Columbus on the Cheap

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family activities

Columbus Zoo tickets, discounts, and special events

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The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is one of the most popular attractions in Columbus - for good reason! Our Zoo is amazing and regularly ranks as one of the best Zoos in the U.S. There's so much to enjoy this year at the Zoo, including new exhibits and new babies. With tons of outdoor exhibits and … [Read more...] about Columbus Zoo tickets, discounts, and special events

Grove City Summer Sizzle Concert Series

The Summer Sizzle Concert Series in Grove City kicks off May 23 and continues on most Fridays through September 19, 2025.  These open-air concerts in the Town Center are sponsored by the Grove City Parks and Recreation Department and feature live entertainment by some of the best acts in … [Read more...] about Grove City Summer Sizzle Concert Series

Get creative at Brush Crazy Art Studio: painting, candlemaking, and more art

Looking for something new and different to do for a date, girls' night, or some family time? Brush Crazy offers all types of creative classes, projects, and more. Whether you want to go and do your own thing, or need more guidance, they have options for you at this fun DIY art studio. From … [Read more...] about Get creative at Brush Crazy Art Studio: painting, candlemaking, and more art

World’s Largest Swimming Lesson and discount at Zoombezi Bay

Make sure your kids know how to swim so they can stay safe this summer! Kick start (or refresh) their swimming abilities with a giant swimming lesson at Zoombezi Bay. With summertime fun, comes sad news stories of kids drowning in pools and other bodies of water.  Kids are going to … [Read more...] about World’s Largest Swimming Lesson and discount at Zoombezi Bay

Upper Arlington Spring Fling features Trucks and more

Bring the family out for the Upper Arlington’s Annual Spring Fling on Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Sunny 95 Park for a free family festival. The Spring Fling afternoon will feature the live music, along with "Touch a Truck" where kids can explore city vehicles, … [Read more...] about Upper Arlington Spring Fling features Trucks and more

Library Story Time around Columbus

Story time at the library was one of my favorite things to do to get out of the house with my toddlers. They learned so many songs and games at story time, and it allowed them to interact with kids their age.  It's also a great way for kids who don't go to preschool or daycare to learn … [Read more...] about Library Story Time around Columbus

Dog Days of Summer Police K9 event and Touch a Truck at Pataskala Grace Church

The Dog Days of Summer Touch-a-Truck and Police K9 event is happening at Pataskala Grace Church on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 11 am - 3 pm. This fun, family-friendly summer event supports the Pataskala Police Department K9 program. All of the proceeds from this event will go towards the … [Read more...] about Dog Days of Summer Police K9 event and Touch a Truck at Pataskala Grace Church

The Bexley Main Event and Bexley Jazz in the Park

Get outside and enjoy free outdoor movies and music in Bexley this summer! The Bexley Main event features family-friendly movies under the stars at Main Street Lawn at Capital University. Bexley Jazz in the Park brings four different bands from the central Ohio region to Havenwood Park this … [Read more...] about The Bexley Main Event and Bexley Jazz in the Park

Worthington Touch-a-Truck returns after 5 years!

Kids love trucks and cars and emergency vehicles, so bring them to the Worthington Touch a Truck on Friday, May 16, 2025 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.  Worthington Touch-A-Truck Kids can check out ambulances, fire trucks, military vehicles to taxis, race cars, a helicopter, and other exciting … [Read more...] about Worthington Touch-a-Truck returns after 5 years!

Reading Fun: Story times in Columbus

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr. Seuss Story times were one of my favorite things to do to get out of the house with my kids. They learned so many songs and games at story times, and gave them some playtime with other … [Read more...] about Reading Fun: Story times in Columbus

200+ events for Summer fun at Columbus Commons

Columbus Commons is THE place to be in Downtown Columbus all Summer long! With diverse programming of over 200 events including family movies and concerts, fitness classes, free carousel rides, date-night events, festivals, and more, there's always something going on at Columbus … [Read more...] about 200+ events for Summer fun at Columbus Commons

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, caves. Parking can be limited near the trails, but the Hocking Hills Shuttle can … [Read more...] about Free shuttle to Hocking Hills parks on weekends

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!)

Lolli-Pops! Summer Children’s Concert Series

Bring the family to Powell for some summertime fun with the Lolli-Pops! Children's concert series. The energetic kids' concerts will take place on select Mondays at the Village Green Amphitheater in Powell at 10:30 a.m.  Bring your blankets, some snacks, and get ready to dance the … [Read more...] about Lolli-Pops! Summer Children’s Concert Series

Columbus Commons Free Movie Nights

Catch a movie under the stars at Columbus Commons this summer with Free Movie Nights. Bring your blanket or chairs and some snacks or a picnic and catch these family-friendly films at dusk downtown. Tortilla and Jeni’s will be open for movie snacks. Free Friday Family Movie Nights Catch a … [Read more...] about Columbus Commons Free Movie Nights

Living on the Cheap

Columbus on the Cheap is a member of Living on the Cheap, a network of websites published by frugalistas, journalists and consumer advocates. Find practical advice on saving money on groceries, travel and shopping, plus tips from our experts on how to live the good life for less at Living on the Cheap.