Columbus on the Cheap

Good, Cheap, Fun

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

Beat the Heat with Free and Cheap Indoor Fun in Columbus

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! đź’¦ Water Fun Indoor … [Read more...] about Beat the Heat with Free and Cheap Indoor Fun in Columbus

Head outdoors for Easton Friday Night Flicks

Easton Town Center Friday Night Flicks are BACK for summer 2025! Read below for details and schedule. Bring a blanket and snacks for this outdoor movie series under the stars on Easton Town Square. Beginning at 6PM, enjoy themed treats and entertainment, then get cozy on your blanket … [Read more...] about Head outdoors for Easton Friday Night Flicks

Sunday rides on the The Ohio Railway Museum

Train enthusiasts of all ages will love The Ohio Railway Museum in Worthington! Not only can you check out the amazing collection of trains, you can take a two mile round trip demonstration ride on one of the museum's streetcars or interurbans. Founded in 1948, The Ohio Railway Museum … [Read more...] about Sunday rides on the The Ohio Railway Museum

The Hills Market $5 Pancake Breakfast

Celebrate the weekend with the famous $5 Pancake Breakfast at The Hills Market in Worthington. Every Saturday and Sunday on the beautiful veranda starting in May, you can enjoy 2 huge pancakes (plain, chocolate chip, or blueberry), plus sausage and coffee for just $5!  Enjoy a Mimosa … [Read more...] about The Hills Market $5 Pancake Breakfast

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

Explore Dublin with the Dublin Park Pass for a chance of prizes

July is National Parks and Recreation Month, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with the return of Visit Dublin’s 2025 Parks Pass in partnership with OhioHealth.  The Dublin Park Pass is FREE and fully digital to encourage users explore 60+ parks throughout Dublin to discover … [Read more...] about Explore Dublin with the Dublin Park Pass for a chance of prizes

KidsLinked Summer and Back-to-School festivals and Bubble Runs

KidsLinked.com puts of fun and free festivals throughout the year all over the city. These KidsFest events are planned with kids and parents in mind! They featured fun and freebies, scavenger hunts, games, and activities for kids, plus vendors with great resources for parents.  Past … [Read more...] about KidsLinked Summer and Back-to-School festivals and Bubble Runs

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!

COTA Zoo Bus Service and Discount for Columbus Zoo!

You don't have to fight traffic or pay for parking to enjoy the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and Zoombezi Bay! You can get a huge discount for Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay! The Columbus Zoo and COTA have again partnered to provide bus service from downtown Columbus, Dublin Park & Ride, and … [Read more...] about COTA Zoo Bus Service and Discount for Columbus Zoo!

Charity Newsies School Clothing Program

Most kids love picking out new back-to-school clothing and shoes every summer. Can you imagine being a school-aged child and having to start school with worn out, ill-fitting clothing? The lack of proper clothing is one of the main reasons why children miss school. New clothes help improve … [Read more...] about Charity Newsies School Clothing Program

Fun things to do today in Columbus, Ohio

Looking for something to do? Check out our suggestions for fun to do in Columbus today (and in the near future). Many are FREE or CHEAP.  Whether you are into music, movies, art, food, hanging out with friends, or enjoying quality family time, we’ve got you covered with free fun, cheap … [Read more...] about Fun things to do today in Columbus, Ohio

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

Kids can explore at these Touch-a-Truck events in Columbus

Kids love to explore emergency vehicles, construction vehicles, and farm equipment, and there are plenty of touch-a-truck events in Columbus and Central Ohio to fulfill their curiosity! These events are a wonderful learning experience for kids that are full of photo-ops, so don't forget your … [Read more...] about Kids can explore at these Touch-a-Truck events in Columbus

Drive-in movies and huge flea market at the South Drive In Theatre

Catch a movie at the South Drive-in Theatre in Columbus! Drive-in movies are a perfect option, no matter the weather! Make it a date or bring the family - they offer movies for everyone to enjoy. The only remaining drive-in theatres in Columbus, the South has been going strong since 1950. This is … [Read more...] about Drive-in movies and huge flea market at the South Drive In Theatre

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.