There are so many fun things to do in Columbus, Ohio — how do you even know where to start? This thriving midwestern city has been growing like crazy lately and has gotten a lot of national press in recent years.

Columbus is the capital of Ohio and the 14th largest city in the United States. The housing and jobs markets are booming, and people all over are discovering this underrated midwestern city.

I’ve lived in Columbus on and off for most of my life, so I know what the city has to offer, and I am so excited to share it with you.

This list of over 60 fun things to do in Columbus, Ohio, is organized into sections so you can quickly scroll to the area that interests you — and it also includes 2024 festivals and events. There is something on this list for everyone, from families to foodies, sports lovers to artsy types — Columbus is for everyone!

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The Best Things To Do In Columbus: At a Glance

I’ve included a lot of things to do in and around Columbus in this post. If you are looking for something specific, you can click through to the section you’re interested in here:

• Family Activities in Columbus, Ohio
• Food Adventures in Columbus
• Artsy Things To Do In Columbus
• Things to do in Columbus, Ohio with Kids
• Sports in Columbus, Ohio
• Things to do in Columbus for Couples
• Things to do in Columbus for Adults
• Outdoor Activities in Columbus
• Columbus, Ohio Festivals

Family Activities in Columbus, Ohio

1. Go on a Scavenger Hunt

This self-guided photo scavenger hunt takes you to popular landmarks in downtown Columbus. The tour lasts about 2 hours and is a fun way to explore Columbus on foot.

2. Easton Town Center

Easton Town Center is an indoor/outdoor shopping complex with many restaurants, high-end shopping, a movie theater, the Funny Bone comedy club, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, and more.

Location: 160 Easton Town Center, Columbus, Ohio 43219

3. Columbus Commons

The Columbus Commons is a 6-acre green space in the middle of downtown Columbus. The Commons hosts many events throughout the year, including concerts, family festivals, food trucks, free fitness classes, and more.

Location: 160 S High St, Columbus, Ohio 43215

4. Dublin Market at Bridge Park

Saturday mornings in the summer are best spent wandering through the Dublin Market at Bridge Park. This open-air market features local vendors, farmers, and artisans. After the market, stop in for brunch at one of the many restaurants in the area.

Location: Banker Drive and Longshore Loop in Dublin, Ohio

Read More: Things to do in Dublin, Ohio

5. Wildlights at the Zoo

If you’re visiting Columbus in the winter, you must spend an evening at the Zoo enjoying the fabulous Wildlights displays. The zoo is lit up for the holidays from late November through early January. Bundle up and bring the whole family out for a night of enchantment.

Location: 4850 Powell Road, Powell, Ohio 43065

6. Red, White & BOOM! – July 3, 2024

Red, White & BOOM! is the largest fireworks display in Ohio and one of the biggest in the entire Midwest. This Columbus tradition is an all-day festival that ends in a huge fireworks display downtown.

Location: Downtown Columbus, Ohio

7. Dublin Irish Festival – August 2 to 4, 2024

The Dublin Irish Festival is a big deal in Columbus. It’s held each summer in Dublin to celebrate the community’s Irish roots. You’ll find food, entertainment, vendors, and activities for the whole family.

Location: Coffman Park in Dublin

8. Ohio State Fair – July 24 to August 4, 2024

The Ohio State Fair is one of the largest in the U.S., and it’s great for the whole family. It includes animals, sports, rides, food, and more.

9. The Columbus Italian Festival

The Columbus Italian Festival takes place each fall in Italian Village. The festival includes food, entertainment, bocce ball, and more.

Location: St. John the Baptist Italian Catholic Church | 168 E. Lincoln St.

10. Visit a Cat Cafe

Yes, Columbus has a cat cafe. Kitty Bubble Cafe is a fun spot that offers a unique way to interact with some furry friends. You can purchase cat-themed drinks and food like Pink Toe Bean Bubble Tea to bring into the cat lounge, and most cats are adoptable. Reservations aren’t required but are recommended.

Location: 5568 N. High Street, Columbus, 43214

Food Adventures in Columbus 

Columbus has a vibrant and thriving food scene. There are tons of great restaurants across the city offering lots of different types of cuisine. Here are some fun places in Columbus, Ohio for foodies.

11. North Market

The North Market is a public market in downtown Columbus that features lots of local, independent farmers, restaurants, artisans, and businesses. Every Saturday and Sunday from June through October, you can find the North Market Farmer’s Market, which sells hand-made and vintage items, fine arts, jewelry, and great fresh produce. There’s a 2nd location in Dublin.

Locations:

• 59 Spruce Street, Columbus, Ohio, 43215
• 6750 Longshore Street, Dublin, Ohio 43017

12. Harvest Pizza

Harvest Pizza is my favorite pizza in Columbus! In addition to pizza, you’ll find small plates, salads, burgers, and sandwiches…but you need to try the pizza! They feature lots of local ingredients because “Local Tastes Better”.

Locations:

• Clintonville | 2885 N High St, Columbus, Ohio 43202
• Dublin | 45 N High St, Dublin, Ohio 43017
• Bexley | 2376 E. Main St, Bexley, Ohio 43209

13. Jeni’s Ice Cream

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is an artisanal ice cream company that was founded by Columbus native Jeni Britton Bauer. Jeni’s is growing in popularity, and the company now has shops in 9 states.

Jeni’s is still headquartered in Columbus, so it’s only fitting that you try some while you’re here. They have unique flavors made from the highest quality ingredients and even offer amazing dairy-free options.

Locations: 10 locations throughout Central Ohio (North Market, Grandview Heights, Bexley, Short North, Dublin, Clintonville, Powell, German Village, Columbus Commons, Easton Town Center)

• My Flavor Recommendations: Brown Butter Almond Brittle, Goat Cheese with Red Cherries, Savannah Buttermint

If you want to try your hand at making ice cream and desserts at home, check out Jeni’s books, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams at Home, and Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream Desserts.

14. Northstar Cafe

If you’re looking for fresh, vibrant, gourmet food in a relaxed atmosphere, Northstar Cafe is it. Try the Northstar Burger — it’s my favorite veggie burger EVER! There are 4 locations across Central Ohio.

Locations:

• Beechwold | 4241 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43214
• Short North | 951 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43201
• Easton Town Center | 4015 Townsfair Way, Columbus, Ohio 43219
• Westerville | 109 South State Street, Westerville, OH 43081

15. Schmidt’s

Schmidt’s is an iconic German restaurant that’s been around for over 100 years — located in none other than Columbus’ German Village. It’s a mecca for meat lovers and has even been featured on The Travel Channel’s Man vs. Food.

Location: 240 E Kossuth St, Columbus, Ohio 43206

16. The Old Mohawk

The Old Mohawk is an iconic German Village restaurant that’s been around since 1933. The varied menu offers everything from appetizers, soups, and salads, to pasta, sandwiches, and burgers.

Location: 819 Mohawk Street, Columbus, Ohio 43206

Best Credit Card for Dining: Earn 4 points per $1 spent on dining + an annual $120 dining credit (at select locations) on the American Express Gold Card 

17. Veritas

Veritas is a fantastic restaurant for foodies in Columbus. The menu is small and rotates seasonally — and the food is incredible. You can order a la carte or do the chef’s tasting menu with optional wine pairings. If you don’t drink alcohol, you’ll love some of their incredible non-alcoholic cocktails.

Location: 11 West Gay St., Columbus, Ohio 43215

18. Take a Food Tour

If you’re unsure where to start or want to try lots of great places in one day, try out a Columbus food tour. Columbus Food Adventures offers themed food tours, including an all-dessert tour, breakfast tour, meat lover’s tour, coffee tour, taco truck tour, and more!

Location: Varies based on the tour you choose

19. Jazz and Rib Fest – July 19 to 21, 2024

The Columbus Jazz and Rib Fest is a summertime tradition that celebrates both music and barbecue.

Location: Bicentennial Park | 233 S. Civic Center Drive

20. Columbus Food Truck Festival

The Columbus Food Truck Festival includes live music, local vendors, and, of course, lots of food trucks.

Location: Franklin County Fairgrounds in Hilliard

21. Center Street Market

Check out Center Street Market in Old Hillard. Anchored by Crooked Can Ohio, this market includes local vendors and restaurants in charming Old Hilliard. If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to let the kids enjoy the splash pad across the street.

Location: 5354 Center Street, Hilliard, Ohio 43026

22. Relive Wendy’s History

The first Wendy’s restaurant opened in downtown Columbus in 1969. While that original location was closed in 2007, you can still get a taste of Wendy’s history at its flagship restaurant, located across the street from its headquarters in Dublin. Here, you’ll find memorabilia like original uniforms and ad campaigns,  the 1996 Olympic torch Dave Thomas (Wendy’s founder) carried through Dublin, and a Waterford Crystal hamburger.

Location: 4555 W. Dublin-Granville Road, Dublin, Ohio 43017

Explore More: Love brunch? Try out one of these spots for the best brunch in Columbus.

Artsy Things To Do In Columbus

23. Columbus Museum of Art

The Columbus Museum of Art offers more than just a great collection of artwork — you’ll also find workshops, family events, guided tours, a creativity lounge, and the Wonder Room. Every Sunday is free, and on Thursday evenings, the museum is open late and offers discounted admission.

Location: 480 E Broad St, Columbus, Ohio 43215

24. Short North Gallery Hop

The Short North Gallery Hop has been a Columbus tradition for decades. It happens on the first Saturday of every month when High Street explodes with gallery exhibitions, street performers, shopping, food, and drinks.

Location: Short North Arts District | High Street, Columbus, Ohio

25. Glass Axis

If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at glass-blowing or wanted to see a glass-blowing demonstration without traveling all the way to Venice, you’ll want to check out Glass Axis. They offer glass-blowing classes, exhibits, and demos throughout the year.

Location: 614 W Town St, Columbus, Ohio 43215

26. Wexner Center for the Arts

The Wexner Center, part of The Ohio State University,  is all about contemporary art and cultural experiences. Here you’ll find art exhibitions, movie screenings, performances, artist residencies, and education programs. You can visit the exhibitions for free on Thursdays after 4 p.m. and on the first Sunday of each month.

Location: 1871 N High St, Columbus, Ohio 43210

27. Shadowbox Live

Shadowbox Live is a unique performing arts theater. Shows include dance, music, comedy, and more — in fact, Shadowbox Live is the largest resident ensemble theater company in the U.S.

Location: 503 S. Front St., Suite#260, Columbus, Ohio 43215

28. Topiary Garden Park

The Topiary Park is a 9-acre public park located in Columbus, Ohio’s Discovery District. It’s designed to represent George Seurat’s 1884 painting, A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte. Admission is free to everyone and the recommended time for best viewing is April through November.

Location: 480 E Town St, Columbus, Ohio 43215

29. Columbus Arts Festival – June 7 to 9, 2024

The Columbus Arts Festival is back! This huge celebration of the arts in Columbus includes food, live performances, and lots of local and regional artists and vendors.

Location: Downtown riverfront between Main St. and Rich St.

30. Columbus Fashion Week

Wait, Columbus has a fashion week? Yup! (I wish this existed back when I was a designer.) Columbus Fashion Week includes fashion shows and fashion-related events celebrating the Columbus fashion community, which is arguably the largest outside of L.A. and New York City.

31. Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum

The Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum, which is affiliated with the Ohio State University, is a research library containing American cartoons and comic art. It contains the world’s largest collection of materials related to comics and cartoons. The galleries are open to the public, and admission is FREE.

Location: Sullivant Hall, OSU Campus | 1813 N High St, Columbus, Ohio 43210

32. Visit the Field of Corn

If you’re into quirky public art, then this is for you! In the suburb of Dublin, you can find 109 statues in the shape of an ear of corn, each standing about 6 ft tall.

Location: 4995 Rings Rd, Dublin, Ohio 43017

Read More: If you want to branch out a bit, check out these great day trips from Columbus, Ohio.

Things to do in Columbus, Ohio with Kids

33. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is one of the country’s best for good reason — it’s packed with cool animals and things to do for kids of all ages! Don’t miss the incredible Heart of Africa exhibit, where you can hand-feed a giraffe.

Location: 4850 Powell Road, Powell, Ohio 43065

• Read More: Experience the INCREDIBLE Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

34. Zoombezi Bay

If you need a place to cool off in the summer, stop by Zoombezi Bay to splash around. It’s located next door to the zoo, so you can make a day out of it and visit both spots.

Location: 4850 Powell Road, Powell, Ohio 43065

35. Legoland Discovery Center

Legoland Discovery Center is a fun space for kids to play and explore. Popular attractions include MINILAND, Lego 4D Cinema, Kingdom Quest, Merlin’s Apprentice Ride, Creative Workshop, and much more!

Location: Inside Easton Town Center

Coupon Code: Use code ZLAT22 to save 20%

36. COSI

COSI (Center of Science and Industry) is the ultimate kids’ science museum. In addition to tons of exhibits, they offer the Little Kidspace for younger children to join in the fun.

Location: 333 W Broad St, Columbus, Ohio 43215

37. Scioto Mile Fountains

The Scioto Mile Fountain is located in Bicentennial Park in downtown Columbus. It is made up of 5 huge stainless steel structures that shoot jets of water up to 75 feet in the air! Your kids will love cooling off in the fountain during a beautiful summer day in Columbus.

Location: 233 Civic Center Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43215

38. Anthony Thomas Factory Tour

The Anthony Thomas Candy Company was founded in 1952 by a father/son team and has been a staple in Columbus ever since. They offer factory tours on select days each week.

Location: 1777 Arlingate Lane, Columbus, Ohio 43228

39. Lynd Fruit Farm

Picking apples at Lynd Fruit Farm is one of my favorite things to do in autumn. In addition to apple picking, you can pick berries, pumpkins, and peaches. Plus, there is a farmer’s market (open July through December) and a giant corn maze.

Location: 9091 Morse Rd SW, Pataskala, Ohio, 43062

Read More: Apple picking is one of my favorite fall activities in Columbus

40. Olentangy Indian Caverns

The Olentangy Indian Caverns are a series of underground caves and tunnels that you can explore. The Caverns also have a petting zoo, gem mining, treasure hunt maze, and mini-golf.

Location: 1779 Home Rd,  Delaware, Ohio, 43015

Sports in Columbus, Ohio

41. Columbus Blue Jackets | NHL Hockey

If you’re a sports fan, you should check out Central Ohio’s hockey team, the Columbus Blue Jackets. Games are fun for all ages.

Location: Nationwide Arena | 200 W Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, Ohio 43215

42. Columbus Crew | MLS Soccer

The Columbus Crew is our beloved soccer team. The city of Columbus almost lost the team, but thanks to TONS of local support, the Crew is staying put in Central Ohio — there’s even a new stadium.

Location: Lower.com Stadium | 96 Columbus Crew Way, Columbus, Ohio, 43215

43. Columbus Clippers | MLB Minor League Baseball

It may not be the major leagues, but the Clippers are a big deal in Columbus. Check out a game during the spring or summer, and keep an eye out for the popular dime-a-dog nights.

Location: Huntington Park | 330 Huntington Park Ln, Columbus, Ohio 43215

44. Jack Nicklaus Museum

If you’re a golf lover, you’ll want to stop by the Jack Nicklaus Museum at the Ohio State University. This 12,000-square-foot facility houses over 2,000 pieces of golf memorabilia.

Location: 2355 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43210

45. The Memorial Tournament – June 3 to 9, 2024

The Memorial Tournament is held each year at the Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin, and it’s a popular event among locals and golf lovers alike.

Location: Muirfield Village Golf Club, Dublin

Things to do in Columbus, Ohio for Couples

46. The Refectory Restaurant

The Refectory is an upscale French restaurant that is located in a former church. I highly recommend checking out their Dinner Music Series. You’ll enjoy a romantic 4-course dinner in their private upstairs room and live music in an intimate setting. Reservations are required.

Location: 1092 Bethel Road Columbus, Ohio 43220

47. Explore German Village

German Village, located just south of downtown Columbus, is a charming area full of cobblestone streets and quaint brick buildings. German Village offers lots of dining options, including Lindy’s, which is often cited as one of the best restaurants in Columbus, and Pistacia Vera, an incredible place for pastries, desserts, and light bites. If you are a book lover, stop into The Book Loft, which has 32 rooms of books.

Location: South of Downtown Columbus (use 588 S 3rd St, Columbus, Ohio 43215 as a starting point)

48. Franklin Park Conservatory

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a beautiful spot to visit in Columbus. It’s home to fantastic exhibits, including a display of Chihuly glass, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. They also offer different classes and activities throughout the year, including glass blowing, cooking, landscaping, yoga, and more.

Location: 1777 E. Broad Street Columbus, Ohio 43203

49. Picnic with the Pops

Picnic with the Pops is an outdoor concert series that takes place in the Columbus Commons and features the Columbus Symphony Orchestra paired with a modern artist or cover band. Some of the acts they have hosted in recent years are Kool and the Gang, Ben Folds, Nelly, a (really good) Led Zeppelin cover band, and the OSU Marching Band.

Location: Columbus Commons | 160 S High St, Columbus, Ohio 43215

Read More: Picnic with the Pops is one of my favorite things to do in the summer in Columbus

50. Columbus Park of Roses

The Columbus Park of Roses, located within Whetstone Park, is one of the largest public rose gardens in the U.S. The 13-acre garden is an accredited arboretum that features over 12,000 roses.

Location: 3901 N. High St, Columbus, Ohio, 43214

51. Walk The Dublin Link Bridge

The Dublin Link Bridge is a 760-foot S-shaped pedestrian bridge that connects the Bridge Park neighborhood with Historic Dublin. You’ll find shopping and restaurants on both sides of the bridge, and on the east side, you’ll find Riverside Crossing Park.

Location: Downtown Dublin, Ohio

Read More: Check out these great date night ideas in Columbus

Fun Things To Do In Columbus, Ohio For Adults

52. Visit a Brewery

Columbus has a great craft beer culture that offers beer lovers many choices at over 40 breweries. If you’re up for a challenge, try out the Columbus Ale Trail or check out some of these local favorites:

Land Grant Brewing Company

If you’re into beer, a stop at Land Grant should be on your Columbus itinerary. Their brewery and taproom offer up to 24 beers on draft, plus a full selection of wines and cocktails. Food trucks are on-site on a regular basis as well. Free brewery tours are offered on Saturdays.

Location: 424 W. Town Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215

Columbus Brewing Co: The Columbus Brewing Co. taproom and brewery offer over 20 beers to try, and they host food trucks on select dates.

Location: 2555 Harrison Road, Columbus, Ohio 43204

BrewDog: BrewDog’s USA brewery is located in Columbus, Ohio! This brewery and taproom offer up beer, food, and even a hotel! Guided brewery tours and tastings are available, and there’s even a beer museum.

Location: 96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, Ohio 43110

53. Stay at the DogHouse Columbus Hotel

BrewDog’s DogHouse Hotel is the world’s first craft beer hotel! (Yes, you read that right). This unique hotel offers 32 beer-themed rooms, each with draft beer on tap.

Location: 100 Gender Road, Canal Winchester, Ohio 43110

54. Visit a Winery

In addition to beer, you’ll find several wineries in Central Ohio. Check these out on your next visit:

Wyandotte Winery: Wyandotte Winery is the oldest winery in Central Ohio and offers all types of wines — reds, whites, sweet wines, dry wines, and fruit wines.

Location: 4640 Wyandotte Dr, Columbus, Ohio 43230

Camelot Cellars: Camelot Cellars is a small boutique winery and restaurant that offers a make-your-own-wine experience, a wine club, tours, and a private event space.

Location: 901 Oak St, Columbus, Ohio 43205

Powell Village Winery: Powell Village Winery is an urban craft winery located in charming downtown Powell that produces Ohio-made wines with California grapes. The tasting room offers fun events and live music throughout the year.

Location: 50 S. Liberty Street, Suite 174, Powell, Ohio 43065

55. Celtic Cocktail Trail

If cocktails are more your thing, head to Dublin to try out the Celtic Cocktail Trail. This fun trail features 18 stops, offering unique Irish-themed cocktails. When you complete 5 or 11 stops, you’ll be rewarded with official Celtic Cocktail Trail swag.

56. Tour Watershed Distillery

Watershed offers tours of their Grandview distillery on select Thursdays – Sundays. Stay afterward for dinner and drinks at Watershed Kitchen & Bar — they’ve some of the best cocktails in Columbus. Plus, the themed cocktail menu changes seasonally, so there’s always something new to try.

Location: 1145 Chesapeake Ave Suite D, Columbus, Ohio, 43212

57. Hollywood Columbus Casino

If you’re looking for a little Vegas-like action, check out Hollywood Columbus Casino. In addition to gambling, you’ll find restaurants and entertainment, including concerts.

Location: 200 Georgesville Rd, Columbus, Ohio 43228

Outdoor Activities in Columbus, Ohio

58. Glacier Ridge Metro Park Challenge Course

If you’re feeling adventurous, try out the challenge course at Glacier Ridge Metro Park. After the challenge, try out the disc golf course or take a stroll through the park to unwind — keep your eyes peeled for the resident deer in the park. Check out the fantastic wood climbing area and kid-friendly zip line if you bring the kids.

Location: 9801 Hyland-Croy Rd, Plain City, Ohio 43064

Read More: Glacier Ridge Park is one of my favorite places to visit in the spring in Columbus

59. Go Kayaking

Olentangy Paddle offers kayaking tours down the Scioto and Olentangy Rivers. Tours and special events are offered throughout the year.

Location: Varies based on your tour.

60. Go On a Bird Hike

If you like bird watching, you’ll want to check out the free weekly bird hikes offered by Scioto Audubon Metro Park. These guided hikes are offered on Saturday mornings throughout the year and are suitable for the whole family.

Location: Grange Insurance Audubon Center | 505 W Whittier St, Columbus, Ohio, 43215

61. Take a Bike Tour

You can rent a bike and explore one of downtown’s bike trails or take a guided bike tour on one of the many trails throughout Columbus.

62. Go Ziplining

Try your hand at a zipline and treetop obstacle course with ZipZone Canopy Tours. They offer multiple tour options, including a nighttime tour and a kids’ area.

Location: 7925 N High St, Columbus, Ohio 43235

63. Alum Creek State Park Beach

Wait, there’s a beach in Columbus?! Yep! Okay, while we don’t claim it’s up to par with the white sand beaches you’ll find in the Caribbean, it’s still pretty cool. This 3,000-foot-long beach (Ohio’s largest inland beach) is located in Alum Creek State Park and offers a great way to cool off during the summer. If swimming isn’t your thing, you’ll also find a full-service marina with boat rentals.

Location: 3400 Lewis Center Rd, Lewis Center, Ohio 43035

64. Tour Columbus on a Segway

SegAway Tours of Columbus offers daily guided segway tours from March 1 through December 23. Each 2-hour tour includes 15 to 20 minutes of practice and a guided tour. Choose from the Original City Tour or a River & Bridges Tour. There’s even a Holiday Lights Tour offered in December.

65. Explore Indian Run Falls

Indian Run Falls is a hidden waterfall in the middle of Dublin, Ohio! In addition to the falls, there’s a lush walking path and creek with plenty of photo-op spots. There’s a “trailhead” with a parking lot, but if you park at the Dublin Library parking garage, you’ll also be within walking distance of Dublin’s shops and restaurants. This is definitely one of the free things to do in Columbus, Ohio.

Location: 75 N. High Street, Dublin (recommended) or 700 Shawan Falls Drive, Dublin

66. Pelotonia – August 2 to 4, 2024

Pelotonia is a 2-day bike ride through Columbus to raise funds for The Ohio State University’s James Cancer Center. There are many ways to get involved, including participating in the ride, volunteering, or fundraising.

2024 Columbus, Ohio Events and Festivals

January Festivals and Events

• Columbus Chocolate Wine and Whiskey Festival: TBD

February Festivals and Events

• Columbus Winter Carnival: February 3, 2024
• Columbus Dispatch Spring Home and Garden Show: February 17-25, 2024
• Columbus Winter Wine Festival: February 24, 2024
• Arnold Sports Festival: February 29 to March 3, 2024

March Festivals and Events

• Arnold Sports Festival: February 29 to March 3, 2024
• Unextinct at the Columbus Zoo: March 8, 2024 to May 18, 2024
• Columbus Brew Festival: March 9, 2024
• Columbus Wine Walk: March 23, 2024
• Eggs, Paws, and Claws: March 29-30, 2024

April Festivals and Events

• Unextinct at the Columbus Zoo: March 8, 2024 to May 18, 2024
• Equine Affair: April 11-14, 2024
• Earth Day Celebration Weekend at the Columbus Zoo: April 20-21, 2024
• Columbus International Film and Animation Festival: April 20, 2024

May Festivals and Events

• Unextinct at the Columbus Zoo: March 8, 2024 to May 18, 2024
• COSI Science Festival: May 1-4, 2024
• Columbus Taco Fest: May 18-19, 2024
• Ohio Black Expo: May 23-26, 2024
• Jeni’s Strawberry Jam: May 25-26, 2024

June Festivals and Events

• Chicken and Beer Festival: June 1, 2024
• The Memorial Tournament: June 3-9, 2024
• Columbus Arts Festival: June 7-9, 2024
• Stonewall Columbus Pride: June 14-15, 2024
• Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival: June 14-16, 2024
• Juneteenth Ohio Celebration: June 15-16, 2024
• Worthington Arts Festival: June 15-16, 2024
• Buckeye Country Superfest: June 22-23, 2024
• Zoofari: June 22, 2024
• ComFest: June 28-30, 2024

July Festivals and Events

• Red, White & BOOM!: July 3, 2024
• Doo Dah Parade: July 4, 2024
• Columbus Food Truck Festival July 12-13, 2024
• Westerville Music & Arts Festival: July 13-24, 2024
• Franklin County Fair: July 15-21, 2024
• Jazz and Rib Fest: July 19-21, 2024
• Columbus Food and Wine Festival: July 27, 2024
• Ohio State Fair: July 24- August 4, 2024

August Festivals and Events

• Ohio State Fair: July 24- August 4, 2024
• Dublin Irish Festival: August 2-4, 2024
• Pelotonia: August 2-4, 2024
• Festival Latino: August 10-11, 2024
• Delaware County Fair: August 12-17, 2024
• Columbus Food Truck Festival August 17, 2024
• Columbus Greek Festival: August 30 – September 2, 2024
• Wonderbus Music and Arts Festival: TBD
• Fiery Foods Festival: TBD
• WAG! Fest: TBD

September Festivals and Events

• Columbus Greek Festival: August 30 – September 2, 2024
• Upper Arlington Labor Day Arts Festival: September 2, 2024
• Columbus Oktoberfest: September 6-8, 2024
• Central Ohio Fall Home Show: September 6-8, 2024
• Columbus Caribbean Festival: September 14, 2024
• Columbus Fashion Week: TBD
• Jack O’ Lantern World: TBD
• Rwandan Fete: September 21, 2024
• Cartoon Crossroads Columbus: September 25-29, 2024

October Festivals and Events

• Ohio Gourd Show and Festival: October 4-6, 2024
• Columbus Coffee Festival: October 5-6, 2024
• The Columbus Italian Festival: October 11-13, 2024
• Boo at the Zoo: Weekends from October 4-27, 2024
• The Great Westerville Pumpkin Glow: TBD
• Highball Halloween: October 26, 2024

November Festivals and Events

• Slothvasana – Yoga with Sloths: November 2-3, 2024
• Wine for Wildlife: November 8, 2024
• Sensory Friendly Lights Stroll at the Zoo: November 19, 2024
• Columbus Zoo Wildlights: November 22, 2024 – January 5, 2025
• Ohio Made Holiday Market: November 22, 2024

December Festivals and Events

• Columbus Winterfair: December 6-8, 2024
• Short North Holiday Hop: December 7, 2024
• Winterfest Columbus: TBD
• Columbus Zoo Wildlights: All month long
• Zoo Year’s Eve: December 31, 2024

Final Thoughts

There are so many fun things to do in Columbus, Ohio — which might come as a surprise if you think C-Bus is a sleepy, midwestern town. Columbus is a mecca for arts, food, and culture, and I can’t wait for you to visit my hometown soon. Happy Travels!

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