Scioto Mile Riverfront Events

Hours and Directions

Scioto Mile Fountain
233 S Civic Center Drive

Open daily, May 22 – September 7

11 am – 7 pm

Every evening, enjoy the ambiance as the Fountain glows and illuminates the night sky with color.

 

Sensory Friendly Hour:

Mondays

11 am – 12 pm

 

Learn more about the Scioto Mile Fountain
Scioto Mile Fountain

The Scioto Mile Fountain serves as a signature free Downtown amenity, well-loved by people of all ages. The enhanced Scioto Mile Fountain provides a daily experience that furthers the livability, connectivity, and inclusivity of Downtown Columbus.

This year, enjoy our brand-new fountainside dance and fitness classes, float down the Scioto River on Free Kayak Day, pedal on the Trolley Pub with a DORA drink, and so much more. Find the full list of events below.

If the temperature drops below 65 degrees, the fountain may operate in a low power mode but will be reactivated if patrons are present. All closures will be communicated on our website and via Instagram (@downtowncolumbus) so check before heading down.

FREE Scioto Mile Riverfront Events

The Riverfront has something for everyone! This event series complements the dozens of festivals and additional events that draw thousands to the Downtown Riverfront each year. See the full list of Downtown events here.

Fountain Fest

Saturday, May 23

12 – 4 pm

Scioto Mile Fountain

Presented by Columbus Recreation and Parks Department and Downtown Columbus, Inc

Kick off summer with a splash! The Scioto Mile Fountain re-opens for the season at Bicentennial Park this Memorial Day Weekend. Join us for a FREE celebration with music, food trucks, live performances, art, and more surprises.  

FREE Kayak Days

July 11 & July 12

10 am – 2 pm

Boat launch under the Main Street Bridge, near Bicentennial Park (233 S Civic Center Dr)

In partnership with Columbus Recreation and Parks

These dates are subject to change based on weather and river conditions.

The views from the Scioto River are priceless, but you can experience them for no cost on two days this summer! All experience levels welcome to enjoy a complimentary kayak, tandem kayaking and SUP rentals.

  • We expect the line for kayaks to be long, based on high demand. Get there early for the best chance of being able to ride. We will start getting folks on the water at 1 pm.
  • We will be using a wristband system. Wristbands will be distributed on a first come first serve basis. Once all wristbands are distributed, the line will be cut off. Please note that this will likely be soon after 1 pm based on expected demand.
  • If you do not receive a wristband, you will not be able to ride a kayak.
  • Safety is a top priority. All participants must wear a life vest (provided). We ask that you follow all instructions provided by volunteers at the event.
  • There will be lots of other FREE activities to enjoy on the Riverfront including the Scioto Mile Fountain. We recommend wearing or bringing a swimsuit!
 
  • Kids must be at least 5 years old to ride in a kayak.
  • Children 12 and under must ride with a parent.
  • Tandem, single, and SUP paddleboards will be available.

    TIP: You can bring your own kayak to the Scioto River any time, but Free Kayak Day provides kayak rentals for FREE. 

Downtown Fitness

Mondays, Thursdays & Sundays, June – September

In partnership with Columbus Recreation and Parks

Break a sweat or find your zen around Downtown Columbus.

Learn more about Downtown Fitness

Mondays with 614FitClub at Bicentennial Park

6:15 pm – Mat Pilates
7:15 pm – Yoga

Thursdays with Quality Wellness at pop-up locations around Downtown

6:15 pm – HIIT
7:15 pm – Yoga

Sundays with 614FitClub on The Peninsula

6:15 pm – Mat Pilates
7:15 pm – Yoga

  • Classes will be cancelled in the event of severe weather or unsafe conditions.
  • Our website will be updated to reflect when classes are canceled, updates will be posted to our Instagram stories @downtowncolumbus, and an email will be sent to participants. Sign the waiver to receive email updates.