Fall in Columbus is a season when the outdoors show off, with inspiring displays of fall color and new flavors, activities and events to explore day after day. Here's a taste of the must-see and must-do activities for families this fall in Columbus.
Smortado seasonal drink. Source: Roosevelt Coffee House.
DAY ONE
Breakfast | Roosevelt Coffee House
Fuel the family up for the day with a stop at Roosevelt Coffee House, a spacious shop with plenty of seating. Try their seasonal favorite, the Smortado, paired with a sweet treat from their locally sourced bakery offerings. Roosevelt is also a stop on the Columbus Coffee Trail!
Morning Activity | Fall Hike at Scioto Audubon Metro Park
Enjoy the fall foliage in Columbus at Scioto Audubon Metro Park, located right in the downtown area, with beautiful views. Kids will love the outdoor rock-climbing wall and obstacle course! To explore further out from downtown, check out our list of the best fall hikes in the area.
Lunch | 101 Craft Kitchen
The fall menu is back at 101 Craft Kitchen. Warm up with Green Chili, the seasonal favorite, before you go out. With three locations in Columbus, you’re sure to find one that’s on your way out to your next destination!
Afternoon Activity | Visit a U-Pick Farm
‘Tis the season for harvest! Head to one of the Columbus area's apple orchards or pumpkin patches with the kids to pick some fresh produce or this year’s jack-o-lantern. Memories = made!
Fall foliage at McFerson Commons. Source: Experience Columbus
DAY TWO
Breakfast | Donna's Delicious Dozen
Start the day off on a sweet note with a trip to Donna's Delicious Dozen, a well-loved and woman-owned business in Columbus that will satisfy any fall-flavored donut craving.
Morning Shopping | The Red Stable
Head to German Village to find The Red Stable, a little barn right in the heart of this historic and charming urban neighborhood. Inside, your family will find plenty of charming, locally-made and Columbus-themed items for you to keep or gift away.
Lunch | Northstar Café
Take the family to Northstar Café, specializing in from-scratch courses including seasonal favorites like the Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Salad or the Warm Applejack Cider. Kids can enjoy smaller sizes of certain main menu options or choose from kid-friendly favorites like grilled cheese and quesadillas.
Evening Activity | Pumpkins Aglow at Franklin Park Conservatory
Nothing says “fall” more than a visit to Pumpkins Aglow! Snap some photos of the family inside the Pumpkin House and stay into the evening to see the entire grounds lit with twinkling lights.
Pumpkin House during Harvest Blooms. Source: Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
