When the temperatures drop and the leaves crunch underfoot, there’s something magical about a chilly fall day in Central Ohio. But you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy everything the season has to offer.
From wandering leaf-covered trails to cozying up with a hot drink, there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to embrace autumn without completely freezing – or breaking the bank.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cozy indoor escapes, or the perfect photo op, this list has you covered.
Visit a Local Metro Park
Bundle up, lace up your hiking boots, and head to one of Central Ohio’s many Metro Parks like Highbanks, Blendon Woods, or Scioto Audubon. The trails are free, the fall foliage is Insta-worthy, and the brisk air will make that post-hike hot chocolate taste even better.
Cost: Free
Wander the Scioto Mile
Take a stroll along the Scioto Mile and soak in the city skyline with a fall twist. Snap photos of the trees reflecting off the river and admire the seasonal beauty of downtown Columbus. And if you’re feeling the holiday spirit, keep reading…
Cost: Free
Take in the Holiday Light Shows
If there’s one good thing that the end of fall brings, it’s the awesome Holiday light shows that are happening around Central Ohio! If you enjoy looking at the sky light up with millions of LEDs, you gotta check out our most mesmerizing light displays.
Cost: Free – $35
Grab Coffee at a Cozy Diner
There’s nothing like warming up with a hot cup of coffee or tea at a local favorite diner. Bring a good book, enjoy the cozy vibes, and people-watch to your heart’s content. And if you’re hungry, order up a pile of pancakes and eat until your heart’s content!
Cost: $5-$15
Take a Self-Guided Mural Tour
Columbus is home to some of the best street art in Ohio. Explore murals in the Short North, Franklinton, or Downtown for a free dose of creativity. Bonus: a chilly walk keeps you moving and warm(ish). And since you’ll be so close to coffee shops and bars, you can warm up with a hot cup of Joe or a liquid blanket!
Cost: Free
Peruse a Local Bookstore
Get lost (literally) at The Book Loft in German Village, a 32-room maze filled with books of every genre, or any of Central Ohio’s bookstores. It’s cozy, charming, and a great way to spend an afternoon without spending too much.
Cost: Free to browse, $5-$15 if you snag a book.
Attend a Free or Low-Cost Museum Day
Take advantage of free or discounted admission days at the Columbus Museum of Art or Franklin Park Conservatory. Fall is the perfect time to wander through galleries and get your culture fix!
Cost: Free-$10
Visit a Farmers Market
Even in the cooler months, the North Market and indoor farmers markets like the award-winning Worthington Farmer’s Market are bustling with local vendors. Grab some fresh produce, baked goods, or a fall treat to take home.
Cost: Free to browse, $5-$10 if you shop.
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