20 Things to Do in Columbus That Locals Pretend They Don’t Love

Columbus, Ohio doesn’t always shout—but it knows exactly who it is. It’s the kind of place that rewards curiosity: one moment you’re wandering through a world-class art museum, the next you’re sipping locally roasted coffee in a plant-filled café, or catching a spontaneous concert in a park downtown. This capital city blends Midwestern warmth with just enough edge to keep things interesting.

Home to Ohio State University, an impressive food scene, and one of the country’s most creative indie retail districts, Columbus has become a magnet for makers, dreamers, and weekend wanderers. It’s where historic neighborhoods like German Village bump up against sleek new builds in the Short North Arts District. Where bike trails crisscross breweries and sci-fi exhibits live across from botanical gardens.

Whether you’re here for a family trip, a food-fueled getaway, or just exploring what’s between the coasts, there are plenty of things to do in Columbus, Ohio that go way beyond expectations. This guide covers the best of them—from seasonal events and hidden gems to the can't-miss local icons. Pack your walking shoes and bring your appetite. Columbus is ready to surprise you—in the best way possible.

1. Explore the Short North Arts District

Location: N High St between Goodale Park & the OSU campus, Columbus, OH

If Columbus had a heartbeat, it would pulse strongest in the Short North Arts District. This energetic stretch of North High Street is where art, food, fashion, and community converge—a place that’s as bold and colorful as the murals splashed across its brick walls. By day, it’s a strollable haven of independent boutiques, record shops, and sunlight-drenched cafés. By night, it hums with rooftop bars, chef-driven restaurants, and people who know how to make a Tuesday feel like a Friday.

One of the best times to visit is during Gallery Hop, held the first Saturday of every month. It turns the district into an open-air art party—galleries debut new shows, street performers take to the sidewalks, and restaurants stay buzzing well into the night.

But even outside the event, this neighborhood has an unmistakable creative spark. Step inside places like ROY G BIV Gallery or Lindsay Gallery, then grab a bite at Brassica or The Pearl. It’s the kind of place you don’t just visit—you absorb.

2. Visit the Columbus Museum of Art

Location: 480 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215

There’s something grounding about the Columbus Museum of Art—it doesn’t overwhelm like massive institutions often do, but instead invites you in slowly, like a thoughtful conversation. Known for its strong modern and contemporary collections, the museum also puts a spotlight on local artists, photography, and American impressionism.

One of its most beloved features is the Wonder Room—an interactive space that blurs the line between play and curation, where kids and adults alike are encouraged to touch, tinker, and imagine. Meanwhile, rotating exhibits bring in national and international artists that challenge and inspire.

Don't miss the sculpture garden, the quiet courtyard, or a stop at Schokko Café, which serves up artfully plated lunches and strong coffee. Whether you're a serious art lover or just looking for a serene escape from the bustle, CMA delivers beauty and depth in a way that feels deeply human.

3. Wander Through Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Location: 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203

Few places in Columbus offer a better all-season escape than Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Even when winter has the city wrapped in gray, you can step into the warm, glass-domed Palm House and find yourself surrounded by lush greenery, orchids, and the gentle flutter of tropical butterflies. It’s not just a botanical garden—it’s a mood reset.

The Conservatory blends natural beauty with high art, housing a permanent collection of Chihuly glass sculptures that glow like stained glass among the foliage. In spring, butterflies take flight in the Pacific Island Water Garden, while fall brings pumpkin displays and harvest-themed exhibits. The outdoor gardens stretch across 88 acres and include a community garden campus, a children’s garden, and peaceful walking paths.

Whether you’re snapping pics of vibrant blooms, attending a gardening workshop, or just catching your breath in the Zen-like Bonsai Courtyard, this place makes you slow down—and smile.

4. Tour the Ohio Statehouse

Location: 1 Capitol Square, Columbus, OH 43215

History and architecture buffs, this one’s for you. The Ohio Statehouse, with its impressive Greek Revival architecture, is one of the oldest working state capitol buildings in the country—and it still looks regal with its wide limestone steps, columned façade, and iconic rotunda. But the real magic happens inside.

Free guided tours (offered daily) take you through Senate and House chambers, ornate corridors, and the soaring rotunda where natural light filters through a stunning stained-glass dome. Along the way, you’ll hear stories about Ohio’s political legacy, Civil War connections, and even ghost sightings (yep, it’s on the haunted map).

The Statehouse grounds are also worth a walk—with monuments, fountains, and wide lawns perfect for a reflective pause. Whether you're into civics or just appreciate historic buildings that still hum with purpose, the Statehouse is a must.

5. Stroll the Scioto Mile

Location: Along the Scioto River, Downtown Columbus (between Bicentennial Park and North Bank Park)

The Scioto Mile isn’t just a riverwalk—it’s a full-scale urban revitalization success story. Stretching through the heart of downtown Columbus, this green corridor connects the city to the water in a way that’s both scenic and soulful. With bike paths, fountains, landscaped lawns, and public art, it’s one of the best places in the city to slow down, stretch your legs, or simply take in the view.

Start your stroll at Bicentennial Park, where kids splash in interactive fountains and couples linger at shaded café tables. Follow the river north past giant bronze sculptures, skyline reflections in the Scioto River, and locals out walking dogs, riding scooters, or doing sunset yoga. Stop at Genoa Park for skyline photo ops, or rent a CoGo bike to cruise the full length in under an hour.

The best part? The Mile offers a peaceful contrast to downtown’s busy streets. In spring and summer, live music and festivals pop up on the lawn. In fall, it’s one of the best leaf-peeping spots in the city. And in every season, it reminds you that Columbus knows how to balance city energy with natural calm.

6. Catch a Game at Ohio Stadium (“The Horseshoe”)

Location: 411 Woody Hayes Dr, Columbus, OH 43210

There are football games—and then there’s game day at The Horseshoe. Officially known as Ohio Stadium, this iconic arena is more than a sports venue—it’s a cultural experience woven into the fabric of Columbus life. Home to the Ohio State Buckeyes since 1922, it seats over 100,000 fans, and when it’s full, the ground shakes.

From tailgates that start at dawn to the echo of “Hang On Sloopy” roaring across campus, a fall Saturday here is electric. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, the atmosphere is contagious. The chants, the band, the sea of scarlet and gray—it’s tradition, pride, and community all in one place.

If you're visiting off-season, you can still take a guided stadium tour to walk the field, explore the press box, and learn about its nearly century-old legacy. It’s one of the largest stadiums in the country and a bucket list experience for sports fans everywhere.

7. Eat Your Way Through North Market

Location: 59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215

If you want a true taste of Columbus—literally—North Market is your move. This indoor public market, established in 1876, is a bustling mash-up of global flavors, Ohio-grown produce, and passionate small-business owners. Walk in and you’ll be hit with the scent of sizzling dumplings, roasting coffee, and wood-fired pizza... and that’s just the start.

With over 30 local vendors, the hard part isn’t finding something to eat—it’s choosing what to eat first. Grab a steaming bowl of pho from Lan Viet, a chicken-and-waffle sandwich from Holy Chicken, or hand-rolled pierogies from Hubert’s. Got a sweet tooth? Try mochi donuts, Buckeye candies, or a scoop of Jeni’s Ice Cream (which started right here in Columbus).

You’ll find locals picking up dinner, office workers on lunch break, and visitors delighting in every bite. There’s also a craft beer stall, a florist, and plenty of spots to sit and soak in the energy. North Market is less a food court, more a celebration of culture, comfort, and community—served one dish at a time.

8. Get Lost in the Book Loft in German Village

Location: 631 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43206

Calling all bookworms and romantics—The Book Loft of German Village is straight-up storybook material. Set in a historic pre–Civil War building, this indie bookstore winds through 32 connected rooms of floor-to-ceiling shelves, hidden nooks, and literary treasures. The floors creak, the ceilings are low, and the rooms are organized by genre in the quirkiest, most charming way possible.

Forget polished chain bookstores—this place is cozy chaos in the best way. You'll find everything from classics and cookbooks to manga, poetry, puzzles, and rare finds. Each room has its own soundtrack (yes, they pipe in genre-specific music), and you’ll probably get turned around at least once. That’s part of the charm. It’s not just about the books—it’s about the experience of discovery.

Afterward, grab a latte from Stauf’s Coffee across the courtyard or stroll the brick-lined streets of German Village, one of Columbus’s most beautifully preserved historic neighborhoods.

9. Sample Local Spirits on the Columbus Ale Trail

Location: Citywide – Pick up a trail passport at participating breweries or online at columbusaletrail.com

Columbus isn’t just riding the craft beer wave—it’s helping shape it. The Columbus Ale Trail is a self-guided passport-style tour that features over 50 breweries across the city and surrounding region, from industrial taprooms in Franklinton to cozy neighborhood brewpubs in Clintonville.

You’ll find every flavor profile represented here: juicy IPAs, crisp pilsners, bold stouts, funky sours, and even creative ciders and hard kombuchas. Each stop has its own vibe—Seventh Son is buzzing and urban, Land-Grant has a killer beer garden, and Wolf’s Ridge pairs gourmet food with small-batch brews. Some spots offer discounts or merch for trail participants, and collecting stamps gets you prizes as you go.

The best part? You don’t need to be a beer expert to enjoy the ride. This trail is about exploration, supporting local, and discovering that craft brewing in Columbus is more about community than pretension.

10. Visit the National Veterans Memorial and Museum

Location: 300 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215

Set on the western edge of downtown, the National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM) is unlike any other veterans museum in the country. Rather than focusing solely on battles or timelines, this thoughtfully designed space tells the personal stories of veterans—from all branches, all eras, and all walks of life. It's emotional, nuanced, and beautifully modern.

The museum’s spiraling architecture reflects the circular journey of service, and inside you’ll walk through interactive exhibits that chronicle not just war, but the full arc of military life—training, family, sacrifice, coming home. It challenges visitors to reflect on the human cost of conflict and the resilience it takes to serve.

Whether you’re a veteran, have family who served, or are just looking to better understand a crucial part of American life, NVMM leaves a deep impression. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in empathy, history, and national identity.

11. Walk Through the Columbus Park of Roses

Location: 3901 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214 (within Whetstone Park)

Tucked into Whetstone Park in the Clintonville neighborhood, the Columbus Park of Roses is one of the most fragrant and photogenic places in the city—especially between May and September when the flowers hit full bloom. With over 12,000 rose bushes representing 350+ varieties, it's one of the largest public rose gardens in the U.S., and somehow still feels like a well-kept secret.

But it’s not just about roses. Stroll the formal herb garden, sit beneath a vine-draped pergola, or get lost in a maze of floral colors that change with the seasons. There’s a serenity here that’s rare in a city park—especially in the early morning, when joggers quietly pass by and the dew hasn’t yet burned off the petals.

It’s a popular spot for picnics, proposals, and impromptu photo shoots, but it never feels overrun. Whether you’re a botany buff or just want to unplug for a while surrounded by beauty, the Park of Roses delivers a peaceful pause in the middle of the city.

12. Check Out COSI (Center of Science and Industry)

Location: 333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215

If you’ve got kids, a curiosity streak, or just a soft spot for space shuttles and hands-on fun, COSI is your playground. One of the top-rated science museums in the Midwest, COSI strikes the perfect balance between education and entertainment—with over 300 interactive exhibits covering topics like space, dinosaurs, energy, oceans, and the human body.

At the heart of the museum is the Planetarium, where star shows and space-themed programs dazzle visitors of all ages. Kids can dig for fossils, climb into a real ambulance, or tinker in the gadget lab. Adults? They’ll find themselves surprisingly hooked by the immersive science demonstrations, the “Science of Beer” nights, and clever exhibit design.

It’s a multi-sensory deep dive into how the world works, and you’re encouraged to touch, ask questions, and rediscover that sense of wonder. COSI also collaborates with the American Museum of Natural History to bring rotating blockbuster exhibitions—think mummies, Marvel superheroes, or prehistoric sea monsters.

13. Grab Brunch in the Italian Village

Location: North of Downtown, centered around N 4th St & Summit St, Columbus, OH 43201

When it comes to brunch, Italian Village hits the sweet spot between trendy and laid-back. Nestled just northeast of downtown and adjacent to the Short North, this neighborhood has become a weekend ritual zone for locals who love artisan coffee, scratch-made pastries, and comfort food with a twist.

Two can’t-miss spots? Fox in the Snow, a sun-drenched industrial-style café where the pastries are big enough to share—but you won’t want to. Their soufflé-like egg sandwich and cinnamon rolls are borderline legendary. Just down the street, The Lox Bagel Shop delivers handmade bagels that are boiled, baked, and piled high with schmears, lox, eggs, and more. It's always busy, but worth the line.

After brunch, wander the quiet, tree-lined streets, check out nearby boutiques, or walk a few blocks to the Short North to burn off those calories with some window shopping or art gallery browsing. Italian Village is small, but its food scene is mighty—and full of heart.

14. Take a Murals + Public Art Walk in the University District

Location: Around The Ohio State University campus, especially along High Street, 15th Ave, and Weinland Park

Columbus doesn’t just talk about art—it puts it on every wall it can find. In the University District, home to Ohio State University, you’ll stumble upon a treasure trove of murals, installations, and sculpture that turn ordinary walks into full-on art tours. Some pieces span entire buildings; others are tucked into alleyways or hidden behind cafés.

Start near Gateway Film Center, where a mural of Columbus music legends (like RJD2 and Blueprint) honors the city’s creative roots. From there, walk north on High Street, where student-painted panels change seasonally and street art explodes in bursts of color. Keep your eyes open for pop-culture nods, historical tributes, and abstract designs that invite interpretation.

The neighborhood blends gritty and glossy, youthful and nostalgic. And because it's near campus, the vibe is energetic, the coffee shops are abundant, and creativity feels baked into the sidewalks.

15. Bike or Kayak Along the Olentangy Trail

Location: Runs 17 miles from Worthington to Downtown Columbus, with multiple access points

The Olentangy Trail is where Columbus shows off its green heart. Stretching for 17 miles, this multi-use trail runs alongside the Olentangy River and weaves through parks, Ohio State University’s campus, and quiet residential neighborhoods. It's a favorite of cyclists, joggers, and even kayak enthusiasts who launch into the gentle current near Antrim Park or Tuttle Park.

What makes this trail special isn’t just the scenery—it’s the way it connects the city. One minute you’re surrounded by forested calm, and ten minutes later you’re grabbing a smoothie in Clintonville or taking photos by the OSU wetlands. For cyclists, it’s part of the broader Central Ohio Greenways network, which links Columbus’s urban core to surrounding suburbs and preserves.

Rent a bike through CoGo Bike Share, bring your own, or explore the river from a new angle in a rented kayak or canoe. No matter how you move, the Olentangy Trail gives you Columbus at its most serene and unfiltered.

16. Catch a Show at the Ohio Theatre

Location: 39 E State St, Columbus, OH 43215

Stepping into the Ohio Theatre feels like entering a movie set—gilded ceilings, velvet seats, grand staircases, and chandeliers that drip elegance. Originally built as a 1928 movie palace, this downtown icon now hosts everything from Broadway tours and ballet to symphony concerts and comedy shows. It’s not just a venue; it’s a bucket list experience.

Home to the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, the Ohio Theatre also welcomes touring productions of major musicals, like Hamilton or Wicked, and houses annual events like the Nutcracker ballet and classic movie screenings during the summer film series. And despite the opulence, the vibe is warm and welcoming—this is a place where generations come to celebrate the arts and the moment.

Even if you’re not a regular theater-goer, the architecture alone is worth the price of admission. Pair a night out with dinner at one of the many downtown restaurants within walking distance, and you’ve got yourself a perfect Columbus evening.

17. Explore the Brewery District and Grab a Pint at Shadowbox Live

Location: 503 S Front St, Columbus, OH 43215

The Brewery District is one of Columbus’s oldest neighborhoods, but don’t let the cobblestone charm fool you—this area is alive with bold, contemporary energy. Anchoring the scene is Shadowbox Live, a unique performance venue that fuses original rock musicals, sketch comedy, burlesque, and local craft beer into one unforgettable night out.

Unlike typical theaters, Shadowbox feels more like a rebellious cousin of Broadway—raucous, hilarious, and emotionally raw in all the right ways. The performers are part of the crew, servers, and musicians—creating a DIY spirit that somehow results in incredibly polished shows. One night you might catch a Queen tribute concert; the next, a dramatic rock opera or biting political satire.

Before the curtain rises, explore the Brewery District’s revitalized scene—you’ll find beer gardens, gastropubs, and cozy nooks perfect for pre-show bites. It's an ideal mix of laid-back Columbus authenticity and big-stage energy.

18. Visit the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum

Location: Sullivant Hall, 1813 N High St, Columbus, OH 43210 (Ohio State University campus)

Hidden in plain sight on OSU’s campus, the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum is a true gem—for comic strip fans, art lovers, and anyone curious about the stories behind the panels. It’s home to the world’s largest collection of comic and cartoon art, including more than 300,000 original drawings, 45,000 books, and countless vintage comic strips and zines.

Rotating exhibitions spotlight everything from classic Peanuts and Calvin & Hobbes to underground comix and editorial cartoons. You’ll find works by iconic artists like Bill Watterson, Charles Schulz, and Raina Telgemeier, as well as lesser-known but groundbreaking voices from across the globe. There’s humor, politics, nostalgia, and plenty of “oh wow, I remember that” moments.

It’s a rare museum where you’ll hear people laughing out loud—and leave with your brain buzzing from both art and insight.

19. Relax at Topiary Park

Location: 480 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215

Columbus has no shortage of green spaces, but Topiary Park is unlike anything else you’ll find in the Midwest—or anywhere, really. This peaceful urban park is also a living sculpture garden, re-creating Georges Seurat’s famous painting “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte” using topiary art. Yes, that means shrubs shaped into people, boats, parasols, and even dogs—set beside a calm pond, just like the painting.

Wander through the scene or lay back on the grass and take it in from afar. It’s surreal and soothing, especially in spring and fall when the surrounding trees pop with color. Locals love it as a quiet escape from downtown, and art lovers make pilgrimages just to see this niche marvel in person.

The adjacent Columbus Metropolitan Library’s main branch is worth a stop too—with public art, exhibits, and a rooftop terrace that offers another angle on the park.

20. Catch a Columbus Crew or Blue Jackets Game

Location: Lower.com Field (Crew): 96 Columbus Crew Way, Columbus, OH 43215
Nationwide Arena (Blue Jackets): 200 W Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, OH 43215

If you want to feel the heartbeat of Columbus, you have two electric options: MLS soccer with the Columbus Crew or NHL hockey with the Columbus Blue Jackets. These aren’t just games—they’re full-on cultural experiences, where generations of fans show up loud, proud, and ready to rally.

Lower.com Field, the Crew’s new stadium, is sleek, modern, and built for chants, scarves, and that spine-tingling roar when a goal hits the net. Tailgates are friendly and passionate—this is America’s first pro soccer team, after all.

Meanwhile, Nationwide Arena keeps the winter nights buzzing with high-stakes hockey. The Blue Jackets’ cannon (yes, a real one) fires with every home goal, shaking the whole arena in the best way possible. It’s the kind of atmosphere that turns casual fans into diehards.

Whether you're more into footie or slapshots, you’ll walk away with memories—and probably some merch.

Conclusion

Columbus isn’t a city that demands your attention—it earns it. What starts as a weekend visit can easily turn into a place that sticks with you, thanks to its creative pulse, green spaces, and that Midwest hospitality that’s genuine to the core. Whether you're kayaking along the Olentangy, cheering at a Crew match, or finding poetry in a topiary sculpture, Columbus reveals itself in layers—casual, surprising, and unexpectedly rich.

It’s a place where indie bookstores and world-class museums coexist with food truck rallies, street art, and skyline views from a riverfront trail. You don’t need a perfect itinerary to enjoy it here—just a willingness to explore, engage, and maybe eat one too many pierogi at North Market.

So whether you're planning a quick weekend or an extended stay, Columbus delivers experiences with heart. And chances are, by the time you leave, you’ll already be plotting your return.

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FAQs

1. What is Columbus, Ohio best known for?

Columbus is known for being Ohio’s vibrant capital and the home of Ohio State University, one of the largest college campuses in the U.S. It’s also famous for its thriving arts scene, dynamic neighborhoods like the Short North, and iconic institutions like COSI and the Columbus Zoo.

2. Is Columbus worth visiting for a weekend?

Absolutely. Columbus offers a perfect blend of city energy and laid-back charm. With top-notch museums, local food markets, riverside trails, and a passionate sports culture, it’s an ideal destination for a 2–3 day getaway with plenty to do without feeling overwhelming.

3. What is there to do in Columbus at night?

From catching a show at the Ohio Theatre or Shadowbox Live to sipping cocktails on a rooftop in the Short North, Columbus has a buzzing nightlife scene. You can also catch a Blue Jackets hockey game, explore local breweries, or join a ghost walk in German Village.

4. What is the best time to visit Columbus?

Spring and fall are the sweet spots—expect mild weather, beautiful park scenery, and a packed events calendar. Summer is also popular for festivals and outdoor dining. Winters are cold but cozy, with indoor attractions like museums, theaters, and sports events in full swing.

5. Are there free things to do in Columbus?

Yes! Walk the Scioto Mile, explore Topiary Park, visit the Billy Ireland Cartoon Museum, or attend a free festival or gallery hop in the Short North. Columbus is great for budget-conscious travelers, with lots of low-cost or free experiences around the city.

6. How do you get around Columbus without a car?

Downtown Columbus is very walkable, and neighborhoods like Short North, Italian Village, and German Village are best explored on foot. CoGo Bike Share, Lime scooters, and reliable ride-share services make it easy to get around without driving. COTA (Central Ohio Transit Authority) also operates buses citywide.

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