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Upcoming Events in Downtown Columbus

Illustrating History: Black Columbus

Illustrating History: Black Columbus honors influential African American figures in Columbus, Ohio. The collection features pieces that capture each subject’s achievements and contributions to Columbus. From artists to pioneering educators, the exhibition brings to life their stories through vibrant illustrations and mixed-media animated installations. Each artwork is a unique tribute, blending vibrant visuals with elements of their life stories, preserving their legacy while providing an educational and emotive experience. Each piece includes reflections and anecdotes curated by illustrator, writer, and Columbus, Ohio native Aleesha Nash.

PBJ & Jazz: Such Sweet Thunder

PBJ & Jazz concerts are 1-hour long interactive concerts designed to introduce jazz and American music to young children and their families. Featuring some of Ohio’s finest musicians and ensembles, PBJ & Jazz concerts are a great introduction to live music for the youngest audience member.

PBJ & Jazz Summer Series concerts are presented outdoors at Topiary Park!

Rally in the Alley

On the second Saturday of the month from July to September, we are throwing down with a variety of musicians, bands and artists across many genres joined by a craft marketplace, food trucks, and more!

The line-ups are top secret for now but rest assured we are booking the best of the best when it comes to resident bands and artists plus a few surprises and friends from out of town. Keep your ears open as we start to announce bands and performers and more of what we have in store for the summer.

Columbus Clippers vs St. Paul

Enjoy a baseball game at Huntington Park in Downtown Columbus. 

Big Fish

The Contemporary Theatre of Ohio is thrilled to open its 2024-2025 season with the musical Big Fish, running from September 12-29, 2024, in Studio One at the Vern Riffe Center. Directed by Artistic Director Leda Hoffmann, this production promises a magical and enchanting start to its 40th season.

With music and lyrics by Columbus-based Tony nominee Andrew Lippa and a book by John August, Big Fish is based on the acclaimed film directed by Tim Burton. This musical is a wonder-filled celebration of love and storytelling, blending heartfelt truths with fantastical tales into a vibrant, magical tapestry. As Edward Bloom, a traveling salesman, nears the end of his own story, it’s up to his son, Will, to embark on a journey to find the truth at the heart of his father’s stories and reveal the man behind the myths. Along the way, he discovers a world where the lines between truth and fiction are blurred and imagination soars, leaving him with a new appreciation for the unique ways we express love. 

Individual tickets for Big Fish are $55 (plus fees) and can be purchased online at https://www.thecontemporaryohio.org/2024-25/big-fish/.

Columbus Clippers 5k

“Finish At Home Plate” At 2nd Annual Columbus Clippers 5K

The second-annual Columbus Clippers 5K Run / Walk will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 15 at Huntington Park.

Runners and walkers will take a 3.1-mile tour of the Scioto Mile before “finishing at home plate” inside Huntington Park. Afterwards, the Post-Race Party & Concert will be held in the Right Field Concourse.

Not Your Mama’s Craft Market at the Kee

NEW MARKET, WHO DIS?!?! NYMCM is pairing up with The Kee for a weekly Farmer’s Market/Vintage Flea every Sunday, May 19th through September 29th. We are calling it The Warehouse District Farm & Flea! These markets will look a little different than the NYMCM Markets you are used to. Although we will still be hosting handmade vendors at these casual traditional farmers market style markets, food and produce will be the big event with the addition of a few vintage and handmade vendors. On the first Sunday of every month, we will kick it up a notch by adding additional vintage vendors to the farmers market mix for a shopping extravaganza we are calling our SUPERMARKET SUNDAY! 

In addition to the Farm & Flea, The Kee will also be hosting its famous Sunday Brunch and will have its indoor cornhole, arcade and simulated games open. This is the perfect Sunday family outing you were looking for! Mark your calendars to stay and eat, grab a drink, listen to music, play games, enjoy an art exhibit, or just hang out in their indoor and outdoor space. 

UnderCurrent: Hank’s Low Country Oyster Fest

Celebrate the start of oyster season in the heart of Downtown. Enjoy an afternoon filled with live oyster shucking, oyster roasting, and a delightful array of Low Country Southern-inspired dishes. Savor live jazz, refreshing wine, and cold beer. Presented by Makeready. See event details here.

Columbus Clippers vs St. Paul

Enjoy a baseball game at Huntington Park in Downtown Columbus. 

Big Fish

The Contemporary Theatre of Ohio is thrilled to open its 2024-2025 season with the musical Big Fish, running from September 12-29, 2024, in Studio One at the Vern Riffe Center. Directed by Artistic Director Leda Hoffmann, this production promises a magical and enchanting start to its 40th season.

With music and lyrics by Columbus-based Tony nominee Andrew Lippa and a book by John August, Big Fish is based on the acclaimed film directed by Tim Burton. This musical is a wonder-filled celebration of love and storytelling, blending heartfelt truths with fantastical tales into a vibrant, magical tapestry. As Edward Bloom, a traveling salesman, nears the end of his own story, it’s up to his son, Will, to embark on a journey to find the truth at the heart of his father’s stories and reveal the man behind the myths. Along the way, he discovers a world where the lines between truth and fiction are blurred and imagination soars, leaving him with a new appreciation for the unique ways we express love. 

Individual tickets for Big Fish are $55 (plus fees) and can be purchased online at https://www.thecontemporaryohio.org/2024-25/big-fish/.

Blog Posts to Get You in the Know

Your guide to Downtown Columbus, from happenings to happy hours.

Downtown

Your Guide to Kayaking in Downtown Columbus

The best views of Columbus come from the seat of a kayak. Grab a friend…

Downtown

Date Nights Under $10 in Downtown Columbus

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Cheap Eats in Downtown Columbus

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Your Complete Guide to Brunch in Downtown Columbus

If breakfast is the most important meal of the day, add some -unch and it’s…

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Where to Karaoke in Downtown Columbus

Come Downtown for some of the best karaoke in town. Slammers202 E Long StSundays…

Downtown

Outdoor Movies in Downtown Columbus

Nothing says summer like an outdoor movie at sunset. Grab a friend and a blanket…

Dining

Your Guide to Downtown Happy Hours

Discover a new bar or crafted cocktail every week in Downtown Columbus with these happy…

Blog Posts to Get You in the Know

Your guide to Downtown Columbus, from happenings to happy hours.

Downtown

Your Guide to Kayaking in Downtown Columbus

The best views of Columbus come from the seat of a kayak. Grab a friend…

Downtown

Date Nights Under $10 in Downtown Columbus

Looking for some fun and cheap dates in Columbus? Enjoy these 10 ideas that are…

Downtown

Cheap Eats in Downtown Columbus

We’re all about a good deal! From sandwiches to pizzas to pierogis — here are…

Dining

Your Complete Guide to Brunch in Downtown Columbus

If breakfast is the most important meal of the day, add some -unch and it’s…

Downtown

Where to Karaoke in Downtown Columbus

Come Downtown for some of the best karaoke in town. Slammers202 E Long StSundays…

Downtown

Outdoor Movies in Downtown Columbus

Nothing says summer like an outdoor movie at sunset. Grab a friend and a blanket…

Downtown Strategic Plan

Embark on the next stage of Downtown Columbus’ urban revival and transformation into a world class city by enhancing equity, expanding accessibility, creating connectivity, supporting local, and improving inclusion so that Downtown Columbus is a safe and welcoming destination where the prosperity of our city can be enjoyed by all.

Parking Information

Downtown Columbus has parking options abound. Garages, surface lots and on-street sites offer a wide variety of access, no matter your kind of ride, wherever your destination may be.

Downtown columbus' districts

Discover Downtown through the rich tapestry of its urban districts.

Take a stroll along Gay Street and you’ll discover a dense mélange of lively, street-level bars, galleries, restaurants, retail shops, and cafes.

From Columbus Commons to the Scioto Mile, for an experience that’s equal parts urban flair and natural splendor, head to the RiverSouth District.

For fashion, food, fun, fabulous tunes, and fantastic retail, the eclectic Fourth and Main District is hard to beat.

Pro sports, world-renowned live entertainment, and vibrant restaurants and bars— the Arena District scores big every time.

The convergence of Downtown’s central business district and the historic Franklinton neighborhood, The Peninsula brings together the best of all worlds – just around the bend of the Scioto River.  

Historic buildings have been transformed into must-experience bars, venues and experiences in this up-and-coming District just east of the Scioto. 

Home to a vibrant array of landmark institutions, historic sites, progressive galleries, and contemporary culinary establishments, make your next Discovery in this signature Downtown district.

of Downtown Columbus through dozens of local events happening every week. 

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LATE NIGHT BITES 🍕🎭

Looking for a place to grab a bite or nightcap after catching a show Downtown? We’ve got you covered. Check out these restaurants open late, most within a short walk from The Ohio Theatre🍹🍔

MJ The Musical just hit the stage, which marks the official start of the 24/25 @broadwaycolumbus season! Known as one of the greatest entertainers of all time, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry is on tour in “MJ”🎤 The season includes hits like The Book of Mormon, Peter Pan and Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical at @broadwaycolumbus 🎭 Tickets are available at the link in our bio!

FOOD SPOTS MENTIONED ⬇️

🍔The Walrus, 143 E Main St
⏰Sun-Thurs: Open until 12:00 am
🌃Fri-Sat: Open until 2:30 am

🥙Little Palace, 240 S 4th St
⏰Sun-Thurs: Open until 12:00 am
🌃Fri-Sat: Open until 2:30 am

🌭Dirty Frank’s, 248 S 4th St
⏰Sun-Mon: Open until 10:00 pm 
⏰Tues-Thurs: Open until 11:00 pm
🌃Fri-Sat: Open until 1:00 am

🍕Mikey’s Late Night Slice, 268 S 4th St 
⏰Sun-Thurs: Open until 2:30 am
🌃Fri-Sat: Open until 3:00 am

🌮The Goat, 219 S High St
⏰Sun-Wed: Open until 11:00 pm
🌃Thurs-Sat: Open until 1:00 am

🍵Qahwah House, 189 E Main St
⏰Sun-Thurs: Open until 11:00 pm
🌃Fri-Sat: Open until 12:00 am

🍕Slammers, 202 E Long St
⏰Sun-Thurs: Open until 12:00 am
🌃Fri-Sat: Open until 2:00 am
FREE MOVIES: EVERY THURSDAY IN SEPTEMBER 🎥🌆

Every week, kick back and enjoy a completely free movie night on the Commons lawn! Come hang out as early as 5 pm and enjoy Brews in the Bosque at the park before the movie starts at dusk. Grab a local adult beverage, try a tea mocktail, try out the food truck of the week, and play some board games 🍻🃏

Then, settle in for the movie! Bring your own blanket, chairs, snacks, and get cozy. Last call for the bar is at 9 pm, so you can still grab a night cap while the movie is playing 🍷

UPCOMING SUNSET MOVIES ⬇️
🎥 September 12 @ 7:45 pm Grease w/ @localmattersorg 
🎥 September 19 @ 7:30 pm Barbie w/ @gotrco 
🎥 September 26 @ 7:15 pm Top Gun: Maverick w/ @drac.columbus 

Special thanks to @capacolumbus for their partnership in bringing these movies to the park!
Can we talk about the Scioto Mile last night? 🌃🌙

📸 captured by: @kashvfx
Free live music, a DORA bev, pizza, and yard games.... what could be better?

Chill out, take in some tunes, or yap — the Cherry Pit is here for you, however you choose to enjoy. 😎

This weekend DJ IQ and Raad Shubaily will be performing from 6-8 pm! Come thru!

🍒 The Cherry Pit, 254 S 4th Street 
🕐Open until Oct 13: Tues – Fri: 4 – 10 pm; Sat – Sun: 12 – 10 pm
🎵Free live music every Friday and Saturday until Oct 12, 6-8pm 
➡️ Check out the link in bio for more info
5️⃣ NEW DOWNTOWN CAFES ☕️🍵🧋

The downtown café scene has bean steaming hot recently! The collection of new shops and pop-ups makes for a nice blend of everything from coffee and tea to boba and matcha drinks 🫖

We’re feeling a whole latte love for Downtown cafés! What’s your favorite spot that’s opened recently? 

🍵 @kapecoffee.co at Wolf’s Ridge Taproom 
📍159 E Hickory St
🕐 Wed-Fri, 8am-1:30pm 

🥐 @silavcafegrill 
📍 330 S High St
🕐 Open daily, evening hours 

🧋@threebitesbakery @littlecat.boba 
📍12 E Broad St
🕐 Wed-Fri, 8am-1pm 

☕ @blackkahawa 
📍2 E Broad St
🕐 Wed-Sat, 6am-2pm 

🫖 @qahwah_house 
📍189 E Main St
🕐 Open daily, late night hours 

Visit the link in our bio for a full list of Downtown coffee shops.
BAM! What an electric Friday evening it was at Friday’s UnderCurrent with @columbusmuseum 🍷🖌️🎶 The good vibes carried all the way through Gay and High Streets 😌 and that golden hour was simply sublime 🤌🌞

Thanks so much for coming to join us Under “Current” for this rescheduled event! 📅 The next UnderCurrent event is coming up on Sunday, September 15 from 12-4 pm with @hanksseafoodcolumbus Low Country Oyster Fest, complete with live oyster shucking, roasting, and Southern-inspired dishes plus jazz, wine and beer. See you soon 👋
HIDDEN GEM ALERT: THE HILLS MARKET DOWNTOWN 🛒

This unsuspecting grocery store tucked away in the Discovery District isn’t your everyday shopping experience. Stocked with the typical produce, snacks and baked goods, @hillsdowntown is also your one-stop shop for a fresh lunch for yourself, homemade dinner for your dog, or ice cream for the two of you!

Here are 3 special things you can pick up at Hills Market Downtown in addition to the endless supermarket goods⬇️

🦴Boujee Dog Treats: Your pooch could be living large with these custom made dog-friendly tacos, quesadillas and savory meals.  Served out of a futuristic vending machine, just tap your card, take what you want and close the door to make a @boujeedogbites purchase 🐾🌮

🍝 Restaurant-made lunch: @willowbeezsoulveg hosts Meatless Monday meals every week from 11am -3pm. The impossibly-good lasagna, cabbage and mac and cheese make the perfect treat yourself meal after grocery shopping. You’ll also find a hot bar, grab and go bites, and a salad selection everyday! Makes the midday lunch run easy. 

🥤Fun drinks galore! Coffee bar, wine selection and canned drinks - plus there’s beer for your dog!

What’s your favorite thing to pick up from Hills Market Downtown?
NEW BUSINESS ALERT: @threebitesbakery and @littlecat.boba

Sweet and savory pastries 🤝 coastal-inspired drinks 

The delectable combo of Three Bites Bakery and Little Cat Boba are officially open for regular hours! In their joint location at 12 E Broad Street, just off of High Street and across from the Statehouse, the bakery and café duo bring Filipino and Italian-style pastries, custom cakes and curated lunch offerings to complement Korean-American coffee and tea beverages. 

🍰 Sweet tooth calling your name? Known for their Bombolone, this custard-filled pastry paired with a refreshing Strawberry Matcha doesn’t miss. Three Bites keeps their cake shelf stocked with light, fluffy cakes ready to be taken home. Call ahead to place a custom order, or pick up a last-minute surprise from the display. 

📰 Three Bites Bakery makes their way over to Downtown as the first business to open as part of the Ground Floor Growth Program. The program, an initiative in partnership with Councilmember Nicholas J. Bankston, will support 7-10 minority businesses by offering resources as they become integral parts of the Downtown Columbus community. Stay tuned for more business openings coming this year. 

Tell us, have you tried Three Bites and Little Cat yet? 

🥐 Three Bites Bakery & Little Cat Boba 
📍 12 E Broad Street 
🕐 Regular hours: Tues-Fri 7am - 5pm; Sat-Sun 8am-5pm