Fun things to do in Columbus Ohio Fun things to do in Columbus Ohio

10 Fun Things to Do In Columbus Ohio

Before talking about the fun things to do in Columbus Ohio, let’s first know what Columbus Ohio is.

Columbus Ohio – A Brief Introduction!

Columbus is the largest city in Ohio which is the state capital and also the seat of Franklin county. Columbus is located in the center of the state on the Scioto River. The city has its historic significance from being a major staging area during the American Civil War.

Columbus, Ohio, USA
Photo by sepavone from Depositphotos

Columbus is known as a center of commercial and cultural activities, caused to mark the steady growth of the city in the early 21st century because of its remarkably diverse economy.

Being the fastest-growing city in Ohio, Columbus is also the most visited city. No wonder! If it stands next to your bucket list. As there are numerous fun things to do in Columbus Ohio, the city is especially known for the beautiful blend of its culinary and cultural qualities.

This American city is complete in itself with its wonderful and exciting nightlife, natural landscapes, and charming art scenes.

How Can You Get to Columbus?

It is easy to reach whether you choose to go by car or plane.

There are two main airports to serve passenger flights: John Glenn Columbus International Airport and Columbus Rickenbacker Airport.

Some of the areas in Downtown Columbus can be visited without having your car and some like Columbus Zoo can be visited by having your vehicle—depending on the ease of the place to reach. Rental options can also be picked and you can also book transport in advance from the airport.

Ready? – Get Set – Go!!! – 11 Fun Things to Do in Columbus

If this has been your most underrated travel destination to date, it will no longer be so in the future. Prepare to change it and add it to your list of must-see destinations. 
Whether you’re with family or friends, there’s something for everyone.

1. Columbus Zoo – Get Thrilled By Exploring the Fantastic Fauna

ohio zoo
Photo by marada on Flickr, copyright 2022

It would be a great start for you to pick up Columbus Zoo as your first place if you want to explore Columbus which is a place of animals, species, and all colors and sizes. Around 2.3 million visitors come to see this annually. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is the center of attraction for those who want to have a great time with family and kids.

Located in Delaware County, Ohio, also north of Columbus city; the place is known for its diversity which is unique in itself.

This zoo is dedicated to the conservation and preservation of its biodiversity as it operates the conservation program, not for only itself but also for outside programs.

During the tenure of Jack Henna from 1978 to 1993, the zoo got remarkable recognition worldwide. His contribution to turning the zoo into a model facility is outstanding.

Before getting to the zoo, you must know something important: The zoo is divided into many regions and each one is representing a theme of a particular area of the world. The newly constructed ones are way better themed than the old regions.

The three modes of transportation are available including train, tram, and boat rides that take visitors to their desired destinations. Visiting Columbus is a bundle of surprises that you are going to unfold during your vacation.

Things to Do Here

No wonder the place is called an Ohio tourist attraction because of its diversity and uniqueness. The zoo also owns an 18-hole Golf Course which is known as the Safari Golf Club.

Don’t forget to explore Zoombezi Bay Water Park, it is the best thing to do in the summer. This is one of those fun things to do in Columbus Ohio that you can’t miss.

2. North Market – Shop Your Heart Out

north market
Photo by tlarrow on Flickr, copyright 2022

Among all the fun things to do in Columbus Ohio, you can say that is the best way to satisfy you inside out. The place offers to shop, eat, drink, and enjoy and is a worth-watching spot in Downtown Columbus. The market is known as a food hall and a public market which was established in 1876.

The market has been an attraction for many years and is better known to serve quirky and authentic food. This is the largest farmer’s market and can be your daily go-to spot.

The market is a point of interest for artisans, entrepreneurs, and foodies. North Market is an ideal place for those who want to buy something special whether it is handcrafted materials or homemade preserves.

North market is the place where the farmers and merchants have served the community and over a million visitors visit this market all over the place.

Things to Do Here

You can get a glimpse of the diverse and vibrant culture of Ohio with the touch of its authentic outline. The best part of the North Market is that the place has it all!

You can enjoy your day with lots of entertainment, live music, festivals, and activities that can make some of the most beautiful memories of your life.

And if you are a food lover, and want to try some kind of amazing food, this is the place to try it out. As the North Market features above 30 independently owned shops with a wide variety of prepared meals and specialty food.

3. Columbus Museum of Art – A Treat for Art Lovers

columbus museum of art
Photo by Richie Diesterheft on Flickr, copyright 2022

One of the most exciting and fun things to do in Columbus Ohio is to explore the Columbus Museum of art. Of course, for the art lovers who definitely wouldn’t want to miss this out! This place defines the wide culture of the city with the art which is the main reason for attraction for most people way back in the time.

The Columbus Museum of art is known for its fascinating and great collection of art that increases the curiosity among lovers of true art and nourishes the connection with the culture, not only with the people around the area but also with people from all over the world.

Columbus Museum was established in 1878, better known as the first art museum in Columbus, Ohio. The museum is celebrating a long history of outstanding artistic works. It would be great to make it at the top of the list of fun things to do in Columbus Ohio.

One thing that you must know before getting there is, the tickets to be taken to visit this amazing place. If you are planning for a Sunday visit, you are going to be lucky because it is free of cost to enter into the museum, and on Thursday, you can get discounted entry in the evening. This is an ideal destination if you are looking for fun things to do in Columbus Ohio.

The interesting fact about it is that many of the works within the gallery can be discovered by members of the community as this art museum is denoted and created for the community and by the community.

Things to Do Here

The large community hub gives a chance to every individual to connect with the creative discussion of their experiences with art, so do discover yourself.

The Columbus Museum of art houses a collection of modern American and European works of the late nineteenth and early twentieth century, check it out to gain knowledge.

4. Scioto Mile – Check Out This Urban Oasis

scioto mile
Photo by marada on Flickr, copyright 2022

Scioto Mile is an urban oasis which is located in the heart of Downtown Columbus. The place consists of more than 175 acres of lush parkland that stretches from the Arena District to the Whittier Peninsula along the waterfront which connects the city to the Scioto River through the amazing integrated system of parks and bikeways.

Strolling at Scioto Mile is one of the most popular fun things to do in Columbus Ohio.

The popular riverwalk and fun activities make the place one of the major attractions to explore in Downtown Columbus. Scioto Mile is a much-loved place with amazing monuments, sculptures, beautiful waterways, and fountains, especially in summer.

Things to Do Here

If you are looking for wonderful outdoor activities, this is the place where you should not hesitate to come to. The free concerts, which are hosted by Bicentennial park are the first thing you can start with.

This tourist attraction allows its visitors, pedestrians, and locals to enjoy it thoroughly. The pedestrian paths are perfect to walk in the afternoon or jog in the morning.

Scioto Mile has something for everyone that boasts some of the most famous features of the city. The incredible 15,000-sq-foot interactive fountain, Jazz and Rib Festival, River Music Festival, and beautifully maintained trails are some of the major attractions for visitors throughout the year that no one should miss.

Some other things like greenways, beautiful skylines and city parks make Scioto Mile the most amazing place to visit and one of the most popular fun things to do in Columbus Ohio.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags to explore this wonderful, all-in-one, ideal destination with your family and friends.

5. German Village – A Historic Neighborhood

german village
Photo by VasenkaPhotography on Flickr, copyright 2022

German Village is renowned for charming and attractive brick-housed streets with tree-lined lanes. This is truly a picturesque site that welcomes its visitors to explore its true beauty and makes it one of the best fun things to do in Columbus Ohio.

This is an ideal place if you are curious and want to learn about the rich German heritage. The reason behind the naming of German Village is that the area was settled by German immigrants who flourished with their style and crafts for many years.

But German villages also had to face the periods, caused to decay. But the great thing is that the houses were restored after these were saved.

The district boasts a large collection of historic homes with amazing long-running restaurants.

The history of the German Village is preserved for its visitors who can witness the aura of the early 18th-century historic sites.

Things to Do Here

Visiting a German village is among the most fascinating and fun things to do in Columbus Ohio which is full of phenomenal houses and great places to eat with the touch of beautiful tradition and culture of a German Village, also a great way to practice your conservation skills.

Taking a stroll along with the magnificent architectural buildings and streets is the highly recommended thing to do here as I mentioned also before.

6. Ohio Stadium – Indeed the Most Iconic Stadium Of America

ohio stadium
Photo by Ron Reiring on Flickr, copyright 2022

One of the most exciting and fun things to do in Columbus Ohio is to visit the splendid Ohio Stadium which can be said a visual treat for lovers of football. Ohio Stadium was opened in 1992 for 1.3 million dollars approximately.

The earlier construction of the stadium was of concrete causing it to become a center of attraction for the people as many of them thought that it would not be long-lasting.

The shape of the stadium is also fascinating that can remind you of a horseshoe as it was nicknamed “the horseshoe” or “the Shoe” by the fans. This is a home ground for the football team of the Ohio State University campus in Columbus Ohio.

There is no doubt saying that the Ohio Stadium is the most iconic college stadium in America- no matter if you are a college student or just a football fan as it is the most loved sport for all.

The capacity of holding more than 100,000 people makes it one of the top three biggest stadiums in America and the fifth-largest stadium in the world. This is one of the first and foremost fun things to do in Columbus.

Even if you don’t love football, you are going to have such an unforgettable experience of your life. Although, holding its ticket is also not a cakewalk. For the general public, it is $702 per person with the Buckeye Club membership worth $1.500 per seat.

Things to Do Here

This is so exciting to watch Ohio state buckeyes in action at the stadium (Ohio is nicknamed a “Buckeye state” because of the abundance of buckeye trees on the hills and plains of Ohio).

Ohio for a football lover to be a witness to such a great experience and the gala atmosphere that makes it a major attraction not only in Ohio but also in America.

7. Ohio Theater—A National Historic Landmark

ohio theater
Photo by Steven Miller on Flickr, 2022

Watching a show at the Ohio theater must be included in your list of fun things to do in Columbus Ohio. This “official theater of the state of Ohio” was originally a movie theater that was built in 1928.

There are 2700 plus seats and boasts stunning and extraordinary Spanish-Baroque architecture which makes it a historic landmark in Downtown Columbus but also the whole country.

Have you ever seen an architectural wonderland? If not- Ohio Theater must be your stop to have a great time of your life.

Things to Do Here

This can be one of the most exciting and fun things to do in Columbus Ohio because you can enjoy the performances with the lush architecture, classic films, live music orchestra, ballet, and performances from the Columbus Symphony Orchestra.

8. Easton Town Center – One Of the Coolest Places

easton town center
Photo by Dr Bob Hall on Flickr, copyright 2022

Do you wanna explore an all-in-one place with your family? Since 1999, Easton Town Center has been one of those coolest places which you won’t want to miss at all.

Easton Town Center is especially famous for its diverse collection of food courts and restaurants. The events like the famous fair and live comedy show are hosted by Easton Town Center where the visitors have fun shopping with a nostalgic experience.

This is the urban retailer center with outstanding top brands, major retailers, and wonderful shops.

This is one of the nation’s finest surviving theaters which was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1977.

Capitol Square in Downtown Columbus has the beautiful identity of having Easton Town Center. This is one of the major attractions of Capitol Square in Downtown Columbus.

Things to Do Here

This is the place that brings families together. The numerous options for shopping, dining, recreational activities, and entertainment with more than 300 shops, bars, and restaurants are available here.

The community events are also hosted by Easton Town Center such as summer movies, outdoor activities like fitness classes, and free concerts. There are so many fun things to do in Columbus Ohio but this is something different that you can’t ignore.

9. Franklin Park Conservatory – Relaxing Outdoor Oasis

franklin park conservatory
Photo by VasenkaPhotography on Flickr, copyright 2022

This is a top attraction and one of the most popular fun things to do in Columbus Ohio that you will fall for. The open-air space gives you a reason to enjoy and relax with the fascinating plants and stunning artwork.

Franklin park conservatory is a botanical landmark with 88 acres of area from two-miles east of Downtown Columbus.

Franklin park conservatory is a must-see place with a beautiful green space and enchanting atmosphere.

Things to Do Here

Franklin park conservatory is one of the best fun things to do in Columbus Ohio for sure as it offers a sprawling space with interactive workshops and activities.

There are a lot of things to do for the visitors as they can take part in educational, cultural, and social events in addition to the amazing horticulture or simply enjoy the exceptional beauty of the botanical gardens and natural exhibits.

10. Columbus Park of Roses – A Beautiful Spot

columbus rose garden
Photo by marada on Flickr, copyright 2022

Columbus park of roses is a famous public park with over 350 types of roses (around 12000 in total). Sounds interesting? This is among the most exciting and fun things to do in Columbus Ohio which hosts superb and picturesque wildlife. This is every horticulturist’s dream with 13 acres of paved pathways, teak benches, and beautiful surroundings.

Thousands of beautiful, blooming, colorful flowers are seen every year from May to September. The park is free to visit for visitors and strollers from 7 am to 11 pm.

This is absolutely a must-see and an ideal place for visitors who love to be in the surroundings of nature. And who wouldn’t want to do it?

It is okay not to be a flower obsessive because you don’t need to be. The true beauty of nature will make you visit this place by itself. Such a wonderful experience you are going to have here!

Things to Do Here

The Annual Spring Rose Show is held in May and is probably one of the most esteemed and fascinating rose shows in Ohio ever.

Enjoy this place with your spouse or better half as it has a blanket full of beautiful roses, making it the perfect romantic place to go on a date!

Final Words

Some of the most famous restaurants in Columbus include – Schmidt’s Sausage Haus, Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse, RH Rooftop restaurant, Speck Italian Eatery, and Northstar cafe.

There are over 40 breweries which is also an important fun thing to do for adults as Columbus is also known for its great craft beer culture. And the best place to stay in Ohio must be Downtown Columbus which will make it easy to reach all the attractions and sights of the city.

Best Things to Do in Columbus, Ohio

Columbus is a beautiful city with amazing wildlife biodiversity and picturesque tourist attractions. It is also called the mecca for food, art, and culture. The city is full of surprises where you can have the best of it.

It is time to add it to your bucket list to have such a wonderful experience. Columbus is an ideal place whether you want to visit with your family, kids, or friends. If you are in the search of an ideal destination for kids, New York has it all, and Columbus does too.

Columbus has something for everyone!

Also read: Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store

FAQs

1. Is it worthwhile to travel to Columbus, Ohio?

The opportunity to tour Columbus’ interesting and entertaining districts is one of the city’s biggest attractions.

2. What makes Columbus, Ohio, famous?

Due to its cutting-edge cultural scene and thriving tech sector, Columbus is most known for having a spirit that is young, hip, and progressive.

3. Is nightlife in Columbus exciting?

Columbus nightlife is hopping in the downtown popular places and clubs, with everything from drinks and food to music and gambling. You will undoubtedly find a spot to let loose, whether you dress up or down.

Last Updated on February 22, 2023 by Janhavi Ramesh Kowligi