Posts in category 'Columbus And Central Ohio'

Winter is coming and it's bringing plenty of frigid days to Columbus! Instead of snuggling up in front of the fireplace—we encourage you to get out and explore our amazing community this season.

We've curated a list of the best things to do on a cold day in the Columbus area. Whether you're looking to spend the day outside in the snow or cozied up inside learning a new skill—we've got a little something for everyone on our list. Stay warm!

Get Wild at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Escape the cold with the help of some furry (and some not-so-furry) friends at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium! With over 580 acres of exhibits and guest amenities, your kids will have a hard time running out of things to do. See animals from all over the world up close, spin around on the carousel, experience the 4-D Theater, or have a blast at one of their many events. Admission is just $21.99 for individuals ages 10-59, $16.99 for kids ages 3-9, $16.99 for guests 60 years and older, and free for kids 2 and under. Residents of Franklin County receive discounts off admission. And don't forget to stop by the Congo River Market Food Court to fuel up during your adventure!

Go Ice Skating

When the local ponds freeze over, Ohio locals don their skates, grab their mittens and hit the ice for a winter adventure. Ice skating is a fan favorite around the holidays and during these colder months, and luckily, the Columbus area has its share of pristine ice rinks just waiting to be carved. For some inside fun and to escape a bit of the cold, head to a Chiller Ice Rinks location in Easton, Lewis Center, Dublin or downtown.

Warm Up With a Hot Chocolate at Roosevelt Coffeehouse

Is there anything better than a cup of coffee or hot chocolate on a chilly day? To get your warm beverage fix, head to a Roosevelt Coffeehouse location and cozy up with a cup of the good stuff—just don't forget the whipped cream! As an added bonus, each item purchased at Roosevelt goes towards supporting organizations that are dedicated to providing clean water, fighting hunger and ending human trafficking.

Learn Something New at COSI

This winter, learn something new (and keep warm!) at one of Columbus' most famous attractions: Center of Science and Industry or COSI. Officially opened in 1964, COSI inspires interest in science, technology, engineering and math topics through a special "hands-on fun" brand of learning. All across their 320,000-square-foot facility, they bring science to life through 300+ interactive experiences and exhibits. Go stargazing in the Planetarium, interact with dinosaurs in the Dinosaur Gallery, or take a ride on the High Wire Unicycle which flies 17 feet above the ground!

See a Show at the Ohio Theatre

A tried and true Columbus institution, the Columbus Theatre is a great spot to escape the elements this winter. They host a variety of unique performances all year long—including popular artists, comedians, independent film showings and more. Plus, it doesn't hurt that the building a work of art in itself, featuring Spanish-Baroque architecture with breathtaking details, that will definitely distract you from the ugly weather outside!

Take a Cooking Class at The Seasoned Farmhouse

 

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Go Sledding

The lighter side to a winter storm is the fun activities that come with it—snowshoeing, snowball fights, skiing, oh my! But while we love throwing a snowball as much as anyone, our favorite activity by far is sledding. In the Columbus area, we are graced with a large number of hills that, when coated with just the right amount of snow, are perfect for slipping, sliding and racing. A few of our favorite spots include Scioto Park, Antrim Park, Griggs Reservoir, Sharon Woods and Blacklick Metro Park.

Play a Round of Duckpin Bowling at Pins Mechanical Co.

Craft beer, ping pong, pinball, bowling, giant Jenga and more—Pins Mechanical Co. is the adult playground you never knew you needed! Explore both of their locations in the Columbus area this season and be sure to keep an eye out for the largest ping pong paddle in the world, which measures a whopping 11.5 feet and is hanging on a wall in their North 4th Street Location.

Explore North Market

Since 1876, the centrally located North Market has served Columbus residents—which makes it the most seasoned market in the area. The vendors (be they candy makers, fishermen, bakers or farmers) strive to promote the diversity and vibrancy of our Ohio community, serving only the best in locally produced products. They are open year-round and feature everything from ethnic foods to gourmet groceries and unique gifts.

Make Your Own Candle

 

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You can never go wrong with a good candle. The Candle Lab sells pre-poured natural soy candles in more than 100 fragrances, but they also invite you to customize your scent. One of their Scent Stylists can help you narrow down your list to just a few scents that blend perfectly together. Then, you'll design your own label, pick your favorite jar and mix your oils at the Fragrance Bar. They have locations all over the Columbus area, so visit their website to find one near you!

See the Stars at Perkins Observatory

Founded in 1923, the Perkins Observatory is a research facility used by the faculty and students of Ohio Wesleyan University. But while it's mostly used for scientific purposes, they also offer plenty of public programs where you can learn a little bit about astronomy and Ohio history. Plus you get a chance to look at the stars through the telescope. Click here for a full list of upcoming programs.

Get Lost in a Book at the Book Loft

There's nothing better than getting lost in a book on a cold day. The Book Loft is one of the nation's largest independent bookstores and is made up of a grouping of pre-Civil War era buildings that were once general stores, a saloon and a Nickelodeon cinema. The 32 rooms of bargain-priced books are bound to make you forget about the outside world for just a bit.

Eat Comfort Food at One of Our Favorite Restaurants

Winter is a time for comfort food and luckily, there are plenty of spots to get it right here! Get fluffy pancakes at Nancy's Home Cooking, massive slices of pizza from Mikey's Late Night Slice or tacos from Condado Tacos—because there's no shortage of great food in Columbus.

Check out The 10 Best Late Night Restaurants in Columbus or No Reservations Required: 10 Incredible Walk-In Only Restaurants in Columbus for more dining inspiration!

Play a Game at Kingmakers Board Game Parlour

Photo courtesy of Kingmakers Board Game Parlour

For a more relaxing experience, head over to Kingmakers where you can grab a beer and spend the day playing a game from their extensive library of board games! At this eclectic parlor, you can play anything from the Monopoly to the new classic Ticket to Ride all while enjoying a glass of wine, locally brewed beer and a snack. Not sure where to start? Their board game sommeliers are happy to help you find the perfect game!

Go Plant Shopping at Stump Plants

Just because it's looking cold and dreary outside, that doesn't mean you can't add a little bit of spring to your home! According to Stump owners Emily Brown and Brian Kellet, there's no such thing as a black thumb. At their minimalist plant boutiques in Columbus, Philadelphia and Cleveland, you can pick up a plant and learn exactly how to take care of it with the help of their friendly and knowledgeable staff. Every plant they sell is of the highest quality and comes with a sustainably made pot—from classic terracotta to custom, artist-made planters.

Get Crafty at Midwest Makery

Midwest Makery is an exciting place where you can get creative, learn a new craft and make something truly one-of-a-kind—all while meeting new people! They offer fun classes for all ages and skill levels, and they provide the materials, direction and the clean-up so you can sit back and enjoy the creative experience. Their class schedule varies by season, but they usually offer instruction on sewing and felting, and even workshops around fabric and wood painting!

Take a Tour of the Ohio Statehouse

The Ohio Statehouse is our state capitol building and is truly a magnificent sight to behold! Unlike many of the other states' capitol buildings, the Ohio Statehouse didn't take inspiration from the United States Capitol because it was actually designed and built before the glorious building in D.C. was ever erected. Instead, it was built in the Greek Revival Style, with many features drawing inspiration from the Tholos of Delphi and the Parthenon of Athens. You can tour our historic capitol building for free—Monday through Friday every hour on the hour, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

See a Movie at the Drexel Theatre

Photo courtesy of Brad Feinknopf via the Drexel Theatre

For generations, the Drexel Theatre has been Columbus' favorite destination for independent films and the best of Hollywood's mainstream releases. Nestled in downtown Bexley, this Art Deco theater is the perfect spot to spend a day. They also offer a wide variety of special events—including a Casablanca Night, a Holiday Film Series, the Shock Around the Clock Horror Marathon, and a Sci-Fi Marathon—all year long so be sure to check out their calendar to see what is coming up this season!

Brrrr!

What do you like to do in Columbus when it's cold outside? Let us know in the comments!

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Entertaining your parents in your hometown can be intimidating. Putting together a perfect schedule full of fun activities, incredible restaurants, tourist attractions and local hangouts is almost impossible. Thankfully, your parents probably just want to see what your life is like in Columbus—giving you the perfect excuse to mix in spots like your favorite cafe and craft brewery with the touristy stops like art museums and trendy neighborhoods.

We rounded up some of our must-visit stops to put on your parent-friendly itinerary. Have fun!

Buckeye Donuts

 

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You haven't had a donut until you've had a Buckeye donut. From Boston Cream to plain glazed, all of the donuts at Buckeye are made fresh daily using only quality ingredients. The shop is conveniently located on High Street in the heart of the campus neighborhood and is a favorite for college students looking for a late-night study snack. Looking for something savory? Buckeye Donuts also has a selection of delicious breakfast items, gyros, salads and more—but seriously, don't leave the shop without a donut.

Center of Science and Industry

One of the most famous, and impressive, attractions in Columbus is the Center of Science and Industry or COSI. Officially opened in 1964, COSI inspires interest in science, technology, engineering and math topics through a special "hands-on fun" brand of learning. All across their 320,000-square-foot facility, they bring science to life through 300+ interactive experiences and exhibits. Go stargazing in the Planetarium; interact with dinosaurs in the Dinosaur Gallery; or take a ride on the High Wire Unicycle—17 feet above the ground!

Ohio Statehouse

The Ohio Statehouse is our state capitol building and is truly a magnificent sight to behold! Unlike many of the other states' capitol buildings, the Ohio Statehouse didn't take inspiration from the United States Capitol, because it was actually designed and built before the glorious building in D.C. was ever erected. Instead, it was built in the Greek Revival Style, with many features drawing inspiration from the Tholos of Delphi and the Parthenon of Athens. You can tour the historic building for free—Monday through Friday every hour on the hour, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

The Park of Roses

Photo courtesy of Karen Martens via Park of Roses Foundation

This public garden in the heart of Columbus has grown over the years to include over 12,000 roses or more than 400 varieties. While late May through mid-June is the best time to visit to find peak bloom, each season offers a unique and beautiful perspective. The park is free year-round and open to visitors from dawn to dusk.

Seventh Son Brewing

Since April of 2013, Seventh Son Brewing has been producing incredible beers at the intersection of 4th and 4th in Columbus' historic Italian Village. When you visit this top-rated Columbus brewery, you're guaranteed a good time thanks to the delicious food trucks outside, the creative brews, and the unique events they hold every week.

The Topiary Park

Inspired by Georges Seurat's famous painting, A Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grande Jatte, this park is truly a local gem. Stroll through the garden and admire the artistry of the sculptures, each of which has a personality of its own. The iconic park is located downtown and is open 7 a.m.-11 p.m. daily.

North Market

Photo courtesy of North Market

Since 1876, the centrally located North Market has served Columbus residents—which makes it the most seasoned market in the area. The vendors (be they candy makers, fishermen, bakers or farmers) strive to promote the diversity and vibrancy of our Ohio community, serving only the best in locally produced products. They are open year-round and feature everything from ethnic foods to gourmet groceries and unique gifts.

The Ohio Theater

While this stunning theater is one of the state's most beautiful buildings, featuring Spanish-Baroque architecture with breathtaking details (including the 21-foot high chandelier!), it was created as "a palace for the average man." Thomas W. Lamp, the Scottish architect in charge of the Ohio Theatre project in the 1920s, envisioned a place where anyone, regardless of wealth or status, could go and see a film or a live performance. Today, you can experience all of the history and majesty at one of the 100+ performances the theater puts on each year.

Northstar Cafe

When visiting Columbus for the first time, a meal at this popular vegetarian eatery is a must! While they do serve a few dishes for meat-lovers at Northstar Cafe, it's their vegetable-focused meals that truly stand out. All of their salads are excellent—our favorite is the Chopped Salad, crafted with avocado, almonds, blue cheese, apples and an optional turkey or bacon topping—but you can't go wrong with anything on their extensive menu.

German Village

Photo courtesy of the German Village Society

German Village is located in the heart of Columbus but still feels like it's worlds away. This is due to the German Village Society's efforts to maintain the historical feel of the neighborhood, the intricate architecture, and the idyllic urban garden parks throughout the area. In fact, German Village is one of the largest, privately funded historic districts in the country. Take a few hours to explore the charming streets and quaint shops and restaurants all around the neighborhood to give your parents a true taste of Columbus area history.

The Book Loft

While you're exploring German Village, don't miss the chance to stop into this bibliophile gem. The Book Loft offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It is one of the nation's largest independent bookstores and is made up of a grouping of pre-Civil War era buildings that were once general stores, a saloon and a nickelodeon cinema. The 32 rooms of bargain-priced books are bound to make you forget about the outside world for just a bit.

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

Even most out-of-towners know about Jeni's. Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream creates some of the most famous ice creams around—they've even been named one of the best ice cream shops in the country by Food & Wine Magazine, Thrillist and US News. And it all started right here in Columbus when Jeni Britton Bauer decided to open a trendy ice cream shop in 2002. Stop by one of their many locations around the city for a cold treat; we highly recommend Brambleberry Crisp!

The Scioto Mile

 

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Short North Arts District

Due to its high concentration of art galleries, music venues, boutiques, restaurants and the like, the Short North Arts District is sometimes fondly referred to as the "art and soul" of Columbus. Vibrant urban attractions abound in this area, so there is never a shortage of fun things to do and see. In fact, it's one of the areas most recommended for visitors! Need some itinerary inspiration? Check out our guide to the neighborhood.

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The leaves are changing, that familiar fall chill is starting to return to the air and pumpkin is appearing on menus everywhere. Fall is here, which is an occasion worth celebrating here in Columbus! Fortunately, there are plenty of local events and festivals to look forward to over the next few months.

Whether you're looking to experience the bountiful autumn harvest, get scared at a horror film festival or peruse a craft fair—you'll find something on this list worth marking on your calendar. Have fun this season!

Jump Ahead:

September | October | November

September

Country Living Fair

Where: Ohio Village 

When: September 13-15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

This massive fair showcases hundreds of vendors from more than 25 states selling antiques, vintage items, handcrafted goods, arts, furniture, home decor, clothing, jewelry, specialty foods and so much more. Meet the editors of Country Living Magazine and HGTV superstars, attend seminars and how-tos, see artisan demonstrations, and shop the Harvest & Gourmet Market. There's no better place or time in Columbus to get inspiration for your home decor!

The 21st Annual Pawpaw Festival

Where: Lake Snowden, Albany

When: September 13-15, Friday 4 p.m.-Midnight, Saturday 10 a.m.-Midnight & Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

The Ohio Pawpaw Festival is a fun-filled and educational community event that celebrates one of America's largest native tree fruits: the pawpaw. The annual three-day event highlights the rich history and future possibilities of the pawpaw through delectable foods, fantastic entertainment, unique arts, crafts and local vendors. This year, you can expect a full lineup of presentations and activities that will provide fun for your whole family, including a Best Pawpaw Competition, a Pawpaw Cook-off, a Pawpaw Eating Contest and much more.

Old Hilliardfest

Where: Downtown Hilliard

When: September 14, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

This street fair takes place in Downtown Hilliard on Main Street each fall, usually the second Saturday in September. Throughout the day, you can peruse vendors from all over the area, including local businesses, organizations and artists. After you've shopped your heart out, you can enjoy some live music, great food, games, a sunflower show, a car show, kids' fair and much more.

Scarecrow Festival

Where: Downtown Washington Court House

When: September 20-22, Times TBA

Welcome autumn in style at this annual festival in Downtown Washington Court House! The family-friendly weekend will be full of live music, delicious food, rides, games, craft vendors, a 5K walk and run, classic cars and so much more. Make sure to follow them on Facebook to see what the full lineup of activities will be!

Harvest Fair

Where: The Stratford Ecological Center, Delaware

When: September 28, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

The Harvest Fair is the Stratford Ecological Center's biggest event of the year, featuring plenty of tractors, farm animals, a horse-drawn wagon and so much more! Don't forget to bring the best of your bounty, which you can display to the rest of the fair, and some good walking shoes so you can traverse the nearby hiking trails while you're there. Tickets are $5 per person and children under the age of 3 are free.

Pumpkinpalooza

Where: Emswiler Farm, Pataskala

When: September 28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Presented by TWIG of Nationwide Children's Hospital, Pataskala's annual Pumpkinpalooza is a can't-miss event this season. This year, enjoy exploring a huge barn full of food and activities; pick out a perfect pumpkin from the pumpkin patch; take a hayride around the farm; and bounce around in a bounce house—the possibilities are endless! You can purchase advance tickets on their website. All proceeds will benefit the Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit at Nationwide Children's Hospital.

Apple Fest

Where: Lawrence Orchards, Marion

When: September 28, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Lawrence Orchards

This old-fashioned autumn event gives you and your whole family the chance to explore Lawrence Orchards, a local institution since 1921. Explore the orchard on a horse-drawn carriage, let the kiddos ride a pony, traverse the hay maze, take a train ride and, of course, eat a lot of apples! The event will feature plenty of fresh apples, caramel apple bars, apple pie and homemade apple cider that you'll want to take home gallons of.

October

43rd Annual Fall Farm Pumpkin Festival

Where: Young's Jersey Dairy, Yellow Springs

When: October 5-6, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Celebrate the fall season at Young's Jersey Dairy this year with the Fall Farm Pumpkin Festival! There you'll be able to take your picture with Humongous Gus; taste freshly made pumpkin donut holes; take a tour of their cheese making facility; and go pumpkin bowling. This event is entirely free, so bring the whole family out to have some autumn fun!

German Village Monster Bash

Where: German Village Meeting Haus

When: October 12, 7-11:30 p.m.

This annual event at the Historic German Village offers endless Halloween fun for kids-at-heart. The festivities start with an adult trick-or-treating route at 7 p.m., followed by dancing and drinks at the Meeting Haus at 9:30 p.m. There will be a photo booth, dancing and a costume contest, so come dressed in your Halloween finest! You can even grab a s'more and try a delicious concoction from Middle West Spirits.

Fall Festival at Oakland Nursery

Where: Oakland Nursery, Dublin

When: October 12-13, 12-4 p.m.

Come celebrate all things autumn at this family-friendly festival! There will be tractor-pulled hayrides, make n' take crafts, a pumpkin bounce house, apple cider pressing, a giant pumpkin carving demo and much more—all of the ingredients needed for a perfect fall fest.

Shock Around the Clock

Where: The Drexel Theater

When: October 12-13, Noon-Noon

Sharpen your wooden stakes and stock up on silver bullets because Columbus's terror tradition is back to haunt your nightmares! This 24-hour horror marathon is held at the Drexel Theater and will feature a lineup of several terrifying films. In addition to watching a few movies, you'll also have the chance to meet Michael Gornick, the legendary director of photography for Creepshow, Dawn of the Dead, Day of the Dead, Knightriders and Martin!

All Hallow's Eve at Ohio Village

Where: Ohio Village 

When: October 12 & 19, 5:30-9:30 p.m.

Enjoy an evening of 1890s-style fun at the historic Ohio Village. All Hallows' Eve will feature a retelling of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by the bonfire, pumpkin carving and strange characters roaming the village. Revel in old-fashioned entertainment for all ages, including fortune telling, crafts, games and more!

Circleville Pumpkin Show

Where: East Franklin Street, Circleville

When: October 14-19, Times Vary

 

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Any Ohioan will tell you, fall means the Circleville Pumpkin Show! The 113th Circleville Pumpkin Show is just south of Columbus and attracts more than 400,000 visitors each year. Check out the parades, rides, entertainment and every kind of pumpkin-flavored treat that you can think of. Be sure to stop by and see the largest pumpkin pie, measuring at 14 feet in diameter, along with all of the massive pumpkins on display around East Franklin Street!

Haunted Ohio Statehouse Tours

Where: The Ohio Statehouse

When: October 18-19 & 25-26, 7-9 p.m.

See the iconic Ohio Statehouse from a different perspective this Halloween season as you embark on a haunted tour of the building—if you dare! Combine history and legend in this special family-friendly haunted tour, which travels through dimly lit limestone corridors by lantern. This spooky tour features recently found evidence of paranormal activity and is most appropriate for children ages 9 and up. Purchase your tickets for this unique historic tour with a Halloween twist!

Boo at the Zoo

Where: The Columbus Zoo

When: Weekends October 11-27, Fridays 5-9 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m.-9 p.m. & Sundays 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

This "merry-not-scary" Halloween event is a must for little ones of all ages! Go on a trick-or-treating adventure at the Columbus Zoo on the weekends leading up to Halloween, stopping by various treat stations scattered throughout the zoo. Make sure you catch the animals smashing pumpkins, which is a favorite amongst guests each year! Admission to Boo at the Zoo is included with your membership or paid admission to the zoo.

Halloween Pet Parade and Fall Festival

Where: Easton Town Center

When: October 20, 12-3 p.m.

Make sure your fur baby isn't left out of the fall fun! Dress your dog in their best costume and head to Easton Town Center for a special Halloween Pet Parade and Fall Festival. Costumes will be judged and awards are given based on a number of categories, including Best Group, Best Duo, Cutest, Funniest, Most Creative and Scariest. Free registration begins at noon and the parade kicks off at 2 p.m.!

HighBall Halloween

Where: Short North, Columbus

When: October 11-12, Times TBD

Head to the vibrant Short North Arts District for a Halloween party unlike any other! HighBall Halloween is considered one of the nation's most elaborate costume parties, bridging runway style with the culture of this lively area. This festive weekend attracts over 40,000 costumed participants in a celebration of costumes and creativity. The party is taking place along High Street between Goodale Street and Nationwide Boulevard.

Creepside Festival

Where: Creekside Park & Plaza, Gahanna

When: October 19, 11 a.m-3 p.m.

Don't miss the annual Creepside Festival two Saturdays before Halloween! This event is free and appropriate for all ages with a number of kid-friendly activities, including live music, games, a haunted trail, escape rooms, character interactions, pumpkin painting, trick-or-treating with local organizations, and more. Head to Creekside Park & Plaza in Gahanna for this exciting community event!

November

Ohio Made Holiday Market

Where: Hollywood Casino Columbus

When: November 15-16, Friday 6-10 p.m. & Saturday 12-7 p.m.

Columbus Hungry Turkey 5K & 10K

What about you?

Let us know how you plan to celebrate the season in the comments!

Columbus' art scene is bursting with creativity, which is evident in the spectacular art that you can find throughout the city. Not only are we home to the Columbus Museum of Art, which was the first art museum registered in Ohio and home to hundreds of interesting exhibitions, but our area also boasts amazing art galleries, art festivals and public art...

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