Top 23 Engaging Things to Do in Columbus: A Comprehensive Guide

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is home to an incredible 10,000 animals in 6 unique regions. Every visit is a global safari! You'll marvel at the diversity, from the regal lions of Africa to the graceful cheetahs of the interior. Don't miss Jungle Jack's Landing - an amusement park inside the zoo! The nearby Zoombezi Bay water park is perfect for summer relaxation. A true experience that combines education with pure fun!

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a gem in Columbus! Offering a unique blend of horticulture and art, these dynamic gardens have something for every season. Explore the Palm House with its gorgeous glass artwork or admire the dazzling seasonal displays. The Holiday Lights are especially magical. Just a short walk away, indulge in local art at the historic Kelton House Museum & Garden. Be enchanted by the fascinating plant and flower displays, then learn about local history - a culture lover's paradise.

Experience the extraordinary at "Otherworld," a 32,000-square-foot immersive art installation in Columbus. This fantasy world of secret passageways, large-scale artwork and interactive technology takes visitors on a journey of exploration and discovery. Fans rave about the attention to detail and endless opportunities for unique photos. Don't forget to explore the botanical beauty of the Franklin Park Conservatory, just a 10-minute drive away. Don't miss the Rage Room, it's a particular crowd pleaser!

Inniswood Metro Gardens is a nature lover's paradise tucked away in the middle of bustling Columbus. Get lost in 123 acres of picturesque gardens, streams and woodlands filled with vibrant botanical beauty. Visit the Rose Garden for a stunning photo or the Herb Garden to invigorate your senses. Don't miss the opportunity to observe the fascinating wildlife. Nearby, Blendon Woods Metro Park awaits for more nature adventures. Remember that the most beautiful flowers bloom in spring and early summer!

Immerse yourself in the vibrant life of the city at Bicentennial Park and enjoy free concerts on warm summer evenings. The beautifully landscaped park with its impressive fountains and manicured greenery is a feast for the eyes. If you're lucky, you might stumble upon a food festival! Conveniently, it's just a stone's throw from the bustling Scioto Mile, another area worth visiting that's bursting with art, history, and culture. The proximity means you can easily explore both attractions in one day.

The "Columbus Park of Roses" should be one of the attractions you must visit! Breathe in the fragrant beauty of 12,000 roses spread across 13 acres! Stroll through the labyrinthine herb garden and the enchanting perennial garden with its green canopy. In addition to the blooming blossoms, it also hosts community events like Rose Day in June. Just ten minutes away is the whimsical "Whetstone Park," another botanical paradise. The Park of Roses is more than just flowers - it's a living, sensory experience!

Immerse yourself in the exciting atmosphere of Huntington Park, a state-of-the-art baseball stadium in Columbus. This award-winning stadium, home to the Columbus Clippers, offers affordable tickets, a variety of dining options, and impressive views of the city skyline. A game under the lights is not to be missed! Plus, the stadium is very close to the bustling Arena District and North Market, where local dining and entertainment options abound. It's a perfect slice of Americana in the heart of Columbus.

Sharon Woods in Columbus is a nature lover's paradise. It promises 761 acres of breathtaking green spaces, tranquil lakes and exciting hiking trails.

Immerse yourself in nature at Schiller Park, a popular gem in the heart of Columbus' charming German Village. With its 23 acres of tranquil landscape, it's a paradise for walkers, picnic lovers and bird watchers. In the mood for some art? Don't miss the Actor's Theater's free summer performances. Stroll the brick-paved streets to the Book Loft, which houses 32 rooms of affordable books, or sip a frothy beer at the quirky Katzinger's Delicatessen.

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Blacklick Woods Metro Park in Columbus, where old-growth forests and wildflower meadows await. Observe wildlife from the convenient observation deck or hike the 4.7-mile trail through dense trees and wetlands. Don't miss the lively nature center, where nature and technology merge for an interactive affair. There's even a hidden golf course! Near Blacklick, you'll find Pickerington Ponds Metro Park - a birdwatcher's paradise. Explore Columbus at its best.

An exciting blend of science and fun, COSI in Columbus is an award-winning complex that piques the curiosity of visitors of all ages. In addition to interactive exhibits, it features Ohio's largest planetarium and a historic replica of the 1962 John Glenn Friendship 7 spaceship. Fridays are less crowded, ideal for those seeking a quiet experience. Just a short walk away, you'll find the stunning downtown Columbus skyline and the breathtaking Scioto Mile Riverfront Park, which offers a picturesque end to a sensational day.

Experience the vibrant heart of Columbus at the John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons! This modern green oasis amidst the urban expanse is the perfect place to relax or enjoy outdoor events. Don't miss the Commons for Kids every Tuesday - a fun family event with free activities. Enjoy delicious food from nearby food trucks or stroll to Scioto Mile, just a stone's throw away, for mesmerizing waterfront views. Columbus Commons is a living testament to the vibrant spirit of Columbus!

Goodale Park, a vibrant oasis in Columbus, promises an unforgettable retreat from city life. The picturesque Victorian pavilion and charming pond with its friendly ducks will make your walk a magical experience. You can experience local artists at the famous ComFest, a free music festival held every summer. And just a few blocks away is the trendy Short North Arts District with its many galleries, boutiques and delicious restaurants. Plan this into your Columbus trip for an authentic local experience!

A visit to Capitol Square is a must in Columbus! This vibrant heart of the city thrives on its historical significance and classic architectural beauty. It's home to the Ohio Statehouse, where free guided tours bring history to life. Have a picnic in the surrounding green gardens. Pro-tip: Don't miss the Ohio Holocaust and Liberators Memorial, a profound symbol of humanity in hard times. Just a stone's throw away is the Columbus Museum of Art, which offers a taste of creativity and culture.

Discover the surreal landscape of Topiary Park in Columbus, a living tableau that recreates George Seurat's painting "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of la Grande Jatte" in sculptural evergreens. With 54 life-size figures, the park is a veritable triumph for any greenkeeper. Little known fact: It's the only park of its kind based on a work of art. After your visit, stroll to the nearby Columbus Art Museum, where you'll find a wide range of creativity to perfectly round out your artistic endeavor.

The Ohio Theatre is a must-see when visiting Columbus. Known as the "Official Theatre of the State of Ohio," the theater offers world-class performances - from Broadway shows to ballet to concerts. The stunning Spanish Baroque architecture and lush red velvet-lined interiors make a visit worthwhile for aesthetic reasons alone! Across the street is Columbus Commons, a park with outdoor concerts and food trucks - the perfect place to relax before the show. Its grandeur will leave you breathless!

Hayden Falls Park in Columbus is a hidden gem that combines the joy of a peaceful escape with the thrill of adventure. Descend the stairs for a breathtaking view of the 35-foot waterfall and stunning gorge. It's an ideal spot for a family picnic or meditation, with wonderful photo opportunities any time of year! Don't miss the lookout point where locals enjoy bird watching. Nearby, Griggs Nature Preserve is just a mile away for more hiking and nature adventures!

Visit Antrim Park, a dazzling jewel in Columbus for nature lovers! This 120-acre park promises expansive green space with a picturesque 28-acre lake for picnicking, walking, or just relaxing. Want to stimulate your active soul? Throw yourself into adventurous bike rides along the Olentangy Greenway Trail that winds through the park. And don't miss the picturesque sunset over the lake - an insider's tip. Not far from Antrim Park is Whetstone Park, another natural wonder known for its magnificent rose garden.

Delve into the past at the Ohio History Center! Marvel at Ohio's diverse history from the Ice Age to the present with interactive exhibits and artifacts featuring Native American culture, Civil War stories, and even an original 1950s home! Don't miss the enchanting natural beauty of Ohio Village, a recreated 19th-cent. Twentieth-Century Ohio. Just a short walk away is the famous Ohio State Fairgrounds, used for entertaining events throughout the year. History buffs and culture buffs can expect a true trip back in time!

Dive deep into the underground wonders of Olentangy Caverns in Columbus! Explore the fascinating network of underground passages etched by ancient glaciers. Listen to Native American legends about Ohio's rich history. Plus, kids can search for gems in the mining shaft.

The unique National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus is a must-see. Here you'll be taken on an emotional journey through the personal stories of our bravest heroes, making it more than just a military museum. Don't miss the breathtaking view from the rooftop terrace, a hidden gem of the city. It's also just a short walk from the stunning Scioto Mile Waterfront Park, so you can combine history and natural beauty in one trip.

Discover the tranquil beauty of Pickerington Ponds Metro Park, a birdwatcher's paradise located in Columbus. The park is home to over 260 species of birds, making it a haven for wildlife. Visit the park during migratory bird season to witness a magnificent spectacle. The 1600-acre wetlands are virtually untouched and promise peaceful kayaking. Plus, there's no better sunset view in town. Don't miss the adjacent Walnut Woods with its magnificent dogwood trees and scenic picnic areas.

Zoombezi Bay, a premier water park in Columbus, offers experiences from relaxing Lazy Rivers to adrenaline-pumping waterslides. The private cabins offer an exclusive reservation for a tropical retreat, perfect for relaxing on vacation. What makes it special is the combo ticket that also allows you to visit the Columbus Zoo - an experience for two. Just a stone's throw away is the spectacular Botanical Gardens, making your day a triple adventure of nature, wildlife and wave pool.