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.
Run With the Buffalo: The Craziest Metro Park in the United States Is in Ohio
This Ohio park is more like a real-life safari than a Metro Park. Serving as the home to roaming bison, Battelle Darby Creek is one of the most unique Metro Parks in the U.S.
The Best Sledding Hills in and Around Columbus (For All Ages and Thrill Levels)
Here are the best sledding hills in Columbus and Central Ohio, from family-friendly slopes to steep, adrenaline-pumping runs after fresh snow.
The Underground Railroad Is Closer Than You Think… Here’s Where It Ran In Central Ohio
The Underground Railroad ran directly through Central Ohio. Explore real, documented sites in Columbus, Westerville, and Zanesville you can visit today.
The Top 5 Most Mesmerizing Christmas Light Displays in Columbus Ohio
There’s one magical thing that makes bundling up and braving the elements totally worth it – holiday lights.
9 Fun Things to Do with Friends and Family over Thanksgiving Weekend
Thanksgiving: the official kickoff to the holiday season and the unofficial beginning of “Why did I eat that much?” season.
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.

Pizza
Cafe-Coffee
Chinese
New American
Ice Cream
Mediterranean