free things to do in columbus

Columbus, Ohio, is a vibrant city with a wide range of activities to enjoy without breaking the bank. Here are some free things to do in Columbus:

1. Columbus Museum of Art’s Free Sundays: The Columbus Museum of Art offers free admission on Sundays, making it a great day to visit and explore the museum’s collection.
2. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens’ Community Days: On the first Sunday of every month, the conservatory offers free admission to its stunning gardens and greenhouses.
3. Scioto Audubon Metropark: This 120-acre park features hiking trails, a lake, and a variety of wildlife, including birds, turtles, and fish. Admission is free.
4. Columbus Metropolitan Library: The library offers free events and activities for all ages, including author readings, book clubs, and children’s storytime.
5. Goodale Park: This 35-acre park in the Short North neighborhood features walking trails, a playground, and a beautiful lake. Admission is free.
6. Columbus Commons: This 12-acre park in downtown Columbus features a playground, a carousel, and plenty of green space for picnics or relaxation. Admission is free.
7. The Short North Gallery Hop: On the first Saturday of every month, the Short North neighborhood hosts a gallery hop, featuring free admission to local art galleries and studios.
8. Columbus Farmers’ Market: Every Saturday morning, the Columbus Farmers’ Market offers free samples and tastings of local produce, baked goods, and other artisanal products.
9. Heritage Trail: This 6.5-mile trail runs along the Scioto River and offers stunning views of the city and the river. Admission is free.
10. Ohio Statehouse Tours: Guided tours of the Ohio State Capitol building are free and offer a glimpse into the state’s history and government.
11. The Columbus and Franklin County Metropolitan Park District’s Nature Centers: The district’s nature centers offer free admission and feature exhibits on local wildlife, hiking trails, and educational programs.
12. Topiary Park: This unique park features a living recreation of Georges Seurat’s painting "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte." Admission is free.
13. The Hayden Falls: Located in Hayden Falls Park, this 35-foot waterfall is a beautiful spot for a picnic or a hike. Admission is free.
14. The Ohio Theatre’s Free Outdoor Movie Screenings: During the summer months, the Ohio Theatre hosts free outdoor movie screenings in the parking lot. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy a movie under the stars.
15. The Columbus Outdoor Movie Series: This series features free outdoor movie screenings in various parks and green spaces throughout the city.

These are just a few of the many free things to do in Columbus. The city offers a wide range of activities and attractions that are perfect for visitors of all ages and interests.