Nestled almost smack dab in the middle of the state, Columbus is the largest city in Ohio and the capital. It gets its name from the famous explorer, Christopher Columbus, given by the first permanent white settlers who moved to the Midwest in the 1700s. Starting out as a modest community of mound builders, Columbus has undergone centuries of growth to be a buzzing metropolis with a hip vibe and booming tech industry.
The capital is home to a handful of the best pastimes in the state, offering first-timers a carefully curated concoction of state-of-the-art stadiums, thriving arts and culture scenes, quaint museums and iconic landmarks, and vibrant live entertainment venues. Still, this barely scratches the surface regarding what lies in store for holidaymakers in Columbus.
More Things To Do In Columbus: Complete Guide To The Capital City Of The Buckeye State
There’s even more to do in Columbus, Ohio, with this latest travel guide update. From historic attractions to sporting events, here’s what to see and do in Columbus.
There’s no shortage of fun things to do for travelers coming to Ohio’s capital. From exploring its historical sites and ranging over its charming, walkable neighborhoods to attending electrifying sports spectacles in world-class arenas, tourists can look forward to an action-packed itinerary.
These are the top activities to indulge in the city of Columbus.
1 Spend A Day At Columbus Zoo & Aquarium
Shutterstock
People standing in line at Columbus Zoo and Aquarium during hot summer months in Columbus, Ohio.
Set on a sprawling 582-acre property and housing more than 10,000 animals representing 600 species, this is easily one of the largest zoos in America and among the most impressive in the world.
The Columbus Zoo provides refuge to some of the most endangered animals in the world, such as the Amur tigers and red pandas.
The facility boasts several exotic habitats, most notably the Heart of Africa, which features majestic beasts from the African savanna, including lions, giraffes, and wildebeests. Guests can also inspect other habitats and animals from Asia and North America.
Admission
: Adults $24.99, Seniors & Children $18.99, Ages 3 and under Free
Hours
: Open daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Be sure to check out The Adventure Cove, an impressive marine habitat with a 100,000-gallon tank and beautiful coral reef. Visitors can also marvel at the most extensive reptile collection in the country.
2 Discover The State’s History At The Ohio Statehouse
Pixabay
The Ohio Statehouse on a sunny day, Columbus, Ohio, USA
The Ohio Statehouse is a historical landmark in the city’s heart that dazzles visitors with its impressive Greek Revival-style architecture and gorgeous gardens.
Inside the imposing building, guests can discover a treasure trove of Ohio’s rich history from a broad collection of historical artifacts, portraits, and other memorabilia, including Abraham Lincoln’s marble bust. The statehouse organizes informative guided tours where tourists can inspect its chambers, halls, and rotunda.
Afterward, sit down for a refreshing cup of coffee and a quick snack at the Capitol Café.
Admission
: Free
Tour hours
: 10 am to 3 pm (from noon on weekends),
3 Sample The City’s Art Scene At The Columbus Museum Of Art
nColumbus Ohio: Columbus Museum of Art.”” data-modal-id=”single-image-modal” data-modal-container-id=”single-image-modal-container” data-img-caption=””Shutterstock””>
Shutterstock
Columbus Ohio: Columbus Museum of Art.
Art enthusiasts can fulfill their heart’s desires at the impressive Columbus Museum of Art. The facility houses an outstanding collection of intimate art from around the world. This ranges from early to modern European and American paintings, Cubist art, Impressionist works, and photography to glassworks.
Some of the highlights of visiting the Columbus Museum of Art include the “Still Life with Compote and Glass” piece by Picasso, the “Morning Sun” by Edward Hopper, and “The Mediterranean” by Monet. Also, the facility’s gardens host some spectacular sculptures worth viewing.
Admission
: Adults $18, Seniors (60+) $9, Students (18+) $9, Children (4–17) $9, Children (0–3) free, Thursdays (5–9 pm) $5,
Hours
: Tuesday to Wednesday and Friday to Sunday from 10 am – 5 pm, Thursday from 10 am – 9 pm (closed on Mondays)
While inspecting the museum’s artwork, keep the young ones busy at the Chase Center or Wonder Room with entertaining activities, including hands-on drawing and fun games.
4 Shop For Fresh Produce At North Market Farmers’ Market
nColumbus, Ohio: North Market and Brewery District.”” data-modal-id=”single-image-modal” data-modal-container-id=”single-image-modal-container” data-img-caption=””Shutterstock””>
Shutterstock
Columbus, Ohio: North Market and Brewery District.
Since 1876, the North Market Farmers’ Market has hosted farmers and vendors hawking fresh farm produce, baked goods, and other artisanal merchandise to the city residents. Today, it stands proud as a historic landmark in Columbus, packed with stalls and stands where tourists come to explore and buy various items.
The market sells fresh produce from local growers, including flowers, fruits, vegetables, spices, and aromatic herbs. Besides being a colorful and chaotic scene in the city worth checking out, guests can also taste local cuisine at the different stalls selling homemade pastries and other food selections.
Although the North Market is open year-round, it only hosts the popular farmers’ market on Saturday mornings from June to October.
5 Get Up Close With Nature At The Franklin Park Conservatory And Botanical Gardens
nColumbus, Ohio: Bonsai display at Franklin Park Conservatory”” data-modal-id=”single-image-modal” data-modal-container-id=”single-image-modal-container” data-img-caption=””Shutterstock””>
Shutterstock
Columbus, Ohio: Bonsai display at Franklin Park Conservatory
Lovers of green and calm spaces will feel at home touring this excellent facility. Located on the eastern side of Columbus, the Franklin Park and Botanical Gardens is home to fascinating flower beds, beautiful botanical gardens, and gorgeous greenhouses. There are over 400 plant species, ranging from trees and shrubs to flowers from across the globe.
Established in 1895, the gardens have grown exponentially to include indigenous and native flora, with tropical, desert, and island plant species represented.
The picturesque paths, lush lawns, and appealing atmosphere culminate in the perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon stroll that visitors to Columbus can take advantage of.
Admission
: Adults $22, Seniors $19, Children $15, Ages 2 and under Free
Hours
: Open daily, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Don’t forget to check out the awe-inspiring Victorian-style architecture of the Palm House or admire the vast collection of glassworks by Dale Chihuly.
Shutterstock
Columbus, Ohio, USA: Aerial view of Ohio Stadium, also known as the Horseshoe
The Ohio faithful take their sports seriously, and there’s no better way to experience this than attending a college football game at the Ohio Stadium.
Constructed in 1922 and with a capacity of at least 104,000, the stadium, popularly known as “The Horseshoe,” is a historic city landmark included on the National Register of Historic Places and one of the largest sports stadia in America.
During Ohio State Buckeyes football team’s home games, the stadium gets packed to the rafters, and the atmosphere is one to behold.
The thundering roar from one of the most passionate college football fanbases reverberating around the arena easily eclipses a typical NFL game experience—no need to mention that it can be a nightmare for opposing teams.
Besides hosting football games, the stadium is also a famous concert venue where big-name bands like The Rolling Stones and Metallica have had big performances.
Hours and tickets:
Check the website for scheduled games and ticket prices
The stadium gets packed, so arrive early for the best seats and enjoy the exciting tailgate action.
7 Step Into A Realm Of Fantasy And Science Fiction At Otherworld
Pexels
The Statue in the Water Fountain of the Columbus Museum of Art, Columbus, Ohio.
Otherworld is a modern-day wonder and the bizarre brainchild of at least 40 artists. Spread across approximately 32,000 feet, it comprises dozens of rooms and installations housing art exhibitions, interactive playgrounds, and virtual reality universes. Stepping into Otherworld transports guests into a new dimension full of fun and laughter.
Ideal for kids and adults alike, it offers an excellent opportunity to get lost in an alternative immersive reality and make the most of a rare form of entertainment.
Admission
: Adults $22, Children $18, Seniors & Military $20, Ages 3 and under Free
Hours
: Open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
Topiary Park is one of the most eccentric attractions in Columbus. Located in downtown’s Discovery District, this is not a typical public park, and its artistic impression of A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatteby Goerges Seurat leaves many in awe.
The art was the brainchild of James T. Mason, who worked with his wife to recreate the iconic post-impressionist painting.
There’s a lot to marvel at, including the park’s pond which mirrors the Seine River in the painting. Guests can inspect at least 50 intricately human figures spread across the 9.2-acre park when not relaxing in the laid-back atmosphere of Topiary Park.
Admission
: Free
Hours
: Open daily, 7 am – 11 pm
9 Sample The City’s Craft Brewery Scene Along The Columbus Ale Trail
Shutterstock
View of downtown Columbus, Ohio
Columbus has a thriving craft brewery culture and this is evidenced by the over 50 craft breweries in the city. Fortunately, the Columbus Ale Trail offers booze lovers a rare opportunity to discover these breweries in an unforgettable adventure. There are 35 participating breweries, each with a unique vibe and fresh experience.
Tourists can get a Columbus Trail Passport at any of the breweries on the trail in Franklin County to receive a stamp every time they make a purchase.
After collecting the 35 stamps, present the stamped passport to the Ohio Taproom and receive a limited edition t-shirt as a worthy memento of the experience.
10 Enjoy Retail Therapy At Easton Town Center
Shutterstock
Easton Town Center in Columbus, Ohio is anchored by Macy’s and Nordstroms
Easton Town Center is the city’s shopping Mecca about 10 miles from downtown. But shopping isn’t the only attraction here, the complex was designed to resemble a mid-20th century town, which wows visitors with calm streets, green parks, and red-brick town squares.
The mall attracts about 30 million visitors annually, who come to shop for various merchandise in 150+ stores in the complex, including renowned brands like Louis Vuitton, Macy’s, and Gucci.
After shopping, settle down at the 30-screen AMC Theater to watch the latest flicks in Hollywood or catch a rib-cracking comedy performance at the Columbus Funny Bone.
Hours
: Monday to Friday, 10 am – 9 pm, Sunday noon – 6 pm
11 Learn Interesting Facts At The Center Of Science And Industry
Shutterstock
CCOSI (an acronym for Center of Science and Industry) is a science museum and research center located in Columbus, Ohio in the United States.
A must-visit for vacationing families, the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) is a fascinating facility that promises to interest kids and adults alike. It is the perfect opportunity to spark an interest in science in young souls through hands-on and interactive exhibits.
As children get their hands dirty fiddling with the displays, adults will enjoy a history lesson at the Dinosaur Gallery and discover how energy comes about at the Energy Explorer exhibit.
The Center of Science and Industry also houses the state’s largest planetarium, where visitors can step into a 60-foot dome for an engrossing journey into the galaxy or human body.
Admission
: Adult – $20, Child – $15
Hours
: Open daily, 10 am – 5 pm
Watch out for fun live shows at the Rat Basketball and The Electricity Show, which always prove to be a hit with the entire family.
12 Best Time To Visit Columbus
Pixabay
Ortan Hall at Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.
The climate in Columbus alternates between humid continental and humid subtropical, resulting in very changeable weather featuring mild to intense precipitation around the year.
That being said, the best time to visit is from mid-June to Mid-September, when the city enjoys the longest stretch of temperate weather with little cloud cover and rainfall.
The conditions are pleasant for enjoying its outdoor attractions, and the skies are clear with plenty of natural light.
Spring weather can be erratic
The weather pattern during springtime is changeable, starting chilly, cloudy, and rainy before switching to more comfortable conditions towards the end of the season.
Beautiful weather can occur in May, with a mix of sunny conditions and enchanting bursts of bloom, ideal for exploring the southeast Ohio hills.
The peak season is summer
Summer welcomes the highest number of tourists to Ohio’s capital, keen to make the most of the warm, sunny days in the city. Although the occasional heatwaves can be uncomfortable and humidity stifling, the weather is generally tolerable, and outdoor activities like concerts and festivals dominate the city.
Columbus’s hip nightlife and intense craft beer scene also come to life during summer.
Accommodation, flight, and service prices take a significant hike in July and August; tourists are advised to book months in advance to avoid high prices.
Pixabay
Entrance to the Ohio Theater, Columbus, Ohio.
Fall is a popular shoulder season
Fall welcomes pleasantly mild conditions that, combined with the thinner crowds and fantastic fall foliage, make it one of the best times to tour the city.
With occasional bursts of warm weather, this is an excellent opportunity to get out and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the city’s several parks and green spaces.
Steer clear of Columbus winters
Those afraid of the cold should give winter a wide berth. Although short-lived, the conditions are freezing, especially in January and February, and snowstorms can strike the city, albeit rarely. On the bright side, this is the best time to take advantage of lodging discounts.
Unlike many Midwestern cities, Columbus seems immune to the extreme weather conditions that habitually hit the region. Most major storms frequently move to the south or north of the city.
13 Best Ways To Get Around Columbus
via: columbusunderground.com
Aerial view of Downtown Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus is a very navigable city; tourists can choose from various means of getting around and exploring its major attractions.
Bus
The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) is the regional public transit system that operates a fleet of buses traversing every corner of Columbus. This features the CBUS, a free shuttle service circling downtown Columbus between Short North Arts District and Brewery District.
It is perfect for surveying the downtown area and its cute neighborhoods, with stops at famous attractions like the German Village, Pistacia Vera Macaron, and Columbus Brewing Company.
Bust fares
: $2 for single rides, $4.50 for a day pass, $25 for a 7-day pass, free transfers
Ohio’s capital city is also worth viewing on two wheels. Those who like to incorporate some exercise during their tour of Columbus can take advantage of the city’s CoGo Bike Share Program.
With a network of 300+ bikes spanning 30 stations in the downtown region, guests will have no issues finding a set of wheels.
The bicycles are available for hire any time of the day, and visitors can check the CoGo Bike program website to find the nearest station.
Although Columbus isn’t a huge city, there is no harm in driving a car. This can be a convenient option for visiting more distant sights outside the city center. Considering the central location of the capital in the state, tourists can take the chance to visit other charming towns in Ohio.
Several car rental companies, such as Budget and Enterprise, have locations spread throughout the city, including the point of entry at Port Columbus International Airport.
Car rentals
: Start at $37 per day
Check the city map to view parking locations and use pre-paid parking to find the perfect parking space downtown when planning to tour the area.
Alternatively, use the more than 500 taxi cabs in Columbus to get around the city. The largest operator is Yellow Cab.
14 Where To Eat In Columbus
Pixabay
Rear view of the Ohio Statehouse, Columbus, Ohio, USA
The Buckeye State capital boasts an eclectic dining scene with numerous restaurants and eateries competing to leave a mark on a diverse culinary market. Thanks to a generous availability of farm-fresh produce and ingredients from the city’s farmer’s markets, restaurants serve healthy and wholesome dishes.
At the same time, the young college population guarantees a bustling night scene with various watering holes.
This cute breakfast joint, nestled in the heart of the pleasant German Village restaurant, is the perfect place to have the day’s first meal. The bakery and café offer tasty treats that guests with a sweet tooth will appreciate. The most requested dishes include sticky pecan buns, cinnamon rolls, and chocolate chip cookies.
Address
: 1031 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43201-3629
Hours
: Monday to Friday (7 am – 3 pm), Saturday & Sunday (8 am – 3 pm)
Cap City is an incredible joint with a transformative décor that puts a contemporary twist to the old. It features indoor and outdoor dining areas, as well as a full bar serving various alcoholic beverages. The dishes are delicious, comprising a diverse menu, from milkshakes and blue cheese chips to pecan-crusted pork chops.
Address
: 1299 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH 43212-3135
Hours
: Monday to Thursday (11:30 am – 9 pm), Friday (11:30 – 10 pm), Saturday (11 am – 10 pm), Sunday (11 am – 9 pm)
Tourists craving authentic Spanish cuisine can find this laid-back joint inside the Columbus Museum of Art. The restaurant, which also doubles as a bar, offers a killer combo of great food and refreshing drinks. Its dimly lit interior oozes a sophisticated vibe, ideal for a romantic evening dinner.
Address
: 263 E Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43206-2323
There’s no better place to experience Ohio’s unique distillery-restaurant scene than Watershed Distillery. This popular hangout is a go-to for those looking to experience the local nightlife, having grown from distilling gins and vodkas to incorporating apple brandy, bourbon, and specialty spirits.
Address
:
1145 Chesapeake Ave, Columbus, OH 43212, United States
Hours
: Monday to Wednesday (11 am – 5 pm), Thursday to Saturday (11 am – 11 pm), Sunday (11 am – 9 pm)
15 Where To Stay In Columbus
Pixabay
Downtown Columbus skyline, Ohio.
Ohio’s state capital boasts several distinct neighborhoods, each with a unique personality and close to different attractions. Tourists contemplating a safe and charming area for their accommodation should consider the following:
Downtown
For first-timers in Columbus, downtown is the ideal place to stay. It comes with the convenience of being just 10 minutes from the John Glenn Columbus International Airport and within walking distance of various points of interest in the city center. It is also part of the city’s historic district and has a vibrant atmosphere featuring restaurants, boutiques, bars, and hotels.
University District
Located amid the city’s several higher education institutions, this neighborhood comprises a dense youthful population of students and a cluster of businesses dominated by vibrant bars, pubs, and restaurants. This is a nice choice for budget travelers who can always trail the students to discover all the affordable places.
Polaris
Polaris is a trendy neighborhood with a calm atmosphere ideal for those looking to escape the city noise. It boats the Polaris Fashion Police, one of the city’s largest malls, hosting many restaurants, apparel stores, movie theaters, and cafes. It is an excellent option for guests craving retail therapy.
Short North & Italian Village
To the north of downtown Columbus is this quaint neighborhood that gets its name from Italian immigrants who settled there.
As expected, the Italian Village is a hotbed of culture with several coffee shops and restaurants serving sumptuous Italian cuisine and fabulous art venues, making it one of the most preferred areas to stay.
Columbus statue on the south side of City Hall, Columbus, Ohio
Tourists need not worry about finding a cozy spot to lie down and rejuvenate after a tedious journey to the capital city of Ohio. Columbus is full of hotel options catering to high-end tourists with deep pockets to budget travelers more interested in sampling its top visitor spots.
Amenities
: Fitness center, Business center, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Tea/coffee maker, Restaurant, Coffee machine, Coffee shop, Free Wi-Fi, Valet parking
Amenities
: Cable or satellite TV, Indoor pool, Free toiletries, Free Wi-Fi, Coffee machine, Free parking, Business center, Fitness center, Wi-Fi available in all areas, Flat-screen TV,
Amenities
: Business center, Free parking, Fitness center, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Indoor pool, Restaurant, Tea/coffee maker, Coffee machine
17 Top Saving Tips When Visiting Columbus
Pixabay
Downtown Columbus cityscape, Ohio.
Columbus is an exciting tourist destination with a raft of exciting activities to keep everyone happy. The best part is that tourists don’t need deep pockets to taste what Buckeye State’s capital offers. Here are helpful tips first-timers can use not to blow their budgets:
While most tourists rush to rent a car, hiring a bike is the best way to remain frugal when touring the city. The CoGo Bike Share program offers quick access to two wheels, enabling guests to traverse the major sights and sounds in the town, especially the downtown district.
There are a lot of fun activities and attractions in the city. Tourists should take advantage of the free pastimes to go easy on the pocket. Luckily, Columbus offers plenty of them without taking away from experience.
From touring the gorgeous German Village neighborhood and exploring the vibrant North Market to exploring the Ohio Statehouse and window shopping at Polaris Fashion Police, guests won’t spend a dime.
Lastly, stay on the heels of the large college crowd in Columbus to discover all the affordable places in the city. The Ohio State University students know all the cheap joints to eat, low-cost transportation modes, and attractions that don’t charge admission fees.
18 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Columbus
Pixabay
Historic Green Lawn Cemetery in Columbus, Ohio.
After a hearty breakfast at Fox in the Snow, start the day’s itinerary in the middle of the city by taking a free tour of the awesome Ohio Statehouse. Check out the Capital Square Complex before stopping by the statehouse museum gift shop for a cute souvenir.
Head to the National Veterans Memorial and Museum to pay homage to fallen heroes, then walk to Main Street Bridge, heralded among the most snap-worthy landmarks in Ohio. Remember to take a few pictures to document the visit.
Before a savory Spanish lunch at Barcelona restaurant, pass by the historic North Market to scout the fresh produce on sale and interact with local vendors. Spend the early hours of the afternoon admiring the exotic species of animals, birds, and reptiles at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium.
Later, hop on two wheels and ride down to Scioto Mile, soaking in the scenic views of the riverfront. Finally, finish the day at Otherworld for a once-in-a-lifetime experience before catching up with locals at Watershed Distillery till the closing of business.
FAQ
Q: Is Columbus worth visiting?
Ohio’s capital is a bustling vacation destination, boasting some of the most fun activities in the entire state. It has multiple historical landmarks, world-class sports stadiums, lively entertainment venues, and charming neighborhoods worth visiting.
Q: Why do people like Columbus?
Many people love Columbus for its diverse and friendly community and the ample fun pastimes that it offers. It is also proximally located in the state, making it easy to take a weekend trip to the less-known yet delightful towns around Ohio.
Q: What makes Columbus stand out from other Ohio cities?
Aside from being the capital and hosting one of the oldest functioning state capitols in the nation, Columbus boasts arguably the most electrifying college football stadium in America. It is also home to the first craft beer hotel in the world.
