With its plethora of historic landmarks and enduring buildings, it's inevitable that Downtown Columbus has some spooky stories hiding in its shadows. What better time than Halloween to embrace Columbus' creepy side? Whether you're a dedicated scare fanatic or just here for the candy, we've got the spooky-season roundup featuring adult-only, older kids, and family-friendly activities.
Family-friendly fun
Trick or Treat at Palace Theatre
October 26, 6-8pm
Palace Theatre, 34 W Broad St
From website: "Kids of all ages can walk through a themed version of the Palace Theatre and collect goodies in this safe, weather-proof alternative to trick-or-treating. Selfie spots, crafts, and more fun can be found along the way."
Ghostbusters with the Columbus Symphony
October 28, 8pm
Ohio Theatre, 39 E State St
$19-$88
The always-magnificent Columbus Symphony will be playing the score live to the film. This family-friendly event at the grand Ohio Theatre will feature special guests, surprises, and photo ops.
October 29, 1-4pm
Thurber House, 77 Jefferson Ave
FREE
Thurber House will be decked out in decorations for this free family-friendly event followed by an adults-only rendition later in the evening. Kids and adults alike can hear tales from award-winning storyteller Lyn Ford, and enjoy Halloween activities like Thurber word-libs, a scavenger hunt, and Halloween treats.
Capital Law Trunk or Treat
October 23, 1-3pm
Capital University Law School Lot 1, 303 E Broad St
FREE
Hosted by the law school's Student Bar Association, pull up to this afternoon event to enjoy warm beverages, free candy, and THREE costume contests: best costume, best decorated car, and best pet costume.
Halloween Spooktacular! Hosted by the Columbus Symphony
October 30, 2pm
Ohio Theatre, 39 E State St
Adults $12.50, kids $8.50
The Columbus Symphony is welcoming families to celebrate Halloween at their family-friendly, 45 minute concert. Festivities include a pumpkin decorating contest, trick or treating, and crafts. Costumes encouraged!
Halloween Storytime with the Columbus Library
October 30, 1:30-2pm
Columbus Main Library
FREE
A thirty minute storytime session for younger kiddos. Costumes encouraged!
For older audiences (kids 12+)
Creepy Columbus Downtown Walking Tours
Weekends through November 27, 8pm
Location details emailed to ticket-holders Wednesday before tour
$25
These 90 minute walking tours will lead scare enthusiasts through Downtown destinations with haunted histories. Prepare to face the ghosts of Columbus past.
Fernando's Funeral at Kelton House
October 27 + 28, 6:30-9pm (tours leave every 30 minutes)
Kelton House Museum & Garden, 586 E Town St
$18, advance tickets required
A 45 minute guided tour brings enthusiasts through the Kelton House Museum and Garden, telling the tragic stories of the Keltons and first-hand ghost encounters in the mansion.
October 14-22, Friday and Saturday evenings, departing every half hour between 7 and 9pm
Ohio Statehouse, 1 Capitol Square
$13 adults, $7 students
Experience a spectacular historical landmark in a darker light (literally) as conductors lead you the Statehouse hallways and chambers illuminated only by lanterns.
October 28-Nov 5
Davidson Theater, 77 S High St
$54-$94
A fan favorite brimming with romance and horror alike, come see this story come to life on the dance floor in the beautiful Davidson Theatre at the Riffe Center.
Adult-only (21+) spooks and more
COSI After Dark - Nightmare on Broad St
October 13, 7-10pm (doors at 6:30)
COSI, 333 W Broad St
$20 advance / $30 at the door
The popular COSI After Dark adults-only event gets a spooky twist. Featuring a haunted house in the Progress exhibit, costume contest, and more, this is the perfect event for Halloween enthusiasts.
Booze and Boos Downtown Walking Tour
Thursdays through November 27, 7pm
Location details emailed to ticket-holders before tour
$35
This two-hour tour pairs spirits with spooks, bringing participants to historic taverns while telling tales of some visitors who never quite left.
October 29, 5-7pm
Thurber House, 77 Jefferson Ave
$12.60 (includes drink ticket)
Haunts and history come together for this social event touring through Thurber House, a historic venue with plenty of ghost stories and real-life historical events to boot. For those with kids, come earlier in the afternoon for a free event where booze -> boos.
October 28, 8pm (doors at 7:15pm)
Palace Theatre, 34 W Broad St
$17.99 GA, advance tickets required
The mega-popular NightLight 614 is throwing a 1-night-only Halloween Gala presenting Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. The event will feature movie inspired cocktails, a themed photobooth and more in a spectacular venue.
October 29, 9pm
The Bluestone, 83 E Broad St
$30-$50
A big and dark lineup is in store for adults who are ready for a mega Halloween musical event. Featuring lightning and haze, this won't be one easy to forget.
Slammers Monster Mixer hosted by Capital Equality Alliance & OSU Outlaws
October 28, 5-7pm
Slammers Bar, 202 E Long St
FREE
Join LGBTQ+ law students, attorneys, and community members for this casual mixer for all.
October 27, 5-8pm
Wolf's Ridge Brewing, 215 N 4th St
FREE
Bring your pup to grab a pint at Wolf's Ridge -- and dress for the occasion. Pups can win one of three categories: Spookiest Costume, Funniest Costume and Best In Show (and there are even pup prizes in store).