn arrived at Ben's Brentwood rental after his kid's graduation ceremony ... where they spent time together before parting ways, no sleepover.

We've followed the couple's marital strife closely over the last several weeks ... and, even broke the news the two are trying to sell their $60 million mega mansion.

Seems the two are still working through their troubles ... though the lack of pics together won't quell fans' fears.

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Must Do Activities in Columbus

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, or looking for ways to entertain friends and family, we've got you covered. We've put together the top things you must see, must experience and must eat in Columbus, and this is just a start! Whatever you do, don't miss out on these Columbus favorites. 

Columbus Museum of Art

Designed by a local architect, CMOA features both a permanent collection and special exhibitions.

Easton Town Center

Named #1 Retail Experience in America by Chain Store Age magazine for three years in a row.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Explore seasonal exhibitions and botanical gardens that showcase Dale Chihuly's glass artwork.

German Village

Herzlich Willkommen! A heart welcome to one of the preeminent historic districts in the US.

Lincoln Theatre

Since 1928, the Lincoln Theatre has been a landmark in African-American and jazz history.

National Veterans Memorial and Museum

Hear stories of our veterans, their families and the Fallen across all branches of service.

North Market

Established in 1876, this historic public market offers authentic ethnic cuisine, gifts and more.

Short North Arts District

As the "art and soul" of Columbus, the Short North is a vibrant cultural and business community.

Must Experience

Brush crazy.

A women-owned spot offering themed painting classes.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Hand-feed a giraffe, watch a sea lion show, or see millions of holiday lights during Wildlights.

A top-rated science center with more than 300 interactive exhibits. Don't miss the Dinosaur Gallery!

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

This ultimate indoor playground has two rides, 10 play zones, and a 4D cinema over 36,000 sq. ft.

Penn & Beech Candle Co.

With over 100 fragrances to choose from, create a candle that is truly custom for you.

Scioto Mile

Take a stroll and enjoy both the city and nature among 253 acres of parkland in downtown Columbus.

Every season, the brick-and-mortar store creates a new experience to feature a rising online brand.

Vertical Adventures

An indoor climbing facility for all ages offering classes, memberships and more.

Budd Dairy Food Hall

A chef incubator space named one of the “Ten Best New Food Halls in the U.S.” by Fodor’s Travel.

Dos Hermanos

A local favorite serving up Mexican-style cuisine since 2012.

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

Named one of the best ice cream spots in the U.S. by Food & Wine, this local gem is a can't-miss.

Hot Chicken Takeover

This local restaurant chain of Nashville-style hot chicken strives to provide jobs to those in need.

A neighborhood breakfast, brunch and lunch restaurant happily housed in a 100-year-old gas station.

A German Village staple offering weekend brunch, lunch and dinner.

Pistacia Vera

Nominated for the James Beard Award, this bakery offers from-scratch macarons, pastries and more.

The Lox Bagel Shop

Named one of the “Best Bagels in America” by Food & Wine, Lox is a delicious way to start your day.

Columbus Experiential Trails

Itineraries for every interest, travel inspiration, join the delta skymiles® program for free to earn miles toward travel, upgrades and more. rules apply..

Insights on What to See and Do in Columbus, Plus a Seasonal Calendar of Events

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Columbus, OH 43215

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Walgreens plans to close a significant amount of underperforming stores in the US

Walgreens is planning to close a substantial number of stores in the United States.

The pharmacy chain confirmed its plan to close underperforming stores in an emailed statement to USA TODAY Thursday morning after the parent company, Walgreens Boots Alliance, disclosed the news in its 2024 third quarter fiscal results.

In the statement, a Walgreens spokesperson said the company is repositioning its store footprint, noting that about 25% of its stores are not contributing to the chain's long-term strategy.

The spokesperson also said the company is working on a program to close a significant portion of these locations over the next three years.

Tim Wentworth, CEO of Walgreens' parent company Walgreens Boots Alliance, said in an interview with CNBC that the company now forecasts weaker consumer spending for the rest of the year.

How many Walgreens locations are closing?

Wentworth also said in an interview with the Wall Street Journal that the company has not settled on a final number of locations to close .

Walgreens operates roughly 8,700 stores in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, according to its website.

Wentworth also told the Wall Street Journal that Walgreens will reduce its stake in primary-care provider VillageMD and will no longer be the company's majority owner.

Wentwort said the company is focused on improving its core business: retail pharmacy. The company is launching a "retail pharmacy action plan" that will "invest in and deliver an improved customer and patient experience across channels," according to the strategic review section of the fiscal results.

According to his interview with the WSJ, Wentworth said the company expects that it will be able to reassign staffers so that its U.S. retail footprint reduction "doesn't result in a meaningful loss of jobs."

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X  @GabeHauari  or email him at [email protected].

'All the makings of a catastrophic incident': Officials commend officers involved in shooting at Music Hall

CINCINNATI — Police fatally shot a man accused of stabbing a woman in Westwood and leading a police pursuit into Over-the-Rhine, Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge said Thursday night.

Four officers fired a total of six bullets that killed 48-year-old Juan Mack, Theetge said.

On Friday, Theetge and other city officials held a press conference about the shooting, which happened just outside a busy Music Hall minutes before an opera performance was scheduled to begin inside.

The incident began miles away, on Parkcrest Lane in Westwood; Police were dispatched after a person called 911 at around 6:43 p.m. on Thursday to report a man had just stabbed a woman multiple times, Theetge said.

The man fled in a blue Toyota; CPD officers spotted him nearby, on Warsaw, and Theetge noted he was covered in blood. Police attempted to stop him, but Mack fled, leading police on a pursuit down Warsaw to Elm Street.

Theetge showed footage from several surveillance cameras near Washington Park and Music Hall that captured the events leading up to Cincinnati officers opening fire.

In the videos, Mack can be seen stopping his vehicle in the middle of the intersection of Elm and 12th Street; He got out of the vehicle and, holding a hand gun in his right hand, walked up Elm Street heading north, near Washington Park.

Officers followed on foot, weapons drawn; though some of the surveillance footage did not have sound, Theetge said officers were consistently shouting at Mack to drop his gun.

Still holding the gun, Mack can be seen walking up toward Memorial Hall and Music Hall; The footage also shows dozens of bystanders walking along the street, heading toward Music Hall.

Theetge said that was all happening at around 7:12 p.m. A performance by the Cincinnati Opera was scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. at Music Hall.

The video showed police work to alert the public outside Music Hall, and staff members ushered people inside as Mack walked slowly, gun still in hand, toward the building.

"This had all the makings of a catastrophic incident," said Theetge. "You saw the number of people that were out and about."

She added that, nearby, Washington Park was also full of people.

"Many, many lives were in danger," she said.

You can watch the full press conference in the player below:

On the surveillance footage and body camera footage shown, police partially surround Mack as he stands with his back to Music Hall, facing officers. He waves the gun as he shouts to police officers, who continue ordering him to drop his gun.

Mack can be heard in the footage shouting at law enforcement, though what he's saying isn't always clear. Theetge said he'd shouted that he was going to hell, because "I have a body on me."

"Keep in mind, he just practically murdered a woman," said Theetge. "Practically murdered her. He doesn't know if she's dead or alive."

Police continued to order Mack to drop his weapon during the course of events; Theetge said Mack responded, shouting that he'd drop his weapon if officers dropped theirs.

"Not tactically sound, we're not gonna do that, we're not gonna back down," said Theetge.

One sergeant fired three foam rounds at Mack while this was happening: One shot hit him in the leg and had no effect, Theetge said, and the second shot missed. The third foam round was fired at the same time Mack could be seen on video raising the gun — as other officers fired lethal shots, Theetge said.

In addition to the officer firing foam rounds, three CPD officers each fired a single bullet at Mack; a fourth fired three rounds, Theetge said.

Theetge, along with Mayor Aftab Pureval, City Manager Sheryl Long and Councilmember Scotty Johnson commended CPD officers for using what they called solid tactics to resolve things.

Johnson noted CPD's use of the foam rounds and said those shots showed an attempt on the officer's part to preserve Mack's life.

Pureval said the Citizen's Complaint Authority will also have its own, separate investigation of the shooting, in addition to the official investigation already opened.

Theetge said CPD will not be releasing the names of the officers who fired, citing Marsy's Law, which seeks to protect the rights of victims of crimes.

Video given to us by Lora Sigritz shows the man standing in front of several officers, appearing to hold up a gun in his right hand less than a minute before officers fired their weapons.

"I was really upset for the guy, I was concerned for the guy — just wanted him to drop the gun," Sigritz said. "It just really sad, really sad what happened."

Theetge said the woman who was stabbed is at UC Medical Center, still in critical condition. However, she said officers were able to interview her Friday morning. Theetge said no other people were injured in the incident.

In a statement, FOP President Ken Kober said officers gave multiple commands that were ignored, leading to the shooting.

"Those officers followed their training and protected their lives, shooting the suspect," Kober said. "Thankfully, no innocent people or officers were injured."

The City of Cincinnati first posted an alert just before 7:30 p.m. reporting police at the scene of an emergency near Music Hall before giving an all-clear just 15 minutes later.

Urgent #CincyAlert : Police on scene at emergency near Music Hall. Avoid the area. If safe, stay at your location. Be observant / take action as needed. — City of Cincinnati (@CityOfCincy) June 27, 2024

When our crews responded to the scene, they witnessed dozens of police cruisers blocking off Elm Street near Music Hall.

Witnesses at the scene told us they saw the man leading a police pursuit before he got out of his vehicle.

"He was very calm and (collected) when he was basically done with his car then. He looked to his right and to his left. He literally looked me in the eyes and I was like, alright something doesn't feel right," Jojo Davis said.

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