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.
Guide to The Best Family-Owned Ice Cream Shops in Columbus and Central Ohio
Craving a scoop with some heart behind it? These family owned ice cream shops in Columbus Ohio are serving up creamy, homemade goodness that rivals the big names. From soft serve in Delaware to gelato flown in from Italy, these spots are the real local legends.
Horses, Cannons & Battle Scenes: Tecumseh is the Ohio Experience That Feels Like a Hollywood Movie Set
Tecumseh! has been ranked among the Top 100 Attractions in North America and has welcomed more than 2.5 million guests. In other words, it’s become one of Ohio’s most iconic summer traditions.
The Top 5 Most Fun Playgrounds in Columbus & Central Ohio
Discover the 5 best playgrounds in Columbus, Ohio, handpicked by a 2-year-old and her slide-loving uncle. These kid-friendly parks are perfect for fun, free outdoor adventures in Central Ohio.
Your Guide to the Columbus Ohio State Fair: What to Expect This Year
Everything you need to know about the 2026 Columbus Ohio State Fair — dates, tickets, food, concerts, parking, and so much more.
Guide to Festivals Happening This Month & Beyond in Columbus & Central Ohio
Your ultimate guide to upcoming music, food and drink, boozy and shopping festivals, plus more in Columbus & Central Ohio.
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.)
Pizza
Spanish
Vegan
Greek
Mexican
Asian
Cafe-Coffee
AmericanEvents 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.