Things to do in Columbus, Ohio
- Columbus was intentionally designed in 1812 as a centrally located capital city to resolve regional disputes between competing Ohio towns.
- The city is home to one of the largest university campuses in the United States, which functions as a self-contained ecosystem within the urban landscape.
- Columbus holds the title of being the most populous city in Ohio, having surpassed Cleveland and Cincinnati in the late 20th century.
- The city's economy is highly diversified, featuring the highest concentration of research and development facilities in the region.
- Columbus features an extensive network of 'Metro Parks' that surround the city, focusing on the preservation of the native Ohio tallgrass prairie and wetlands.
About Columbus, Ohio
Columbus is the state capital of Ohio and one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest, uniquely positioned at the confluence of the Scioto and Olentangy rivers. It serves as a major hub for higher education, research, and government, anchored by the expansive Ohio State University campus. Visitors can explore the botanical displays at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens or engage with interactive exhibits at the Center of Science and Industry (COSI). The downtown area is culturally enriched by historic performance venues like the Ohio Theatre and the modern urban greenery of John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons.
Highlights of Columbus, Ohio
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Parks
Features a unique permanent collection of glass artwork by Dale Chihuly within its Victorian-style glasshouse.
Venues
Recognized for its massive seating capacity and status as a historic landmark in American collegiate athletics.
Venues
Showcases restored Spanish baroque architecture and hosts major touring Broadway productions.
Museums
Holds a significant collection of George Bellows paintings and American art from the late 19th century.
Parks
Offers a rare urban habitat for migratory birds and includes a specialized tower for viewing bald eagles.
Museums
Provides hands-on scientific learning experiences housed in a repurposed industrial building on the riverfront.
Parks
Acts as the city's central community gathering space, hosting year-round events and seasonal outdoor ice skating.
Venues
Preserves a lavish, historic interior design that provides an intimate setting for live performances.
Top things to do in Columbus, Ohio
The 196 highest-rated places in Columbus, Ohio, ranked by travellers.
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Zoos
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is one of the largest zoos in the United States, spanning over 580 acres. It houses more t...
2
Parks
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a premier horticultural institution centered around a restored 1895...
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Venues
Nationwide Arena serves as the primary home for the NHL's Columbus Blue Jackets and functions as a major multi-purpose e...
4
Venues
Ohio Stadium, often called the Horseshoe due to its distinct double-decked U-shape, is the primary sports venue for The...
5
Parks
Highbanks Metro Park is defined by its massive 100-foot-high shale bluffs overlooking the Olentangy River. The park pres...
6
Parks
Zoombezi Bay is a 22.7-acre water park located on the grounds of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. The park features a dive...
7
Venues
The Ohio Theatre is a National Historic Landmark in downtown Columbus, originally constructed in 1928 as a Loews movie p...
8
Parks
The Columbus Park of Roses is a 13-acre public garden located within Whetstone Park in the Clintonville neighborhood. It...
9
Museums
The Columbus Museum of Art is recognized for its extensive collection of American and European modernism, including sign...
10
Parks
Goodale Park is the oldest public park in Columbus, Ohio, established in 1851 after Dr. Lincoln Goodale donated the land...
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Parks
Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park is the largest park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system, encompassing...
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Blacklick Woods Metro Park serves as the first park established within the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks syst...
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Columbus, Ohio on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Columbus, Ohio
Late spring and early autumn are ideal, as the temperate weather is perfect for exploring the extensive city park systems and outdoor riverfront areas.
3-4 days to fully explore the museum district, downtown cultural venues, and the surrounding green spaces.
The city is primarily car-dependent, though downtown is walkable; public bus transit is available through the COTA system.
Stay in the Short North Arts District for access to galleries and restaurants, or downtown to be within walking distance of major theaters and parks.
Mid-range; the city offers a mix of affordable local dining and moderate hotel pricing compared to larger coastal US hubs.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 196 curated attractions in and around Columbus, Ohio, ranked by traveller ratings.
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is the highest-rated place to visit in Columbus, Ohio right now.
The largest category is parks, with 103 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Bayonne, New Jersey, Downtown Los Angeles, Washington, D.C..
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