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
summer break
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
So many Indoor Play Places and Activities for kids around Columbus
When it's too hot, too cold, or too rainy, indoor play is a great way for kids to burn off some energy. Whether you're at home with your children during the week, or you're hanging out with them on the weekends and evenings, sometimes you just need to get out of the house! There are plenty of … [Read more...] about So many Indoor Play Places and Activities for kids around Columbus
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!)
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
Time is running out! Visit Zoombezi Bay Waterpark; discounts, special days, and more
Zoombezi Bay Waterpark is one of the top fun spots during summertime in Central Ohio! Featuring thrilling water slides, roaring rapids, lazy river, wave pool, and so much more, there's something for everyone! You'll never run out of things to do at Zoombezi Bay, and your admission include Zoo … [Read more...] about Time is running out! Visit Zoombezi Bay Waterpark; discounts, special days, and more
Animals, Wagon rides, and Fall Festival 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 Fall Festival at The Farm at Walnut Creek
Discounted and Free Museum Days in Columbus
Exploring museums is the perfect blend of entertainment and education, and a great way to spend some time! Museum admission can be expensive, but some of the best museums in Columbus offer discounted or free museum days. There are even several great museums that are free all of the … [Read more...] about Discounted and Free Museum Days in Columbus
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
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 2026. 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
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 and Zoombezi Bay
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, … [Read more...] about COTA Zoo Bus Service and Discount for Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay
Beat the Heat with Free and Cheap Cool or 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! 💦 Water Fun Indoor … [Read more...] about Beat the Heat with Free and Cheap Cool or Indoor Fun in Columbus
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
Free Commons for Kids on Fridays at Columbus Commons
Columbus Commons celebrates kids on Friday mornings from June 5 - August 14, 2026 with Commons for Kids. We are so excited for these fun events to return this Summer! All activities and games are offered free of charge from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Fun at Commons for Kids Free … [Read more...] about Free Commons for Kids on Fridays at Columbus Commons
