Columbus, Ohio may not offer as many entertainment options as New York City or Los Angeles, but it offers a range of entertaining sites, attractions and events.
The area blends Midwest charm with culture, history, and excitement. Whether you’re new to the city or planning a move, Columbus has something for everyone.
This guide explores the fun things to do in Columbus, Ohio for adults and families.
6 Fun Things to Do in Columbus
If you live in Columbus or are considering moving to the city, here are six must-try activities highlighting the city’s charm.
1. Columbus Museum of Art
The Columbus Museum of Art celebrates German Expressionism, European modern art and local artists like Elijah Pierce.
Its permanent and rotating exhibits offer something new every visit. The galleries also have interactive stations where visitors can create art. The Sculpture Garden features several life-size works, a café, and a gift shop.
The museum’s location on E Broad Street makes it easily accessible.
2. National Veterans Memorial and Museum
The National Veterans Memorial and Museum is an award-winning architectural masterpiece and a great place to learn about and honor military veterans. It’s about one mile from Franklinton, with plenty of parking.
While the lower level features rotating exhibitions, the screens on the circular catwalk share in-depth service recollections. Visitors from a military background can share their stories in the story booth. Then, there’s the double-mirrored remembrance gallery, where the mirrors are arranged to reflect your image into a scene, symbolizing the experience of a family member receiving a flag in honor of a fallen service member.
3. Ohio Statehouse
This historic landmark is a short drive from homes in German Village, Livingston Park, Olde Towne East, and Short North Arts District.
The Ohio Statehouse offers public tours every day of the week. These guided tours provide insights into the building’s history and access to the House and Senate Chambers. The Cupola stands out among its many architectural details. While the ceiling is domed from the inside, it appears flat from the outside.
In addition, the Ohio Statehouse Museum Education Center offers several exhibits and public education activities. One of its most popular tour programs is "The Portals of History".
4. Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum
If you enjoy cartoons, make sure this unique museum is on your list of fun family things to do in Columbus, Ohio. It holds the world’s most extensive collection of cartoons and comics, including magazines, comic books, newspaper strips, clippings, journals, and original art.
The Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum has some of the most famous collections, including the Eldon Dedini and Nick Anderson collections. To promote cartooning as a craft, the museum also hosts lectures, panel discussions, and workshops.
The museum’s location in the University district makes it popular with students and Old North Columbus and Dennison Place residents.
5. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
The Franklin Park Conservatory is a year-round attraction featuring unique plant collections, interactive exhibits, and a stunning Dale Chihuly glass artwork collection. With blooming flowers in spring and light installations during winter, this conservatory offers something new each season.
6. Zoombezi Bay
Zoombezi Bay is Ohio’s biggest water park, located across the river from Shawnee Hills. The park is one of the reasons so many people choose to live in this area. Zoombezi Bay is a great place for adults and children. Some of the most thrilling rides are Big Boa Falls, Croctail Creek, Sandbar, Baboon Lagoon, Cyclone, Python Plunge, and the Roaring Rapids Action River.
You can also enjoy many of its restaurants and bars—some of which you can swim up to!
3 Fun Things to Do in Columbus, Ohio for Adults
These adult-oriented activities make for great outings with friends or a date night.
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German Village
German Village is a beautiful neighborhood with brick homes interspersed with restaurants, bars, and cute shops.
Local attractions within walking distance include the Book Loft, an independent bookstore, Schiller Park, where you can watch Shakespearean theatre; and the Scioto Audubon Center, offering a beautiful view of the Columbus skyline. Don't miss having a scoop at Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams.
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Pins Mechanical
This old-school gaming venue in Downtown Columbus is adults-only after 9 pm. Here, you can enjoy retro games like pinball alongside classics like Jenga, foosball, and duckpin bowling. The bar offers a long list of cocktails, and there's a shop where you can pick up some cool merchandise.
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Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum
If you’re interested in vintage cars, Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum should be at the top of your list of fun things to do in Columbus, Ohio for adults. The museum is nestled in the primarily residential neighborhood of Schumacher Place.
This is a small museum without fixed hours or regular staff, so you must schedule an appointment. Once inside, you’ll be treated to a private collection of automobiles as well as unique license plates and memorabilia. Since it is a privately owned collection, you may get a tour from the owner himself.
3 Fun Family Things to Do in Columbus, Ohio
If you’re traveling with kids, here are a few places you must visit.
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Center of Science and Industry
Known as CoSi, this is one of the best children-friendly science museums in the country. The museum has several interactive exhibits, with ‘Progress,’ a life-size reproduction of how a small town evolved through the 19th and 20th centuries, being the most popular. There’s a permanent exhibit on water and a gallery of Dinosaur fossils.
If you’re not traveling with kids, the museum's bar should be added to your list of fun things to do for adults in Columbus, Ohio. There's also the Genoa Park Amphitheater, which hosts several concerts and events throughout the year.
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Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Apart from schools in the region, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium are among the reasons people move to Powell, a welcoming suburb in Columbus known for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and attractions.
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is home to 10,000+ animals from 600 species. You can also book a Zoo tour to get closer to the animals.
The zoo also has several amusement-style rides ranging from a historic carousel to a 4D movie theatre. Once you’ve built up an appetite, eat at one of the zoo’s many restaurants.
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LEGOLAND Discovery Center
LEGOLAND in Columbus is a must-visit with your family.
You can see how Lego blocks are made, create customized mini figurines, and see miniature Columbus landmarks made from Lego. There’s also a 4D movie theatre with 30-minute shows about classic Lego characters.
Kids are welcome to play with Lego blocks, and of course, there’s a gift shop where you can add a Lego set to your collection.
3 Free Things to Do in Columbus, Ohio
Entertainment doesn’t have to be expensive. Many museums and galleries in Columbus provide free entry on certain days. At other times, you can check out these free things to do in Columbus, Ohio.
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Short North Arts District galleries
From artists and photographers to designers and inventors, this is where Columbus’s creative class thrives. This community has an abundance of galleries you can explore. You can also sign up for a free Short North Arts District Art Trail. The Sunday Bazaars are another popular attraction.
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Columbus Metropolitan Library
With many locations throughout the city, the Columbus Metropolitan Library features a vast collection of books and hosts year-round literary events. There are storytime sessions for children of all ages throughout the year. They also host temporary exhibits, author talks, and seasonal events with free entry.
2. Performances at Bicentennial Park
Bicentennial Park, located between W Rich Street and E Main Street, is unique. It covers almost five acres and features beautiful gardens, a fountain, and a performance pavilion.
The Scioto Mile Fountain is its most well-known attraction. It’s a lovely place to spend an evening or have a picnic. Moreover, the performance pavilion regularly hosts free music and dance performances.
Moving to Columbus? Prepare for a Fun Experience
If you're moving to Columbus, Ohio, you're in for a treat!
This city is filled with the best cultural attractions and endless fun things to do for families and adults. From exploring artistic hubs like the Short North Arts District to relaxing in one of its many parks, each neighborhood offers something to explore.
Get ready to dive into the fun things to do in Columbus, Ohio!
FAQs
What is Columbus, Ohio famous for?
Columbus, Ohio is known for its innovative art scene, historic architecture, diverse neighborhoods, and unique attractions, such as the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Franklin Park Conservatory, and the Scioto Mile.
Are there any free things to do in Columbus, Ohio?
Yes,! Columbus offers many free activities, including exploring the Short North Arts District, attending performances at Bicentennial Park, and visiting the Columbus Metropolitan Library.
What are the best restaurants in Columbus, Ohio?
Columbus, Ohio, has an impressive list of food spots that make dining out memorable. If you're in the mood for a delicious dinner, head to Lindey's in the heart of German Village. For steak and seafood lovers, Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse in downtown Columbus offers a luxurious vibe with live music. Another favourite is The Guild House in the Short North Arts District. Each place offers the best of Columbus dining.
