Columbus Staycation Ideas for Families

Kelly R. said:  Scioto Audubon Metro Park is an oasis in the city. Two paved hiking trails loop around the park, but the real attraction is the amenities. There's a fun playground (with an interactive electronic game), teens can try out the rock climbing wall (BYO harness), and there is a smaller 10 foot boulder for younger kids. A parkour-style obstacle course features a tire run, 8-foot wall, tunnel crawl, balance beams, monkey bars, and more. While you're there, check out the nature center, eat lunch at one of the shaded picnic tables, and take in a breathtaking view of the Columbus skyline.

Katie G. said:  Mad River Mountain is known as Ohio's largest winter resort. Located in central Ohio, there are 20 trails and 12 lifts to the top of the 1400+ foot mountain. With an expansive snow making system, you'll often find snow. Skiing and snowboarding lessons are available to people of all ages and abilities and rentals are available on site. Warm up in the lodge and enjoy a snack or lunch in the cafeteria or Mad River Loft Bar and Grill. AvalancheTubing Park has 10 lanes stretching 1000 feet.

Kelly R. said:  The American Girl's Tea is a special experience with a variety of kid friendly dainty foods and sweet treats served alongside a pot of tea or cocoa. The atmosphere in the bistro is designed especially for girls, and there are special seats for dolls, too.

Katie G. said:  Schmidt's Sausage Haus, located in German Village, has been entertaining and serving Columbus for over 130 years. Schmidt's makes all their German sausages fresh and in-house with several varieties to choose from mild to spicy. Save room for dessert, as Schmidt's is known for a jumbo cream puff which is big enough for the whole family to share.

Hannah Scott said:  Waterfalls are often tucked deep into the woods and difficult to reach (especially for younger family members with smaller legs). Since it's located on just 2 acres, Hayden Falls Park gives the whole family a chance to experience a stunning 35-foot waterfall surrounded by a lovely nature preserve. Be ready to snap a family selfie to document the moment!

Hannah Scott said:  Inniswood is a delightful collection of botanical gardens and trails that span 123 acres. You'll find over 2,000 species of plants as you explore the grounds, including native wildflowers and wildlife. Families will love the children's garden with its interactive water stations and other outdoor play areas designed to inspire the imagination.

Katie G. said:  With over a dozen slides and water attractions (including a wave pool!), Zoombezi Bay offers Columbus family fun for groups of all sizes. Plus, admission to the seasonal, outdoor water park also includes entry into the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium on the same day!

Katie G. said:  Melt Bar and Grilled is a gourmet grilled cheese restaurant offering tasty options for the whole family. Diners can choose from several varieties of grilled cheeses, from traditional to beef, chicken, veggie or seafood. If melted cheese isn't your thing, there are plenty of other options on the menu including appetizers, salads and soups along with kids menu items for kids under 10. Options for vegans, vegetarians, and gluten free diners are available.

Lunch and Dinner

Hannah Scott said:  The Topiary Park is a truly unique Columbus gem! The plants in this public garden are sculpted to recreate Seurat's famous painting A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of LaGrande Jatte. It's beautiful, whimsical, and a lovely place to spend a couple hours with your family and a picnic.

Brigitte Nohra Miller said:  The Scioto Mile Fountain at Bicentennial Park has it all, including a fun splash pad area with unique architectural designs. By night, this marvelous fountain displays special effects with lighting and fog!

Katie G. said:  If you've ever driven along state route 315 on a nice day, chances are you've seen bikers on the Olentangy Trail. This scenic, 13-mile paved trail starts in Worthington Hills and ends in downtown Columbus passing through several neighborhoods along the Olentangy River. There are trail heads at many major city parks offering families a place to rest, grab some water or let the kids play at a playground. The trail also passes through Ohio State University if you want to get out and take a tour of the campus.

Hannah Scott said:  This favorite Columbus family attraction is home to indoor gardens with over 400 plant species inside the glass conservatory greenhouse. There are several traveling exhibitions and a stunning display of Chihuly glass artwork. Be sure to check out the 2-acre Children's Garden, where a myriad of programs and activities for kids and families are offered and included with the price of admission.

Kelly R. said:  Gahanna's Creekside District boasts plenty to see and do, including waterfalls, fountains, boardwalks and paths, shops and outdoor dining. Rent a paddle boat for a unique family activity, and enjoy the peaceful scenery.

Kelly R. said:  Asterisk Supper Club is a charming and comfortable space lined with floor to ceiling bookshelves. My daughter and I came here for afternoon tea with her grandmother and aunt, and we all had a wonderful time. Traditional afternoon tea includes choice of tea, an assortment of tea sandwiches, homemade scones with clotted cream and jam, and sweets. They also have a kids menu and special non-breakable tea cups for the younger ones.

Hannah Scott said:  Buckeye football fans won't want to miss the opportunity to go behind the scenes with a guided tour of Ohio Stadium. You'll get up close and personal with the sidelines, the Yassenoff Recruit Center, the press box, suite level seats, the Steinbrenner Band Center and more!