Things to do in Columbus

Activities, attractions and tours

Columbus
Columbus
Columbus showing a garden as well as a couple
Columbus showing night scenes, skyline and a river or creek
Photo provided by Greater Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau

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What to do in Columbus


Popular places to visit

Areas of Columbus

Santa Maria featuring a bay or harbour and heritage elements

Downtown Columbus

4.5/5(4 area reviews)

The ample dining options and great live music are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Columbus. A stop by Nationwide Arena or North Market might round out your trip.

Downtown Columbus
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Polaris

4/5(1 area review)

Polaris is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Polaris Fashion Place and Topgolf while you're in town.

Polaris
Columbus as well as children

Uptown District

If you're spending some time in Uptown District, Palace Theatre and Capitol Square are top sights worth seeing.

Uptown District
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Short North

Short North is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by North Market and Jazz Arts Group while in the area.

Short North
Wexner Center for the Arts showing signage and theatre scenes

University District

4/5(1 area review)

University District is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Wexner Center for the Arts and Newport Music Hall while you're in town.

University District
Santa Maria featuring signage and a garden

Worthington

Unique features of Worthington include the restaurants and shopping. Make a stop by The Shops at Worthington or McConnell Arts Center while you're exploring the area.

Worthington

Frequently asked questions

Is Columbus worth visiting?
Providing a mix of culture and history, there are plenty of things to do in Columbus. While you're here, head to COSI, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Columbus?
COSI and Magic Mountain Fun Centre East are two great places to kick-start your getaway adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and shopping options in Columbus while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Columbus?
COSI is one of the top tourist attractions in Columbus and should feature high on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Columbus?
You can easily tick off popular sights like COSI, Columbus Museum of Art and Riffe Centre Theatre Complex with a three-day escape to Columbus. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stick around longer and check out Dublin.
Is Columbus a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Columbus, like COSI and Columbus Museum of Art, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Just 0.97 kilometres from central Columbus is Downtown Columbus and Uptown District is 0.32 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Columbus with kids?
If you are after activities and attractions for all the family, check out these fantastic ideas for what to do in Columbus with kids.

What to do in Columbus for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Columbus, with activities for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Ohio Expo Centre and State Fair or Schottenstein Centre.
Are there free things to do in Columbus?
In Columbus, Schlee Brewery Historic District is a must-see spot for anyone wishing to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the green spaces and other neighbourhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a good way to learn about the best free things to do in Columbus.