38 Fun Things To Do In Columbus, Ohio That Will Delight Your Heart (2024)

What’s up folks! It’s Adam.

I feel like I haven’t been here in ages, but it’s only been a week or two. I hope you’ve all been great and keeping your tummies warm. With food, of course. Hehe.

I visited Columbus a few months ago and let me tell you, I haven’t had so much fun in a while! Columbus has some of the most exciting activities you can think of. I went ziplining and screamed my heart out while at it. It was so therapeutic

Another memorable thing I did was visit the Heart of Africa Zoo, which had animals like the African Lion and camels. There’s also an African village where you learn a lot about African cultures. It felt like I was in Africa and certainly instigated my desire to visit Africa, specifically, Kenya, in the future.

And for the part you are all waiting to hear about, I absolutely loved the food! I ate so many things but what stood out for me was eating fries dipped in milkshake. Like, what? Who even thought it was wise to dip fries in milkshake? But honestly, that combo was good.

You better try it when you go to Columbus.

Named after the explorer Christopher Columbus, the city of Columbus is a vibrant place to visit, with a lively arts scene and districts that are full of entertainment, live music venues, and history.

During your visit to this charming city, you will want to take the opportunity to visit some of the beautiful outdoor spaces, engaging museums, and fun-filled activities that are sure to please everyone, both young and old.

Make your vacation a breeze with by staying at one of the best Ohio resorts!

While in Columbus, you will be able to see a diverse array of architecture, along with historic sites and lively local nightlife spots.

Whether you are in Columbus for a short stay or an extended amount of time, you will be able to find something to keep you entertained, from amazing art installations to relaxing gardens.

With so much to do and see, a list of the 38 fun things to do in Columbus has been provided below.

Get ready to have a great time in “Arch City,” where you will be delighted by the spectacular attractions and activities available for you, your family, and friends.

Things to do in Columbus:

1. Hoover Reservoir Park

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address:7701 Sunbury Road, Westerville, OH 43081

• Open daily
• Pet-friendly

The 4,700-acre Hoover Reservoir Park is a must-see when near or around Columbus, with numerous outdoor activities available, serene landscapes, and influential history.

While enjoying the park, you will be able to choose from an array of activities, such as hiking on beautiful nature trails, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing, among many other options.

Relax under the shade trees and have a picnic before heading over to view Ohio’s Hoover Dam, which is the main water source for the city of Columbus.

Let your kids run off some energy at the fantastic playground provided by the park, or take your 4-legged friend for a walk over to the bark park before challenging your family to a game of disc golf on the course provided by the park.

You’ll also want to take advantage of the birdwatching opportunities while at this park, with both a bird sanctuary and birdwatching path nearby.

With so much to do at this park, you won’t want to miss out on the chance to get some fresh air and sunshine.

2. Ohio Expo Center and State Fair

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $10.00, Children and Seniors: $8.00, Ages 5 and Under: Free

Address: 717 East 17th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211

• Open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
• Family-friendly

You won’t want to miss a visit to the Ohio Expo Center and State Fair, where the one million-square-foot complex hosts a multitude of events year-round, from live music to equestrian events and of course, the annual state fair.

With over 200 events being hosted year-round, you’ll be sure to find something that will please you and everyone in your family; from gymnastic competitions to home and garden shows, this event center has it all.

You’ll also be able to view historic buildings while at the center, along with the livestock facilities, an ice rink, and basketball courts, along with other attractions.

If you are lucky enough to be in Columbus during the state fair in the summer, you’ll want to spend a lot of time enjoying the exhibitions on hand, along with horse shows, amusement rides, and food stalls overing delicious and unique food items.

Make your way to this venue in Columbus, and you will be sure to be entertained.

3. The Escape Game

Rating: 5★

Entry Ticket: $35.99+

Address: 3960 Easton Station, Columbus, OH 43219

• Open daily, 8:00 am – midnight
• Reservation recommended
• Allow 60 minutes

While at The Escape Game Columbus, you and your friends will have a blast as you share an exciting and memorable experience.

Additionally, each game allows you up to 8 to 12 players, so feel free to gather up a large team.

Become an undercover operative and stop a worldwide catastrophe from striking, or have an entirely new and exciting school encounter like no other.

Choose The Depths game, and you will be faced with mysteries and thrills.

In particular, The Depths will place you in a submarine, where you will be charged with the task of reaching a researcher’s lab and uncovering his underwater experiments.

Also available are other diverse games, such as a prison break, hunt for gold, and solving the theft of a priceless painting.

Moreover, if you get stuck, there’s no need to worry, as your game guide will be happy to provide as hints whenever needed.

4. Topiary Park

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 480 East Town Street, Columbus, OH 43215

• Open daily
• Pet-friendly
• Bring camera

Dating back to the 19th century, Topiary Park is a breathtaking and extraordinary experience you shouldn’t miss while in Columbus.

A re-creation of the famous painting A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of LaGrande Jatte by Georges Seurat, this park is mesmerizing.

Be sure to stand at the “As He Saw It” marker, which will give you Seurat’s point of view while he painted the famous artwork.

The only topiary park in the world to represent a painting, this site is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, allowing you to step into a multi-dimensional version of the French artist’s work.

Between the topiary, ponds, and treelined horizon, you will find yourself lost in a magical world at this park.

5. Columbus Funny Bone

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $32.00

Address: 145 Easton Town Center, Columbus, OH 43219

• Book in advance
• Must be 21 or older
• Allow 2 hours

For a night of laughs and entertainment, you’ll want to put Columbus Funny Bone on your to-do list while in the city.

This comedy club has hosted some of the most famous comedians in the country, such as Chris Rock, Ellen DeGeneres, Jerry Seinfeld, and Drew Carey, just to name a few.

Enjoy a delicious sandwich or sip a cup of coffee as you sit back and laugh your cares away as local and world-famous acts perform.

With a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, you’ll have a fantastic time at the Columbus Funny Bone comedy club.

6. Motorcycle Hall of Fame

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $10.00, Seniors: $8.00, Veterans: $5.00, Students: $3.00, Ages 11 and Under: Free

Address: 13515 Yarmouth Drive, Pickerington, OH 43147

• Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Special events
• Charity bike raffles

During a visit to the Motorcycle Hall of Fame, you will find a fascinating history through themed exhibits.

Moreover, you’ll learn about the careers and personal lives of AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famers.

The 26,000-square-foot facility offers 2 floors of displays, including classic motorcycles you can peruse.

Get an up-close look at a 1906 Harley Davidson, Indians that were built right after the turn of the century, and an 1894 Roper Steamer.

Also on hand are modern motorbikes and competition bikes ranging from Motocross to Supercross.

In addition to the motorcycles, you will also be able to browse historical posters, framed portraits of riders, and informative plaques.

What’s more, you will be able to learn little-known facts about motorcycle production and see bikes that appeared in movies.

7. Hayden Falls Park

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 4326 Hayden Run Road, Dublin, OH 43017

• Open daily
• Pet-friendly

Visit Hayden Falls Park in Columbus, and you’ll discover an oasis in the city.

The small park lives up to its name, being surrounded by dense woods and rock formations that will make you feel as though you are shrouded in nature.

Take a leisurely walk along the provided boardwalks of this park, spending some time admiring the view of the 35-foot waterfall that is breathtaking among the small cliff and rare plants.

Enjoy the sounds of nature as you listen to songbirds and the soft harmony of the waterfall and pool.

Picnic tables are also provided at the park, making it the perfect lunchtime getaway while you are in Columbus.

8. Olentangy Caverns

Rating:4.4★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $10.95, Children: $7.95, Ages 2 and Under: Free

Address: 1779 Home Road, Delaware, OH 43015

• Open daily, 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
• Additional fees for activities
• Kid-friendly

If you’re looking for an outing near Columbus that has a multitude of activities the whole family will enjoy, you’ll want to take the quick trip to Olentangy Caverns, where you will find everything from cavern tours to mini-golf and a petting zoo.

During your tour of the caverns, you will find astounding natural formations, such as underground bodies of water, flowstone, and fossils embedded in the limestone walls.

Along with the spectacular sights, you will learn about the history of the cavern, how it formed, and the Wyandot tribe that used the cave in the 18th and 19th centuries.

After your tour, be sure to take the kids to the petting zoo, where you’ll find deer, goats, and pigs, among many other animals.

You also won’t want to miss out on the charming miniature golf course, treasure hunt maze, and gem mining offered, making Olentangy Caverns one of the top fun things to do in Columbus with kids.

• Planning to explore more places in Ohio? We have very exciting articles about fun things to do in Cleveland & a list of best of what to do in Cincinnati – as we can’t forget about Dayton!

9. Arne Slettebak Planetarium

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Smith Lab Room 5033, 174 West 18th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210

• Reserve seats online
• Family-friendly
• Allow 1 hour

For both an educational and relaxing excursion while in Columbus, the Arne Slettebak Planetarium offers public programs that will allow you to learn not only about the cosmos but the earth itself, and best of all, it’s free of charge.

Discover constellations, learn about the seasons of our planet, and get up-close views of remarkable points in the night sky in the 30-foot dome theater at Ohio State University.

While at the planetarium, you will even be able to speak with the university’s astronomy department who will give you information about the cosmos, or even advise you on telescopes.

Not just for fans of space, this program is a spectacular opportunity for any visitors to Columbus.

10. Scioto Audubon Metro Park

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 400 West Whittier Street, Columbus, OH 43215

• Open daily
• Year-round activities
• Pet-friendly

Located on nearly 28,000 acres of wilderness area, you’ll find diverse landscapes to explore in Scioto Audubon Metro Park, from forests and prairies to grasslands and wetlands.

This park is the perfect place to connect with nature and get some fresh air while hiking or bicycling along trails, canoeing down rivers, fishing, or rock climbing

In the winter, the park is the perfect place for snowy activities, such as sledding, cross country skiing, and ice skating.

There are even archery courses you can take advantage of in this wilderness paradise, along with horseback riding trails and beautiful golf courses.

Spend the morning enjoying your favorite outdoor activities before having a picnic and then heading to one of the nature centers, where you will learn about the natural habitats of Ohio.

For a fun outdoor excursion, you’ll definitely want to visit Scioto Audubon Metro Park.

11. Gahanna Lanes

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $6.00+

Address: 215 West Johnstown Road, Columbus, OH 43230

• Open Sunday through Thursday, noon – 10:00 pm; Weekends, noon – 2:00 am
• Family-friendly

One of the best things to do in Columbus at night, Gahanna Lanes offers a variety of fun activities you and your family will be sure to enjoy.

Challenge your kids to a game of bowling or head over to the arcade and check out the numerous games, both old school and new.

You’ll also want to drop by the snack bar, where this entertainment complex offers a huge selection of dishes that will have your mouth watering, from Italian subs to freshly made pizzas.

Have a great night of laughter and fun with your family at Gahanna Lanes in Columbus.

12. National Veterans Memorial and Museum

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $17.00, Seniors: $15.00, College Students: $12.00, Children: $10.00, Ages 5 and Under: Free

Address: 300 West Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215

• Open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Allow 3 hours

A meaningful, informative, and touching place to visit, the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus is an unexpected experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

The museum is neither a war memorial nor a military museum but instead, a place created to honor all men and women who served in every branch of the U.S. military.

Located in an impressive structure that was designed to relay the importance of what is inside, this museum showcases the personal stories of veterans through artifacts and documented accounts.

View military ribbons, footlockers, and personal letters as you learn the stories of military personnel dating back to the American Revolution.

Take the time to visit this museum that is like no other, immersing yourself in the histories of the men and women who have fought for their country.

13. Heart of Africa (Zoo)

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $24.99, Seniors and Children: $18.99, Ages 3 and Under: Free

Address: 4850 West Powell Road, Powell, OH 43065

• Open daily, 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
• Family-friendly

The Heart of Africa near Columbus is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Step into another place, where you will be immersed in Africa, exploring and discovering everything from savanna wildlife to an African Village.

Stop to feed a giraffe, take your kids on a camel ride, and view some of the most fascinating animals that hail from Africa.

You and your family will be delighted as you watch precocious monkeys at play, wildebeests drinking from a watering hole, or the grand majesty of African lions.

The largest habitat located in the Columbus Zoo, Heart of Africa is an integral part in the conservation of Kenya’s wildlife, educating not only visitors to the zoo, but the public on a global scale.

Have the adventure of a lifetime at the Heart of Africa, where this zoo is an experience that transports you to a whole new world.

14. Ohio Statehouse

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 1 Capitol Square, Columbus, OH 43215

• Open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Weekends, 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Guided tour

Take a trip to the Ohio Statehouse and immerse yourself in the history of Ohio, where you will learn about the development of Ohio’s democracy.

Visit exhibits that display the portraits of Ohio’s governors and president elects throughout history, the statehouse cannons from the Civil War, and the stories of some of the greatest Ohio residents.

You’ll also learn about George Washington Williams, the first African American Ohio legislator, along with the suffragist movement in the state.

Along with the exhibits on display, you will also be awed by the spectacular architecture of the statehouse.

During your tour, be sure to take the time to appreciate details of the building, such as the breathtaking rotunda, the grand stair hall, or the austere layouts of the senate and representative chambers.

Before leaving, don’t forget to check out some of the fantastic sculptures on display here also, such as the William McKinley Monument, The Spirit of ’98, and The Doughboy.

Be sure to take the opportunity to learn about the fascinating history of Ohio at the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus.

15. Creekside Park

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 123 Mill Street, Gahanna, OH 43230

• Open 24 hours
• Family-friendly
• Pet-friendly

A fun and pleasant outdoor excursion, Creekside Park is a charming area where you will find an array of activities.

Enjoy the beauty of waterfalls, take a walk along serene pathways, and enjoy the sounds of nature in this park that has so much to offer.

Have a picnic before heading over to the pond, where you can enjoy a leisurely afternoon on a paddleboat.

Or you might want to go fishing, letting yourself unwind and relax under the numerous shade trees that adorn the park.

If you are in Columbus during the summer months, you and your family will have a great time splashing and playing as you wade along the park’s waterfall, enjoying the shallow waters surrounding it.

Visit Creekside Park in Columbus, and you’ll have a pleasant getaway from your cares and worries.

16. Otherworld

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $22.00, Children: $18.00, Seniors and Military: $20.00, Ages 3 and Under: Free

Address: 5819 Chantry Drive, Columbus, OH 43232

• Open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
• Family-friendly
• Allow 2 hours

One of the best things to do in Columbus, Otherworld, is an interactive art installation that covers 32,000 square feet.

An experience like no other, you will explore the space provided by this art installation, interacting with a creation that was built by over 40 artists.

Discover strange and breathtaking sights in this museum’s science fiction fantasyland, with vivid colors, whimsical characters, and experimental perspectives.

Experience the thrill of finding secret passageways, enjoy interactive puzzles, and give yourself over to the digitally augmented art that will transport you to another world.

You won’t want to miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in Columbus at Otherworld.

17. Orton Geological Museum

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 155 Hagerty Drive, Columbus, OH 43210

• Open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Housing more than 54,000 specimens, Orton Geological Museum boasts fascinating displays of rocks, minerals, and fossils.

Learn the geologic history of Ohio as you peruse the numerous exhibits, including an 11-foot-long giant ground sloth skeleton, mammoth and mastodon teeth, a fluorescent mineral booth, and a full-size replica of a tyrannosaurus rex skull.

You will be able to learn about a multitude of geologic subjects during your visit to this museum, making it a great stop during your time in Columbus.

18. Ohio Village

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $13.00, Seniors and College Students: $11.00, Children: $7.00, Ages 3 and Under: Free

Address: 800 East 17th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211

• Open daily
• Download tour app online
• Family-friendly

Take a step back in time and experience a truly immersive visit to Ohio Village, where you will learn about 19th-century life in Ohio through local villagers and artisans.

Watch a baseball game and root for the 19th-century team “Ohio Village Muffins,” or take your time talking with some of the villagers who will regale you with fascinating stories about everyday life from the 1800s.

You will also be able to tour the homes and businesses found in Ohio Village, along with taking part in 19th century activities.

Ohio Village also has numerous events throughout the year, most taking place weekly, such as collection exhibits, displays showcasing World War I, or Storybook Village days, where you and your kids can meet some of your favorite characters from classic tales.

With numerous places to see and people to talk to, you’ll want to take your time during your visit to Ohio Village, letting yourself fully enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience that is one of the top things to do in Columbus.

19. Legoland Discovery Center Columbus

Rating: 4.2★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $30.99

Address: 157 Easton Town Center, Columbus, OH 43219

• Open daily
• Coffee shop
• Reserved time required

Both you and your kids will love a trip to Legoland Discovery Center Columbus.

While at the entertainment facility, you will find a wide variety of activities to explore.

Stop by the 4D cinema and watch a LEGO movie that includes rain, fog, and wind.

Afterward, go on Merlin’s Apprentice Ride for a fantasy adventure or enjoy a fun-filled time on Kingdom Quest.

In particular, Kingdom Quest will take you and your family through an exciting experience as you zap fantasy monsters and save the princess.

Before seeing the 1.5 million LEGO bricks that make up MINILAND, build a LEGO racecar and try it out on a giant speed ramp.

During the LEGO factory tour, you will learn how the bricks are made and build your own Minifigure.

Also on hand are a creative workshop, an indoor play area, and special character appearances.

Challenge yourself as you build a tower and test it against the earthquake table before exploring the animal-themed building section.

20. 16-Bit Bar and Arcade

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 254 South 4th Street, Columbus, OH 43215

• Open daily
• Retro theme

If you are looking for a fun and unique nightlife activity in Columbus, look no further than 16-Bit Bar and Arcade.

This bar is so much more than just cocktails, with over 40 classic arcade games available that are free to play for patrons.

Sip on a whimsical 80’s signature cocktail, like the Hulk Hogan or Cheech Marin, while testing your skills at games like Asteroids, Mario Bros., Ms. Pac-Man, or Q*bert, along with a multitude of others.

With numerous theme nights, events, and pop-up tournaments, you won’t be lacking for entertainment while spending time at this fantastic bar in Columbus. 

21. ZipZone Outdoor Adventures

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $49.00

Address: 7925 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43235

• Reservation required
• Kid-friendly
• Allow 2 hours
• Free photos

Found right in the heart of Columbus, is an outdoor adventure experience that is one-of-a-kind at ZipZone Outdoor Adventures.

With numerous activities to choose from, ZipZone Outdoor Adventures offers something for everyone, from young to old.

Take a zip line tour and soar through treetops as you get to see Columbus from a whole new point of view.

You can also choose to visit the adventure park, where you will find over 60 different challenges, ranging from beginner to expert levels.

Your kids will love ZipZone Outdoor Adventures, too, with a kids park that provides obstacle and climbing courses designed for smaller children.

A host to numerous exciting events, ZipZone Outdoor Adventures also offers opportunities like falconry experiences, nature hikes for kids, or night time zip line tours.

Visit this thrilling adventure attraction in Columbus, and you’ll have an unforgettable experience.

22. Chadwick Arboretum

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 152 Howlett Hall 2021 Fyffe Road, Columbus, OH 43210

• Open daily, 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
• Allow 1 – 2 hours

Covering 60 acres, Chadwick Arboretum is a gem in the city of Columbus, with serene gardens that you can stroll through on winding paths.

Download the free app the Ohio State University provides, and you will be able to go on a self-guided tour, making your way to points of interest, such as the Labyrinth Garden, Cancer Survivors’ Plaza, or Green Roof on Howlett Hall.

You will also want to be sure and visit the arboretum’s trial gardens, where you will find a plethora of plants and flowers that are being evaluated by the staff and students at Ohio State University.

Along with flowers, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the diverse and large number of trees found on the grounds of the arboretum.

Discover unusual species, such as chinkapin oak or horsechestnut, along with an English oak that is thought to have been gifted to Jesse Owens by Adolf Hitler during the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, Germany.

Allow yourself to enjoy the peace and serenity of these wonderfully designed gardens as you learn about plants, important Ohio residents who contributed to the arboretum, and the ways in which the garden is a vital part of Columbus.

Take the time to relax in this oasis, appreciating all that Chadwick Arboretum has to offer.

23. Thurber House

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 77 Jefferson Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215

• Open Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
• Guided tours available

Housed in the 1873 home of James Thurber, Thurber House is a place to learn about the man who was a journalist, playwright, cartoonist, and author of short stories and fables.

As you make your way through the museum, you will be able to view the restored home, touring the formal parlor, dining room, bedrooms, and more, experiencing what Thurber’s environment was like as a young man.

While touring the museum, you will be allowed to interact with many of the items on display, sitting in the parlor, or playing the piano.

You will also be able to view some of his personal memorabilia, such as drawings that would eventually be covers of the iconic New Yorker magazine.

Take a step back in time and visit this spectacular museum and learn about one of Columbus’ most famous residents.

24. Fear Columbus Haunted House

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $15.99

Address: 2605 Northland Plaza Drive, Columbus, OH 43231

• Must book ticket in advance

If you’re in the mood for some fun and scares, you’ll want to put Fear Columbus Haunted House on your list of must-see attractions while in the city.

Known for giving visitors a completely immersive experience, this haunted house is elaborate in its details, from state-of-the-art sound systems to trained actors and set designs that are movie quality.

While at this haunted house, you will have photo ops available and be able to visit the retail store located at the end of your thrilling trip through the attraction.

Take a trip to the spooky side of Columbus and visit this one-of-a-kind haunted house.

25. North Market Downtown

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 59 Spruce Street, Columbus, OH 43215

• Open daily
• Family-friendly

North Market Downtown is an iconic part of Columbus, having been a public market for the past 145 years.

With over 30 small businesses residing in the market, North Market Downtown is one of the best things to do in Columbus.

Peruse fresh produce and flowers, find the perfect souvenir or gift, or buy some specialty food items you won’t find anywhere else.

Grab a snack or a drink as you make your way through this charming market, connecting with the locals and experiencing the lively atmosphere.

A visit to North Market Downtown is a wonderful way to experience Columbus during your stay in the city.

26. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $24.99, Seniors and Children: $18.99, Ages 3 and Under: Free

Address: 4850 Powell Road, Powell, OH 43065

• Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Allow most of the day

Home to the famous zookeeper, Jack Hanna, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is renowned for being one of the best zoos in the world and as such, it is one of the top things to do in Columbus this weekend with the family.

Not only does this zoo house the Heart of Africa that was earlier on our list, but it also boasts many other habitats from around the world, including Asia, North America, and Adventure Cove, where you will get to visit coastal animals.

Get a close-up view of a laughing kookaburra, see the massive size of an Alaskan Moose, or watch red pandas play with their friends.

Along with the habitats you can visit, the zoo also offers the unique opportunity of buying a piece of art created by one of the animals, with canvases that display everything from paw prints to brush strokes.

You can also opt to purchase special experiences at the zoo, such as behind-the-scenes tours of cheetahs, sea lions, and reindeer.

The zoo also boasts a large aquarium, where you will be able to tour a plethora of marine life, including turtles and stingrays.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this amazing zoo and aquarium, where the sights you will see are endless.

27. Indian Run Falls

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 700 Shawan Falls Drive, Dublin, OH 43017

• Bring camera
• Pet-friendly

For a wonderful and unique outdoor experience near Columbus, a visit to Indian Run Falls will leave you with lasting memories.

Once home to the Wyandot tribe, Indian Run Falls has breathtaking scenery, with not only vibrant greenery and beautiful rock formations but some of the most spectacular waterfalls that are known for their pristine state.

Travel along nature trails and experience the serenity of the area, listening to streams as they make their way through the area.

Experience the outdoors like never before at Indian Run Falls, where you will connect with nature and relax in the fresh air.

28. German Village Society

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 588 South 3rd Street, Columbus, OH 43215

• Family-friendly
• Download self-guided tour on website

A unique and immersive experience that is unforgettable, German Village Society is dedicated to maintaining the character of the historic neighborhood that has been an intricate part of the German community in Columbus.

Entering the village, you will be charmed by the brick architecture and quaint atmosphere that dates back to the mid-19th century.

Shop at extraordinary boutiques, dine at restaurants where you will sample authentic German cuisines, and view beautiful urban gardens.

You can also have a great time with the self-guided scavenger hunt provided by the German Village Society, or book a golf cart tour, where you will visit gardens, shops, galleries, restaurants and homes unique to the historic area.

A trip back in time, German Village Society provides a magical place to visit with your family in Columbus.

29. The Ohio Railway Museum

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $9.00, Seniors and Military: $8.00, Children: $7.00, Ages 3 and Under: Free

 Address: 990 Proprietors Road, Worthington, OH 43085

• Open Sunday, noon – 4:00 pm
• Allow 2 hours

For a fascinating trip through history, you’ll want to make a visit to The Ohio Railway Museum, where you will learn about railroading’s past.

Tour exhibits that include locomotives, streetcars, artifacts, and much more as you make your way through the museum’s grounds.

You will also have the opportunity to ride a streetcar and passenger car, making the trip to the museum even more immersive.

You will learn the vital influence the railroad had on the shape of the United States, with a focus on the state of Ohio and the businesses there.

Before leaving the museum, be sure to stop by the gift shop, where you will find unusual items that could make the perfect souvenir or gift, such as commemorative coins, coffee cups, and toys.

Visit this museum for a fun and educational excursion while in Columbus, discovering a history that is both fun and enchanting.

30. RollHouse Columbus

Rating: 4.3★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $5.00

Address: 500 Georgesville Road, Columbus, OH 43228

• Open daily
• Unlimited laser tag available after 5:00 pm

RollHouse Columbus is a fantastic spot to have a fun-filled time with family, friends, or a date.

The entertainment complex offers bowling, including Cosmic Bowling, on Friday and Saturday nights, which includes music and colorful lights.

Once you’ve had your fill of bowling, challenge your group to a game of laser tag or grab something to eat.

Sample mouthwatering casual fares like quesadillas and nachos, as well as wraps, pizza, and salads.

Also on offer are delectable desserts and sandwiches, such as brisket, burgers, and cheesesteaks.

What’s more, RollHouse is perfect if you’re planning a party.

Celebrate your child’s birthday with specialized packages, or have the ultimate bowling party with your friends.

31. Shale Hollow Park

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 6320 Artesian Run, Delaware, OH 43015

• Pet-friendly
• Allow 2 hours

Located just outside of Columbus, Shale Hollow Park is a beautiful location to visit if you are searching for outdoor activities near or around Columbus.

Named for the shale cliffs that line a stream running through the park, you will be able to see rock formations in these cliffsides and in the stream itself, along with other fascinating natural sights.

Go for a walk through the white oak forest, where you can discover vibrant wildflowers and birds, such as owls, woodpeckers, and neo-tropical songbirds.

You’ll also have the chance to see deer, raccoons, and coyotes, along with a variety of amphibian life.

Enjoy a day of getting back to nature in this breathtakingly beautiful park that is one of the best things to do in Columbus for couples.

32. Franklin Park Conservatory and Gardens

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Fee: Adults: $22.00, Seniors: $19.00, Children: $15.00, Ages 2 and Under: Free

Address: 1777 East Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43203

• Open daily, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Kid-friendly
• Allow 3 hours

While in Columbus, be sure to make a visit to the Franklin Park Conservatory and Gardens, where you will find a wide array of fascinating exhibits and gardens.

In the conservatory, you will find exhibits ranging from poetry and art to glass collections that are breathtaking in their color and richness.

You will also want to explore the many gardens on offer, such as the children’s garden, where your kids can connect to nature in an interactive and playful way.

Take a tour of the botanical gardens, and you won’t be disappointed, relaxing and enjoying the rainbow of colors the gardens offer.

You will also want to stop by the John F. Wolfe Palm House, located in the oldest part of the conservatory.

At the palm house, you will be immersed in the atmosphere of the lovely Victorian-style greenhouse as you discover 43 species of palms, such as a fiddle-leaf fig, which is one of the original trees planted at the conservatory.

Let yourself unwind with a visit to Franklin Park Conservatory and Gardens in Columbus.

33. Center of Science and Industry

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $20.00, Children, $15.00

Address: 333 West Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215

• Open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:009 am – 5:00 pm
• Kid-friendly

Both fun and educational, the Center of Science and Industry in Columbus is a great place to visit with your family.

In the museum, you will discover over 300 interactive exhibits, ranging from an ocean exhibit where you can explore a submarine laboratory to a recreation of a space station.

Visit the 30-foot-tall Poseidon statue, where you will be amazed by waterfalls and fountains, before heading to an area where you can study whirlpools and water bells.

Take a stroll through Progress, a recreated 19th century town, where you can visit a livery, telegraph office, and grocer, before heading to the 1962 version of the same town that holds department stores, a gas station, and a diner.

At the dinosaur exhibit, feel as though you’ve stepped into Jurassic Park, as you come face-to-face with a life-size cast of a Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton, view a 100-million-year-old piece of fossilized amber, or see an 8-foot-long titanosaur femur up close.

The Center of Science and Industry will be a visit you won’t regret, sparking both you and your children’s imagination.

34. Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 1813 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43210

• Open Tuesday through Sunday, 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Housing the world’s largest collection of cartoons and comics, the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting Columbus.

As you make your way through the large library and museum, you will be immersed in the original artwork, journals, books, magazines, and newspaper clippings on display.

Learn about the history of cartoons and their influence on American society, along with the lives and talents of numerous artists.

Discover rare pieces that will give you a new perspective on the cartoon and comic world, along with classics that are highly recognizable.

A visit to this library and museum is an unforgettable experience you and your family will thoroughly enjoy.

35. Kelton House Museum and Garden

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adults: $7.00, Seniors: $5.00, Students: $3.00

Address: 586 East Town Street, Columbus, OH 43215

• Open Thursday through Sunday, noon – 4:00 pm
• Allow 2 hours

An important piece of Columbus history, the Kelton House and Garden is an immersive experience that will allow you to step back into the 19th century.

Preserved and maintained by the Junior League of Columbus, the house is a bubble in time, where you can peruse the furnishings and décor of the house as it was during the Victorian Era.

Along with the interior of the home, you will be able to tour the beautiful garden and enjoy the Greek Revival architecture of the property, getting a full sense of the home’s magnificence.

The Kelton family history also includes the hiding of slaves, with the home being a stop for the Underground Railroad.

Learn the fascinating history of this abolitionist family, viewing memorabilia that conveys the personal commitment the family had during the Civil War.

Take a step back in time while you are in Columbus with a trip to this beautiful and historic home.

36. Ohio History Center

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Adult: $13.00, Seniors and Students: $11.00, Children: $7.00, Ages 3 and Under: Free

Address: 800 East 17th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211

• Open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Kid-friendly
• Allow 2 – 3 hours

Immerse yourself in the history of the state of Ohio at the Ohio History Center, one of the best things to do in Columbus with the family.

Learn about the natural history of the state as you tour artifacts such as taxidermy displays of locally extinct animals or the reconstructed skeleton of a mastodon.

You will also have the opportunity to visit exhibits that showcase Native American culture, 1950s architecture and style, the history of Ohio sports, and much more.

You and your family will even be able to visit an exhibit that is dedicated to the quirkiest objects in the museum’s collection, with a story behind every object you discover.

View photographs of Ulysses S. Grant and his family, learn the history of Ohio’s most famous cartoonists, and learn about Ohio archaeology’s past, present, and future.

With over 270,000-square-feet of space, you’ll want to take your time making your way through the numerous exhibits that showcase every aspect of the state’s history and formation.

Bring your family to this museum, where the history and heritage of Ohio comes to life.

37. Shrum Mound

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 3141 McKinley Avenue, Columbus, OH 43204

• Allow 30 minutes

Built approximately 2,000 years ago, Shrum Mound is one of the last ancient burial mounds remaining in the Columbus area.

While visiting the site, you will learn about the Adena people, who were the original inhabitants of what would later become Ohio.

The mound, which is approximately 20 feet in height, is the final resting place for several Adena people and is considered a sacred landmark.

During your tour of the mound, you will be able to view what the ancient people did when building the mound and feel a connection to the area.

Visit an important piece of Ohio history at this historic site in Columbus.

38. Columbus Park of Roses

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 3901 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43214

• Open year-round
• Pet-friendly

With over 12,000 specimens of roses covering 13 acres of garden space, Columbus Rose Garden is a delight for the senses.

Make your way along the extensive pathways at this park, resting at the benches provided, and let yourself be carried away by the spectacular sights and scents.

You’ll want to take the time to visit the numerous themed areas of this park that include a formal rose garden, heritage rose garden, herb garden, and backyard garden, among others.

Enjoy the vibrant colors of the flowers you will find at this park, along with colorful butterflies and flitting birds, as you discover flowers, native plants, and trees that will take your breath away.

Visit the observation tower and take in the amazing aerial view of the garden, take in the fragrance of over 100 herb plants, or go on a self-guided tour through the dogwoods, where you will discover flowers year-round.

A trip to this park is the perfect way to relax and escape the city while you are in Columbus.

That’s all from me. Stay adventurous!