Family Activities in Columbus, Ohio
Festivals • Music • Nightlife • Culture • Art • Comedy • Concerts • Classes • Tours • Exhibits • Markets
Finding the best family–friendly things to do in Columbus, Ohio can seem hard. There are just so many possibilities. (Imagine shopping at Giant Eagle on a day when it looks like everything is on sale!)
But don’t panic. The Step Out Columbus team has you covered.
Take a look through our blog posts, restaurant summaries, and event profiles. Whether you specifically need things to do in Columbus with kids or you just want to know that you can bring children along, you’ll find out here.
A Dinner Date and a Movie… Kinda: Le Petit Chef in Columbus Brings Theater To Your Plate
Le Petit Chef in Columbus brings the world’s smallest chef to your plate. Part dinner, part show, and unlike anything else in the city.
7 Fun & Free Things to Do in Columbus Ohio With Your Family
Looking for free things to do in Columbus, Ohio? From indoor playgrounds to outdoor adventures and kid-friendly museums, here’s the best free fun for the whole family!
The Butler County Donut Trail: A Self-Guided Ohio Donut Tour Worth the Drive (and the T-Shirt)
A complete guide to the Butler County Donut Trail in Ohio, including how it works, how long it takes, and how to earn the legendary Donut Trail T-shirt.
The New Columbus Metro Park Where the Trail Doubles as a Free Outdoor Gym
Columbus just opened a new Metro Park with obstacle courses, trails, and a full outdoor gym… so why is no one talking about it?
Ohio’s “Favorite Writer of All Time” Created This Epic Outdoor Show—And You Can See It Live This Summer
If you’re looking for a totally unique summer experience that goes way beyond your typical night out, your search ends here.
Guide to Family Style Dining
Who doesn’t love to chow down? (Nobody, but especially not kids!) Taking a trip through cuisines from all over the world is one of the most fun family things to do in Columbus, Ohio. You’ll find everything from all-American steakhouse fare and classic pizza to Jamaican, Japanese, and Mediterranean meals (to name just a few).
Each restaurant page includes location, contact details, price range, amenities, seating options, accessibility, and other essential info. (For restaurant deep dives, check out blog posts like this profile of Valter’s in the German Village.)
Events You Can Enjoy Together
No matter what season it is or how old your kids are, there’s never a shortage of family things to do in Columbus, Ohio. Whether you’ve got a family full of animal lovers, music buffs, foodies, or fun-seekers who can’t wait to play on the Commons, you’ll find the ideal activities here.
Attractions for the Entire Fam
Are you and your kids Interested in kayaking across Buckeye Lake? Golfing on a budget? Checking out the wonders at Legoland Discovery Center? Catching an Ohio State game if you’re here in the fall?
Whatever your ideal family activities in Columbus, Ohio might be, you’ll learn everything you need to know here.

Vegan
Pizza
Deli-Sandwiches
Chinese
African
BBQ
Diner
Asian
Greek