
Budget-Friendly Destinations in Columbus, United States
1. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Experience over 10,000 animals in this affordable zoo with popular attractions like Heart of Africa and Zoombezi Bay waterpark.
- Variety of Animals: Offers a diverse range of wildlife, including African elephants, polar bears, and gorillas.
- Waterpark Included: Includes an optional water park for additional summer fun.
- Conservation Efforts: Dedicated to conservation and rehabilitation efforts for endangered species.
2. Scioto Mile
Stroll along the Scioto Mile, a revitalized downtown riverfront with parks, art installations, and dining options.
- Riverfront Parks: Features several green spaces for picnics, exercise, or relaxation.
- Art Installations: Showcases contemporary art installations that add to the city's cultural appeal.
- Dining Options: Provides a variety of food trucks, restaurants, and cafes along the riverfront.
3. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Explore tropical plants, indoor gardens, and permanent exhibits like the Palm House and Orchid Room.
- Tropical Habitats: Recreates various tropical environments such as deserts, rainforests, and jungles.
- Seasonal Exhibits: Offers temporary exhibits focused on topics like butterflies or flowers during different seasons.
- Cafe and Gift Shop: Features a cafe for refreshments and a gift shop with unique plant-themed items.
4. Columbus Museum of Art
Appreciate modern and contemporary American art, as well as European works dating back to the 14th century.
- Diverse Collection: Boasts an extensive collection of over 6,000 works, including pieces by Picasso, Warhol, and O'Keeffe.
- Rotating Exhibits: Offers rotating exhibitions focusing on various themes and artists throughout the year.
- Free Admission: Provides free admission on Saturdays for all visitors.
5. Short North Arts District
Discover unique boutiques, galleries, and local eateries in this vibrant neighborhood filled with street art.
- Street Art and Murals: Features numerous murals and street art pieces created by local artists.
- Shopping and Dining: Offers a mix of independent retailers, cafes, and restaurants for shopping and dining experiences.
- Gallery Hop: Hosts Gallery Hop events on the first Saturday of each month, featuring open galleries and live music.
6. COSI - Center of Science and Industry
Explore interactive exhibits and demonstrations covering topics like space, health, and physics at this science center.
- Interactive Exhibits: Provides hands-on activities that engage visitors in the exploration of scientific concepts.
- Planetarium Shows: Features planetarium shows that provide a unique perspective on space and the universe.
- Special Events: Hosts special events like laser light shows, sleepovers, and camps focused on various scientific themes.
7. Ohio Statehouse
Learn about Ohio's history and government at this impressive state capitol building.
- Historic Architecture: Features ornate architecture and artwork reflecting the Victorian era.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to explore the building's history, art, and government functions.
- Free Admission: Provides free admission for self-guided tours during regular business hours.
8. Thurber House
Visit the childhood home of James Thurber, a famous author and cartoonist, and explore his works.
- Literary Legacy: Preserves the legacy of James Thurber through exhibits, events, and workshops.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours showcasing Thurber's life and works in the historic home.
- Writing Workshops: Provides writing workshops for children, teenagers, and adults interested in creative writing.
9. German Village
Explore this historic neighborhood with charming Victorian homes, unique shops, and delicious German cuisine.
- Architectural History: Features well-preserved Victorian architecture dating back to the 1800s.
- Shopping and Dining: Offers a variety of independent boutiques, galleries, and German-inspired restaurants.
- Historic Home Tours: Provides tours of historic homes showcasing the neighborhood's rich history.
10. Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park
Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing at this large metropolitan park.
- Outdoor Activities: Provides opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and birdwatching.
- Scenic Views: Offers scenic views of the creek, meadows, and wooded areas.
- Educational Programs: Hosts educational programs focusing on nature and wildlife conservation.
11. Topiary Park
Walk through a park filled with topiaries sculpted to resemble famous artworks like Seurat's 'A Sunday on La Grande Jatte'.
- Artistic Topiaries: Features topiary sculptures based on famous artworks, such as Renoir and Monet.
- Garden Artwork: Includes additional garden artwork throughout the park.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Provides a friendly and accessible environment for families to enjoy together.
12. Columbus Food Tour
Taste local cuisine on a guided food tour exploring Columbus' diverse neighborhoods and culinary scene.
- Local Culinary Experiences: Offers tastings at various restaurants, bakeries, and food carts showcasing local favorites.
- Cultural Immersion: Provides a cultural immersion experience as you explore Columbus' diverse neighborhoods.
- Guided by Locals: Is led by local experts who share insider knowledge of the city's food scene.
13. Columbus Commons
Relax in a beautiful park featuring a carousel, fountains, and a pavilion for concerts and events.
- Outdoor Activities: Provides space for activities like picnics, Frisbee, and outdoor exercise.
- Carousel and Fountains: Features a historic carousel and fountains that add to the park's charm.
- Concerts and Events: Hosts concerts, events, and festivals throughout the year, creating a lively atmosphere.
14. Schiller Park
Enjoy peaceful walks through this beautiful park with a scenic gazebo, lily pond, and historic monuments.
- Scenic Landscapes: Offers stunning landscapes of flowers, trees, and water features.
- Historical Monuments: Includes monuments honoring Columbus' history and notable figures.
- Quiet and Relaxing: Provides a quiet and relaxing environment for reflection and peace.
15. Columbus Brewing Company
Savor local craft beers at this popular brewery with rotating taps and food trucks on-site.
- Craft Beer Selection: Offers a wide variety of locally brewed craft beers.
- Food Trucks: Features rotating food trucks offering delicious options for lunch or dinner.
- Tour and Tasting: Provides guided tours and tastings of the brewing process and offerings.