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Columbus, OH · Guide

Things to do with kids in Columbus

Columbus offers a straightforward balance of expansive metropolitan parks and high-concept indoor spaces, making it an easy city to navigate with a family. A kid-friendly spot in this city typically means wide paved paths for strollers, accessible restrooms, and staff who are accustomed to groups of energetic children. Whether you are visiting the riverfront or the museum district, most locations provide enough sensory variety to keep different age groups engaged for several hours at a time.

When planning your itinerary, consider that the central Ohio climate shifts quickly, so having a mix of indoor and outdoor backups is helpful. Expect large crowds at the most popular downtown destinations on weekends, while the neighborhood parks offer a quieter pace for younger children. This guide focuses on accessible attractions where parents can find seating and manageable transitions between activities, ensuring a smooth experience for the whole family.

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  1. 01

    Center of Science and Industry (COSI)

    4.4 (3,132)333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

    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. 02

    Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

    4.8 (11,932)1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203, USA

    The 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. 03

    Otherworld

    4.6 (9,292)5819 Chantry Dr, Columbus, OH 43232, USA

    This 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.

  4. 04

    Lou Berliner Sports Park

    4.5 (1,647)1300 Deckenbach Rd, Columbus, OH 43223, USA

    This sprawling athletic complex is best for active families and organized sports, featuring many fields and playground areas. Bring strollers for younger kids as the distances between parking lots and play spaces are significant.

  5. 05

    Columbus Museum of Art

    4.7 (4,439)480 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

    The JP Morgan Chase Center for Creativity inside the museum is specifically designed for families to build and play together. It is a manageable 2-hour visit for ages 5 and up, featuring comfortable seating for parents while kids explore art stations.

  6. 06

    Ohio Statehouse

    4.5 (394)1 Capitol Sq, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

    Older kids interested in history will appreciate the grand architecture and the museum on the ground floor. The staff is professional and helpful; visits usually last 1 hour, making it a quick indoor educational stop between outdoor activities.

  7. 07

    LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus

    4.1 (2,180)157 Easton Town Ctr, Columbus, OH 43219, USA

    Located inside a shopping mall, this attraction is ideal for ages 3 to 10 and typically takes about 2 to 3 hours. It features indoor rides and building zones, though it can get noisy during peak afternoon hours.

  8. 08

    Goodale Park

    4.7 (4,482)120 W Goodale St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

    This historic park in the Short North features a popular playground and plenty of open grass for picnics. It is a relaxing 1-hour stop for all ages, offering mature trees for shade and visible views of the playground from nearby benches.

  9. 09

    Columbus Park of Roses

    4.8 (4,026)3901 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214, USA

    Ideal for a slow-paced family walk, this location features paved paths that are easy for strollers and toddlers. It is a quiet, beautiful outdoor space that works well for a 45-minute stroll during the blooming season.

  10. 10

    Scioto Audubon Metro Park

    4.7 (3,137)400 W Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

    This park features a climbing wall and a large playground that caters to older children and teens. The nature center offers indoor programs and clean restrooms, making it easy to spend 2 hours exploring the riverfront trails.

  11. 11

    Schiller Park

    4.7 (4,063)1069 Jaeger St, Columbus, OH 43206, USA

    Located in German Village, this park has a large playground and a pond for feeding ducks that toddlers love. It is a staple for local families who appreciate the walking paths and nearby bakeries for a 1 to 2-hour afternoon outing.

  12. 12

    Antrim Park

    4.7 (2,255)5800 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH 43085, USA

    The 1.2-mile loop around the lake is flat and paved, perfect for kids on bikes or parents with strollers. It is a straightforward 1-hour outdoor destination for families who want a scenic walk without a crowded playground scene.

  13. 13

    Topiary Park

    4.6 (2,192)480 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

    This quiet park recreates a famous painting with shrubs and is a unique spot for a 30-minute walk. It is a calm, visual experience that is best paired with a visit to the nearby main library.

  14. 14

    Bicentennial Park

    4.7 (5,408)233 S Civic Center Dr, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

    This riverfront park is home to a performance stage and a prominent fountain area. It is a great 1-hour stop for all ages to enjoy city views, though you should check the seasonal schedule for various free family events hosted here.

  15. 15

    Scioto Mile Fountain

    4.7 (985)Columbus, OH 43215, USA

    Children will want to run through the water jets here, so bring a change of clothes and towels. This is a high-energy outdoor spot during summer months where kids can cool off while parents monitor from the surrounding stone ledges.

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