Columbus, Ohio is a city full of fun attractions and places to visit. Whether you're visiting the city, or if you want to be like a tourist in your own town, make sure you check out these top 30 places to visit around Columbus. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, art, or dining, … [Read more...] about 30+ Must-Visit Places in Columbus, Ohio for everyone
Events for Families and Kids
2026 Columbus Jazz and Rib Fest – Cool Jazz, Hot Ribs, and free admission
The Columbus Jazz and Rib Fest is July 24-26, 2026, featuring hot ribs and cool jazz in Downtown Columbus. Columbus Jazz & Rib Fest Each summer, this festival is a highly anticipated tradition with the best of jazz and rib connoisseurs for a festival full of music and barbecue, brought to … [Read more...] about 2026 Columbus Jazz and Rib Fest – Cool Jazz, Hot Ribs, and free admission
U-pick: where to go Apple picking in Columbus
Orchard season is starting soon, so get ready to go peach picking and apple picking in Columbus! Peach season is in July and August, and apple season typically runs from July to early November, wrapping up with my favorite variety, Goldrush! I've gathered a list of the 12 best places for … [Read more...] about U-pick: where to go Apple picking in Columbus
Over 20 Free Splash Pads in Columbus
Stay up-to-date with which splash pads are open in Columbus! There are over 20 splash pads and water play areas in the city where you can cool off during hot weather! Splash pads are the perfect place to visit during the hottest part of the day when you don't want to commit to the hassle (and … [Read more...] about Over 20 Free Splash Pads in Columbus
Animals, Wagon rides, and more at The Farm at Walnut Creek
Looking for more animal experiences in Ohio? You'll want to put The Farm at Walnut Creek on your to-do list for this Spring, Summer, or Fall. I know we plan to go back this year! The Farm at Walnut Creek is located in Amish Country, in Sugarcreek, Ohio. You'll find over 500 animals, … [Read more...] about Animals, Wagon rides, and more at The Farm at Walnut Creek
Dino-Mite Kids Week (and free dino pancakes) at Sunny Street Cafe
It's a Dino-Mite week at Sunny Street Cafe! Kids can enjoy FREE famous Dino Pancakes all week long, Monday - Friday, July 13- July 17, 2026 at all Sunny Street Café locations! Dino-fans under the age of 12 can enjoy free dinosaur pancakes and customizable toppings bar (with … [Read more...] about Dino-Mite Kids Week (and free dino pancakes) at Sunny Street Cafe
Visit these Story Trails in Columbus for reading + nature fun!
Did you know that there are Story Trails and Story Walks all over Columbus? These special trails are located in parks, and feature nature-inspired stories for you to enjoy along your walk. Storybook Trails combine the love for reading, nature, and outdoor activity, and are a great way to spend … [Read more...] about Visit these Story Trails in Columbus for reading + nature fun!
Jeni’s Ice Cream Summer Flavors and National Ice Cream Day
We LOVE Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream, and we love a good deal on Jeni's even more! Read below to see what special offers and new releases are coming up! New Flavors at Jeni's! Jeni's Summer Collection is inspired by everything we love about summer—campfire desserts, picnic-table favorites, … [Read more...] about Jeni’s Ice Cream Summer Flavors and National Ice Cream Day
Free Movie Admission: From Book to Film at Gateway Film Center
Gateway Film Center and Columbus Metropolitan Library offers FREE movies with the beloved series, From Book to Film. Head to Gateway Film Center for FREE family-friendly movies every weekend from Memorial Day to Labor Day. As part of the film center’s ongoing efforts to improve the … [Read more...] about Free Movie Admission: From Book to Film at Gateway Film Center
PBJ & Jazz free kids concerts at Topiary Park (it’s a family favorite!)
PBJ & Jazz Concert Series at Topiary Park is one of our favorite casual events to attend in the summer! Kids love these concerts! Learn about all types of music while enjoying the amazing Topiary Park! PBJ & Jazz concerts are free 1-hour long interactive concerts with … [Read more...] about PBJ & Jazz free kids concerts at Topiary Park (it’s a family favorite!)
Visit Central Ohio County Fairs for food, fun, and music in 2026
County fairs are a staple of summertime fun, and it looks like the 2026 summer fair season is back to normal! You can expect full county fairs with all the rides, food, competitions, concerts, and more. We've missed them so much, we may need to hit a few counties! As always, details can … [Read more...] about Visit Central Ohio County Fairs for food, fun, and music in 2026
Fun, Factory Tours in Columbus, and other fun public tours in Ohio
Have you ever looked at something and wondered how it's made? Ever attend a stage production or sporting event and wish you could peek behind the scenes? Ohio is home to a lot manufacturing companies and other cool venues. A few of them invite the public to visit for a more in-depth look at … [Read more...] about Fun, Factory Tours in Columbus, and other fun public tours in Ohio
Free 2026 outdoor concert roundup around Columbus
Make a plan to enjoy free outdoor concerts around Columbus this summer! There is so much live music to enjoy this summer throughout Central Ohio every night of the week. These concerts make great outings for the family, a date, or with your friends. Check out our list of outdoor music … [Read more...] about Free 2026 outdoor concert roundup around Columbus
Marcus Theatres Kids Dream Summer Film Series
Get some respite from hot or rainy summer days with a movie at Marcus Theatres with the Kids Dream Summer Film Series - Powered by American Family Insurance. Admission for Marcus Theatres Kids Dream Summer Film Series Catch $3 family-friendly movies on Sundays through Thursdays from June … [Read more...] about Marcus Theatres Kids Dream Summer Film Series
Caverns, animals, and adventure at Olentangy Caverns
Get out of the house and spend a couple of hours at Olentangy Caverns just north of Columbus. If it's your first time there, you'll wonder why you've never gone before! They opened for the season on March 19, 2026, and are open every single day through November 1! There's so much to do...from … [Read more...] about Caverns, animals, and adventure at Olentangy Caverns
