Top 20 Places to Take Kids in Columbus

Indoor plant displays and seasonal exhibits create a peaceful escape for families to wander through year-round, with rotating collections like the popular February orchid show and themed holiday displays. The clean, well-maintained gardens and conservatories offer a comfortable pace for exploring with kids, though visiting after 2pm helps avoid school group crowds and makes the most of your visit.

Step into restored firetrucks, horse-drawn engines, and a working hose-drying tower that bring Columbus's firefighting past to life. The passionate firefighter guides make history engaging for all ages, and younger kids can burn off energy in a dedicated play area after touring vintage equipment and learning practical fire-safety lessons you might not expect.

Walk through dozens of marked buildings on this working 1880s farm where volunteers in period dress actively tend crops, animals, and equipment—kids can peek into the smokehouse and root cellar, interact with farm animals, and discover hands-on learning stations that bring rural life a century ago to vivid life. Every season brings different activities (spring planting, fall harvest), so each visit reveals something new.

The sprawling layout makes it easy to navigate between continents' worth of animals—from interactive giraffe feeding to touch pools with manta rays—and staff at every exhibit share fascinating details that bring the experience to life. Plan for a full day (5–6 hours minimum), arrive early to catch active animals, pack snacks to save on food costs, and grab the downloadable map beforehand so you can hit your must-sees without feeling rushed.

Multiple food vendors under one roof mean every family member can find exactly what they're craving—from fresh-shucked oysters and house-made pasta to pad thai, ice cream, and artisanal cheeses. The casual, welcoming atmosphere and variety make it an easy win for mixed appetites, whether you're stopping by for a quick bite or making an afternoon of sampling different stalls.

The galleries here are filled with hands-on activities—games, drawing prompts, and craft stations—that turn art appreciation into genuine play rather than passive looking, making it easy to spend a full afternoon without restless kids in tow. Free admission on Sundays and affordable Thursday nights ($5) mean families can explore diverse collections from expressionists to contemporary work without breaking the budget, plus there's a café on-site for a coffee break.

The fountain's misting tower and ring create a refreshing escape on hot days—kids love splashing through the cool fog while parents settle onto nearby benches or lounge chairs with a clear view of the action. It's a well-maintained, spacious spot along the Scioto Mile where little ones can burn energy safely while you relax, though arrive early or plan for paid parking during peak summer days.

Year-round; busiest and most refreshing in warm months

Glowing otherworldly creatures and interactive installations fill interconnected rooms designed to be explored and touched—kids delight in solving puzzles hidden throughout the space while parents discover surprising details around every corner. Budget 2–3 hours to fully wander this immersive art experience, and note that some areas involve crawling, so comfortable clothing is wise.

This downtown park transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays, with twinkling lights draped across trees and pathways, festive decorations including adorable penguin displays, and a decorated stage area. On peak evenings, the Commons buzzes with free hot chocolate, food vendors, a carousel, and visits from Santa—making it an easy, budget-friendly outing that feels magical even on quieter nights when you can enjoy the glowing landscape at your own pace.

Seasonal — typically November through early January

Living topiary sculptures shaped like people and animals recreate a famous French painting in this shaded downtown garden—a whimsical, walkable spot where kids can spot the creative plant-people and enjoy a peaceful picnic or stroll without crowds. It's free, easy to explore in 30 minutes or more, and perfect for families who love quirky outdoor art and a little garden mystery to uncover.

Mat-based slides with exciting twists and small jumps make this venue a thrilling spot where kids and adults alike can take turns racing down again and again. The staff genuinely encourages nervous sliders to build confidence, the facility stays clean and well-maintained, and there's a dedicated area for the youngest sliders, making it easy for multi-age groups to find something fun.

Artifacts and interactive exhibits walk kids through Ohio's natural and cultural history, from ancient times to today—and special evening events like "Night at the Museum" add theater, costumed characters, and hands-on fun that keep children engaged for hours. Plan multiple visits to explore all three floors at a comfortable pace, and check the calendar for family-friendly programming and seasonal celebrations.

The aquarium showcases colorful reef tanks and larger exhibits featuring sharks and other marine life, with viewing areas where families can settle in and watch the action unfold. Kids get an up-close look at an underwater world right at the Columbus Zoo, and the nearby manatee habitat offers extra entertainment with resident animals like Stubby.

The sandbox, water tables, and climbing structures here keep children engaged for hours, whether they're exploring the indoor exhibits like the beehive climber and fishing station or playing outside in the covered play areas and garden path. Staff members actively maintain the space and create a genuinely welcoming atmosphere, making this an affordable destination where toddlers and preschoolers can move freely between hands-on discovery indoors and physical play outside.

The Ohio Statehouse's solid limestone exterior and symmetrical Greek Revival design feel like a democratic fortress—understated compared to other state capitols, but with plenty to explore inside. Guided tours take visitors through grand staircases and historical exhibits, the well-maintained grounds feature impressive monuments and hidden details (like fossils in the stonework), and there's a gift shop to browse before heading out to Capitol Square.

This sprawling water park combines a zoo, rides, and multiple pools—including a wave pool—making it a full-day destination for families willing to budget for admission, parking, and pricey concessions. Bring your own snacks and drinks to manage costs, arrive early to beat crowds, and take advantage of shaded areas throughout the grounds and the helpful staff.

Seasonal — typically spring through early fall

Multiple floors packed with hands-on exhibits—from an immersive Ocean room with working water features to a quirky rat basketball display and a walk-through historical progression area—mean most families need a full day (or more) to explore everything without feeling rushed. Plan for 4-5 hours minimum, arrive on weekdays when crowds are lighter, and know that planetarium shows, special exhibits, and VR experiences come with additional fees beyond admission.

An indoor arcade and ride venue with go-karts, mini golf, laser tag, and a roller coaster that keeps kids and grown-ups entertained for hours. An unlimited-pass option makes it easy to bounce between attractions without tracking quarters, and the staff are enthusiastic about helping families make the most of their visit.

Located inside the mall near the AMC theater, this indoor LEGO play space keeps kids ages 3–10 engaged for 2–4 hours with hands-on building activities, interactive rides, and creative stations like designing your own race car. The free Master Builder classes and open-ended LEGO play make it worth the visit, though you'll want to arrive early on weekends to avoid parking congestion.

The indoor jungle gym, arcade games, and batting cages offer straightforward entertainment for a rainy-day outing, with mini golf as a bright spot if you go during daylight hours when the course is better lit. Pricing is reasonable ($10 for putt-putt, $2.50 for batting practice), though the facility shows its age—expect worn carpet, patchy maintenance, and claw machines that don't quite work as advertised.

Charming brick cottages and gas lamps line the pedestrian streets of this recreated 19th-century village, where kids can explore shops, grab ice cream, and enjoy the old-world atmosphere without worrying about car traffic. It's a pleasant spot for a family stroll, with photo opportunities around every corner and enough to keep children engaged for an hour or two.