THINGS TO DO IN COLUMBUS

Fun Things To Do In Columbus Ohio

Whether it’s a quick weekend visit or a long two-week stay, you are guaranteed to find plenty of fun things to do in Columbus Ohio. Famous for having one of the largest universities in North America, Columbus Ohio is also the home to one of the Country’s amazing Zoological Parks. The state capital is also famed for its huge amount of parks, 16 in total. You will never be short of things to do when visiting Columbus, Ohio.

With a population of around 900,000 people, Columbus is home to varied cultures and people from all walks of life. This capital city was famously named after Christopher Colombus, a famous explorer credited for founding America.

While there is much to be said about this amazing city, why don’t you take a look for yourself? Here is an overview of fun things to do in Columbus Ohio. Enjoy!

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

If you are a fan of nature, then the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a place you just have to visit during your stay in Columbus, Ohio. With 88 acres of vibrant plants and wildlife, you are sure to have a wonderful day out. The kids will love the gardens fishpond, the children’s garden, and the huge variety of butterflies.

The staff at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens work hard to join the community through its educational programs.  The exhibits change seasonally, so depending on when you visit, there are various possible exhibits and programs on display. Whether you visit in the winter, summer, fall, or spring, you and your family are guaranteed to have an amazing day surrounded by natural beauty.

Ohio Stadium, Columbus

Whether football is your thing or not, the Ohio Stadium is a must-see when visiting Columbus. One of the most recognizable landmarks within the state, it is located on the banks of the Olentangy River.

Join in the cheers with 10, 000+ fans, eager for their team to win the match.

The stadium’s location means that after joining enjoying a football game or other sporting event, you and your family can take a walk along the riverbanks. Take in the scenery nearby this famous stadium and experience what life is like in Columbus.

Kelton House Museum & Garden

A visit to Kelton House Museum and Garden will send you back in time to the 19th century. This Columbus townhouse served as a hiding place for fugitive slaves travelling on the underground railroad. It wasn’t until 1976 that restoration work took place, turning the property and gardens into a museum. 

During your personalised house tour, you will be amazed by the antique furnishings, 19th-century accessories, and music boxes. The Museum also hosts many special events, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for their schedule nearing your visit.

If you fall in love with this place like many do, you also have the option to have your wedding at Kelton House Museum and Gardens. This stop is a real eye-opener and a place that should not be missed whilst visiting Columbus.

Grand Prix Karting

Keep the kids and your inner child happy with a trip to the Grand Prix karting track. No matter what the weather, you can get your adrenaline pumping whilst racing around the indoor karting track at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. With a mission to be the largest, number one family entertainment venue, Grand Prix Karting is a fun time for the whole family. 

Get geared up and learn all about the different flags and driving techniques during your safety training session. Afterwards, get ready to unleash your inner Nascar driver. Race around the tracks with a mission to be the winning Grand Prix champion.  A fun day out for all.

The Southern Theatre

Take a trip to the oldest surviving theatre in Ohio. Known as “the fireproof cinema”, The Southern Theatre was opened on September 21st, 1896 and has seen its fair share of famous singers and dancers.  With shows such as The Nutcracker, Jersey Boys, Pete the Cat, and Anastasia, you are sure to enjoy a night of fantastic performances from great stars. An old building with a modern atmosphere and a vision to enrich lives through arts and performance – what’s not to love?

Graeter’s Ice Cream Factory

Kids love ice cream, and let’s be fair, adults might love it even more. So what better place to visit that an ice cream factory with a kids playground attached? Enjoy one of hundreds of different flavors of homemade ice cream, and sit back and relax whilst the kids go wild in the outdoor play area. Don’t enjoy ice cream? Graeter’s Icecream Factory has plenty more to offer as well. 

An ice cream factory may not be everyone’s first choice when it comes to visiting attractions, but this is one you just have to visit at least once. Reviews state they serve the best ice cream in the world, so it’s only fair to try it out for yourself.

Final Thoughts

While these are only a handful of fun things to do in Columbus, Ohio, there are many, many more attractions to keep you entertained during your stay. For more activities, check out these locations as well: 

  • Easton Town Center
  • Kingmakers Board Game Parlour
  • Scioto Mile, Columbus
  • American Whistle Corp
  • Huntington Park, Columbus
  • Glass Axis, Columbus
  • Hayden Falls Park, Columbus
  • The Book Loft, Columbus
  • The Candle Lab
  • Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum
  • Columbus Museum of Art, Columbus
  • Topiary Garden, Columbus
  • Short North Arts District
  • German Village, Columbus
  • ZipZone Canopy Tours, Columbus
  • Center of Science & Industry (COSI) in Old Columbus High School Building
  • Whetstone Park, Columbus

A new adventure lies around every corner. In a state capital rich with history, there is something for everybody in the family to enjoy whether old or young. 

We hope you use our guide to find fun things to do in Ohio for the whole family.