Best Family-Friendly Activities in Columbus: Parks, Museums, and Zoos
Columbus, Ohio, is a vibrant city that offers a wealth of family-friendly activities to explore. Whether you're a local or just visiting, you'll find an array of parks, museums, and zoos that cater to families and provide plenty of opportunities for fun, learning, and quality time together. Here’s a detailed look at some of the best family-friendly activities in Columbus.
1. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
The Franklin Park Conservatory is a must-visit destination for families looking to immerse themselves in nature. This stunning conservatory features a variety of themed gardens, including a tropical rainforest, a desert room, and a butterfly exhibit.
Highlights:
Interactive Exhibits: The conservatory often hosts family-friendly programs and activities, including gardening workshops and guided tours that engage children and adults alike.
Seasonal Events: From holiday displays to summer concerts, the conservatory offers a calendar full of events that provide unique experiences throughout the year.
Beautiful Scenery: Families can stroll through the picturesque gardens, making it a perfect spot for a family picnic or simply enjoying the beauty of nature.
2. COSI (Center of Science and Industry)
COSI is one of Columbus’s premier science museums, perfect for families with curious minds. With interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and an IMAX theater, COSI makes learning fun for all ages.
Highlights:
Hands-On Exhibits: Kids can engage in hands-on activities that cover topics such as physics, space, and biology. The “Ocean” exhibit, for example, offers an interactive experience to explore marine life.
Live Shows: Daily science shows feature exciting experiments and demonstrations that captivate audiences, making science accessible and entertaining.
Special Exhibits: COSI frequently updates its exhibits, so there’s always something new to see. Check the calendar for traveling exhibitions that may align with your visit.
3. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Renowned for its extensive collection of animals and marine life, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a top destination for families. With over 10,000 animals representing more than 600 species, there’s something for everyone.
Highlights:
Diverse Exhibits: Families can explore various regions of the world, from the Arctic to the Amazon, with carefully curated exhibits that mimic natural habitats.
Aquarium Experience: The aquarium features mesmerizing underwater displays, including colorful coral reefs and engaging marine creatures.
Education Programs: The zoo offers educational programs, animal encounters, and behind-the-scenes tours that teach children about wildlife conservation and biology.
4. Goodale Park
Located in the Short North Arts District, Goodale Park is a beautiful urban park that offers a range of activities for families. It features walking paths, playgrounds, and spacious lawns for picnics and play.
Highlights:
Play Areas: Children can enjoy the park’s playgrounds, which include climbing structures and slides for various age groups.
Events and Festivals: Goodale Park hosts several community events throughout the year, including outdoor movie nights, farmers’ markets, and art fairs.
Scenic Beauty: The park's picturesque scenery, including a pond and mature trees, makes it an ideal spot for a family day out.
5. Scioto Mile
The Scioto Mile is a picturesque waterfront park that stretches along the Scioto River. This revitalized area offers outdoor recreational opportunities and stunning views of the Columbus skyline.
Highlights:
Parks and Playgrounds: The Scioto Mile features multiple parks, including the Main Street Bridge Park, which has interactive play areas for children.
Splash Pad: During the summer months, families can cool off at the splash pad, which is a hit with kids of all ages.
Bike and Walking Trails: Families can enjoy biking or walking along the scenic trails that run alongside the river, perfect for a leisurely family outing.
6. The Columbus Museum of Art
The Columbus Museum of Art offers a family-friendly environment with engaging art exhibits and programs that promote creativity and exploration.
Highlights:
Interactive Family Center: The museum features a hands-on family center where kids can create their own art, experiment with different mediums, and learn about famous artists.
Family Tours: The museum offers guided tours specifically designed for families, allowing parents and children to explore art together in an engaging way.
Special Events: Throughout the year, the museum hosts family-oriented events, including art-making sessions and seasonal festivals.
7. Zoombezi Bay
For families looking to cool off and have some fun in the water, Zoombezi Bay is an exciting water park adjacent to the Columbus Zoo. It features a variety of water attractions suitable for all ages.
Highlights:
Water Slides and Pools: From thrilling slides to lazy rivers, there’s something for everyone. The park also has designated areas for younger children to play safely.
Wave Pool: Families can enjoy the large wave pool, where everyone can splash and swim together.
Animal Encounters: Zoombezi Bay offers unique opportunities to see some of the zoo’s animals up close while enjoying a day of water fun.
8. Parks and Playgrounds in Columbus
Columbus boasts numerous parks and playgrounds, each offering unique features that families can enjoy.
Highlights:
Schiller Park: This historic park in German Village features a pond, walking trails, and a well-equipped playground. It’s a great spot for picnicking and enjoying the outdoors.
Antrim Park: Known for its scenic lake and walking paths, Antrim Park is perfect for families who enjoy fishing, walking, or playing sports.
Huntington Park: Home to the Columbus Clippers, this ballpark provides a fun atmosphere for families to catch a baseball game together.
9. Ohio History Center
The Ohio History Center is an educational and engaging place for families to learn about the history of Ohio through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
Highlights:
Exhibits for Kids: The museum features hands-on exhibits designed for children, where they can learn about Ohio’s history, culture, and heritage.
Family Workshops: The Ohio History Center offers family-friendly workshops and events that encourage participation and creativity.
Historical Village: The center also includes a historical village, where families can step back in time and explore how people lived in Ohio in the past.
10. Easton Town Center
For families looking to shop, dine, and enjoy entertainment, Easton Town Center offers a wide range of options.
Highlights:
Shopping and Dining: Families can explore numerous shops and restaurants, including kid-friendly dining options and sweet treat shops.
Entertainment: Easton often hosts family events, including outdoor movie nights, seasonal festivals, and live performances.
Play Areas: The center features outdoor spaces where children can play while parents relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Conclusion
Columbus, Ohio, is a family-friendly city that provides a multitude of activities to keep everyone entertained. From exploring interactive museums and enjoying the great outdoors to learning about wildlife at the zoo and soaking up history, there’s no shortage of options for families. Whether you're a resident or just passing through, make sure to check out these top destinations for a fun-filled family outing in Columbus.
