Top ten things to do in Columbus, Ohio

America As You Like It • 1 September 2022

Columbus, Ohio is a fascinating and diverse city.  Here's our pick of the top ten things not to miss on your next trip.

1. German Village 

An internationally recognised historic district just blocks from downtown Columbus, this 233-acre district provides a glimpse of how a working-class neighbourhood developed and grew in the early 19th century and how the passion of a small group of urban pioneers drove 20th century rehabilitation efforts. Explore the charming brick streets and alleyways of the Village. Places to eat are numerous and diverse. Schmidt's Sausage House is on the National Register and a local favourite. Pistacia Vera has excellent pastries while Lindey's is a fine upscale restaurant. Enjoy a cup of coffee, tea or hot chocolate with a slice of cake at Stauf's - they have wonderful Espresso Fudge Brownies.

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.


9. COSI 


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.

The Sounds of Tennessee: Discover the Music That Shaped America

by America As You Like It • 26 October 2026
Imagine stepping into the Memphis recording studio where Elvis Presley first made his mark, discovering the Nashville studio where country music legends recorded their hits, or standing in Bristol, where a series of recordings helped put country music on the map. Across Tennessee, in the southeastern United States, music is woven into the places you visit, from historic recording rooms to lively streets where musicians still play late into the night. For music lovers, a journey through Tennessee offers the chance to get closer to the artists, sounds and stories behind the songs. Nashville, the state capital, reveals the evolution of country music and its connections to other genres, Memphis takes you into the blues, soul and early rock ’n’ roll scenes, while Bristol traces the roots of country music. Together, they offer a fascinating insight into the music that helped shape American culture.

More Than Just Wine: The Ultimate Guide to Grapevine’s Best Festivals & Events

by America As You Like It • 15 October 2026
Discover Grapevine where historic streets, local wine tasting and the unmistakable spirit of the American West come together. Located in Texas between Dallas and Fort Worth , Grapevine offers the perfect base for discovering local culture, enjoying outdoor adventures and exploring the wider region. Wander along Historic Main Street, step into welcoming winery tasting rooms and browse independent boutiques tucked inside characterful historic buildings. Then take your adventure onto Lake Grapevine, where you can paddle along the shoreline, before heading to Fort Worth to watch the famous Stockyards cattle drive and experience Texas’s Western heritage. Plan your holiday around a lively wine festival, a summer day on the water or Grapevine’s spectacular Christmas celebrations. However you choose to explore, you will find plenty of ways to experience the character of this Texan town.

Wild Maine: A Season for Every Adventure.

by America As You Like It • 12 October 2026
Maine is the largest of the New England states, where rugged Atlantic coastline, forest-covered mountains and historic towns create a holiday full of contrasts. Sail past rocky islands, enjoy a lobster roll beside a working harbour and head inland to discover clear lakes and winding country roads. Add maritime traditions, independent galleries and wildlife encounters, and you will find plenty of reasons to explore beyond the coast. Whether you are planning a summer escape by the sea, an autumn road trip or a winter break surrounded by snow-covered scenery, knowing where to go and when makes all the difference.

Jacksonville: The Flip Side of Florida

by America As You Like It • 1 October 2026
Jacksonville offers a different perspective on Florida. While many travellers head south in search of theme parks and packed resorts, Florida's largest city combines 22 miles of Atlantic coastline with historic neighbourhoods, a thriving food scene and one of the largest urban park systems in the United States. Here, mornings begin with sunrise over the ocean, afternoons are spent exploring rivers, marshes and coastal parks, and evenings revolve around waterfront restaurants, rooftop bars and local sporting events.

Where Adventure Meets Sunshine: Exploring Central Florida

by America As You Like It • 10 July 2026
You have heard of Florida, but let us introduce you to Central Florida, where the Real Florida Magic comes to life. Home to seventeen welcoming communities, including Lakeland and Winter Haven, this region offers a wonderful mix of exciting attractions, rich culture and unforgettable adventures, all within easy reach of Orlando. Whether you are looking for family fun, outdoor adventures or a relaxing escape, you can enjoy everything from thrilling airboat rides and world class theme parks to historic attractions, beautiful gardens and peaceful natural surroundings, making Central Florida the perfect destination for your next holiday.

Nevada: From Neon to Nature

by America As You Like It • 11 June 2026
There are some places that surprise you, and Nevada is one of them.

Make it Memorable―Dutchess County

by America As You Like It • 10 June 2026
Located in the heart of New York’s Hudson Valley, Dutchess County blends scenic beauty, rich history, and a vibrant cultural scene. Spanning 800 square miles of rolling countryside and historic landmarks, it invites discovery at every turn—from the riverside charm of Poughkeepsie, known as the Hudson’s Queen City, to its picturesque towns and villages. Home to the Culinary Institute of America and President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt, Dutchess County is where heritage, flavour, and landscape come together in unforgettable ways.

Exploring Crystal River, Florida

by America As You Like It • 14 May 2026
Crystal River invites you into a gentler side of Florida, where spring fed waters wind through quiet forests and wildlife drifts just beneath the surface. Days here move at an unhurried pace, shaped by warm Gulf breezes, peaceful lakes, and encounters with nature that feel both intimate and unforgettable. Whether you are gliding across clear water by kayak, cycling beneath towering trees, dining on freshly caught seafood, or wandering through centuries of history, the region offers a sense of calm and connection that stays with you long after you leave.

My Journey through the Pacific Northwest

by America As You Like It • 8 May 2026
Exploring Oregon and Washington State is an opportunity of a lifetime. From the Hoh Rainforest to the newly renovated Seattle waterfront, there are spectacular opportunities to experience these remarkable states across a variety of climates. I was fortunate enough to travel from Portland to Seattle, including stops along the way in Astoria, the Evergreen Coast, and the Olympic Peninsula.

Race to Bourbon City: Discover Louisville

by America As You Like It • 27 March 2026
Louisville is Kentucky’s largest city and a destination rich in culture, history, and sporting heritage. Nestled along the Ohio River on the border with Indiana, the city is perhaps best known for hosting the world-famous Kentucky Derby. Explore attractions such as the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory and the Muhammad Ali Center, making Louisville an engaging destination for travellers with diverse interests.
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