Columbus City Guide | 5 min read
Family Fun Columbus City Guide
Discover a world of family fun in Columbus, Ohio, with attractions for all ages. Explore parks, museums, and exciting activities in the heart of the Buckeye State.
Lisa Downs
01 May | read
Columbus, Ohio, is more than just the state capital; it's a dynamic hub of entertainment and culture ideal for families. Known for its thriving arts scene, expansive parks, and educational attractions, Columbus is an excellent destination for a memorable family vacation.
Explore the city's top attractions, from the exciting Columbus Zoo and Aquarium to the interactive exhibits at COSI. For those who love nature, Franklin Park Conservatory offers beautifully curated gardens that captivate visitors of all ages.
With a diverse range of dining options, lively neighborhoods like the Short North Arts District, and events happening year-round, Columbus ensures your family will find something to love. Convenient transportation and family-friendly accommodations add to the ease of your visit.
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Top Fun Things for Families in Columbus
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a fantastic spot for families looking for an exciting day out. Home to over 10,000 animals from around the globe, the zoo offers both indoor and outdoor exhibits perfect for exploring regardless of the weather.
Visitors of all ages will enjoy the polar bears, elephants, and, in particular, the vibrant aquarium section. With live shows and interactive experiences, even the youngest family members will be engaged. Plan to spend at least a half-day to fully enjoy all the zoo has to offer.
Strollers are welcome, and the zoo provides plenty of rest areas and food options, making it a convenient stop for families. The best times to visit are weekdays to avoid crowds, and don't miss their seasonal events like Wildlights during the holidays!
COSI is a favorite for families visiting Columbus, offering an array of interactive science exhibits that encourage learning and fun. With themed exhibits ranging from outer space to oceans and famous dinosaurs, there's plenty for children and adults to discover and enjoy.
The museum's planetarium offers an immersive experience, while the Little Kidspace is designed especially for younger visitors, making it an ideal destination for families with children of varying ages.
Plan your visit to coincide with one of their special events or traveling exhibits for an extra special experience. The facility is stroller-friendly, and the on-site café provides kid-friendly snacks and meals.
For a serene escape in the heart of Columbus, visit Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. This expansive garden offers various plant collections and special exhibitions that delight visitors year-round.
Children love the outdoor play garden, while families can enjoy seasonal events and workshops throughout the year. The conservatory offers a picturesque backdrop for a relaxing family picnic.
Strollers are welcome, and there is ample parking on-site. With both indoor and outdoor areas, it's a great choice any time of year. Be sure to check their schedule for family-friendly classes or exhibitions during your visit.
Located at Easton Town Center, LEGOLAND Discovery Center is a perfect stop for families with young kids who love LEGO. Inside, you'll find a variety of attractions including a 4D cinema, interactive rides, and themed building areas where kids can unleash their creativity.
The center is suitable for children aged 3–10 and is an engaging experience for parents and kids alike. Allow at least a couple of hours for your visit so children can fully engage with each section.
A café with family-friendly food options is available on-site, and Easton Town Center itself offers a wide range of shopping and dining experiences. Consider visiting during the week or early in the day to avoid the most crowded times.
The Ohio History Center offers families a unique peek into the rich history of Ohio. With engaging exhibits that include vintage vehicles, restored homes, and interactive sections, it’s a wonderful spot for history enthusiasts of all ages.
Kids will enjoy the hands-on activities and special family programs offered regularly. Plan to spend a couple of hours exploring the museum and the outdoor village, which brings history to life with costumed interpreters.
A small café provides quick snacks, and there is plenty of free parking, making it a convenient stop during your trip to Columbus. Check their schedule for special kid-friendly events and workshops during your visit.
Famous People from Columbus
Simone Biles
Simone Biles, an iconic figure in the world of gymnastics, hails from Columbus. Known for her incredible athleticism and numerous Olympic gold medals, she is an inspiration to both young and old.
Her Ohio roots and triumphant career motivate aspiring athletes from the region, making her a beloved figure not just for her sporting achievements but also for her positive influence and encouragement to pursue dreams relentlessly.
R. L. Stine
R. L. Stine, a native of Columbus, is the mastermind behind the best-selling Goosebumps series, beloved by young readers worldwide. His books have sparked imaginations and fostered a love for reading among millions of children.
Stine's connection to Columbus and his influence on children's literature make him an esteemed figure in the world of books. His stories continue to entertain and inspire creativity and exploration among young readers.
Fun Facts About Columbus
- Columbus is home to one of the largest universities in the U.S., The Ohio State University, known for its sports teams and vibrant campus life.
- The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is often ranked as one of the best in the world, contributing significantly to global conservation efforts.
- COSI has over 320,000 square feet of exhibit space, making it one of the largest science museums in the nation.
- The Scioto Mile, a downtown riverfront park, offers family-friendly pathways, fountains, and picnic spots.
- Columbus hosts the famous Red, White & BOOM! fireworks display every Fourth of July.
- The city has a vibrant food scene with over five local food markets offering diverse culinary experiences.
Free Things to Do in Columbus
Scioto Audubon Metro Park
Scioto Audubon Metro Park is a gem in downtown Columbus where families can enjoy a variety of free activities. The park offers rock climbing walls, walking trails, and an excellent playground that's perfect for kids of all ages.
The park also features bird-watching opportunities and a scenic view of the city skyline. Pack a picnic and spend an afternoon exploring nature trails or enjoying riverside views.
With numerous picnic areas and open spaces, it's ideal for a family day out. Parking is free, and the park is accessible at all times, making it a convenient spot for spontaneous outdoor activities.
Columbus Commons
In the heart of downtown, Columbus Commons offers a vibrant urban park experience. This green space hosts free events throughout the year, including concerts, fitness classes, and family movie nights, making it a lively place to visit.
Kids can enjoy the free carousel rides and explore the beautiful gardens and walking paths. When not attending an event, families can relax on the lawns with a good book or enjoy the free Wi-Fi available in the area.
The park is easily accessible and is surrounded by numerous dining options, making it simple to grab a meal before or after your visit.
Topiary Park
Topiary Park in downtown Columbus is a unique and artistic park inspired by Georges Seurat's famous painting, 'A Sunday on La Grande Jatte.' The park features stunning topiary sculptures that recreate the scenes from this iconic artwork.
Families can enjoy a relaxing stroll, take photos, or simply sit and enjoy the creative landscape. The park is free to visit and provides a great spot for a peaceful picnic or an educational walk discussing the art.
Its urban location makes parking options abundant, with metered spots nearby and other local attractions within walking distance.
OSU Campus Tour
The Ohio State University campus is open for self-guided tours, providing families with a chance to explore this prestigious university’s grounds. Visit the beautiful Oval, see the impressive architecture, or take a leisurely walk through the fine arts district.
The campus often hosts free exhibitions and lectures that visitors can take part in. It’s a wonderful educational opportunity, especially for older kids considering college.
There are numerous places to stop and enjoy the scenery or grab a bite from nearby cafes. Public parking is available around the campus, making it easy to plan a visit.
Antrim Park
Antrim Park is a favorite local spot for those who love the outdoors. This beautiful park features a lake, walking trails, and picnic areas where families can enjoy a day of leisurely activities.
Fishing is a popular activity here, with plenty of spots around the lake to cast a line. The park also connects to the Olentangy Trail, making it great for cycling or a refreshing walk.
Equipped with restrooms and ample parking, Antrim Park is an all-season destination welcoming families to enjoy nature’s tranquility without any admission fees.
A Perfect Family Day in Columbus
Start your day with a visit to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, where you can explore diverse animal exhibits until lunchtime. Enjoy a picnic at one of the zoo's designated areas or grab a bite at one of their cafés.
Next, head to COSI for an afternoon of interactive science fun. Inspire your kids by exploring the hands-on exhibits, and don’t forget the planetarium show.
As evening approaches, make your way to the Short North Arts District for dinner. Choose from a variety of family-friendly restaurants, and explore the local arts scene. Wrap up the day with dessert from one of the local ice cream shops, a sweet end to your family adventure in Columbus.
Written by Lisa Downs
Lisa has been a content writer for Family Days Out for nearly 10 years, and a keen travel writer for nearly 20. She loves experiencing the best of a city, discovering the many things to do and immersing herself in the culture, and sharing these experiences with others through her writing.
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