Columbus on the Cheap

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family activities

Upcoming free and cheap activities for kids

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Looking for something to do with the kids? We've gathered a list of day to day activities for kids of all ages, to get out of the house or indoor activities no matter the weather. We're including activities for all ages and at various price points - including lots of free … [Read more...] about Upcoming free and cheap activities for kids

Roadtrippin’: 20+ things to do with kids in Cincinnati

Cincinnati is less than 2 hours from Columbus and is FULL of things to do with kids. If a bigger vacation isn't in the budget this year, head to Cincinnati for a weekend and check out a few of these fun attractions. You'll find fun activities in Cincinnati for the whole family at a variety of … [Read more...] about Roadtrippin’: 20+ things to do with kids in Cincinnati

Where to go berry picking in Columbus this Spring and Summer

Whether you prefer one type of berry or love them all (like I do), there are so many farms to go berry picking in Columbus and Central Ohio. U-pick berry farms are a must-do summer activity, and below you'll find a huge list of u-pick farms for strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, … [Read more...] about Where to go berry picking in Columbus this Spring and Summer

Wild Story Time at Ohio Wildlife Center

Ohio Wildlife Center not only treats 5,000+ animals each year, with the goal of returning them to the wild, they also host educational programs and events for kids and adults. The Center sits on 20 acres of woods, wetlands and meadows providing a permanent sanctuary to 59 animals ranging from … [Read more...] about Wild Story Time at Ohio Wildlife Center

2025 Columbus Food Truck Festival at Franklin County Fairgrounds

The Columbus Food Truck Festival returns to the Franklin County Fairgrounds again this Summer! Over 50 food trucks and carts will take part in the festival with the return to the Franklin County Fairgrounds on August 16-17, 2025. The festival showcases delicious and unique fare from 50+ … [Read more...] about 2025 Columbus Food Truck Festival at Franklin County Fairgrounds

Discounts at Cinemark Theaters every Tuesday

If you're a movie lover on a budget, mark your calendar for Tuesdays for discounts at Cinemark Theaters. Cinemark offers its weekly Discount Day every Tuesday at participating locations, available exclusively to members of Cinemark Movie Rewards (CMR). As a member of this free program, use … [Read more...] about Discounts at Cinemark Theaters every Tuesday

Upcoming Summer fun and festivals in Gahanna

There are so many fun events going on in the Creekside District and around Gahanna all year long! From music to movies to holidays - and so much more! See what Gahanna has to offer all year with so many outdoor activities and festivals! Visit the district, grab some food and/or adult beverage, … [Read more...] about Upcoming Summer fun and festivals in Gahanna

Central Ohio Fire Museum and Night at the Fire Museum

Housed in a restored 1908 firehouse, the Central Ohio Fire Museum & Learning Center is a hidden gem in downtown Columbus. It's such a fun place to take kids, and it's perfect for when you just want to spend an hour or two. Located at 260 N. 4th St., the museum is dedicated to preserving … [Read more...] about Central Ohio Fire Museum and Night at the Fire Museum

2025 Home Depot Free Kids Workshops

Kids love learning new skills, and Home Depot has been a leader in teaching kids how to build for years with Home Depot Free Kids Workshops. Stores are once again offering free in-person workshops again, with the option to purchase monthly kits to build at home. Home Depot Free Kids … [Read more...] about 2025 Home Depot Free Kids Workshops

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

Balletmet discounted tickets for REMI REMI REMI, Peter Pan, La Boheme, and more

Attending a BalletMet performance in Columbus is a must-do. The talent, athleticism, storytelling, and music is something that anyone will appreciate.  Balletmet 2025/2026 season The 48th Season is full of new works and beloved classics and is the first programed by new Artistic Director … [Read more...] about Balletmet discounted tickets for REMI REMI REMI, Peter Pan, La Boheme, and more

All skill levels welcome to pedal the Tour de Buckeye Lake

Experience the beauty of Buckeye Lake on scenic routes, perfect for cyclists of all skill levels. Tour de Buckeye Lake is cycling event, focused on displaying the beauty of the Buckeye Lake region hosted by Bike Buckeye Lake on Saturday, August 16, 2025. Bike Buckeye Lake is a nonprofit … [Read more...] about All skill levels welcome to pedal the Tour de Buckeye Lake

Huge list of Outdoor movies around Columbus

Enjoy movies under the stars with friends and family around Columbus throughout the summer and fall. Many community-sponsored movies are returning for 2025.  There are also plenty of drive-in style movies that give you the outdoor movie experience in your car. Please check individual … [Read more...] about Huge list of Outdoor movies around Columbus

Mount Carmel St. Ann’s 4th Fridays in Uptown Westerville

Head to Uptown Westerville for Mount Carmel St. Ann’s 4th Fridays from May through October from 6-9 pm. There will be fun for everyone with live entertainment, kids' activities, food carts, and street vendors. Plus, the Uptown shops will stay open late, so you'll get to explore the wide variety … [Read more...] about Mount Carmel St. Ann’s 4th Fridays in Uptown Westerville

Explore at the Touch a Truck in Westerville

Kids love getting and up-close look and exploring emergency vehicles, construction equipment, and other vehicles at touch a truck events. Bring them to the Touch a Truck in Westerville on Friday, August 8, 2025 from 10 am - 12 pm at the Westerville Sports Complex. Check out fire trucks … [Read more...] about Explore at the Touch a Truck in Westerville

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.