We’re not in Columbus anymore, Toto. Oh wait. Yes we are.
We all love Columbus, but sometimes the same routine can get old. Yet when a little change of scenery feels like the right move, you remember plane tickets are really expensive.
That’s why we compiled a list of awesome spots around the Columbus Metro Area that feel like you’re in another city without having to travel outside of Central Ohio.
1. Embrace the Tiki Lounge Lifestyle at Sacred Palm Speakeasy
457 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
When you think Columbus, Ohio, Tiki bars are the last things that come to mind. Yet in the depths beneath Columbus pizza staple Mikey’s Late Night Slice, a vibrant tiki-themed speakeasy serving craft cocktails thrives. The speakeasy’s entrance is hidden inside of a beer cooler in the basement of the building near the restrooms. So, if you’ve ever found yourself devouring a slice of pizza on the way to the bathroom and wondered why the beer cooler is so vibrantly purple, now you’re in the know.
More info here (but don’t tell anyone about it. Shhhhh).
2. Enter the 4th dimension at Otherworld
5819 Chantry Dr, Columbus, OH 43232
Talk about places that don’t feel like Columbus, Otherworld feels exactly as its name suggests. There is nothing about this incredible art installation that says “I am of this dimension,” and we are absolutely here for it. Bioluminescent dreamscapes of hidden shapes, figures, and light encapsulate you, which is starting to sound similar to what Aaron Rodgers described to have experienced during his “spiritual cleanse.” This is simply something you have to experience for yourself.
More info here.
3. Travel back in time at the Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum
476 E Kossuth St, Columbus, OH 43206
This private collection of vintage automobiles sits inside a rather inconspicuous building with just a small sign that indicates “Open by Appointment.” Steve Wagner’s collection takes you back in time with beautifully maintained vehicles from the 50s and 60s as well as limited items and collectibles such as license plates, road signs, and flags. Just give Steve a call and he’ll set up a free tour for you and anyone who is looking to time travel for a few hours.
Interested? Find more info here.
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4. Teleport to Nashville at Bristol Republic (Opening Summer 2026)
4495 Bridge Park Ave, Dublin, OH 43017
Want to experience Nashville without the insane crowds, long drive, and southern accents (ok, we actually kinda miss the accents…)? Bristol Republic is a Nashville-inspired bar serving up homemade BBQ, refreshing beer, over 150 different whiskeys, and live music! You’ll feel like you’re in the heart of a Dolly Parton song as you sing along to country classics while sipping on some beer and bourbon. Honestly, there’s no better way to blow off steam than to head over to Bristol Republic after working 9 to 5. (See what we did there?)
More info found here.
5. Experience Las Vegas and New York City club culture at Forty Deuce
3959 Brighton Rose Sq, Columbus, OH 43219
This New York Pizzeria & Bar is home to not only some of the most authentic NY-style pizza in the midwest, but also houses a hidden staircase that leads to a Las Vegas burlesque speakeasy. The speakeasy is home to live DJ shows, live jazz trios, and yes, burlesque dancers as the night goes on. It’s truly an eclectic mix of traditional New York cuisine and Las Vegas nightclubs, and you’d never expect you were still in Columbus.
More info here.
6. Relive the lifestyle of the Victorian Era at The Kelton House (Temporarily Closed Due to Fire Damage)
586 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215
In a city with so many historical landmarks, there may not be one more storied and beautiful than the Kelton House. With family artifacts dating back to 1760 and beautiful interior design, you’ll quickly fall in love with the Kelton family’s house. The mansion also played a major role during the Civil War, serving as an underground railroad site for slaves looking for freedom up north. Kelton family patriarch Fernando Cortez Kelton was even a pallbearer for Abraham Lincoln’s funeral procession at the Ohio Statehouse. Guided tours and Tea Parties are available for booking at the link below!
More info here.
7. Quarry Trails Metro Park
2600 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43228
This former quarry-turned Metro Park is truly something to be experienced. It doesn’t quite feel Earthly, especially on clear blue-skied days where the light reflects off of the rock formations and boulders in such a way that it feels like you’re on a Earth-like planet somewhere else in the universe. I understand I sound crazy, but you just have to experience it for yourself!
8. Ohio Caverns in West Liberty, OH
2210 East State Route 245, West Liberty, Ohio 43357
Another spot that feels like you’re on a cool, damp, and absolutely mesmerizing alien planet, the Ohio Caverns are known as some of the most colorful caverns in America. The constant dripping of ground water over the minerals and rocks creates some incredible formations and beautiful colors that you just have to see to believe. Plus, it’s a great way to escape the heat, as these caverns stay at a brisk and comfortable 54 degrees.
9. Ohio Canid Center
Meet & Greet Locations Vary | more info
Ever want to walk with wolves? No, not dogs that look like wolves… ACTUAL WOLVES!! The Ohio Canid Center is a conservation center that focuses on educating the general population on Canids, which include wolves, jackals, foxes, coyotes, and the domestic dog. These tours and walks make you feel like you’re out in the wilderness of Yellowstone, except these ambassador animals are friendly and super adorable.
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10. Field of Corn
4995 Rings Rd, Dublin, OH 43017
Ok, bear with me here. Yes, the Field of Corn is quintessential Columbus. Yes, it’s a popular tourist attraction. But something about it just feels so otherworldly. It’s hard to explain, but when you’re standing in the middle of 109 giant concrete ears of corn, it really is hard to believe that you’re not in some alternate dimension where corn on the cob is 6 feet tall and weighs 1,500 lbs. If you’re a Central Ohioan that still hasn’t been to the Field of Corn, you have to go. It’s a rite of passage.
11. Greystone Court Apartments
815 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
I know what you’re thinking… an apartment building? And the answer is YEP! This apartment building’s courtyard is truly iconic and feels like you’re within the confines of a British castle of some sort. The building itself is beautiful, made with gorgeous stone and covered in ivy from top to bottom. It’s easily one of the most picturesque places in the city.
12. Hartman Rock Garden
1905 Russell Ave, Springfield, OH 45506
Created in 1932, this rock garden / incredible art installation is truly one of the most unique places you’ll ever visit. Featuring hundreds of handcrafted structures and figurines, the garden feels like you’re walking through one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world. It’s really an incredible labor of love and so worth the drive out to see it.
13. American Primate Educational Sanctuary
8380 Kennedy Rd, Blacklick, OH 43004
The American Primate Educational Sanctuary, or A.P.E.S. for short (pretty clever, huh?), is one of the most unique spots in the entire state. They usually don’t have a ton of opportunities to meet the primates, but during the summer, they host open houses to let people come through and learn about the sanctuary. It’s definitely worth the visit and is super cool to be up close and personal with some primates!
Did we miss one? Did one of these places close? Send us a note!
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