Four people clinking drinks on a rooftop bar in Columbus

Columbus Itineraries

With so much to see and do, a travel itinerary can definitely make your stay easier and help you make the most of your time.

Whether you have a few hours or a very specific interest in mind, there’s a good chance we’ve put together something that sounds like your kind of day.

Weekend Visits

A weekend trip gives you the chance to explore without feeling like you're racing from one stop to the next. For things to do in Columbus this weekend, you’ll find countless restaurants and experiences you can fit into a few memorable days.

The Ultimate Guide for First-Timers covers museums, neighborhoods, markets, shopping, and some of Columbus' best places to eat and drink. You'll find ideas for everything from breakfast and coffee stops to evening entertainment and late-night bites.

If you're visiting with children, the Family Friendly itinerary includes hands-on attractions and outdoor adventures so kids can burn off some energy. From days at the zoo and science museums to ropes courses, toy stores, and restaurants that can cater to the pickiest of eaters.

Couple walking outside the Book Loft, a 32-room independent book store in German Village

Columbus for First-Timers

Ideas for all interests, including activities, sports, restaurants and more.

A Family-Friendly Weekend in Columbus

Enjoy these parks, toy stores and ropes courses for families.

Two men hugging each other and laughing in the Short North Arts District

Pride 365

Check out LGBTQ+-owned spots around the city.

Father and son with Down Syndrome enjoying the fall weather outside

Fall Family Fun Itinerary

Need some help planning the perfect fall weekend in Columbus? Check out this two-day itinerary, full...

Short Stays & Day Trips

If you're in town for a conference or a quick getaway, you have plenty of time to experience the city. Many of its top sights are located in or nearby downtown, and our walkable neighborhoods make it surprisingly easy to fit a lot into your day.

To take in the city's history, art and international food scene, the Arts, History and Local Bites itinerary explores the King-Lincoln and Bronzeville neighborhoods through local art, Black history and some unforgettable local restaurants along the way. You'll also encounter murals, museums, jazz history, soul food and flavors from around the world, all within a few miles of downtown.

Food & Fashion

The finest food and fashion that celebrates Columbus' Black-owned businesses.

Black family enjoying a history exhibition

Art, History & Local Bites

Explore Columbus' historic, innovative Black culture.

Three Hoyo's Kitchen workers hugging and smiling

CBUS Soul Itineraries

Explore a collection of itineraries that celebrate Columbus' rich Black history.

Themed Experiences

Sometimes the best itinerary isn't based on how much time you have, but on what you enjoy doing most. Whether you're traveling with kids or planning a girls' getaway, we’ve built itineraries around all types of interests.

If self-care and shopping are higher on your priority list, the Cosmetics, Couture and More itinerary includes boutique shopping, spa treatments, custom fragrances, and rooftop cocktails. You'll also find art workshops, botanical gardens and plenty of other relaxing ideas.

If you'd rather get creative and make something you can take home, the Columbus for the DIY-er Itinerary is pretty close to a DIY lover's dream. This guide features pottery studios, candle making workshops, print shops and jewelry classes.

Cosmetics, Couture & More

Prepare for three days full of shopping, art, and beauty.

Two women making candles at Penn & Beech Candle Co

Columbus for the DIY-er

Boutiques, food experiences and blown glass workshops – explore local makers.

Women sit around a round table while holding cocktails and laughing on a rooftop bar

Bachelorette Party in Columbus

Use this guide to craft the perfect bachelorette itinerary based on your bride's interests.

Group of Ohio State football fans cheering in the stadium stands

Buckeye-tinerary

Make the most of game day weekend on Ohio State's campus.

"Live for" Itinerary Series

Who better to show you Columbus than the people who know and love the city best? This series takes you to some of Columbus' favorite spots through the eyes of local trailblazers. From outdoor adventures and globally inspired flavors to art, fashion and more, each itinerary offers a personal take on how to experience the city.

If you're looking for excitement, the Live for Adventure itinerary is a great place to start. This wild weekend plan will have you hiking at Quarry Trails Metro Park one day and exploring COSI the next, before heading off to enjoy a happy hour overlooking the city skyline.