Get out and enjoy some fresh air at scenic hiking trails in Columbus and Central Ohio! Whether you are novice or expert - or somewhere in between - it's always nice to explore different parks or trails. Check them out at different times throughout the year to see how the scenery changes with the … [Read more...] about Nature walks and scenic hiking trails in Columbus
outdoor fun
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 open 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
Shadowbox Live, Bruce Hornsby, and Free Concerts at Columbus Commons
Free concerts are in full swing at Columbus Commons this summer, so grab your dancing shoes and head to the Commons with friends for some outdoor music. Bring a blanket and/or lawn chairs, but leave the coolers at home - drinks and food are available for purchase. Columbus Commons Concert … [Read more...] about Shadowbox Live, Bruce Hornsby, and Free Concerts at Columbus Commons
Outdoor Public Pools in Columbus and Central Ohio
Sometimes it's just too hot to be outside without being in a pool. If you don't have a friend or family member to visit with a pool, head to one of these public pools in Columbus to cool off. Check out the full list of public pools that are open around Central Ohio, and offer day … [Read more...] about Outdoor Public Pools in Columbus and Central Ohio
The Best Accessible Playgrounds in Columbus for all abilities
Kids of ALL abilities need to play and enjoy playgrounds, so its important to have plenty of options of accessible playgrounds for kids with disabilities or special needs. Accessible and inclusive playgrounds allow kids living with disabilities to play alongside kids without disabilities, which … [Read more...] about The Best Accessible Playgrounds in Columbus for all abilities
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
Velvet Ice Cream Factory Ye Olde Mill seasonal events
Velvet Ice Cream Factory is a perfect day trip in the spring, summer, and fall! Originally built in 1817, Ye Olde Mill, a former grist mill, is home to Velvet Ice Cream’s corporate offices in Utica, as well as Ohio’s only ice cream museum, ice cream parlor and restaurant. You'll also find tons of … [Read more...] about Velvet Ice Cream Factory Ye Olde Mill seasonal events
FountainSide Fun at the Scioto Mile Fountains
FountainSide Fun is BACK at the fountains at Bicentennial Park along the beautiful Scioto Mile! The Scioto Mile Fountain will be on May 22 – September 7, 2026 from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. If the temperature drops below 65 degrees, the fountain may operate in a low power mode but will be … [Read more...] about FountainSide Fun at the Scioto Mile Fountains
Just Another Dam Race and Storytime at Alum Creek with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and SACCA
The Central Ohio U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and Scioto Area Corps Cooperating Association (SACCA) hosts events throughout the year at the Dams in Central Ohio. SACCA support the mission, priorities and vision of the Central Ohio U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) through fundraising … [Read more...] about Just Another Dam Race and Storytime at Alum Creek with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and SACCA
Take a hike! 13 Wildflower Hikes in Columbus and Central Ohio
Springtime in Ohio may mean lots of rain, but the rain brings the wildflowers in bloom! Plan some Wildflower Hikes in Columbus and Central Ohio at these parks, trails, and nature preserves. Ohio is home to many different types of wildflowers! You'll spot bloodroot, spring … [Read more...] about Take a hike! 13 Wildflower Hikes in Columbus and Central Ohio
Visit rescued animals at Open Barn Days at Sunrise Sanctuary
If you're an animal lover, make plans to visit Sunrise Sanctuary for Open Barn Days! You'll meet the dogs, cats, bunnies, and a plethora of farm animals who have been rescued and now call Sunrise "home". Sunrise Sanctuary, Inc. is a non-profit organization that rescues and cares for farmed and … [Read more...] about Visit rescued animals at Open Barn Days at Sunrise Sanctuary
The most beautiful public gardens in Columbus
Columbus may be a city, but it's also full of green space, parks, and beautiful gardens. The seasons in Ohio lend to stunning and ever-changing displays at these beautiful public gardens in Columbus. Some of the gardens and arboretums that we've included are also free, so pack a … [Read more...] about The most beautiful public gardens in Columbus
Free Friday Night Flicks and Summer concerts in Pickerington
There's nothing like hanging out on a blanket on a warm summer night watching a movie under the stars or catching and evening concert outside. Head to Pickerington on select Summer nights to the Sycamore Creek Park Amphitheater for a movie at dusk or outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket, … [Read more...] about Free Friday Night Flicks and Summer concerts in Pickerington
Explore the Magical Fairy Trail and Nature Playscape in Granville
Need to get out of the house for a little fun? The Fairy Trail at Infirmary Park in Granville, Ohio is open for the season May through September 2026. Take the kids on an adventure through the woods and keep an eye out for fairies as you find approximately 30 little fairy homes, … [Read more...] about Explore the Magical Fairy Trail and Nature Playscape in Granville
All Ohio Balloon Fest in Marysville returns August 2026
The All Ohio Balloon Fest returns to Marysville in 2026 for the 50th anniversary on August 21-22, 2026. There will be over 15+ Hot Air Balloons in the sky, plus helicopter, plane, and balloon rides, live music, food, and beverage. All Ohio Balloon Fest Each day, the Hot Air … [Read more...] about All Ohio Balloon Fest in Marysville returns August 2026
