Columbus with kids
Where to eat, what to do, and where to go when it rains, picked for families in Columbus, OH.
Last updated July 2026
Kid-friendly restaurants in Columbus
12 places
- 1. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus RestaurantA well-rated german restaurant in Columbus.
- 2. Chick-fil-AA well-rated fast food restaurant in Columbus.
- 3. Haveli BistroA well-rated indian restaurant in Columbus.
Rainy-day activities for kids in Columbus
12 places
- 1. Easton Town CenterA well-rated shopping mall in Columbus.
- 2. Center of Science and Industry (COSI)A well-rated museum in Columbus.
- 3. OtherworldA well-rated art museum in Columbus.
Things to do with kids in Columbus
15 places
- 1. Center of Science and Industry (COSI)This massive science center works best for preschool through middle school ages with hands-on exhibits and a dedicated area for young children. Plan for 4 to 6 hours as the hallways are long; comfortable walking shoes are required for parents and kids.
- 2. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical GardensThe outdoor children’s garden is a standout for toddlers and elementary kids who need to burn energy in a safe, fenced space. A typical visit lasts 2 to 3 hours, and the indoor biomes provide a warm, quiet escape on colder days.
- 3. OtherworldThis immersive art space is highly sensory with neon lights and interactive rooms that fascinate school-aged children and teens. It can be loud and dark inside, so it is worth a look for families who don't mind a high-stimulation environment for about 90 minutes.
Nearby towns
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