Columbus has a rich and storied military history. A variety of military experiences throughout the city highlight the vital role Columbus residents played in our nation’s conflicts, dating back to the Civil War. Plus, Columbus is the only place in the country that has a single facility that honors all veterans and their families, past and present, from all eras of conflict and branches of service at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM) which celebrates its fifth anniversary in 2023.

This Veterans Day, Ohio’s capital offers a number of events and activities to honor and celebrate the sacrifices our servicemen and women have made for our country. 

 

Veteran images at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio

 

Events & Activities

Veterans Day Ceremony

Saturday, Nov. 11 | 11 a.m. | National Veterans Memorial and Museum

Join U.S. Navy Veteran and Chief Operating Officer at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Jay Anderson, to honor and celebrate the selfless service of millions of Veterans who have defended our freedoms. This event is free but requires advanced registration. Find more details here.

March Through Time

Friday & Saturday, Nov. 11-12 | Ohio History Center

Reenactors at Ohio History Center will share the rich military history of America, from the middle ages to modern day. Hands-on activities, miniature war gaming and more family-friendly activities will be available. Learn more here.

 

Motts

 

Visit Motts Military Museum

Open Tuesday-Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sundays 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Plan a visit to Motts Military Museum, whose mission is to share artifacts and recount their history through the stories of those who witnessed them firsthand while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Exhibits range from ones focusing on the Revolutionary War to World War II and from the Vietnam War to Dessert Storm.

Visit Ohio Veterans Plaza

Open daily on the grounds of the Ohio Statehouse

Visitors can stop by the Ohio Veterans Plaza, which honors Ohio veterans from World War II to the present. Limestone walls feature inscribed letters with moving messages from veterans who depict being at concentration camps, being injured during combat, missing their children's milestones and spending holidays apart from loved ones.  

Support Veteran-owned Businesses

Another way to honor Veterans is to support Columbus' thriving community of veteran-owned businesses. Some of the local businesses include Crew Supply Co., which creates high-quality barware and infusion kits, and Jump Start Java, which provides barista-style gourmet coffee for businesses.   

veterans memorial museum

Discounts & Freebies

National Veterans Memorial and Museum

NVMM welcomes everyone free of charge on Nov. 11.

Experience Columbus Visitors Centers

Veterans and active military receive 20% off on Nov. 11 at both the Arena District location and the Easton location. 

Mugshots Bar & Grille (Pleasantville)

Veterans eat free on Nov. 11. Choose between the Mobster Meatloaf or a personal pizza. Learn more.

Learn more about Columbus' military history: