Top ten things to do in Columbus, Ohio
Columbus, Ohio is a fascinating and diverse city. Here's our pick of the top ten things not to miss on your next trip.
2. Short North Arts District
The Short North Arts District is the art and soul of Columbus. Art lovers are invited to take a self-guided tour on the nationally acclaimed Gallery Hop which is held on the first Saturday of the month and features new exhibitions from local galleries. Tour the Short North Arts Trail, through one of Columbus' most creative and vibrant neighbourhoods located just north of Downtown. Experience streets teaming with culture, building facades filled with colourful murals, and a unique blend of history and modernity.
3. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
A botanical landmark just two miles east of downtown Columbus, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens features exotic plant collections and displays, seasonal exhibitions and gardens. All ages can partake in a variety of special events and activities throughout the year. Visit the world's largest collection of Dale Chihuly's glass artwork in a botanical garden and make sure not to miss the Scott's Miracle Gro Children's Garden if visiting with the kids!
4. Columbus Museum of Art
This museum, designed by a local architect, features gallery space for the museum's permanent collection, and a bright area for special exhibitions. The museum collects and exhibits American and European modern and contemporary art, folk art, glass art and photography. An outdoor sculpture garden and excellent new restaurant make it a great spot to enjoy any time of day.
5. National Veterans Memorial and Museum
The National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM) is the United States' national museum for veterans of the U.S Armed Forces. The museum is located along the Scioto River between Franklinton and Downtown Columbus.
The museum's main focus is on the personal stories of U.S. veterans, in contrast to other war museums that are dedicated to the conflicts themselves. It opened on October 27, 2018, as a reimagining of the Franklin County Veterans Memorial, a museum dedicated to veterans from the surrounding county, established in 1955.
6. LEGOLAND Discover Center
The 36,000-sq.-ft. LEGOLAND Discovery Center at Easton is billed as the ultimate indoor LEGO playground. There is lots to do for all ages and the site includes two rides, 10 LEGO build and play zones, a 4D cinema, cafe and more.
7. Scioto Mile
This 253 acres of parkland in downtown Columbus features miles of multi-use trails stretching from Bicentennial Plaza in the south to North Bank Park in the North. This is a great spot to take a stroll and enjoy both the city and nature. The country's largest free outdoor climbing wall is accessible from paths along the river at Scioto Audubon Metropark. Just east of the Scioto Mile is Columbus Commons, a six-acre park in downtown Columbus with more than 240 programmes and events each year.
8. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Rated one of the top zoos in the country and home to more than 11,000 animals representing nearly 600 species from around the globe, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium leads and inspires by connecting people and wildlife. The Zoo complex is a recreational and education destination that includes the 22-acre Zoombezi Bay water park and 18-hole Safari Golf Course. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium also operates the Wilds, a 10,000-acre conservation centre and safari park.
Hand-feed a giraffe at the Heart of Africa exhibit, see a sea lion show at Adventure Cove, or see millions of lights during the holiday season at Wildlights.
A top-rated science centre with more than 300 interactive exhibits in downtown Columbus. Voted the 10Best #1 Museum for the past 3 years in a row! Don't miss the American Museum of Natural History Dinosaur Gallery.
10. Columbus Coffee Trail & Columbus Distillery Trail
Download the coffee trail pass to explore one of the best coffee scenes in the Midwest, and taste what happens when quality and collaboration come first; or, start the Columbus Distillery Trail and experience Columbus' local distillers. They're passionate about their proprietary recipes, twists on traditional flavours and tried & true ingredients.
