things to do in columbus oh
Columbus, Ohio, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, exciting attractions, and a variety of activities to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Columbus, OH:
Attractions:
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: Home to polar bears, penguins, and sharks, as well as the famous Jack Hanna.
- Center of Science and Industry (COSI): A hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits and a giant screen theater.
- Columbus Museum of Art: A premier art museum with a collection of American and European art.
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: A stunning glasshouse with over 400 acres of gardens and greenhouses.
- Ohio Statehouse: Take a guided tour of the historic Ohio State Capitol building.
Outdoor Activities:
- Scioto Audubon Metropark: A scenic park with hiking trails, a lake, and a beautiful view of the Columbus skyline.
- Goodale Park: A popular park in the Short North neighborhood with a playground, walking trails, and a lake.
- Olentangy River Greenway Trail: A 12-mile bike and walking trail that follows the Olentangy River.
- Columbus Commons: A 12-acre park in downtown Columbus with a playground, walking trails, and plenty of green space.
- Kayaking or paddleboarding on the Scioto River: Rent equipment and explore the river.
Food and Drink:
- North Market: A historic public market with over 30 vendors selling food, produce, and handmade goods.
- Short North: A trendy neighborhood with a variety of restaurants, bars, and boutiques.
- German Village: A charming neighborhood with German-inspired restaurants and bakeries.
- Brewery District: A neighborhood with a concentration of craft breweries and bars.
- Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams: A popular ice cream shop with unique flavors.
Sports and Entertainment:
- Ohio Stadium: Catch a Buckeyes football game at this iconic stadium.
- Nationwide Arena: Home to the Columbus Blue Jackets hockey team and host to various concerts and events.
- Columbus Crew Stadium: Watch a professional soccer game at this stadium.
- Southern Theatre: A historic theater with live music and comedy performances.
- Columbus Symphony Orchestra: Enjoy classical music performances at the Ohio Theatre.
Neighborhoods to Explore:
- Short North: A trendy neighborhood with boutiques, restaurants, and bars.
- German Village: A charming neighborhood with German-inspired architecture and culture.
- Clintonville: A vibrant neighborhood with a mix of shops, restaurants, and bars.
- Grandview Heights: A charming neighborhood with a small-town feel and a variety of shops and restaurants.
- Arena District: A neighborhood with a concentration of sports venues, restaurants, and bars.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Columbus, OH. The city has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or entertainment.