When people think about what’s happening downtown, they may picture smart people hard at work, chic folks living in fabulous condos, or groups out painting the town. What they might not picture is a group of kids out celebrating a big birthday. Why not?
Just last month, we took my daughter and a bunch of her friends downtown to celebrate her big 1-2. First stop, Café Napolitana for sustenance. A downtown fav for many years, the girls loved Palmo’s delicious pies (and let’s be honest, mom and dad were glad for a quick cup of suds to help maintain our calm). We enjoyed chatting with the staff and other patrons, all of whom got a real kick out of seeing such a big group of young people downtown on a Saturday night!
From Café Napolitana we headed over to Columbus Commons for a movie on the big screen under the stars. Armed with blankets, cupcakes and, to help combat the very chilly temps, a big vat of hot chocolate with marshmallows, we were ready to go. The girls huddled together with bellies full ready to watch The Hunger Games, this year’s ultimate tween flick. It was such an experience to watch the movie on the big screen surrounded by skyscrapers – sort of an urban drive-in movie sans cars. Very cool.
There are lots of great birthday party venues in the burbs, no doubt. But our daughter’s urban birthday extravaganza was unique and a big hit. The girls all said what fun it was and how it was different from other parties they’d been to. So if you are looking for a different way to entertain the little peeps, take it from this mom, downtown is the place to go.
While the movie nights in the Commons are off the calendar for now, there are other great spots to check out. Maybe art classes at the OSU Urban Arts Space (these are usually free and offered on Saturday afternoons, but you must RSVP), or a play (such as CATCO’s current run of Beatrix Potter) or during the warmer months the many activities offered at Columbus Commons and the Scioto Mile, or a visit to COSI. Next time the birthday party-planning stress hits, think outside the burbs!