Arts & Culture

Rooted in the artistry and talent of the community.

Gay Street Art Galleries

At the cultural crossroads of Downtown Columbus, a burgeoning arts district, Gay Street is home to a number of galleries, including Brandt Gallery, Lindsay Gallery, Chaos Contemporary Craft, No Place Gallery, Sarah Gormley Gallery, and  Hammond Harkins Galleries.

Grab a DORA drink, a bite to eat, and explore the district’s galleries is a DIY gallery hop!

People viewing artwork at a Downtown Columbus art gallery.

Downtown Arts & Culture Map

There is no shortage of places to be emerged in culture around Downtown Columbus. Use this map to find your perfect destination and idyllic masterpiece.

see and explore

Downtown's Art Scene

Guide to Museums and Galleries

From the epic Columbus Museum of Art to the Beeler Gallery at CCAD, explore the works of world-renowned and up-and-coming artists alike.

Seeing a Show Downtown

See the Columbus Symphony, Columbus Opera, BalletMet, and so many other incredible acts at our numerous theatres around town.

Public Art Downtown

Public art from local and national artists alike illuminates our everyday streetscape to make for a more vibrant Downtown experience.

Using the Culture Pass

Columbus Metropolitan Library's Culture Pass gives residents the option to explore lots of cultural activities for free, connecting the community to the arts.

Explore Downtown's Arts & Cultural Experiences

Districts
Type

Arts & Culture

Rhodes State Office Tower Observation Deck

River South

Arts & Culture

Supreme Court of Ohio

River South

Arts & Culture

Columbus Dance Theatre

Discovery District

Arts & Culture

Jo Ann Davidson Theatre, Vern Riffe Center for Government and the Arts

River South

Arts & Culture

Southern Theatre

Fourth & Main

Arts & Culture

Kelton House Museum & Garden

Discovery District

Arts & Culture

Brandt Gallery

Gay Street District

Arts & Culture

Yao Cheng Design

Gay Street District

Arts & Culture

Chaos Contemporary Craft

Gay Street District

Arts & Culture

The Columbus Performing Arts Center

Discovery District

Arts & Culture

Riffe Gallery

River South

Arts & Culture

Columbus Children’s Theater

Arena District

Upcoming Events Related to Arts & Culture

Frequently Asked Questions about Arts & Culture:

Downtown Columbus features premier arts destinations like the Columbus Museum of Art, Gay Street Art Galleries, and public spaces with galleries, creative installations, and city cultural venues. Top cultural spots celebrate visual art, performances, and year-round creative experiences.

The heart of Downtown hosts institutions like the Columbus Museum of Art and nearby cultural museums showcasing American and contemporary art. Other local museums and galleries add depth to the city’s cultural offerings.

Live performances occur at historic venues like the Ohio Theatre, the Palace Theatre, and other Downtown performance spaces featuring orchestras, theatrical productions, and seasonal concerts. Whether music, dance, or theater, Downtown Columbus presents diverse live arts experiences.

Yes, Downtown Columbus houses many local art galleries and creative spaces where regional and contemporary art are exhibited. These galleries offer rotating exhibitions and support local artistic communities.

Downtown Columbus hosts a wide range of cultural events, from gallery exhibits and museum programming to music and festival events in public spaces and parks. Parks like Columbus Commons feature concerts, markets, and seasonal celebrations year-round.