Eating is one of the best things to do in Columbus, Ohio. It’s the birthplace of Wendy’s and White Castle. You know there’s going to be limitless amounts of good food and great adventure when traveling to this place. This mini-guide gives you an idea of a great self-guided tour of things to see and do in Columbus, Ohio on your upcoming visit. It’ll also give you a list of a few top restaurants in the area.
Things to Do in Columbus, Ohio: A Mini-Guide
In this article:
- What Time Is It in Columbus, Ohio
- Free Things to Do in Columbus, Ohio
- Things to Eat in Columbus, Ohio
- Most Popular Restaurants in Columbus, Ohio
- Best Places to Shop in Columbus, Ohio
- Most Popular Destinations in Columbus, Ohio
- How to Get Around in Columbus, Ohio
- Travel Tips for Columbus, Ohio
1. What Time Is It in Columbus, Ohio
Columbus, Ohio operates on a GMT-4 time zone. It practices Daylight Saving Time (DST). Its current DST period started last March 11, 2018 and will end on Nov 4, 2018.
2. Free Things to Do in Columbus, Ohio
Every day is a good day when you wake up to a sight like this! Columbus Park of Roses in Columbus, OH https://t.co/EIqsSLVDxp pic.twitter.com/eCa7dwrrQP
— Nature Hills Nursery (@naturehills) August 28, 2017
Looking for family things to do in Columbus, Ohio? Let your kids get acquainted with nature. Bring them to Inniswood Metro Park. You’ll even get major bonus points from the kids, thanks to the park’s treehouse.
Can’t get enough of parks? Here’s another unique park conservatory that might be up your alley. The Columbus Park of Roses is free and open every day from dawn until dusk. Don’t forget to bring your camera for this trip. You’ll definitely want to take loads of photos here.
3. Things to Eat in Columbus, Ohio
Columbus is a mecca of different cuisines. From farmer’s market to classy restaurants, they have something for everyone. This means you’re bound to find something you like, whether you’re craving Japanese or Polish food — even a bite from a Jewish deli.
By the way, locals can’t get enough of Columbus’ plethora of taco trucks. There are even food tours dedicated to them. Get your fill of Mexican food and see why locals won’t stop lining up for their favorite tacos.
Tip: Never leave Columbus without getting a box of donuts. The best ones can be found in the North Market. They’re made fresh and will go amazing with your cup of coffee.
4. Most Popular Restaurants in Columbus, Ohio
There’s no need to worry about sticking to your strict diet. Z Cucina di Spirito is one of Columbus’ top restaurants. It offers Italian and Mediterranean cuisines. It also has vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. That way, you won’t have to feel guilty about overindulging on your trip.
If however, you’re in the mood for some meat or seafood, head over to Mitchell’s Ocean Club. People can’t stop raving about their blackened snapper and steak.
Fancy some dessert? The popular Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is a favorite in Columbus’ Short North area. The brambleberry crisp is one of the dessert shop’s reigning flavors.
5. Best Places to Shop in Columbus, Ohio
Touring Easton Town Center in Columbus. It’s as if someone modeled a mall on Bioshock Infinite. pic.twitter.com/rYHAy6ekiv
— Greg Lindsay (@Greg_Lindsay) September 14, 2017
North Market isn’t just one of the best places for great food finds. It’s also a marketplace with all sorts of merchants. Some sell an assortment of kinds of pasta and sauces. Others offer a range of cookware and gift baskets.
Looking for a mall? Shop at Easton Town Center. Don’t forget to check their events schedule ahead of time, as well. Their event calendar often has a few surprises for the public. Watch out for the mall’s cooking classes and holiday carriage rides.
6. Most Popular Destinations in Columbus, Ohio
Great time watching the polar bears at the @ColumbusZoo this past weekend. pic.twitter.com/ylXaWpzPEP
— cre8ivenerd (@cre8ivenerd) April 23, 2018
The kids will be amazed at the attractions of Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Some of its highlights include a hands-on tide pool, a kangaroo walkabout, and a reptile lab. Make a note to schedule a visit to the COSI Columbus Museum of Art, as well. It’s one of the biggest educational science centers with art and interactive exhibits.
You can also check out Franklin Park Conservatory for amazing botanical gardens showcasing different exotic plants and displaying special exhibitions. The conservatory also features the artwork of various artists including Dale Chihuly.
If you’re up to a more daring family adventure, then head over to Hocking Hills State Park. There are plenty of activities you can do in the area including visiting old man’s cave, camping, canoeing, and staying in cabins. You can also take a day trips and see their spectacular events and annual festivals.
Heading to Columbus, Ohio in October? Make a stop at the German Village. It usually goes all out for the world-famous German celebration of Oktoberfest. All you have to do is brush up on your German and you’re all set! Prost!
7. How to Get Around in Columbus, Ohio
We concur! 📷: Zac Mac Check out COGO bikeshare in Columbus for an affordable fun way to get around Cap City! #cogo #bikeshare #transit pic.twitter.com/fGaqb9I5pC
— CoGo Bike Share (@CoGoBikeShare) April 4, 2017
You can get around Columbus via bike, bus, cab, and car. Looking for a new service to try? Download the Cogo app. It’s a bike-sharing service that lets you sneak in a quick work out. There are 365 bikes in downtown Columbus, so it won’t be hard finding one.
Low on cash? No worries. Hop on a CBUS. It’s a free bus service that starts from the Short North Arts district all the way to the Brewery District.
8. Travel Tips for Columbus, Ohio
Football game days can be a bit chaotic in Columbus. This means traffic can be unbearable during the fall season. However, there is a silver lining to this. The downtown area isn’t as crowded during the games, especially since most of the crowd is headed North.
Looking for more things to do in Columbus Ohio? Check out this video from Experience Columbus for some of the best breakfast spots!
These things to do in Columbus, Ohio are bound to make you and your family happy! By the way, don’t forget to share all of the amazing foods you’re trying with the family, it’s one of the secrets to tasting everything without getting too full.
Know a few more things to do in Columbus Ohio? Add them to our list by leaving a comment below!
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on October 19, 2017 and has been updated for quality and relevancy.
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