Columbus, OH Things to Do and Attractions
Located on 75 acres of prime real estate in the heart of downtown Columbus, the Arena District is Columbus' premier entertainment hotspot. Just steps away from the Greater Columbus Convention Center, this vibrant district features an array of fine
Located on 75 acres of prime real estate in the heart of downtown Columbus, the Arena District is Columbus' premier entertainment hotspot. Just steps away from the Greater Columbus Convention Center, this vibrant district features an array of fine restaurants, shops, bars and sports venues including the signature Nationwide Arena, home of the National Hockey League's Columbus Blue Jackets.
A pedestrian-friendly area featuring outdoor plazas and tree-lined streets, the district invites visitors to take a scenic stroll and take their pick of restaurants including Cotters, Gordon Biersch and Ted's Montana Grill. After dinner, guests can enjoy libations and live entertainment at the lively Frog Bear & Wild Boar Bar or see the latest movie at the Arena Grand Movie Theatre.
The Arena District is home to several venues that feature meeting and event space. The Hyatt Regency Hotel offers 63,000 square feet of flexible space, while the Arena Grand Movie Theatre features the latest in audio-visual equipment and the Battelle Plaza is perfect for outdoor events with sweeping views of the city.
A charming way to see the sites, Capital City Tours offers exciting excursions where visitors can get a taste of the history, legends and little known facts of Ohio's largest city. Guests can take the City Overview Tour for an introduction to
A charming way to see the sites, Capital City Tours offers exciting excursions where visitors can get a taste of the history, legends and little known facts of Ohio's largest city. Guests can take the City Overview Tour for an introduction to Columbus and its many delightful districts, including the German Village, Short North, Victorian Village and Old Town East. For a more in-depth view, a specialized tour such as the Outdoor Sculpture and Cityscapes Tour, which visits the many outdoor works of art in downtown Columbus, provides a look at interesting out of the way spots.
For ladies only, the Tea Room Tour offers an afternoon of tea, scones and decadent desserts in the quaint tea cottages of Columbus. Another option is the fascinating Factory Tour, where visitors can see how items such as peanut butter, chocolate and hand-woven baskets are made at the city's many one-of-a-kind factories.
Schedules and prices vary based on tour type. Capital City Tours offers customized step-on guide service. Transportation can be arranged for groups.
A downtown gem, the Columbus Museum of Art is home to an outstanding permanent collection of late 19th and early 20th American and European art. Works by such celebrated artists as Degas, Monet, Matisse, Picasso, Hopper, Marin and O'Keeffe line the
A downtown gem, the Columbus Museum of Art is home to an outstanding permanent collection of late 19th and early 20th American and European art. Works by such celebrated artists as Degas, Monet, Matisse, Picasso, Hopper, Marin and O'Keeffe line the gallery walls. Other highlights include the world's largest public collection of woodcarvings by Columbus folk artist Elijah Pierce as well as the largest repository of paintings and lithographs by Columbus native George Bellows. National and international traveling exhibitions are frequent features, and the museum offers tours, a film series and a wealth of enrichment programs for all ages.
An elegant backdrop for any event, the Columbus Museum of Art can accommodate groups ranging in size from five to 500 people, and offers several distinctive spaces including the lavish Derby Court, the outdoor Russell Page Sculpture Garden and a 295-seat auditorium.
The Columbus Museum of Art is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 5:30 PM and Thursday until 8:30 PM. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for seniors and students. Admission for children under 5 is free. Sunday admission to the museum is free.
Art comes to life at the Columbus Topiary Garden. Located at downtown Columbus' Old Deaf School Park, the Topiary Garden is a stunning interpretation of George Seurat's famous post-Impressionist painting A Sunday On The Island Of La Grande Jatte.
Art comes to life at the Columbus Topiary Garden. Located at downtown Columbus' Old Deaf School Park, the Topiary Garden is a stunning interpretation of George Seurat's famous post-Impressionist painting A Sunday On The Island Of La Grande Jatte. The only topiary interpretation of a painting in existence, this unique garden is a beautiful blend of art and nature.
The park features 54 topiary people, eight boats, three dogs, a monkey, a cat and a real pond. Known as a "landscape of a painting of a landscape," the garden invites visitors to enjoy the surreal experience of stepping into a painting and becoming part of the art. Other features include a museum store, visitor's center, docent-led tours and live music events.
The park is open year round from sunrise to sunset. Admission is free. The months from April through November are recommended as the best time to visit.
Made famous by Jungle Jack Hanna, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is 90 lush acres of animal adventure located just north of the city. The zoo features 700 different species of wildlife from air, land and sea. From the endangered manatee exhibit to
Made famous by Jungle Jack Hanna, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is 90 lush acres of animal adventure located just north of the city. The zoo features 700 different species of wildlife from air, land and sea. From the endangered manatee exhibit to sharks, elephants and even penguins, Columbus Zoo offers a taste of the wild from around the world.
In addition to the exhibits, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium features rides, gardens, picnic areas, a playground, shows and scheduled feedings. After a day of animal exploration, guests can take a spin on a vintage carousel, drift through unchartered waters on the Islands on the Southeast Asia Boat Ride or take in a show such as National City Wings of Flight! Or Animal Encounters. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is also home to the 18-hole, 140-acre Safari Golf Course as well as the newly opened 22.7-acre Zoombezi Bay Water Park, which features 15 waterslides, a wave pool, kiddy pools and more.
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium can accommodate group functions for as many as 10,000 people. The zoo is open daily, Labor Day to Memorial Day weekend, from 9 AM to 5 PM, and daily, Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend, from 9 AM to 6 PM. General admission is $7 for children ages 2-9 and $10 for adults. Parking is $5.
One of the nation's premier science centers, COSI Columbus originated in 1964 and welcomes families with more than 300 interactive exhibits housed in a dazzling, 320,000-square-foot building in downtown Columbus. COSI offers families exciting
One of the nation's premier science centers, COSI Columbus originated in 1964 and welcomes families with more than 300 interactive exhibits housed in a dazzling, 320,000-square-foot building in downtown Columbus. COSI offers families exciting hands-on exploration within several themed areas including the Ocean, Space Gadgets, Little Kidspace, Progress and the outdoor Big Science Park. Kids can roam from one exhibit gallery to the next and experience what it is like to travel through time, feel the power of centripetal force, pass through a black hole or climb aboard a submarine. Other highlights include live shows, a retail store, the Atomicaf restaurant and the seven-story Extreme Screen Theater, featuring films such as Sea Monsters 3D: A Prehistoric Adventure.
With stunning architecture and a prime waterfront location, COSI Columbus offers groups a unique atmosphere for both indoor and outdoor private events. COSI Columbus is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday from noon to 6 PM. It is open during the summer, May 24 to September 1, Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday from noon to 6 PM. General admission is $7.50 for children ages 2-12, $12.50 for adults and $10.50 for seniors ages 60 and older.
Just south of downtown Columbus, visitors find an enchanting neighborhood known as the German Village. This 233-acre restored neighborhood dates back to the mid-1800s when German immigrants settled in the area. Today, it is listed on the National
Just south of downtown Columbus, visitors find an enchanting neighborhood known as the German Village. This 233-acre restored neighborhood dates back to the mid-1800s when German immigrants settled in the area. Today, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and welcomes visitors with unique restaurants, quiet streets, quaint shops and lovely gardens.
Strolling past brick cottages on narrow, tree-lined roads, visitors will stumble upon charming shops such as The Book Loft, the largest independent book seller in the country, and Helen Winnemore Craft, the country's oldest retailer of American-made crafts. Mingled with the specialty shops, guests will find an array of interesting dining options including Schmidt's Restaurant and Sausage Haus, a German Village tradition. For an evening under the stars, German Village features outdoor performances of Shakespeare plays and classic musicals every summer at Schiller Park.
Golf enthusiasts will find a hole in one at this 24,000-square-foot museum dedicated to the legendary career of Columbus native Jack Nicklaus. Located in the Ohio State University sports complex, the Jack Nicklaus Museum not only takes an in-depth
Golf enthusiasts will find a hole in one at this 24,000-square-foot museum dedicated to the legendary career of Columbus native Jack Nicklaus. Located in the Ohio State University sports complex, the Jack Nicklaus Museum not only takes an in-depth look at the brilliant career of this champion golfer, but also takes visitors on a voyage into the rich history of this beloved sport. Highlights of the museum include an art gallery featuring original paintings of Nicklaus, a course design gallery, trophies, photographs, mementos, a pro shop and a theater showing films about the golf great.
The Jack Nicklaus Museum can be booked for private functions. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for students.
Located within Capital Square in downtown Columbus, the Ohio Statehouse is one of the oldest working statehouses in the United States. Completed in 1861 after 22 years of construction, the Ohio Statehouse is said to be one of the United States' most
Located within Capital Square in downtown Columbus, the Ohio Statehouse is one of the oldest working statehouses in the United States. Completed in 1861 after 22 years of construction, the Ohio Statehouse is said to be one of the United States' most outstanding examples of Greek revival architecture. The Statehouse is home to a collection of priceless historic art including the only marble bust that Abraham Lincoln posed for during his lifetime. A historic treasure inside and out, the Ohio Statehouse is located on 10 acres of parkland that was once used as a campground for soldiers during the Civil War.
The statehouse offers several majestic spaces for group functions including the Atrium, Rotunda, State Room, and the West, South and North Plazas. The Ohio State House is open Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 6 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM to 5 PM. Free guided tours run hourly Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 3 PM and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 3 PM. Self-guided tours are also available. Groups of 10 or more are encouraged to schedule tours in advance.
The Short North Arts District is an eclectic blend of galleries, boutiques, pubs and restaurants located in the heart of downtown Columbus and within walking distance to the Greater Columbus Convention Center. A historic district that dates back to
The Short North Arts District is an eclectic blend of galleries, boutiques, pubs and restaurants located in the heart of downtown Columbus and within walking distance to the Greater Columbus Convention Center. A historic district that dates back to the late 1800s, Short North is renowned for its artsy, bohemian atmosphere, its signature lighted archways and its famous "Gallery Hop" every first Saturday of the month.
Visitors to Short North can take a leisurely stroll along High Street, the district's main thoroughfare, and pop in and out of galleries and funky shops or settle down at a sidewalk table or coffeehouse and watch the people drift by. Offering a diverse range of culinary delights, Short North is home to some legendary dining establishments such as Rigsby's Kitchen and Short North Tavern. After dinner, visitors can enjoy cocktails at stylish hotspots, including Spice Bar and Surly Girl Saloon, or cap off their trip with a stop at the historic North Market. Operating since 1876, North Market is the only remaining public market in Columbus.
For fresh flavors and the finest in vegetarian and vegan cuisine, Benevolence Café is a great bet. Located in the heart of the trendy Short North Arts District, this earth-friendly, cozy caf prides itself on "cooking with a conscience." By reducing
For fresh flavors and the finest in vegetarian and vegan cuisine, Benevolence Café is a great bet. Located in the heart of the trendy Short North Arts District, this earth-friendly, cozy caf prides itself on "cooking with a conscience." By reducing waste, recycling and reusing items such as to-go bags and printed materials, Benevolence Café cares for the planet while serving organic, homemade fare such as soups, breads, sandwiches, pastas and desserts. Even meat-eaters will enjoy healthy delights such as curried ginger-couscous soup along with a slice of their famous Grains of the Goddess Bread, which combines organic wheat flour and a bounty of seeds and grains. In addition, Benevolence serves a popular Saturday morning breakfast that features waffles, pancakes and quiche.
Benevolence Café is open Monday through Friday from 11 AM to 8 PM and Saturday from 8:30 AM to 8 PM. An affordable option for visitors, dinner entrees and combination plates range in price from $7.50 to $10.50.
Located in a historic townhouse overlooking the cobblestone roads of the quaint German Village neighborhood, G. Michael's Bistro and Bar is a welcome addition to the Columbus cuisine scene. The dim lighting, lush, plum draperies and brick-lined walls
Located in a historic townhouse overlooking the cobblestone roads of the quaint German Village neighborhood, G. Michael's Bistro and Bar is a welcome addition to the Columbus cuisine scene. The dim lighting, lush, plum draperies and brick-lined walls set the mood for this fanciful foodie favorite, which has an impressive collection of accolades under its belt including "Best New Restaurant" by Citysearch.com.
At G. Michael's, Chef David Tetzlof serves up a delectable menu of new American and Italian cuisines, such as pan-seared tuna au poivre on creamed spinach and grilled beef filet with lobster mashers and Cognac reduction. The award-winning wine list provides just the right pairings for entree selections, while the decadent dessert menu tops off the experience with favorites such as German chocolate cake and pecan pie served with gourmet ice cream brought in from Jeni's, a Columbus institution.
The bistro boasts an intimate outdoor patio with seating for 24 people and can accommodate group functions for up to 80 people. G. Michael's Bistro and Bar serves dinner Sunday through Thursday from 5 to 10 PM and Friday and Saturday from 5 to 11 PM. Entrees range from $17 to $34. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Celebrity chef Hartmut Handke shows off his epicurean artistry at this fine dining establishment in Columbus's eclectic Brewery District. Set below ground in what was once an 1820s beer cellar, the restaurant invites visitors to descend the stairs
Celebrity chef Hartmut Handke shows off his epicurean artistry at this fine dining establishment in Columbus's eclectic Brewery District. Set below ground in what was once an 1820s beer cellar, the restaurant invites visitors to descend the stairs and experience rich, historic elegance marked by dark wooden booths, stone vaulted ceilings and cozy, exposed brick walls. The combination of warm ambience, attentive service, and top flight cooking are what has made Handke's a beloved Columbus institution. Diners enjoy superb wine selections as they feast on global cuisine such as lobster bisque Chantilly and sauteed salmon scallopine. For an extraordinary experience, guests can choose the seasonal tasting menu, which the restaurant deems "a celebration of food and wine."
Three spaces are available for private events for groups of up to 64 people seated and 125 people standing. Handke's Cuisine is open Monday through Friday from 5:30 to 10 PM and Saturday from 5 to 10 PM. Entrees range from $24 to $31. Reservations are strongly recommended.
A space that at one time served as a church in the 1800s is now serving up what is frequently called the finest French cuisine in Columbus. Visitors are struck by the unique character and outstanding service of this award-winning restaurant. From the
A space that at one time served as a church in the 1800s is now serving up what is frequently called the finest French cuisine in Columbus. Visitors are struck by the unique character and outstanding service of this award-winning restaurant. From the exposed wooden roof to the stained glass windows and original hand-hewn beams, the airy, candlelit atmosphere provides a serene space in which to dine on divine dishes such as crabmeat and artichoke crusted "poisson du jour," or the highly touted filet mignon with a cardamom sauce. Winner of the 2007 Wine Spectator Award, Refectory's extensive wine cellar features over 700 selections to provide the perfect pairing for any meal.
The restaurant also offers groups a historic dining experience featuring prix fixe menus, audio-visual equipment and two private rooms that can accommodate groups of six to 60 people. Refectory Restaurant & Bistro is open Monday through Thursday from 5:30 to 9:30 PM and Friday and Saturday from 5 to 10 PM. Entrees range from $15 to $38. Reservations are strongly recommended.
