40 Things for Kids to Do in Columbus, Ohio

In any season and for all reasons, kids want to have a good time just being kids. Well, Columbus, Ohio has a lot to offer in showing them, their parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins what this city is all about: Family. Use this handy resource often, and don't hesitate to refer to it whenever you hear a little voice say, "I'm bored."

1. AMC at Easton, Dublin and Lewis Center

Take the kids to see a movie in 3-D! AMC has several locations in the Easton Town Center, Dublin, and Lewis Center. The trick to a having a successful movie going experience is to plan ahead. Instead of standing in line, purchase tickets online, in advance. Take time out to view the top 10 trailers before heading out to AMC by clicking on the "Trailers" tab. Also, find out which movies are playing. By doing it this way, you might run across special web-based deals and end up saving more money as well as time.

2. Asian Festival

Each year, usually on Memorial Day weekend, the Asian Festival brings a cultural exposure to Columbus that is magical. Bring your appetite along and taste a variety of authentic Asian cuisine. Get ready to be entertained by many demonstrations that are native to various lands including Japan, Korea, Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia, India and others.

3. Canal Winchester Labor Day Festival

Even though this festival is held for only a couple of days each year around early September, it deserves an honorable mention. The Canal Winchester Labor Day Festival is about a 10 minute drive outside of Columbus. If you go, you'll experience the comfort of hometown fun made complete with a parade and carnival rides. Discuss it with the family to see if they'll appreciate attending.

4. Center of Science and Industry (COSI)

Get your science fix at COSI. It's a museum located at 333 W. Broad Street, just south of downtown. They encourage and satisfies the natural curiosity of children of all ages. This includes little ones as new to the world such as infants and toddlers, teens and beyond. COSI presents science shows evolving around historical artifacts and other exciting topics, so there is always something new happening there. Schools often schedule field trips between early fall in September through mid to late-October. Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm and on Sunday, 12 pm to 6 pm. Family night is from 5 p.m. to 9 pm. on the last Friday of every month. In early 2010, admission fees were under $20 per person. Certified teachers get in free. Some policies apply, so visit the COSI website to find out more and get updated information.

5. Central Ohio Fire Museum and Learning Center

Located at 260 N. Fourth Street in downtown Columbus, this fire museum features a play area for kids. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. The museum is also available for party rental. Admission for the museum is under $10 per person. Visit the Central Ohio Fire Museum and Learning Center website to find out more.

6. China Dynasty

Known for being one of the most family-friendliest restaurants, China Dynasty has earned more than six Consumer's Choice Awards, since 1999. It is located in Upper Arlington, on the northwest side of Columbus. The short drive is reasonably distanced and you'll be pleasantly surprised when you see the "easy-on-the-budget" item prices. Most menu items listed under $10.

7. Chiller Skate Rinks / The Dispatch Ice Haus

Don't run away from winter; join the fun and ice skate at Chiller! There are five convenient Chiller locations: Downtown, Dublin, Easton, Lewis Center and "Ice Works" in Worthington. For a while now, and still reflected in early 2010, Chiller rinks feature "Cheap Skate" sessions. That's where admission fees are typically under $5 per person. Regular pricing, including skate rental run about $10 per person and even less for kids. They have a varied public skating schedule, so visit the Chiller website or call ahead before making the trip.

8. Circle S Farms - Hayrides

Take the kids on a hayride on a local farm. The Circe S Farm is located in Groveport, just minutes south of downtown Columbus. They feature a gourmet gift shop that carries homemade salsa and jams. Purchase a few jars to take home with you and make the experience last a little longer.

9. Columbus Blue Jackets

Children love sports and hockey is no exception. Consider taking them to an exciting Columbus Blue Jackets game. The Nationwide Arena has many types of shows to see, not just hockey games, so be sure to check them out as well. Tickets for hockey games typically start at $20 per person. However, sometimes they feature a fantastic deal called "The Dispatch Family Pac" where you can get a ticket, Pepsi, hot dog and popcorn for about $25 per person based on a bulk purchase. Check the Columbus Blue Jackets website for details, as all offers are subject to change.

10. Columbus Children's Theatre

Theater-type plays do not have to be boring. Kids want to be able to relate to the characters up on stage and the Columbus Children's Theatre can relate to them. Bring the entire family out to watch these talented, young performers. Ticket prices are under $25 each for adults and under $10 each for children. Visit the Columbus Children's Theatre website to view the schedule and find out about their special Thursday rate.

11. Columbus Crew

Soccer games are quickly becoming as standard as hamburgers and apple pie. Visit the Columbus Crew Stadium's website to find out about game schedules and ticket pricing. I don't think there's a bad seat in the entire stadium. In early 2010, prices showed a variance, but usually start from around $10 on up.

12. Columbus Metropolitan Museum

This exceptional and comprehensive museum is conveniently located in downtown Columbus. They hold programs like "Doodles", "1st Saturdays" and "Family Sundays," where the entire family can participate. The museum also features a variety of events such as "Art Challenges" held on Sundays, between 1 pm and 3 pm. This is where family members and friends can compete for the prize of a free gift certificate. When you visit, if the weather is cloudy, choose to have lunch indoors at the Palette Café; if it's a sunny day, take advantage of the weather and take your meal outdoors to enjoy the Derby Court scenery. Easy museum admission prices are between free for children under 5 years to $10 for adults when I checked the site. There are too many specials to mention here, so visit the Columbus Metropolitan Museum website to learn more.

13. Columbus Motor Speedway

On Saturdays, from April through late-September, cars zoom on the fast track at Columbus Motor Speedway! Most races show ticket prices for adults priced at under $20, and around $5 for kids. Check the Columbus Motor Speedway website for scheduled races, updated prices, and information regarding their "Youth Box Car Race and Power Puff Race" events.

14. Columbus Santa Maria

A replica of the flagship of Christopher Columbus, the Santa Maria is a historical museum on water. Tours last under an hour and are held during the spring, summer and fall months. The Santa Maria is located in Battelle Riverfront Park in downtown Columbus. In early 2010, admission rates were under $10 per person. You can even arrange to hold your child's birthday party on the pirate ship!

15. Columbus Sports Vacation and Boat Show

Usually, in early to mid-February, for about 4 days, outdoor enthusiasts gather from all over town and convene at the Ohio State Fairgrounds to find out about trends in fishing and boating. The Columbus Sports Vacation and Boat Show fills the need to believe, that yes...summer is just around the corner! Go and see the newest gadgets! Admission for adults is under $10 each and children get in free when accompanied by an adult. Visit the Columbus Sports Vacation and Boat Show website for updated pricing information.

16. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Animals are precious and kids love them all! Spend an afternoon at the zoo and meet "Beco" (Bee-co) the baby elephant born early spring, 2009. All year long, Jack Hanna, Columbus' own famed zoo keeper holds family oriented events that captivating each family member. The Columbus Zoo is a must-see and must-do for the whole gang. Tickets are normally reasonably priced with even lower price points for seniors and children.

17. Denise's Ice Cream

Denise's Ice Cream is unique local neighborhood ice cream eatery located on North High Street in far north Columbus. Menu options include traditional and true flavors such as "Chocolate Brownie", "Butter Pecan" and "Chocolate Chip." Denise's also carries special flavors like "Green Tea" to cater to add to adult tastes. The "Chocolate Cooke Dough Yogurt" will help you pretend to melt away any sugary guilt. And parents, remember, if you try the "Bailey's Irish Cream" flavor, don't drink and drive! To review each delectable flavor visit the Denise Ice Cream website and click on the "Flavors" button. Next, point your mouse and hover the curser over the photo of an ice cream flavor to learn more about it.

18. Donatos Pizza

Donatos is a local family oriented restaurant and is quickly growing due to its fantastic 100 pepperoni pizza pie touted as one of Columbus' favorite. If you have never heard of them, you must consider taking the kids there to taste their traditional or specialty pies or submarine sandwiches. Check the Donatos Pizza website to get coupons and to view the menu in advance.

19. Easton Town Center (More Family Fun)

Easton Town Center has a website with interactive features that enable you to select a family fun event. Just click on the Entertainment tab on their main web page and then select "Entertainment" from Category drop-down menu. Select "Family Fun" from the Sub-Category drop-down menu and then select "Easton Town Center" as the available search option. Finally, press "Entertain Me." You will find the "Build a Bear Workshop" listed among many of the activities kids will enjoy.

20. Family Bike Ride and Picnic

Pack up the van and don't forget to take the family along for a day of bike riding and outdoor summer eating. Enjoy this activity at one or more of the many national parks in and around Columbus, Ohio. A few of the most popular parks are Alum Creek, Parkland, Hoover Reservoir Park and Griggs Reservoir. Find out about guided trail tours or experience the beauty of nature on your own.

21. First Night - New Year's Eve Celebration

Known for promoting clean, safe, family fun in welcoming in the New Year, First Night Columbus continues to be a city-wide tradition since it began around the early to mid-90's. The substance-free (promoting no alcohol) event happens annually and covers the streets of downtown Columbus. Festivities begin on New Years Eve around 4 pm and continue with non-stop entertainment until around 10 pm. Live music and other scheduled programs make the event anything but dull.

22. Franklin Park Conservatory

Plan to take the kids to a floral exhibition during a school break. This fragrant conservatory features several plants displayed as roof-top gardens which are destined to give your entire family an appreciation for nature. Seasonal shows make Franklin Park a horticultural wonderland for families here and abroad. Find out about their annual Gingerbread House competition by visiting the Franklin Park Conservatory website.

23. Hocking Hills

In Logan, Ohio, canoe rides, horseback riding and weekend camping excursions are just an hour's drive away from Columbus, in southeast Ohio. Charming and outdoorsy, Hocking Hills gives families a lot for their leisurely dollar investment.

24. Jazz and Rib Fest

Each summer, the Jazz and Rib Fest showcases some of the best lip smacking food in town! Vendors come out and make BBQ in all flavors and strengths. Have fun tasting and picking out your favorites. For kids and adults, this event is for the entire family. Admission is free, however budget and bring cash so you can get your fill of the great food. And do remember there is a cost for parking. Check the Jazz and Rib Fest website for dates.

25. King Arts Complex (Martin Luther King Performing Arts Complex)

Kids love learning about all the differences that make each and every one of us special. The Martin Luther King Performing Arts Complex is the recipient of the 2009 Columbus Best Award, Museums and Galleries category. See exhibits detail little known facts about African American history that everyone should know about. And some exhibits are also interactive, allowing for a full, sensory experience. The complex is located just east of downtown Columbus. Visit the King Arts Complex website to get contact information and then call for current admission fees and exhibit times.

26. Magic Mountain Fun Center

Go-Karts, arcades, bumper cars, miniature golf and other activities are sure to keep kids busy for a while! With two locations serving the Columbus area--one in North area and the other on the East Side, you can surely get to one of them for an afternoon of fun! Since admission and parking are both free, you can decide how much you spend and how long you want to stay without worrying about those rates. Magic Mountain is a popular birthday party event facility as well. Look at the Magic Mountain Fun Center website for information on their "pay-as-you-go" packages, coupons, gift cards and other specials.

27. Millers Country Garden

Miller's is another wonderful seasonal, family-oriented pumpkin patch. Located just north of Columbus, the farm is open Monday through Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm. They have pumpkins, fall corn, and other produce. They also offer group hayrides--bonfire and all.

28. Ohio Historical Society

Kids will learn all about Ohioan artifacts and more about the rich history of Ohio. OHS holds events relevant to the season and they lace them with an historical flavor. Shows and family fun abound when visitors participate in an event of discovery in a simulated archeology dig at "Serpent Mound." Or, they can observe games of days gone by as in the "Vintage Baseball Festival" which takes place on the society grounds. Admission is usually under $10 per person. Visit the OHS website and pick an event that the entire family will enjoy.

29. Ohio Department of Natural Resources - Explore the Outdoors Program

Created specifically for kids, "Explore the Outdoors" program helps children enjoy and understand the phenomenon of nature. Click the "Activities" button on the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website and find out how kids can experience the great outdoors, every day.

30. The Ohio Railway Museum

Stepping inside a historical railway car is an experience kids will love to to tell their friends about. Early 2010 admission prices were reasonable at under $10 per person. The museum is open only on Sundays between 1 pm to 5 pm, usually through the end of September. If you find it difficult to make it on a Sunday, try to not to miss the museum's annual train festival, because it is a blast! And if your family is not squeamish, take the kids on the annual "Ghost Trolley" which runs sometime around mid to late-October. You and your loved ones can listen to the narrator tell the spooky story while the lights are out and the moon is full. See The Ohio Railway Museum website for details.

31. Old Ride (Classic Car Shows)

Charity organizations usually sponsor these "fun for all" vintage car spectator shows. Some events also have face painting for the kids, fun food, and games. Take it easy and plan on attending one of these events which take place all over the city and nearby Columbus. For the public, admission is typically under $10 per adult, while children under 12 get in free. Each event is sponsored by a different organization, so fees may vary widely. View the Old Ride website and find a location to fit your schedule and driving distance desires.

32. Ohio State Fair

The crème de la crème of fairs is the annual Ohio State Fair which lasts about a week each year. Located at 717 E. 17th Avenue just north of downtown, Columbus, The Ohio State Fairgrounds holds many events year round. At the fair, the rides are plenty and the food is excellent--which is no surprise-- since the cuisine is prepared from so many professional vendors. The fair remains a staple and a must-attend event for locals as well as repeat visitors from around the world, year after year.

33. Ohio Statehouse Tree and Lighting Festival

The winter holiday season kicks off each year with the annual Columbus, Ohio Statehouse Tree and Lighting Festival event. It's free, open to the public, and usually takes place around the 1st of December. The celebration includes refreshments, music, and even a model train display that kids will love. Some details may change, so view the event list posted on the Ohio Statehouse Tree and Lighting Festival website.

34. Pam's Popcorn

Located in the historic North Market, Pam's Popcorn highlights a different flavor each week. Choose from "Classic Butter", "Cheddar and Caramel", "Caramel", "Sweet and Salty", or "Chicago Cheddar." They also feature a weekly favorite. Prices vary and are reasonable for small bags of popcorn to sizes up to a 6.5 gallon tin.

35. Pedal for Pets

Around mid-September, "Pedal for Pet's" provides the forum where families can bike ride for a charity with a mission is to help abandoned pets. In early 2010, tickets prices for adults were around $25 and $10 for kids under 12 years of age. Check the Pedal for Pets website to find out additional information.

36. Pumpkin Patches and More

Find a hayride and a corn maze just on the outskirts of Columbus and consider purchasing a nice pumpkin while you are there. Not only do kids love pumpkins, they also enjoy the fall season's colorful changes that pumpkins seem to symbolize. Visit the Pumpkin Patches and More website to find out where to pick your own fresh fruit. By the way, they also grow Christmas trees.

37. The Spaghetti Warehouse

Most kids don't want fillet mignon; they would rather eat foods with words they can pronounce like, "Spaghetti." Twirling the noodles around a fork is a favorite memory pastime for adults, and kids just naturally love pasta! The ambiance of the Spaghetti Warehouse screams "old Italy." It takes you back where you've never been, but wish you had. The restaurant is conveniently located just south of downtown in Franklinton. Prices are reasonable for the whole family, so round out the night with a nice warm meal at The Spaghetti Warehouse.

38. Snowboarding at Mad River Mountain Ski Resort

Just north of Columbus and a little under an hour away, Mad River Mountain will take you to the snow capped, exhilarating ski slopes of winter. Their kid friendly resort features the "Kids Adventure Program" for skiing lessons priced under $100. Visit the Mad River Mountain website and then click "Prices & Hours" tab for price updates. Next, click the "Kids Zone" tab.

39. United Skates of America

What kid doesn't love skating? Children love gliding on a roller rink to the beat of their favorite kinds of music. There are two convenient skating locations in Columbus--one is out east on Refugee Road and the other is up north off of Interstate 71. Make it a family skating night at United Skates and enjoy the pizza too. Visit the United Skates of America website for pricing and event listings.

40. Zoombezi Bay

Located right beside the zoo sits the extremely fun water park, Zoombezi Bay! There's giant slides, a tree house, and a barrel dumping water to cool you off. Those are just a few of the memorable features of Barracuda Bay. Other water areas and rides also help to make this water park unique. Open through Labor Day, admission prices are under $30. Children under 2 get in free. Check the Zoombezi Bay website for updates.

That was so enjoyable! Mark this list as one of your favorites and feel free to use it often. Think of it a guide to show your family and friends what Columbus has to offer kids all of ages! But before you head out on any adventure, be sure to check the website of the company you plan to visit. This way, you will be well informed of any current news regarding fees, discounts, and business hours. Don't wait to have fun in Columbus, Ohio. Start today. Enjoy the capital city of the "Buckeye State!"

Sources were based on research conducted via the Web on March 18, 2010.

Sources:

http://magicmountainfuncenter.com/http://www.columbuszoo.org/visitor_information/
http://www.zoombezibay.com/admissionrates.aspx
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http://dev.ohiorailwaymuseum.net/event_detail.php?targetid=20080602110732
http://www.cosi.org/
http://www.centralohiofiremuseum.com/
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http://www.fpconservatory.org/index.htm
http://www.exploretheoutdoorsohio.com/
http://asian-festival.org/index.do?pn=home
http://www.hockingriver.com/
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