Columbus offers a wealth of opportunities for those seeking to maintain a healthy lifestyle and enjoy outdoor activities. From fitness studios to scenic parks and water adventures, here’s your ultimate guide to staying active and healthy in the city.
Yoga at Seven Studios. Source: Experience Columbus.
Fitness and Yoga Studios
Columbus boasts a variety of fitness and yoga studios catering to different interests:
- Yoga Classes: Heart Felt Yoga Studio, CorePower, Modo Yoga, LIT Life Yoga, Rise Yoga and Balanced Yoga offer diverse classes for all levels.
- Sweat It Out: StudioTorch, System Of Strength, Cycle614, Melt House of Fitness, Lagree House and Seven Studios provide intense workout options.
- Free Summer Workouts: Columbus Commons in Downtown Columbus hosts free classes on the North Lawn from May through September, including HIIT and Yoga sessions, sponsored by UnitedHealthcare and coordinated by Seven Studios and Raw Yoga 614.
Biking along the Scioto Mile. Source: Experience Columbus.
Outdoor Activities & Parks
Columbus Metro Parks
- Parks & Trails: With 20 parks and over 230 miles of trails across seven central Ohio counties, you can explore hiking, kayaking, cross-country skiing, and more. Popular spots include Blacklick Woods and Sharon Woods for fitness stations, and Chestnut Ridge for the Mountain Bike Trail.
- The Scioto Audubon Metro Park is home to a free 35-foot public climbing wall and several smaller climbing boulders. Just bring your own equipment!
- Seasonal Fun: During the summer, try disc golf at Blendon Woods, Glacier Ridge and Scioto Grove, or backpacking at Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park. During the winter, enjoy ice skating at Battelle Darby Creek and Blendon Woods.
- Make visiting Columbus Metro Parks even more fun by downloading the Outdoor Trails Pass: Check in to locations along the trail and be entered to win a $100 gift card to a local Columbus restaurant or business.
Paddling along the Scioto Mile. Source: Randall L. Schieber.
Kayaking and Water Activities
- Hoover Reservoir: Ideal for canoeing and kayaking, Hoover Reservoir’s expansive lake offers inlets for exploration. Equipment rentals are available at Hoover Adventures.
- Big Walnut Creek: Rent a kayak from Gahanna Parks and Recreation for a serene paddle or try paddle boating at Creekside Park.
- Alum Creek: Popular for various water activities, with rentals available from Hughes Outdoors and Alum Creek Marina. The park also features campgrounds for a weekend escape.
- Scioto Mile: Enjoy kayaking with Olentangy Paddle while hearing a guide share the past, present and future of Columbus' rivers.
- Metro Parks Water Access: Enjoy Big Darby Creek, Olentangy River and Scioto River at various Metro Parks. Explore Alum Creek, Big Walnut Creek and more.
- Pro Tip: Head downtown for Free Kayak Days brought to you by Columbus Downtown Inc. Stay tuned for 2025 dates.
Biking in Columbus. Source: Experience Columbus.
Bike Trails
Metro Parks offer approximately 75 miles of scenic trails:
- Olentangy Trail: This 13-mile trail runs along the Olentangy River, passing by Ohio State University and through various neighborhoods.
- Scioto Trail Loop: A 6.4-mile scenic route along the Scioto River, from the Brewery District to the Arena District.
- Westerville: Featuring 51 miles of trails, Westerville is bike-friendly with routes through parks and city center. The Westerville Bike and Walkways system offers diverse trail experiences.
- Pro Tip: Use Veo bikes! Whether you're a visitor or a local, exploring Columbus by bike offers a unique perspective. Veo Micromobility makes this easy with convenient access to bikes throughout the metro area. Just use the Veo app to rent a bike and start your urban adventure!
Olentangy Trail at Antrim Lake. Source: UA Creative Studios.
Running Paths
- Olentangy Trail: A 13.1-mile route along the Olentangy River, ideal for running from April through October.
- Scioto Trail: This 5.6-mile trail offers easy access to downtown landmarks and the Scioto Mile.
- Antrim Lake: A 1.3-mile loop near Worthington, popular for a peaceful run and birding.
- Ohio State University Campus: A scenic 3-mile loop around the historic campus, perfect for runners.
- Alum Creek Rocks and Roots Trails: Technical trails featuring two 10K loops, designed for runners.
- Sharon Woods Metro Park: A 4-mile loop with paved paths and moderate hills.
Buddha Bowl from Northstar Cafe. Source: Northstar Cafe.
Healthy Eating & Local Favorites
- Northstar: Breakfast to dinner with locally grown, organic foods, including salads, bowls, sandwiches, and brick oven pizza.
- Native Cold Pressed: Raw, organic juices, smoothie bowls, and cleanses using thoughtfully sourced ingredients.
- Market 65: Farm-to-table salads and wraps with create-your-own options in a vibrant downtown location.
- Portia's Cafe: Vegan, gluten-free, raw, and organic foods daily.
- Clean Eatz Café: Fresh, seasonal meals with gluten-free, keto, and high-protein options. Includes build-your-own bowls, burgers, wraps, and flatbreads, with dine-in and online ordering.
- Sweetgreen: Health-focused fast-casual spot in the Short North offering fresh protein plates, bowls, and salads.
- Commune: Plant-forward cuisine with globally-inspired, locally-sourced dishes, plus creative craft cocktails and biodynamic wines.
- Sow Plated: Locally-sourced, chemical-free ingredients with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Includes cold-pressed juices, teas, and a full range of meals.
- Chop 5 Salad Kitchen: Exceptional chop salads, wraps, crave-a-bowls, and other health-inspired menu items that balance flavor, fresh ingredients, and chef-inspired taste.
- Looking for a local meal prep company? Check out Luxe & Lemons, Fit Fresh Fast and 360 Fitness Meals.
Columbus blends fitness studios, scenic parks, and outdoor adventures for wellness enthusiasts. With extensive trails, kayaking spots and health-focused eateries, it's the ultimate city for an active lifestyle. Explore the many opportunities for wellness Columbus offers and check out our events calendar for more and share your memories with us using #yesColumbus.
