Spring has finally sprung in Central Ohio, which means it’s time to swap your seasonal depression hoodie for some fresh air and wallet-friendly fun. Whether you’re on a tight budget or just love a good bargain (who doesn’t?), there are plenty of things to do in Columbus and beyond that won’t cost more than a couple bucks — or anything at all!
From free movie nights to hidden gardens in full bloom, here are 10 cheap and free things to do around Central Ohio this spring that’ll make both your bank account and your serotonin levels very happy.
1. Take Advantage of Free Metro Parks Events
Columbus Metro Parks is basically the cool aunt of the local park scene—she’s always up to something fun and surprising. This spring, you can try your hand at archery, go stargazing, learn about edible plants (because you never know when you’ll need to forage), and a ton more—all for free. Just BYO bug spray.
2. Free Family Movie Nights & More at Columbus Commons
Columbus Commons is going all out this spring with free family movie nights (yes, with free popcorn), free yoga classes, and Free Play activities featuring parachutes, giant playground blocks, and even carousel rides. Finding Nemo and Inside Out are both on the big screen this season, so your inner child (and your actual children) will be thrilled.
3. Visit Museums with Free Admission
Feeling cultured and cheap? Same. Luckily, Columbus has some amazing museums that won’t charge you a dime. The Franklin Park Conservatory is free on the first Sunday of the month for Franklin County residents, the Columbus Museum of Art is free every Sunday, and the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum is always free and always awesome.
4. Wander Through Columbus’ Secret Gardens
Want to feel like you’ve stepped into a Studio Ghibli movie without leaving the city? Columbus’ hidden gardens are the dreamy, floral-filled secret spots you’ve been missing. They’re the perfect place for reading, picnicking, or just pretending you’re in a cottagecore fantasy.
5. Have a Spring Picnic (Just Pack Some Allergy Meds)
Grab some snacks, a blanket, and your favorite people — or just yourself and a really good sandwich — and hit up one of the many scenic picnic spots in Central Ohio. Pro tip: check the pollen count unless you want your eyes to swell shut mid-bite.
🧺 Check out these picnic-perfect spots
6. Check Out Public Murals & Art Installations
Street art is basically free therapy. Go mural-hopping through some of Columbus’ most vibrant neighborhoods or hunt down hidden public art installations for a colorful and creative way to spend the afternoon. Bonus points if you pretend you’re on a self-guided art tour.
🗿 Public Art Installations Guide
7. Golf… Without the Country Club Prices
Golfing on a budget? It’s not just a myth. Columbus has some surprisingly solid courses where you can enjoy the spring sunshine and only pay around $10–$20 for a round. No polo shirt required (but highly encouraged).
⛳ Find the cheapest courses worth playing
8. Score $1 Deals at Local Bin Stores
Columbus’ bin stores are chaotic treasure hunts in the best way. One day it’s a brand-new Vitamix for $5, the next it’s a Roomba for $1. Go early, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare to dig.
🛍️ Here’s where to find the deals
9. Eat Out Without Emptying Your Wallet
You don’t have to eat instant noodles to stay on budget in Columbus. The city is stacked with cheap eats — from empanadas to tacos to gigantic subs that cost less than a fancy coffee.
10. Catch a Clippers Game for Less Than $10
There’s nothing quite like a spring night at Huntington Park, hot dog in hand, cheering for the Columbus Clippers. Most tickets are under $20, but you can snag some seats for less than $10. That’s cheaper than a beer at the stadium.
⚾ Check out the schedule and ticket prices
