Posts with tag 'Things to do in Columbus'
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23
12 Reasons to Move to Ohio in 2021
Did you know the Center of the World is in Ohio? Yes, there actually is an unincorporated community by that name near Youngstown, not far from the Pennsylvania state line.
But there are a number of truly compelling reasons why one of the state's slogans is, "Center of the Universe." If you're looking for a new home in 2021, here are a dozen fascinating features that make a great case for finding it in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, or Cincinnati.
- Cleveland Rocks!
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America's musical legacy includes genres from country to gospel, but none is more deeply entrenched in our country's spirit than rock and roll. Cleveland disc jockey Alan Freed coined that iconic term, so it's only fitting that the city was chosen to be the home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Designed by legendary architect I.M. Pei, the Hall was dedicated in 1995 and includes 338 inductees. - Marching to a Different Drum
Most big cities have a number of first-class historical, scientific, and art museums, and Cleveland is no exception. But if you prefer exploring culture that's a little offbeat, you're in luck. Cleveland features several delightfully quirky collections that pay tribute to the weirder side of life. Start your journey by checking out the Buckland Museum of Witchcraft and the Dittrick Museum of Medical History. - Thrills, Chills, and Spills
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Lake Erie's shoreline is also the site of another type of rockin' and rollin'. Cedar Point in Sandusky proudly bears the title of "Roller Coaster Capital of the World." With its world-record 71 rides, 17 of which are roller coasters, the park has been an annual summer tradition for countless families. As the second-oldest amusement park in the United States, Cedar Point's humble beginnings date back to 1870, when it consisted of a public beach, beer garden, and dance floor. - Dotting the "I"
More than 60,000 students can't be wrong: Ohio State University is one of the largest and most prestigious institutes of higher learning in the country. OSU's top academic programs are matched by collegiate sports teams that frequently sit atop the national rankings. The marching band's halftime performance of Script Ohio, with a sousaphone player dotting the "i," has become one of the most enduring and beloved traditions of Saturday afternoon football games at the "Horseshoe." - I Triple-Dog Dare Ya!
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Warm, witty, and relatable, A Christmas Story has become a holiday classic for all ages. Reenact your favorite scenes at the actual house that served as the Parker family home, located in Cleveland's historic and elegant Tremont neighborhood. Right across the street is the companion museum, where you can view memorabilia such as Randy's snowsuit and purchase your very own "fra-gee-lay" leg lamp. - Prost!
With the rise of microbreweries, domestic beers began to rival imports in terms of variety and quality. Hipster towns such as Denver, Seattle, and Portland are often considered leaders in this movement, but did you know that Columbus ranks in the top five U.S. cities for craft beer production? Untappd, an app focusing on all things beer-related, gives high marks to local favorites Hoof Hearted, Pretentious Barrel House, and Columbus Brewing Company. - All Roads Lead to Columbus
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Do you enjoy having family and friends come to visit? It's a little-known and astonishing fact that 48 percent of the U.S. population lives within a 500-mile radius of Columbus. Major urban centers such as Detroit, Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta, and Washington, D.C. are no more than a day's drive away. Toronto and Ottawa are also within that radius, adding some international flair. - Fast Food Nation
As the birthplace of Wendy's and Buffalo Wild Wings and the headquarters of White Castle, Columbus has plenty of fast food cred. That's just one of the reasons why the city has become well-known as Test Market, USA. Thrillist, Business Insider, and other sources have long noted that Columbus is the go-to for Starbucks, Burger King, and other national brands testing new products. The city's diverse demographics are valued as an ideal cross-section of the national population. - Living on the Square in Cincinnati
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Fans of classic sitcoms immediately recognize Fountain Square from its cameo in the opening credits of WKRP in Cincinnati. As downtown's shopping, entertainment, and cultural hub, Fountain Square is truly the heart and soul of this vibrant city. - Crossing the Line
Cincinnati's fabulousness can't be contained by just one state. The metropolitan area spills across the Ohio River into Kentucky, incorporating such charming cities as Florence, Union, and Walton. Cross the historic, Brooklyn Bridge-esque John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge to travel from Cincinnati to Covington, which is the actual home of the Cincinnati International Airport.
- It's All About the Chili
Chili is a dish that lends itself to a wide range of ingredients and preparations. But Cincinnati still managed to put itself on the culinary map with a unique version that keeps people coming back for more. More of a sauce than a stew or soup, Cincinnati chili is almost always served on top of hot dogs or spaghetti noodles. Unexpected seasonings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and chocolate give the chili a Mediterranean flavor. Order it 3-way topped with cheddar cheese, add onions or beans to make it 4-way, or go for the works with 5-way.View this post on Instagram - The Color Purple
Get a good workout or embrace eco-friendly forms of transportation with a brisk walk across the Newport Southbank Bridge. The span, familiarly known as the Purple People Bridge due to its distinctive color, is a half-mile-long pedestrian bridge connecting Cincinnati and Newport, KY.
The Three Cs
Cleveland, Columbus, or Cincinnati: which one is the perfect fit for you?
6
Appreciate Art Nov. 9th at These 9 Ohio Museums
Who's ready to explore a world of art? November 9th is National Go to an Art Museum Day, and art museums all around Ohio are calling your name! Whether you're close to Columbus, nearby Northeast Ohio, or living in Cincinnati, we encourage you to head to these fascinating art museums in Ohio.
Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland
11400 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106
The ever-changing Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland has a history of developing the city's cultural landscape. It was one of the first museums in the area to display works from artists like Andy Warhol, and they continue to feature innovative works from emerging artists. MoCa Cleveland reopened in October and invites visitors to gaze at their current exhibits from artists Nina Katchadourian, Paul Ramirez Jonas, Martin Creed, and Margaret Kilgallen.
The Cleveland Museum of Art
11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44106
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The Cleveland Museum of Art was founded over a century ago for the "benefit of all the people forever." Since then, it's been renovated and expanded to enhance and engage the Northeast Ohio art community. Today, you can view their current exhibitions dedicated to Korean, Chinese, and Latin American artists. Music lovers will enjoy the special Behind the Beat series, which celebrates the legacy of music at the museum, which can be viewed and heard online.
ARTneo, The Museum of Northeast Ohio Art
1305 W. 80th St. Suite 016, Cleveland, OH 44102
Those who love art but wish to appreciate regional work rather than globally curated collections should head to ARTneo, the Museum of Northeast Ohio Art. Located in Gordon Square, this unique museum showcases artists from past and present who called Northeast Ohio home. Plan your visit ahead of time, as they're currently open by appointment only. If you can't find an appointment that works for you, consider heading to their free open house event at 78th Street Studios on Friday, November 20th. These Third Friday events have been voted the Best Arts Event in Cleveland.
Columbus Museum of Art
480 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
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The Columbus Museum of Art is open and ready to welcome art lovers back. Among their many wonderful pieces, they host the world's largest collection of artworks from local artists, including George Bellows and Aminah Brenda Lynn Robinson. Spend hours browsing their permanent collection and latest exhibitions or take part in one of their creative events in-person or online. Although the Columbus Museum of Art is closed on Mondays, which is National Go to An Art Museum Day, you can browse their collections online from home to help plan your visit.
Wexner Center for Arts
1871 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43210
The Ohio State University is home to acclaimed athletics and academics, but many don't know that they also house a fantastic art center. The Wexner Center for the Arts is an on-campus laboratory for advancing contemporary art. As one of the most dynamic contemporary art programs in the country, it showcases its students' works throughout exhibition space. These exhibits feature art in every medium, with many showcased indoors and outdoors. There are five interesting exhibits on display during National Go to an Art Museum Day to provide you with a memorable visit to OSU that requires no tailgating.
Otherworld
5819 Chantry Dr., Columbus, OH 43232
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If you're looking for one of the most unique art experiences in Columbus, head to Otherworld. This 32,000 square-foot immersive art experience in Chantry Square takes you through dozens of rooms. Some display large-scale artworks while others offer mixed-reality playgrounds or secret passageways. Over 40 artists have contributed to this tech-infused space, creating a truly other-worldly experience for art lovers and anyone who loves an immersive experience. Note that tickets can only be purchased online in advance.
Cincinnati Art Museum
953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45202
There are few better ways to spend the day in Cincinnati than in Eden Park. It's home to some of the city's best attractions, including the Cincinnati Art Museum, which boasts nearly 70,000 pieces from across 6,000 years. Their collection includes stunning African, Islamic, Asian, and Native American artwork. One of November's featured exhibits is Women Breaking Boundaries, which showcases works from the museum's permanent collection completed by female artists. Another interesting exhibit is Do It (Home), an interactive exhibit that you can also download and create at home.
Taft Museum of Art
316 Pike St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Fine art has lived at the Taft Museum of Art in downtown Cincinnati for the last 200 years. Art and history come alive in ways unlike any other museum in the state. Though one of the finest small art museums in the country, there are countless hidden gems throughout the historic building. Eleven different period-inspired rooms display masterpieces from the 17th to 19th centuries. Current exhibits available for viewing during Go to an Art Museum Day include galleries celebrating local Cincinnati art over the history of the Taft Museum.
Contemporary Arts Center
44 E. 6th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Enjoy free admission to the Cincinnati Contemporary Arts Center and view their current exhibits, including works from Marjolijn Dijkman, Vhils, Kader Attia, and Tania Candiani. One of the reasons why we love the Contemporary Arts Center is because it also hosts the UnMuseum. This innovative area allows adults and children alike to get hands-on with art and unleash their creativity. If you're unable to go to CAC on Go to an Art Museum Day, you can view their collection virtually online for free.
Admire a Masterpiece
Let us know which destinations we should head to on National Go to an Art Museum Day in the comments!
20
Explore These Bike Trails Around Columbus
When you need a breath of fresh air far from the city crowds, you'll find ample space to roam in Columbus. With many miles of bike paths and trails, our city has a lot to offer for anyone who loves the great outdoors.
Columbus is also a major hub for state-wide trails and greenways, some of which stretch for hundreds of miles across the Buckeye State. These bike paths in the Columbus area offer ample opportunities to get outside, get in shape, and simply enjoy the greener side of Central Ohio.
Alum Creek Trail
Three Creeks Metro Park, 3860 Bixby Road, Groveport, OH 43125
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A favorite multi-use trail that stretches roughly 25 miles across Franklin County, the Alum Creek Trail offers a well-maintained hard surface for hikers and cyclists. The trail follows the picturesque Columbus river corridor, from Westerville to Three Creeks Park, passing through several parks and neighborhoods along the way. Construction on the trail was completed in 2015, and the Alum Creek Trail has quickly become the go-to destination for Columbus residents looking to get outside.
Olentangy Trail
Whetstone Park, 3901 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43210
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The Olentangy Trail is a great place to go for a bike ride, but for many first-time visitors to Columbus, its central location makes it one of the most popular ways to explore the city on foot. The trail connects the community of Worthington to downtown Columbus, meandering through several neighborhoods along the banks of the Olentangy River. Along the way, the Olentangy Trail passes through the Ohio State University campus, with trailheads at Whetstone Park as well as several other major city parks.
Scioto Trail
Scioto Trail Park, 2951 S. High St. Columbus, OH 43207
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The first greenway ever built in Columbus, the Scioto Trail has been a treasured resource for hikers and cyclists in the city since 1976. It's still a favorite local bike path, with sections on either side of the Scioto River, including the downtown riverfront, where you can get a great view of the Columbus skyline. The most well-known section of the path is the Scioto Mile, which includes a string of prominent parks, promenades, and landmarks. Near the south edge of Downtown Columbus, the trail traverses the beautiful Scioto Audubon Park, including a trailhead at the Audubon Nature Center. The Scioto Trail also directly connects to the Olentangy Trail.
Heritage Trail
7262 Hayden Run Road, Hilliard, OH 43026
Following an old abandoned rail line from Old Hilliard to Cemetery Pike, the Heritage Trail one of the less-used bike paths in the Columbus area. That makes it a great place to beat the crowds, although the Heritage Dog Park at one end of the trail does make it a popular spot for dog walking. Paved, well maintained, and easy to follow, it's a great place for an afternoon bike ride, passing through about 7 miles of fields and farmlands just outside Columbus.
Blacklick Creek Greenway
Three Creeks Metropark, 3860 Bixby Road, Groveport, OH 43125
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Running parallel to its namesake creek for most of its 18-mile length, the Blacklick Creek Greenway stretches from Reynoldsburg to Groveport on the southeastern edge of Columbus. There are several parks and trails in the Columbus area where you can hop on the Blacklick Creek Greenway, but a favorite spot is Three Creeks Metro Park. This park marks the spot where the Alum, Big Walnut, and Blacklick creeks join; and it's also home to sections of both the Blacklick Creek Greenway and the Alum Creek Greenway.
Chestnut Ridge Mountain Bike Trail
Chestnut Ridge Metro Park, 8445 Winchester Road NW, Carroll, OH 43112
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While many of Columbus' bike paths are great for easy rambles along relatively flat, paved trailways, the mountain bike trail at Chestnut Ridge Metro Park offers something a little more extreme. Just a few miles southeast of Columbus, Chestnut Ridge is actually the first ridge of the Appalachian Mountains, and the Chestnut Ridge Mountain Bike Trail is a great place for an intense mountain biking experience. The trail runs a little over 9 miles through deep woods, with many steep climbs and descents, along with a few bridges and some steep, banked turns. The trail is divided into two loops, one for beginner to intermediate mountain bikers, and the other for experienced cyclists only.
Big Walnut Trail
Inniswood Metro Gardens, 940 S. Hempstead Road, Westerville, OH 43081
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The Big Walnut Trail stretches a little over 10 miles through several Columbus area parks, including Inniswood Metro Gardens, a lovely botanical garden and nature preserve that's open free of charge seven days a week to the general public. Popular for jogging and dog walking as well as biking, the Big Walnut Trail is a paved multi-use trail that also offers expansive views of Hoover Reservoir and the parks along the lakeshore.
Camp Chase Trail
Battelle Darby Creek Metropark, 1775 Darby Creek Dr, Galloway, OH 43119
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Just over 16 miles long, the Camp Chase trail runs between the cities of London and Columbus, acting as a connector between Madison and Franklin counties. The trail is relatively level and easy for biking, consisting of paved double-track that follows the course of a railroad line. In addition to being a great biking spot for Columbus residents, the Camp Chase Trail is also a crucial link in the much longer Ohio to Erie Trail, which stretches 326 miles across the state of Ohio from southwest to northeast.
Hit the Trails
Did we forget to mention your favorite trail? Be sure to let us know in the comments section!
22
Keep Your New Year's Resolution at These Columbus Gyms
Keeping a New Year's resolution can be difficult, especially when the cold weather encourages us to cozy up on the couch. Warm up your body and feel better than ever by getting out and sticking with your fitness goals this year. From luxurious health clubs to small-group fitness classes, and one-on-one personalized training sessions, these 12 Columbus gyms will help you keep your New Years Resolution in great shape!
The Fitness Loft
625 Parsons Ave., Columbus, OH 43206
The best gyms build a sense of togetherness and belonging within the community, which is why The Fitness Loft strives to create an all-inclusive atmosphere for those who want to better their lives. With the finest exercise equipment, dedicated trainers who are passionate about health, and fun group fitness classes that make you feel part of The Fitness Loft family, this training facility will introduce you to wellness in exciting ways. Classes range from 30 minutes to an hour and are available throughout the day to accommodate your schedule, even during the most hectic of weeks.
The Athletic Club of Columbus
136 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
Having an at-home gym is convenient, but if you want a truly luxurious workout space, head to The Athletic Club of Columbus. This five-star platinum club is known as Columbus' urban oasis for the mind, body, and spirit. A Columbus icon that's prioritized your health since 1912, you'll feel at home in this gorgeous facility. Make new fitness friends in over a dozen group classes. Swim laps in the heated indoor pool throughout the year. Pamper yourself with relaxing spa services after your workout. From certified personal trainers to an on-site restaurant with delicious, healthy dishes, membership at The Athletic Club of Columbus has so many perks that will keep you active all year long.
Kinetic Climbing & Fitness
717 Hadley Drive, Columbus, OH 43228
Photo courtesy of Kinetic Climbing & Fitness
Do you want to take your exercise routine to new heights this year? The folks at Kinetic Climbing & Fitness are willing to give your workout a boost — literally! As the leading bouldering and fitness gym in the area, Kinetic challenges you to go beyond your highest limits. Along with traditional indoor climbing walls, their fitness area houses other equipment such as medicine balls, stationary bikes, and free weights so you can get a comprehensive workout even if you keep your feet on the ground.
Chiseled
37 E. 5th Ave., Columbus, OH 43201
Everybody is different, physically and mentally. While some of us enjoy fun classes surrounded by our fitness friends, there are some of us that prefer to partake in challenging exercises privately. Chiseled is the number one private training studio in the Short North for many reasons — one of which is that you get one-on-one professional training in an empty gym. You'll never have to wait to use a machine, and you'll always get the full attention of your trainer. No matter your fitness level, you can achieve your wellness goals with customized training at Chiseled.
Sweat Box
935 King Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
What does it mean to sweat? Find out at Sweat Box, the local fitness studio that has all of the benefits of a large commercial gym. You're not alone in your wellness aspirations — getting you in shape is their goal too. Sweat Box also offers massage and cupping services to help your muscles and mind rest and recover after a fun workout. Get in the best shape of your life and learn what it really means to sweat at the Sweat Box this year.
Arena District Athletic Club
325 John H. McConnel Blvd. Suite 150, Columbus, OH 43215
Contract-free memberships and luxurious amenities in the heart of downtown Columbus — if you're serious about your health, bring your A-game to Arena District Athletic Club. Membership includes all-inclusive benefits like free nutrition consultation, laundry services, top-of-the-line equipment, unlimited group classes, and personal training. Perhaps one of the coolest perks, members also receive complimentary parking enabling you to get a quick workout in before heading out for a night of food and fun around the Athletic District.
Grandview Barbell
1488 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
Are you tired of the same old, run-of-the-mill workouts you've been doing for years? Change up your exercise routine at Columbus' most unique training experience. Grandview Barbell is a small studio that delivers huge wellness results. Their HIIT Training and Conjugate Strength classes will keep you focused on fitness. All members also have 24-hour access to the facility, which means you can work out on your schedule without worry.
The Spot Athletics
1515 Delashmut Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
Do you want to get toned, lose weight, and feel great? Would you like to get fast, get strong, and win games? The Spot Athletics is the spot for you. They'll provide the coaching, the planning, and the accountability — all you need to bring is a positive attitude and a willingness to train your body for a great life. The Spot Athletics specializes in personalized training to help you meet your unique health goals. Whether you want to train for a marathon, increase your athleticism, or simply get in the best shape of your life, this is the right spot.
Donskov Strength and Conditioning
7061 Huntley Road, Columbus, OH 43229
To feel better, look better, and perform better, you need a training facility that will bring out your best. At Donskov Strength and Conditioning, they use their knowledge, experience, and passion to help you achieve phenomenal results. Stop in for a free Fitness Strategy Session and let them design a personalized program that's tailored to your specific goals.
11athletics
1600 Alum Creek Drive, Columbus, OH 43209
View this post on InstagramFinding a fitness community that feels like a 2nd home is what @11athleticsgym strives for! ——
An exercise routine should do more than make you stronger — your fitness level should help you excel in life. 11athletics uses scientifically proven exercises and techniques to deliver real results. You deserve more than a gym; you deserve a space where you can responsibly and accurately meet your fitness goals. Join the community at 11athletics and push yourself to truly excel.
Go: Fitness Center
1459 King Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
Finding a gym where you feel comfortable and confident in their programs can be difficult. Go: Fitness Center understands the struggle and invites you to try their facility for 10 days, connect with their trainers, and decide if their programs are right of you — no obligation required. Their trainers know that talk is cheap, which is why they're committed to your health even if that means their gym isn't the right fit for you. They hold themselves to a high standard and put a top priority on individual member results. Go: Fitness Center only succeeds if you do.
Ronin Training Center
1012 West 3rd Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
Ronin Training Center is more than a fitness facility — it's a culture that benefits everyone. This innovative fitness company offers Mixed Martial Arts classes such as Boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Krav Maga. Youth and kids sessions are also available if you'd like to get the whole family involved. Learn self-defense, forge new friendships, and fight for the results you desire at RTC.
Where's the best place to find your fit around Columbus this year? Let us know in the comments!
12
18 Things to Do On a Cold Day in Columbus
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
No matter what time of year it is, cooking is always a great skill to have. Whether you want to learn how to impress guests at a dinner party or are just looking to spice up your daily meals—the Seasoned Farmhouse has a class for you! Learn how to make vanilla extract, how to make the perfect soup and even learn some basic knife skills. All you have to do is sign up for a class on their website and you'll be whipping up delicious dishes in no time!View this post on Instagram
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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