Things to do in Columbus

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Columbus

Types of activities

Where to stay

Columbus travel guide

Columbus which includes a garden as well as a couple

Columbus showing a city, a river or creek and night scenes

Photo provided by Greater Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau

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What to do in Columbus

Popular places to visit

Ohio State University

5/5(1 review)

Explore the campus of Ohio State University, a top university 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 in Greater Columbus Convention Center, a top convention centre in Columbus. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene or attend a sporting event.

Ohio Stadium

5/5(1 review)

Catch an event at Ohio Stadium during your trip to Columbus. Experience the area's entertainment choices 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 theatre scene or attend a sporting event.

COSI

4/5(1 review)

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 great live music and acclaimed theatre scene.

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.

Ohio Theater showing heritage elements, theatre scenes and signage

Ohio Theatre

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

Areas of Columbus

Santa Maria which includes heritage elements and a bay or harbour

Downtown Columbus

4.5/5(4 area reviews)

The ample dining options and great 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.

Polaris

4/5(1 area review)

Polaris is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Polaris Fashion Place and Topgolf while you're in town.

Wexner Center for the Arts featuring signage and theatre scenes

University District

4/5(1 area review)

University District is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Wexner Center for the Arts and Newport Music Hall while you're in town.

Short North

Short North is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by North Market and Jazz Arts Group while in the area.

Santa Maria which includes signage and a garden

Worthington

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

Schiller Park featuring autumn colours, a pond and a fountain

German Village

You'll enjoy the restaurants and churches in German Village. You might want to make time for a stop at Schwartz Castle or Muse Gallery.

Lewis Center

New Albany

Galena

Pataskala

Frequently asked questions

Is Columbus worth visiting?

Providing a mix of culture and history, there are plenty of things to do in Columbus. While you're here, head to COSI, a major attraction in the area.

How do I spend a day in Columbus?

COSI and Magic Mountain Fun Centre East are two great places to kick-start your getaway adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and shopping options in Columbus while you're there too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Columbus?

COSI is one of the top tourist attractions in Columbus and should feature high on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Columbus?

You can easily tick off popular sights like COSI, Columbus Museum of Art and Riffe Centre Theatre Complex with a three-day escape to Columbus. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stick around longer and check out Dublin.

Is Columbus a walkable city?

Some leading sights in Columbus, like COSI and Columbus Museum of Art, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Just 0.97 kilometres from central Columbus is Downtown Columbus and Uptown District is 0.32 kilometres away.

What are some activities to do in Columbus with kids?

If you are after activities and attractions for all the family, check out these fantastic ideas for what to do in Columbus with kids.

What to do in Columbus for adults?

There are loads of things to do in Columbus, with activities for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Ohio Expo Centre and State Fair or Schottenstein Centre.

Are there free things to do in Columbus?

In Columbus, Schlee Brewery Historic District is a must-see spot for anyone wishing to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the green spaces and other neighbourhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a good way to learn about the best free things to do in Columbus.