Columbus – the beating heart of the Midwest, and though it is an underrated travel destination, this city in the state of Ohio will treat every traveler to a concoction of culture, sports, arts, and entertainment that suit every taste. Columbus is also one of the largest cities in the United States by population, and belongs to Ohio, the state known for Cincinnati chili, buckeye trees, sports teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon, among many other attributes for this state. 

As you tour this city, you’ll be amazed at the variety of things to do in Columbus and its neighborhoods. Here in this Midwest hub are also where you can find affordable luxury, a dazzling culinary scene, and top-notch attractions. Delight and indulge in Ohio’s capital, from the charming German Village to exciting riverfront experiences along the Scioto Mile to the trendy Short North Arts District. These and more in this list of the best things to do in Columbus. Welcome. 

What Are The Best Things To Do In Columbus, Ohio?

Columbus is one of the cities in the United States that deserve your visit. What are the best things to do in Columbus? Read on. 

1. Shop And Grab Some Snacks At The North Market

Leading the list of the best things to do in Columbus, Ohio is your visit to the North Market. It is Ohio’s only public market, and it is worth checking out. It’s also got a lot of story to tell. North Market was first established in 1876, and since then, it has been home to vendors selling a wide array of products that include fresh meat, cheeses, baked goods, and flowers. Seasonally, you’ll also find stores that sell local artwork, furniture, and jewelry. 

There is always something for everybody here. But be warned. If you visit North Market on a weekend, expect to mingle with a sizable crowd. So, to beat the massive crowds, you can visit this place earlier during the weekend or schedule your trip on a weekday. 

2. Enjoy A Game Of Baseball At Huntington Park

Baseball is very much alive in Columbus, and in many other parts of Ohio. The city is home to the Columbus Clippers, the Triple-A affiliate with the Cleveland Indians. Watching a game of baseball at Huntington Park is one of the favorite things to do in Columbus among locals and tourists alike. 

Aside from the stunning views around, those who’ve been to Huntington Park say that the access to the games here is very affordable. You can even walk around to explore the different parts of the stadium. 

And if you ever get hungry, you can find several concessionaires selling food and drinks. Parking is also available for a very small charge. 

3. One Of The Best Cities For Shopping

If you’re looking for things to do in Columbus where you can shop ‘til you drop, this city is indeed the ultimate destination. No matter as to whether you prefer to shop local or shop luxury, Columbus provides for every kind of shopper. You can get started at Easton, touted as one of the best retail experiences across the nation. Here, you’ll find several luxury brands selling their respective goods, such as Kate Spade, Apple, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and a whole lot more. 

For a similar shopping experience of this kind, you can head over to Polaris Fashion Place or Tanger Outlets. On the other hand, if you simply want to shop local, you can explore local boutiques at the Short North Arts District – where you shouldn’t miss its monthly Gallery Hop – Grandview Heights, or German Village. 

We’re glad you made it here to our “things to do in Columbus” piece. We hope you’re loving what you’re seeing so far. For more stories about Ohio, click here. 

4. Be Transported To Europe At The German Village

Another of the favorite things to do in Columbus by both the locals and international visitors is the visit to the German Village. You might ask, “Why is a German village here in Columbus?”

Well, this village got its name from the German immigrants who settled here during the early 1800s. As a result, many of its neighborhoods still retain their Germanic roots, as seen in the village’s architecture and cuisine. 

Speaking of cuisine, here, you can get to try German favorites like sausages, schnitzels, and cream puffs. You may also attend the annual German Village Oktoberfest where you can get your dose of those beers. Don’t worry, you can walk off all that food and drink you’ve taken in as your stroll around the nearby Schiller Park (still German), named after Friedrich Schiller, a famous German poet.

5. More Food Experiences Await You In Columbus

Gastronomic pleasures are not just constricted in the German village, but actually anywhere you go when you’re here in Columbus. In fact, the city was named as one of the best places to eat by Food & Wine magazine. 

Here, you’ll find cuisines influenced by countries like El Salvador, Yemen, Mexico, Vietnam, and even Somalia, among many others. You can meet with chefs who prepare and serve farm-to-table fare and dishes. 

Pairing up with those foods well are flavors from Columbus’ distilleries, such as vodka, bourbon, whiskey, gin, and mead. 

More so, while you’re here in Columbus, you’ll also notice that you’ll encounter food trucks along the way. Be sure to give them a visit, and for sure, the snacks you ordered – such as tacos, hotdogs, or barbecues – will be very tasty. 

More food choices await you as you shop at the North Market, where you’ll also find the famous Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams for some Brambleberry Crisp and Goat Cheese with Red Cherries. Certainly, these are some of the things to do in Columbus that you won’t regret doing.

6. Bring Your Kids To LEGOLAND Discovery Center

If you are traveling to Columbus with the kids and you’re looking for things to do in Columbus that they’ll surely enjoy, there are places in the city where your whole family can visit, such as the LEGOLAND Discovery Center. 

LEGOLAND Discovery Centers are indoor family attractions that feature models and experiences inspired by LEGO toys. This is a chain of attractions found in many places in the United States and worldwide, such as in Beijing, Berlin, Hong Kong, Istanbul, and Tokyo. 

Its version in Columbus is just as breathtaking for the kids and kids at heart. Columbus’ LEGOLAND Discovery Center is located within Easton Town Center. It houses an impressive replica of the city made from around a million LEGO bricks, and there’s also a 4D theater and play areas your kids will enjoy. 

Columbus’ LEGOLAND Discovery Center also has the LEGO coffee shop for your caffeine fix, and a LEGO store where you can check out some souvenirs to bring home.

You’ve learned from this “things to do in Columbus” guide that the city will never fail to impress. If you wish to know more beautiful destinations in the United States, head over to this link.  

7. Ride A Space Capsule At The Center Of Science And Industry

For kids who wish to learn more about science, Columbus is the place to be. From computer simulators and a science park to an interactive laboratory and live science shows, the Center of Science and Industry is filled with so many things to do in Columbus. 

You can ride a space capsule, learn more about ocean exploration technology, and watch what happens in space at the museum’s Planetarium. Plus, there’s also the National Geographic Giant Screen Theater where you can learn about national parks, Africa’s terrain and wildlife, and more.

8. Fly A Helicopter Over Downtown Columbus

Looking for things to do in Columbus that will thrill you and chill your spine? Why don’t you get yourself on a helicopter flying over downtown Columbus? Adrenaline rush, it is. 

This tour takes you on a helicopter flying over the city’s download where you’ll get sky-high views of skyscrapers, stadiums, museums, and more. This is also a private tour so it provides the most convenience. 

One of the best things to do in Columbus is taking on a food adventure. Columbus’ culinary scene reflects the state where it is in, Ohio. Learn more about the best food in the state. 

9. Explore Columbus’ Art And Soul At Short North Arts District

The Short North Arts District is dubbed as Columbus’ art and soul. Somehow, this unique neighborhood has already been woven into the city’s culture. 

With its historic lighted arches along High Street, this place got its name then because of its location north of downtown Columbus and short of the University District. Today, it houses over 300 businesses like restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, rooftop bars, and entertainment. 

Foodies who visit here will love the Columbus Food Adventures tours. Art enthusiasts will love the eye-catching street art and sculptures displayed around the neighborhood. Whatever your preference, the Short North Arts District is vibrant, diverse, and always ready to welcome you. This is definitely one of the things to do in Columbus not to miss. 

10. Stroll, Jog, Bike, And Birdwatch At The Scioto Mile

Relatively young compared to the other attractions in Columbus, the Scioto Mile just opened in 2015 after several years of organization and environmental rehabilitation. Since then, it has offered tourists and locals several acres of parkland and greenery. 

For instance, you’ll have miles of trails snaking along the Scioto River, ideal for jogging, biking, or if you simply want to stroll around. The area also has a huge interactive fountain that kids love, as well as a free summer concert series for the adult crowd. Plus, there is also an outdoor climbing wall you can freely use, and there’s the Audubon Center for those who want to birdwatch. 

Whether you are touring Columbus with your special someone or you are with your family, this is the perfect place to be. Don’t forget to catch the sunset here at the Scioto Mile, and bring your camera with you to capture the moment. 

Can’t get enough of this “things to do in Columbus” piece? We have more stories about destinations in the United States. 

Things To Do In Columbus: Airlines That Fly To Columbus  

Before you travel to any destination, not just to Columbus, you’ve got to make sure that the airline you choose flies to where you’re going. If you are headed to this city in Ohio, the last thing you want to happen is to miss out on the many things to do in Columbus. So to further guide you, we’re listing down some of the airlines that fly to Columbus. 

• Korean Air
• Delta Air Lines
• Qatar Airways
• EVA Air
• Emirates 
• Cathay Pacific
• Japan Airlines 
• Air Canada
• Asiana Airlines

The Heart Of It All

This sprawling capital of Ohio is brimming with honor for the various experiences and things to do in Columbus. At one point, you’ll find yourself immersed in a German village and a few moments later, you’ll see yourself enjoying its outdoor scenery, and a whole lot more. 

Columbus is ready to unveil a world of hidden wonders before you, leaving an indelible mark on your heart that will keep you wanting more. Here, adventure awaits at your every turn. Ohio’s gift to every traveler. Ohio – the heart of it all.