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.
The Oldest Candy Shop in the U.S. is Right Here in Central Ohio (And It’s Even Better Than You’d Imagine)
Imagine walking into a candy shop that’s been serving up sweet treats since BEFORE the Civil War. That’s the magic of Wittich’s Candy Shop.
Ranking The 8 Craziest Outdoor Mini Golf Courses in Columbus and Central Ohio
Discover the most fun, unique, and downright ridiculous outdoor mini golf courses in Columbus and Central Ohio, from castle-themed chaos to putting greens that feel like real golf courses. Here’s where to play.
The Top 10 Places to Watch The Sunset in Columbus and Central Ohio
The flat nature of the state allows for unobstructed views of the sunset with the most beautiful reds, oranges, and purples you’ll ever see.
The Top 10 Homemade Ice Cream Shoppes in Columbus and Central Ohio You Need To Try This Summer
While there are tons of tasty homemade ice cream shoppes in Central Ohio, these ones are our personal favorites.
This Might Be the Most Beautiful Place in Ohio (Just an Hour from Columbus)
Discover why Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve might be the most beautiful hike in Ohio, with gorge views, waterfalls, and stomach-turning cliffs.
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
Vegan
Mexican
New American
Seafood
Italian
American
Deli-Sandwiches
Burgers
Vietnamese