Your Guide to Exploring Downtown Columbus with Kids

Looking for fun and inexpensive ways to have fun with your kiddos this summer in Downtown Columbus? We’ve rounded up a few of our free and low-cost favorites!

Columbus Commons / Commons for Kids
160 S High St

Park open 24/7
Commons for kids Fridays from 10 am – 1 pm

Kids can enjoy face painting, giant inflatables, a photo booth, carousel rides and entertainment at Commons for Kids. Each week is a different theme and has new activities or crafts so there is always something new to explore or enjoy!

Scioto Mile Fountain
233 S Civic Center Drive

Daily, 11 am – 7 pm

Beat the heat with a 15,000 square foot fountain (or splash pad as the kids call it!) at the Scioto Mile Fountain! This interactive water spot shoots jets of water into the air and is fun for kids of all ages. Grab a drink on The Patio or some food from a local food truck while you’re there.

Sundays at the Columbus Museum of Art
480 E Broad St

Free on Sundays, 10 am – 5 pm

Grab your crew and head to the Columbus Museum of Art to view beautiful artwork and experience interactive exhibits like the Wonder Room. The Columbus Museum of Art is free on Sundays or you can take advantage of the Columbus Metropolitan Library Culture Pass to get a free ticket at any time!

Dorrian Green
50 South Belle St

Daily from 6:30 am – 10 pm / free Dorrian Days events on Tuesdays 11 – 2 pm

Complete with a splash pad and playground and just outside of COSI’s door, Dorrian Green provides the perfect landscape for play. As a bonus, enjoy themed Dorrian Days activities on summer Tuesdays from 11 am – 2 pm.

Photo by Robb McCormick Photography (www.robbmccormick.com)

 

Cheer on the Columbus Clippers
330 Huntington Park Lane

Play ball! Kids and adults alike will have a blast cheering on the home team at Huntington Park. Even better? Select days are Dime-a-Dog nights. It’s guaranteed family-friendly fun at a Clippers game.

Check out a Museum

There are so many museums to explore in Downtown. Dig your hands into science at the massive and iconic Center of Science and Industry (COSI), learn about the history of firefighting and safety at the Central Ohio Fire Museum, explore America’s history through veterans’ perspectives at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, and explore modern and historical art at the Columbus Museum of Art.

Attend a Festival in Downtown Columbus

Various Days

The summer is prime festival season in Downtown Columbus! There are free festivals with activities for the whole family like Jazz & Rib Fest, Red, White & BOOM, Comfest, and more. Check out the full list here.

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