Free Play

Your kids can enjoy a full afternoon of free outdoor play at Columbus Commons. The event features plenty of activities to keep different ages entertained: ride the classic carousel, play under a parachute, build structures with oversized blue blocks from the Imagination Playground, kick around a soccer ball, or get creative with whatever they dream up. It's completely free to participate, making it an easy downtown outing that doesn't strain the budget. While you're there, take advantage of nearby food options including Tortilla Street Food Café and Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams if anyone gets hungry. There's also a Little Free Library on-site where kids can pick up a book. This Free Play series runs every Tuesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout the summer months (May through September), so you can drop by whenever it fits your schedule—just keep in mind the program is weather dependent.