The beautiful city of Columbus was created in 1912. Columbus is the capital city of Ohio and was named after the Italian explorer Christopher Columbus.
Columbus is the most populous city in Ohio, with a population of 922,223 as of 2020, making it the state’s most populous city.
Because of all of the amazing attractions it has to offer, the city is a popular tourist destination that attracts a large number of visitors each year.
There are numerous fun things to do in Columbus, including viewing amazing art at the Columbus Museum of Art, shopping until you drop at Polaris Fashion Place, and learning about other cultures at the German Village.
Also, watching a live theatre performance at the Ohio Theatre, admiring the beauty of nature at the Park of Roses, watching a game at Mapfre Stadium, and much more.
Below are some of the best fun things to do in Columbus, Ohio.
23 Best Things to Do in Columbus
1. Schiller Park
Schiller Park is a fantastic outdoor attraction that is well worth a visit if you are in the area.
The park was first known as Stewart’s Grove by Columbus, Ohio’s early settlers.
The Schiller Park, which covers approximately 23 acres of land, became a part of Columbus in 1867 after being transferred to the then City Park through a transaction.
Following that, the park was renamed after Friedrick von Schiller, a famous German poet whose statue can also be found in the park’s center.
Furthermore, the park’s name was changed due to anti-German sentiment during World War II, but it was changed back to Schiller Park after the war.
Schiller Park features, among other things, German village life, picnic areas, and a recreation area.
Other aspects of the park include a playground, many floral displays, a basketball court, and a gazebo.
Schiller Park is one of the top attractions in Columbus, Ohio, with lots of fun things to do and see.
Address: 1069 Jaeger St, Columbus, OH 43206, USA
2. Kelton House Museum & Garden
The Kelton House Museum & Garden, located in Columbus’ Discovery District, is a historic mansion designed in the Greek revival and Italianate styles.
The Kelton House Museum & Garden is an important attraction in the state because it played an important role in the Columbus Underground Railroad in the nineteenth century.
The Kelton House was also a haven for runaway slaves looking for a place to hide.
The gardens in the area are also a beautiful sight to behold, having been meticulously maintained for many years.
The Kelton house still comprises painstakingly preserved furnishings and artworks from the 19th century which belonged to the Kelton family.
The museum & garden is available to visitors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday through Friday and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Address: 586 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
3. Sherrie Gallerie
Sherrie Gallerie is a great art gallery located in Columbus, Ohio’s Short North Arts District.
This art gallery, which depicts Columbus culture, was founded in 2004 by Sherrie Riley Hawk, a talented gallery curator.
Sherrie Gallerie exhibits contemporary artworks made of various materials such as glass, wood, and ceramic.
The gallery also exhibits other mixed media pieces as well as jewelry, with exhibitions rotating every four to six weeks.
You can pay a visit to the Sherrie Gallerie between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
Address: 694 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
4. German Village
If you want to learn more about Columbus, Ohio’s rich German heritage, go to the German Village, a one-of-a-kind but memorable attraction in the city.
As there are many interesting attractions in the area, there are many fun things to do and see in the German Village.
In the nineteenth century, a third of Columbus, Ohio’s population was made up of Germans who had immigrated to the city and settled in what is now known as the German Village.
German Village is one of the city’s top destinations, with several spectacular buildings and excellent dining options.
If you are interested in German, this is a great place to visit because the residents still practice German culture.
Address: 588 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215-5754, USA
5. North Market
The North Market is one of the largest markets in the state, and it is popular with both tourists and locals.
Because of the variety of goods available, this farmer’s market is one of the city’s most popular shopping destinations.
The North Market, which has been in operation for over 140 years, sells fresh farm produce as well as other items.
Kettle corn, cupcakes, and other delectable treats can be purchased at this market.
This farmer’s market also sells expertly crafted handmade jewelry.
Aside from shopping, the North Market has amazing scenery that creates a cool sense of energy.
Address: 59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
6. Ohio History Connection
Add a visit to the Ohio History Connection to your list of things to do in Columbus, Ohio for some history time.
The Ohio History Connection is dedicated to protecting and preserving the history of Ohioans through various collections of stories and artifacts.
Essentially, the Ohio History Connection is a non-profit organization that educates visitors on the importance of history.
They educate those who want to learn more about the development of the state of Ohio through governments, communities, social organizations, and industries.
This history connection includes stories and documents about automobiles, wedding gowns, and artifacts from various businesses and farms.
Address: 800 East 17th Ave, Columbus, OH 43211, USA
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7. American Whistle Corp
Columbus, Ohio, is rich in unusual American history, one of which is the history of the whistle.
If you want to learn more about the history of the whistle, pay a visit to the American Whistle Corp while you’re in town.
The whistle has a long history, and the American Whistle Corp focuses on educating visitors about this item and its significance.
During their visit to this attraction, visitors will learn about the use of whistles during the Crusades and how they helped get people’s attention and alert many of danger.
Visitors can also learn about the manufacturing process of whistles at the American Whistle Corp and take some home as a souvenir if they so desire.
American Whistle Corp. provides very informative tours that last about 45 minutes.
It is open Monday through Friday from a.m. to 5 p.m.
Address: 6540 Huntley Rd, Columbus, OH 43229, USA
8. Columbus Architectural Salvage
If you want to see and buy amazing historical items while in Columbus, stop by Columbus Architectural Salvage.
Chris Sauer’s Columbus Architectural Salvage, which opened in 2011, is a one-of-a-kind store that sells salvaged items from historic properties.
This store sells a variety of vintage home items, such as old furniture and other home accessories that families from the past used while living in the city.
This is a great place to go if you want to see what interior furnishings looked like in the nineteenth century.
Pay a visit to the Columbus Architectural Salvage and analyze the items starred here to see if there is any historical item you might want to buy.
Address: 1580 Clara St, Columbus, OH 43211, USA
9. Kingmakers Board Game Parlour
The Board Game Parlour of Kingmakers
Do you enjoy playing board games for entertainment? If so, pay a visit to the Kingmakers Board Game Parlour while in Columbus, Ohio.
The Kingmakers Board Game Parlour provides fantastic games as well as food and drinks, making it an ideal attraction to visit in Columbus for a good time.
For visitors who do not want to drink alcohol, this entertaining attraction offers soft drinks, coffee, and tea, as well as beer and wine.
Visitors to this game parlor can also get a variety of delicious snacks such as cookies, chips, and much more.
Kingmakers Board Game Parlour is one of Columbus’ top entertainment attractions and is well worth a visit if you’re in the neighborhood.
Address: 17 Buttles Ave, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
10. Columbus Museum of Art
Do you have a passion for art and culture? If so, include a stop at the Columbus Museum of Art on your list of things to do in Columbus, Ohio.
This art museum, located in downtown Columbus, was founded in 1879 as the Columbus Gallery of Fine Arts.
The Columbus Museum of Art features international exhibits as well as American and European contemporary and modern artworks, glass art, folk art, and photography.
Among the many expert works on display in the museum are those by renowned artists such as Rodin and Evan Gruzis.
The Columbus Museum of Art also exhibits extraordinary paintings by competent local artists and respects all sorts of Artistic inspiration.
The Columbus Museum of Art is open from Tuesday to Sunday and provides free admission, particularly on Sundays.
Address: 480 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
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11. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, located near downtown Columbus, is a stunning nature-filled area worth adding to your list of places to visit in Columbus, Ohio.
This lovely park is visited by both tourists and locals throughout the year because there is so much to see and do in the area.
The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, which opened in 1895, is one of Columbus’ most popular attractions.
Visitors can have a good time exploring this attraction and admiring the many beautiful plants and fantastic artwork on display.
Among the many exhibitions on display in this park are “Harvest Blooms” and “Blooms & Butterflies.”
The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, known for their calm and serene environment, is an ideal place to visit.
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day of the week.
Address: 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203, USA
12. Polaris Fashion Place
While in Columbus, Ohio, stop by the Polaris Fashion Place for an unforgettable shopping experience.
The Polaris Fashion Place is one of Ohio’s top shopping destinations, featuring a variety of premier stores such as Von Maur, Saks Fifth Avenue, Pandora, Express, Von Maur, J. Crew, and Sephora.
This Columbus shopping center has two levels and a Forever XXI store as well as an outdoor lifestyle center.
Polaris Fashion Place also has a Barnes and Noble for visitors who enjoy reading.
You can also have a memorable dining experience while visiting Polaris Fashion Place, which has over twenty cafes and restaurants serving a variety of delectable cuisines and drinks.
Address:1500 Polaris Parkway, Columbus, OH 43240, USA
13. Mapfre Stadium
If you enjoy sports, include a visit to Mapfre Stadium on your list of things to do in Columbus.
The Mapfre Stadium, which is home to the Columbus Crew SC., an American professional soccer club, is one of the top sports sites in Columbus where you can watch exciting soccer games.
The stadium, which was built in 1999, was the first soccer-specific stadium in the United States.
Mapfre Stadium is approximately 15 acres in size and can accommodate over 22,000 people at one time.
Visit Mapfre Stadium to cheer on the Columbus Crew SC and have a good time with other fans.
Address: One Black and Gold Blvd, Columbus, OH 43211, USA
14. The Candle Lab
The Candle Lab is a one-of-a-kind but spectacular Columbus, Ohio attraction that is well worth adding to your list of things to do in Columbus.
The candle lab, which has been in operation for over ten years, produces various types of candles with various soothing scents.
While making candles, the lab experiments with scent, allowing people to discover the magic of custom fragrance.
If you want to satisfy your nose by perceiving wonderful aromas, The Candle Lab is one of the best attractions to visit in Columbus, Ohio.
Visitors can also get involved in the manufacturing process by doing things like pouring a candle, making a room spray, mixing a lotion, and more.
The Candle Lab is open to its visitors from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday through Saturday and from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Address: 751 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
15. Nationwide Arena
The Nationwide Arena, one of Columbus’ best event venues, is a popular tourist attraction that is well worth a visit.
If you enjoy hockey, do not leave this attraction off your list of things to do in Columbus, Ohio, as it has been the home of the Columbus Blue Jackets since 2000.
The Nationwide Arena is located in downtown Columbus and, as the name suggests, serves as a venue for a variety of national events, as well as live sports and concerts.
The arena has a seating capacity of approximately 20,000 people and has hosted major music acts such as Queen and Shawn Mendes.
A fitness event hosted by Arnold Schwarzenegger is one of the well-known events held in the Nationwide Arena.
Address: 200 W Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
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16. ZipZone Canopy Tours
A proper way to have this fantastic experience is to join the ZipZone Canopy Tours, which is located right in the heart of Columbus, Ohio.
ZipZone Canopy Tours provides visitors with the opportunity to have a thrilling experience by zip-lining or rappelling, and this adventure is appropriate for people of all ages, including children.
As a family-friendly attraction, this is one of the best things to do in Columbus, Ohio, for some family fun.
Visitors on ZipZone Canopy Tours get a bird’s-eye view of the area’s beautiful natural characteristics and other attractions.
While on the ZipZone Canopy Tours, you can try out a variety of exciting courses, including the Kids Park and the Adventure Park.
The tour is also very safe because you are accompanied by a guide, that’ll ensure you don’t get hurt.
Address: 7925 N High St, Columbus, OH 43235, USA
17. Ohio Stadium
Visiting Ohio Stadium should be added to your list of fun things to do in Columbus, Ohio, for sports fans.
The Ohio Stadium was built in 1922 for $1.3 million and is regarded as one of the top sports tourist spots in Columbus and the state of Ohio in general.
The stadium was renovated for $194 million in 2001 to meet standards for safety.
The stadium seats approximately 104,944 people, making it the leading on-campus facility in the country.
Over 36 million fans have visited Ohio Stadium, and it is ideal for football fans to visit during the weekend to catch a game.
Address: 411 Woody Hayes Dr, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
18. Otherworld
Otherworld is a large and one-of-a-kind art installation in Columbus that spans approximately 32,000 square feet.
This art installation is a relatively new attraction that opened its doors on May 24, 2019, and it was expertly built by over 40 artists.
The Otherworld has over 40 scenes filled with 3d virtual play areas and stunning art to offer its visitors.
Explore this marvelous appeal to witness the surreal world of science fiction and fantasy it offers if you want to have a new but fun experience while in Columbus.
The Otherworld is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturdays, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays.
Admission is $22 for adults, $20 for seniors (62+) and military personnel, $18 for children aged 3 to 12 years, and free for children under the age of three.
The Otherworld is one of the best places to go with the family in Columbus for a good time.
Address: 5819 Chantry Dr, Columbus, OH 43232, USA
19. Downtown Columbus
A trip to Columbus, Ohio, would be incomplete without a visit to the city’s downtown core.
Downtown Columbus is a popular tourist destination in Columbus that offers a variety of exciting activities and sights.
This downtown area is made up of urban alleyways and a variety of markets, including the well-known Pearl Market.
The majority of Columbus’ top tourist attractions are located in this downtown core, including the Columbus Commons, where visitors can relax and have fun while in the city.
If you’re looking for things to do in Columbus, Ohio, this is a great place to start.
Downtown Columbus has something for everyone, including nature lovers, with attractions such as Scioto Mile, where visitors can go bird watching, play in fountains, dine at top-tier restaurants, and much more.
Sports fans are also welcome in the downtown core, which is home to the renowned baseball team “Columbus Clippers” and the professional ice hockey team “Columbus Blue Jackets.”
Furthermore, Downtown Columbus serves as a venue for a variety of live concerts, theatre productions, and sports such as downtown kickball and sand volleyball.
Exploring this area during a vacation is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Columbus, Ohio.
Address: 23 North Fourth Street, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
20. Huntington Park
For some sports action, go to Huntington Park, a baseball stadium in downtown Columbus’ Arena District.
Huntington Park is the home of the Columbus Clippers baseball team, and it has won two Triple-A National Championships.
This massive stadium has three levels and a total area of approximately 200,000 square feet, with a capacity of more than 10,000 people.
Among the many Huntington Park amenities is a Hall of Fame, a club level patio, a rooftop bar, a club bar, and homerun terraces.
A 1,200-seat section of the stadium includes a family lawn area with a stream qQs, a tree-canopied main concourse, and lawn seating
Address: 330 Huntington Park Ln, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
21. Scioto Mile
Scioto Mile is a popular outdoor tourist attraction in Columbus that should be on your list of places to visit if you want to have a good time outside.
The Scioto Mile, which spans approximately 145 acres of lush parkland in downtown Columbus, connects various areas ranging from the riverfront arena district to the Whittier Peninsula.
The Scioto Mile features several pathways, bikeways, parks, and boulevards that allow tourists and pedestrians to easily explore the riverfront area’s many interesting attractions.
Some Other attractions in Scioto Mile include a 15,000-foot interactive fountain, an amphitheater, and lots more.
Address: 233 Civic Center Dr, Columbus, OH 43215-4194, USA
22. Topiary Park
The Topiary Park is one of the top tourist attractions in Columbus, which is worth adding to your checklist of places to visit.
Topiary Park, which was dedicated to Columbus in 1992, was originally envisioned by Elaine and James Mason, who wanted a garden like this for the Ohio School for the Deaf.
The historic Topiary Park was widely known as the Old Deaf School Park in the early nineteenth century.
This 9.2-acre park is America’s only park dedicated solely to painting, and it is popular with both tourists and locals.
Topiary Park is a non-profit organization that is sponsored and maintained by a large number of generous volunteers.
The park contains several life-like sculptures made of plants crafted into various shapes, displaying genuine works of art.
Animals such as dogs, cats, and bears, as well as people, are among the beautiful sculptures made from plants in the park.
Topiary Park is available for tours from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day of every week.
Address: 480 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
23. Park of Roses
Park of Roses, also known as Whetstone Park of Roses, is a beautiful and unique attraction in Columbus, Ohio.
The Park of Roses, located within the 136-acre Whetstone Park, is one of Columbus’ top nature attractions and a great place to see beautiful flowers while visiting the city.
Over a thousand roses are arranged in a variety of ways in the Park of Roses.
There is a lot to see and do in the park, making it a great attraction for both people who like roses and those who don’t.
Visitors can also engage in fun recreational activities such as sports and picnicking in designated areas while in the area.
You are welcome to visit Park of Roses on any day of the week beginning at 7 a.m.
Address: 3901 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214, USA
Conclusion
Columbus is a lovely city with many things to do and see for an unforgettable vacation.
The city has many entertaining attractions that are suitable for people of all ages, including children, making it an ideal place to visit with family or loved ones.
Lovely parks, sports centers, and other recreational centers that you’re bound to enjoy are also available here.
Therefore, Begin planning your trip to this lovely city, and feel free to always come back to this article as a reference to help you out in choosing what to do, if you do this, you’re sure not to miss out on any fun activity.
