Things to do in Columbus

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Schiller Park showing a pond, a fountain and a park

Columbus Attractions

Like to be kept busy while you're on vacation? If so, Columbus will be the perfect fit. This state capital has loads of opportunities when it comes to fine food, thrilling activities and big-name attractions. Start working on your travel itinerary now!

Discover the best sights in Columbus with some unique tours & day trips, or try out our list of {12 fun activities in Columbus fun activities in Columbus}. We have free cancellation and no added fees, so you can rest easy and channel your energy into planning an unforgettable vacation.

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Recommended things to do in Columbus

Number of things to do	12
Things to do from	$10
Cheapest thing to do	Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Columbus by Crazy Dash
Top 5 things to do	LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Columbus Columbus Ghost Hunt: Frights Of Columbus Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Columbus by Crazy Dash Scavenger Hunt in Columbus by Wacky Walks The Escape Game Columbus: Epic 60-Minute Adventures
Under $25	Columbus Ghost Hunt: Frights Of Columbus Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Columbus by Crazy Dash Scavenger Hunt in Columbus by Wacky Walks Columbus Scavenger Hunt: Columbus Sails East Columbus Scavenger Hunt: Discovering Columbus
With kids	LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Columbus Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Columbus by Crazy Dash Scavenger Hunt in Columbus by Wacky Walks

What to do in Columbus

Free Things to Do in Columbus

They say the best things in life are free. Make sure you visit the following around Columbus:

World's Largest Gavel - Satisfy your artistic and cultural cravings here and see talent and creativity at work.

Scioto Audubon Metro Park - Pencil in time to play and add some excitement to your trip here.

Rhodes State Office Tower - Stop by this local landmark and take in its unique design.

Ohio Statehouse - If you want to explore the history of the region through its landmarks, include this one on your sightseeing schedule.

Columbus Near East Side Historic District - Stop for a while in this thriving spot and imagine what life would be like as a local resident.

North Market - Well known among those who reside here, this site is worth checking out.

Columbus Commons - Revitalize your mind, body and soul by spending time in nature.

Things to Do in Columbus with Kids

You'll find plenty of fun things to do with your kids in and around Columbus. Keep the crew happy with our family friendly experiences.

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Columbus? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Columbus on a rainy day?

With fantastic indoor activities like a LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Columbus to keep you entertained, there’s no need to let a few drops of rain stop you from having a blast.

What should I not miss in Columbus?

Don’t venture home without checking off the following inspiring attractions:

Ohio State University
COSI
Mapfre Stadium
Ohio Stadium

Are there cheap things to do in Columbus?

Keep more of your hard-earned pennies in your pocket with these fun and frugal things to do:

What can you do in Columbus for free?

Your trip to Columbus won’t cost a fortune with free attractions like these to keep you busy:

Easton Town Center
Polaris Fashion Place
Scioto Downs
Ohio State Medical Center

Discover the most popular places to visit in Columbus

Ohio State University

Take a campus tour or just explore the area around Ohio State University, a top college in Columbus. Experience the area's lively festivals or attend a sporting event.

Greater Columbus Convention Center

During your trip, find out what's happening at Greater Columbus Convention Center, a top convention center in Columbus. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene or attend a sporting event.

Ohio Stadium

Catch an event at Ohio Stadium during your trip to Columbus. Experience the area's lively festivals or attend a sporting event.

Historic Crew Stadium

Catch an event at Historic Crew Stadium during your trip to Columbus. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene or attend a sporting event.

COSI

There’s always more to discover in this innovative science adventure center, complete with giant 3-D digital screen and hundreds of fun-filled activities.

Nationwide Arena

Catch an event at Nationwide Arena during your trip to Columbus. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Ohio State Fairgrounds

Enjoy a stop at Ohio State Fairgrounds, an entertaining place to visit in Columbus. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene and lively festivals.

Ohio Theatre

This theater is the gold-and-red velvet crown of Ohio, featuring exciting musicals and concerts on its lavish Baroque-style stage.

Palace Theatre

Combine a French palace’s interior with a landmark art deco building and you have Columbus’ favorite historic vaudeville venue, transformed into a modern theater.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Columbus

Santa Maria showing a bay or harbor and heritage elements

Downtown Columbus

4.5/5(1,219 area reviews)

The abundant dining options and live music are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Columbus. A stop by Nationwide Arena or North Market might round out your trip.

Bibibop Asian Grill is the Asian equivalent of the Chipotle style of dining.

A bowl filled with wild purple rice, bean sprouts, sauteed potatoes, chicken, cucumber, lettuce, carrot, daikon, cheese, corn and egg topped with yum yum sauce.

Polaris

4.5/5(633 area reviews)

Polaris is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Polaris Fashion Place and Magic Mountain Fun Center while in the area.

Wexner Center for the Arts which includes signage and theater scenes

University District

4.5/5(126 area reviews)

Travelers come to University District for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Wexner Center for the Arts and Newport Music Hall while you're in town.

Alternating layers of chewy brownie and rich peanut butter, covered with dark chocolate ganache!

I usually stuff myself on savory pizza pies and have no room for dessert pies. On this trip, I boxed up some pizza for a cold pizza breakfast the next morning so I could further indulge in this delight!

Easton

4.5/5(453 area reviews)

Easton is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Easton Town Center and LEGOLAND® Discovery Center while you're in town.

Santa Maria featuring a garden and signage

Worthington

Unique features of Worthington include the restaurants and shopping. Make a stop by McConnell Arts Center or The Candle Lab while you're exploring the area.