COSI, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Must Do Activities in Columbus

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, or looking for ways to entertain friends and family, we've got you covered. We've put together the top things you must see, must experience and must eat in Columbus, and this is just a start! Whatever you do, don't miss out on these Columbus favorites.

Must See

Columbus Museum of Art

Designed by a local architect, CMOA features both a permanent collection and special exhibitions.

Easton Town Center

Named #1 Retail Experience in America by Chain Store Age magazine for three years in a row.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Explore seasonal exhibitions and botanical gardens that showcase Dale Chihuly's glass artwork.

German Village

Herzlich Willkommen! A heart welcome to one of the preeminent historic districts in the US.

Lincoln Theatre

Since 1928, the Lincoln Theatre has been a landmark in African-American and jazz history.

National Veterans Memorial and Museum

Hear stories of our veterans, their families and the Fallen across all branches of service.

North Market

Established in 1876, this historic public market offers authentic ethnic cuisine, gifts and more.

Short North Arts District

As the "art and soul" of Columbus, the Short North is a vibrant cultural and business community.

Must Experience

Brush Crazy

A women-owned spot offering themed painting classes.

Columbus Zoo - Tours and Experiences - Animal Encounters Village Macaw

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Hand-feed a giraffe, watch a sea lion show, or see millions of holiday lights during Wildlights.

COSI

A top-rated science center with more than 300 interactive exhibits. Don't miss the Dinosaur Gallery!

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

This ultimate indoor playground has two rides, 10 play zones, and a 4D cinema over 36,000 sq. ft.

Penn & Beech Candle Co.

With over 100 fragrances to choose from, create a candle that is truly custom for you.

Scioto Mile

Take a stroll and enjoy both the city and nature among 253 acres of parkland in downtown Columbus.

TENSPACE

Every season, the brick-and-mortar store creates a new experience to feature a rising online brand.

Vertical Adventures

An indoor climbing facility for all ages offering classes, memberships and more.

Must Eat

Exterior view of Budd Dairy rooftop and patio

Budd Dairy Food Hall

A chef incubator space named one of the “Ten Best New Food Halls in the U.S.” by Fodor’s Travel.

Dos Hermanos

A local favorite serving up Mexican-style cuisine since 2012.

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

Named one of the best ice cream spots in the U.S. by Food & Wine, this local gem is a can't-miss.

Hot Chicken Takeover

This local restaurant chain of Nashville-style hot chicken strives to provide jobs to those in need.

Katalina's

A neighborhood breakfast, brunch and lunch restaurant happily housed in a 100-year-old gas station.

Lindey's

A German Village staple offering weekend brunch, lunch and dinner.

Pistacia Vera

Nominated for the James Beard Award, this bakery offers from-scratch macarons, pastries and more.

The Lox Bagel Shop

Named one of the “Best Bagels in America” by Food & Wine, Lox is a delicious way to start your day.

Columbus Experiential Trails

Itineraries for Every Interest

Two women walking in the Short North with arms around each other

Travel Inspiration

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Must Do Activities in Columbus

Must See

Columbus Museum of Art

Easton Town Center

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

German Village

Lincoln Theatre

National Veterans Memorial and Museum

North Market

Short North Arts District

Must Experience

Brush Crazy

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

COSI

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Penn & Beech Candle Co.

Scioto Mile

TENSPACE

Vertical Adventures

Must Eat

Budd Dairy Food Hall

Dos Hermanos

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

Hot Chicken Takeover

Katalina's

Lindey's

Pistacia Vera

The Lox Bagel Shop

Columbus Experiential Trails

Itineraries for Every Interest

Travel Inspiration

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Insights on What to See and Do in Columbus, Plus a Seasonal Calendar of Events