What to do in Columbus, OH

Activities, attractions and tours

Columbus
Columbus
Columbus featuring a garden as well as a couple
Columbus showing night scenes, a bridge and a city
Photo provided by Greater Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau

Columbus Attractions

Always up for imaginative ways to get your kicks and have an enlightening experience, you're eager to investigate an exciting city like the expert traveller you are. It's not hard to fill an itinerary, because Expedia Canada can connect you with lots of things to do. Find and book your activities today, and the only thing you'll have left to do is pack your trunk and prepare to have fun!

  • The things to do in Columbus are not only topnotch, but they won't cost an arm and a leg. We have 13 things to do here, and you can reserve them starting at just CA $14 . Get your favourite tours and excursions on Expedia Canada for significant savings, and you'll still have enough cash for a fancy hotel or fine meal while you're visiting.
  • Columbus is a favourite among sightseers similar to you. In fact, a good percentage of travellers can't wait for their next holiday to Columbus to learn about local culture and find the top activities. The top activities can grab the curiosity of even seasoned travellers, and it's easy to see why. Our collection includes an impressive range of historically based excursions and excitement. With Private 4x4: Columbus International Airport (CMH) that makes getting to where you need to go a piece of cake, there is an abundance of opportunities at your disposal when you browse the best activities here at Expedia Canada.

Our activities are the best way to organize your getaway. It takes a game plan to really get the most out of Columbus, particularly when you intend to pack in trips to museums and outdoor activities. And it's evident that you're itching to explore every avenue—you're excited to get out and play. You're thrilled to sign up for the most essential activities around, and a quiet day exploring local neighbourhoods is a perfect way to spend an afternoon. Book guided tours on Expedia Canada, and leave your map behind.


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What to do in Columbus


Discover the most popular places to visit in Columbus

Explore areas of Columbus

Santa Maria featuring a bay or harbour and heritage elements

Downtown Columbus

4.5/5(47 area reviews)

Enjoy entertainment options like theaters, concerts, and the Scioto Mile's riverfront parks in this central business district with towering buildings and various educational institutions.

Downtown Columbus
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Polaris

4.5/5(8 area reviews)

Polaris is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Polaris Fashion Place and Topgolf while in the area.

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

Colorful, offbeat, and trendy, this densely-populated district offers art galleries, specialty shops, pubs, nightclubs, and coffee shops. Stroll along High Street under its 17 lighted metal arches, and admire the vibrant murals on its brick buildings.

Short North
Wexner Center for the Arts which includes signage and theatre scenes

University District

4/5(1 area review)

Home to Ohio State University, the University District boasts a diverse range of restaurants, bars, boutiques, and the Gateway Film Center. Explore Ohio Stadium and Old North Columbus for a taste of local culture.

University District
Santa Maria showing a park and signage

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

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Day trip destinations from Columbus

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.