things to do in columbus ohio with kids

Columbus, Ohio, is a fantastic city to visit with kids, offering a variety of fun and educational activities for the whole family. Here are some popular things to do in Columbus with kids:

1. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: Home to polar bears, penguins, and sharks, the Columbus Zoo is a must-visit attraction for kids who love animals.
2. Center of Science and Industry (COSI): This interactive science museum features hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and a giant screen theater.
3. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus: An indoor theme park with rides, 4D movies, and LEGO play areas.
4. Columbus Children’s Museum: Designed for kids aged 12 and under, this museum offers interactive exhibits and play areas focused on art, science, and imagination.
5. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: Explore over 400 acres of gardens, greenhouses, and art installations, including a children’s garden with interactive play areas.
6. Columbus Metropolitan Library: This modern library offers a kids’ area with a playful, interactive environment and regular storytime sessions.
7. Imagination Station: A hands-on science center with interactive exhibits and experiments.
8. Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks: With over 200 parks and trails, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, such as hiking, biking, and picnicking.
9. Zoombezi Bay: A water park with slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river, perfect for hot summer days.
10. Columbus Clippers Baseball: Catch a minor league baseball game at Huntington Park, which offers a family-friendly atmosphere and activities like face painting and balloon twisting.

Seasonal Events:

• Columbus Festival of the Arts (June): A free festival featuring live music, food, and art activities for kids.
• ComFest (June): A community festival with music, food, and kids’ activities.
• Ohio State Fair (August): A classic state fair with rides, games, and agricultural exhibits.
• Columbus Halloween Parade (October): A spooky-fun parade with costumes and trick-or-treating.
• Columbus Winterfest (February): An outdoor winter festival with ice skating, live music, and kids’ activities.

Other Tips:

• The Columbus Attractions Pass can save you money on admission to multiple attractions.
• Many museums and attractions offer free or discounted admission on certain days of the week or month, so be sure to check their websites for deals.
• Consider staying in the downtown area or nearby suburbs to make the most of your visit.

With so many fun and educational activities, Columbus is an excellent destination for families with kids.