We’ve officially hit the part of summer where just stepping outside can make you feel like a melted popsicle. If you’re looking for ways to stay cool without blowing your budget, check out these free and cheap indoor (and splashy) family-friendly activities around Columbus! 💦 Water Fun Indoor … [Read more...] about Beat the Heat with Free and Cheap Cool or Indoor Fun in Columbus
Events for Families and Kids
The Science of Big Machines at COSI
COSI partners up with the Ohio Contractor’s Association and the Local 18 Operating Engineers for fan-favorite event, The Science of Big Machines. The Science of Big Machines at COSI Big machines and construction equipment converge in downtown Columbus from Friday, June 6 – Sunday, June … [Read more...] about The Science of Big Machines at COSI
Free 2027 Pre-K Pass at Cedar Point for kids ages 3-5 (with adult season pass)
If you have preschool kids and love amusement parks, you don't want to miss this amazing deal from Cedar Point and Six Flags! Sign your preschoolers up for a Free Pre-K Pass at Cedar Point for kids ages 3-5, and introduce them to all of the fun that Cedar Point and 22 participating amusement … [Read more...] about Free 2027 Pre-K Pass at Cedar Point for kids ages 3-5 (with adult season pass)
Volunteer opportunities for kids with Seeds of Caring
Families are often looking for ways to introduce kids to volunteerism, and Seeds of Caring is a great organization hosting events throughout the year! Seeds of Caring hosts service-focused programs for Columbus-area kids to help plant the seeds of volunteering in our young citizens. Kids LOVE … [Read more...] about Volunteer opportunities for kids with Seeds of Caring
Get Outdoors at Alum Creek State Park
Spending time in the great outdoors is a relaxing and wonderful experience. In central Ohio, we are fortunate to have plenty of greenspaces and parks, including Alum Creek State Park located in Delaware County. Only 25 minutes north of downtown Columbus, Alum Creek's 4,630-acres of shale … [Read more...] about Get Outdoors at Alum Creek State Park
Free shuttle to Hocking Hills parks on weekends
Hocking Hills, located in Southeast Ohio, is a top tourist destinations and state parks in the United States. It features spectacular hiking trails and stunning natural features including deep gorges, waterfalls, and caves. Parking can be limited near the trails, but the Hocking Hills Shuttle … [Read more...] about Free shuttle to Hocking Hills parks on weekends
Fall Festival in Westerville to Benefit End Poverty +
Quest Vineyard Church in Westerville is hosting its annual Fall Festival on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. This free, family-friendly event brings the community together for fun while raising support for local organizations. Fall Festival Westerville Quest Vineyard … [Read more...] about Fall Festival in Westerville to Benefit End Poverty +
Butterfly Weekend at Blendon Woods – Labor Day Weekend
Learn about amazing life cycle and 2,000 mile journey of the monarch butterfly at Blendon Woods Butterfly Weekend from September 5-7, 2026 Butterfly Weekend The festival celebrates the 2,000 mile journey of the monarch butterfly and will feature live butterflies, displays, videos and … [Read more...] about Butterfly Weekend at Blendon Woods – Labor Day Weekend
Free and cheap things to do for Labor Day weekend in Columbus in 2026
Labor Day weekend signals the end of Summer for many. Pools close, school is in session, and its the last long weekend of summer. If you're more of a fall person (like me), it marks the start of our glorious fall season. Either way you look at it, it's cause for celebration. Labor … [Read more...] about Free and cheap things to do for Labor Day weekend in Columbus in 2026
KidsLinked’s Powell KidsFest and Bubble Run
Don't miss the KidsLinked’s Powell KidsFest on Saturday, August 8, 2026. The free family festival is from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Olentangy Liberty School ( 7940 Liberty Rd N, Powell, OH 43065). The Powell Back to School Bash has the free school supplies, bounce park, games, balloon artist, … [Read more...] about KidsLinked’s Powell KidsFest and Bubble Run
Mitchell’s Berries mourns passing of Farmer Paul; Offering U-pick strawberries, blooms, and asparagus
Mitchell's Berries LLC, located in Plain City, is a destination you'll want to put on your Spring and Summer bucket list. With strawberries and a variety of raspberries (u-pick depending on crop availability each year), plus special farm events, this family farm is a fun place for all ages. I … [Read more...] about Mitchell’s Berries mourns passing of Farmer Paul; Offering U-pick strawberries, blooms, and asparagus
Scioto Fest 2026: Outdoor Fun at Scioto Audubon Metro Park – Sept 18-19
Enjoy a weekend of outdoor adventure at Scioto Fest 2025 on September 18-19, 2026 at Scioto Audubon Metro Park. This free annual event is a perfect way to welcome the fall season. Friday Evening Highlights The festivities kick off on Friday at 5 p.m. with the return of "Yappy Hour," where … [Read more...] about Scioto Fest 2026: Outdoor Fun at Scioto Audubon Metro Park – Sept 18-19
Harvest Fair at Columbus Commons – Sep 12
Now that fall is here, enjoy the season at the Harvest Fair at Columbus Commons on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. Harvest Fair at Columbus Commons The Harvest Fair will feature a day of family-friendly rides, games, and entertainment. Families can enjoy bounce … [Read more...] about Harvest Fair at Columbus Commons – Sep 12
Best Places for Canoeing and Kayaking in Columbus
Get outside and enjoy nature with a paddle on the water this summer! Don't know where to go? We've gathered a list of the best places for canoeing and kayaking in Columbus, along with places to rent your boats or stand up paddle boards. Explore the waterways and the banks of the rivers and … [Read more...] about Best Places for Canoeing and Kayaking in Columbus
National Night Out events around Columbus
National Night Out serves to promote safer communities by bringing together neighbors, police, and firefighters, and is celebrated the first Tuesday of August. Many of the events feature free food, live music, and other fun features. Kids will get to interact with, and watch demonstrations by … [Read more...] about National Night Out events around Columbus
