We were lying in the Medlands Beach with the Milky Way arching overhead. No city lights! Only the sound of the waves kept us connected to this physical world.
For me, it was not just the sky full of stars and constellations. These stars were the roadmap for our ancestors, irrespective of the culture and country we belong to. They watched the stars to keep time and decide the time of the year ideal for agriculture, harvesting, fishing, and hunting.
In the Maori culture, Tohunga kōkōrangi, or specialist priests, had this deep astronomical knowledge, and they shared the knowledge with others.
Also, there are myths and ancient stories about the stars, like the one with the Matariki cluster. This cluster is associated with the anger of Tāwhirimātea, the God of wine and storms. Being furious, he tore his eyes and threw them into heaven. There, his eyes became the Matariki stars.
Overall, for the Maori tribes, the stars and constellations have been beyond celestial bodies for observation. They were a mix of spirituality, science, stories, and a way of living life.
So, when the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, became a Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2017, it celebrated ancestral connections and the role of the sky as a roadmap. And I visited Great Barrier Island in 2022. So, nature had its own reboot during and post the COVID-19 era. So, we could see the clearest sky.
In this Great Barrier Island stargazing guide, I will talk about the best stargazing spots, stargazing tips, conservation etiquette, and more. Let’s explore the magic of the Aotea Dark Sky Sanctuary.
A Deep Dive Into Māori Astronomy (Tātai Aroraki) And Legends: A Combination Of Science, Spirituality, And Culture
When on the Great Barrier Island, it is important to see the stars and celestial bodies through a Maori lens. Also, during our Maori-guided stargazing tour, our guide chanted waiata, and he even used carvings (whakairo) and told stories to make the experience more interactive.
He made us familiar with the key celestial figures and their Maori names. Furthermore, he explained how Maori people perceive different celestial phenomena.
Major Celestial Figures And Their Significance In Maori Tradition
It is fascinating to see how Maori people connect the stars and celestial bodies with their traditional beliefs and stories.
1. Te Kahui O Kahu
The Te Kahui O Kahu constellation is the guardian of the sea and land. The stories of this constellation are important for teaching us the importance of being respectful to nature and protecting natural resources.
2. Matariki Or Pleiades Star Cluster
Matarikin is the most celebrated Māori constellation. When Matariki gets visible in the sky at dawn, it announces the arrival of the Māori New Year. It is time to gather, share stories, and plan for the year ahead for this local tribe.
Also, according to traditional beliefs, the brighter the Matariki constellation shines, the better the year for harvesting and fishing.
3. Tautoru Or Orion Constellation
Tautoru symbolizes protection and power. It was significant for hunters and warriors.
4. Ngā Rā
The Milky Way or Ngā Rā is believed to be the pathway of ancestors in the Maori tradition. The ancestors use this pathway to travel between the worlds.
Furthermore, in many interpretations, this is the pathway through which the spirits guide the departed souls to the afterlife.
5. Tāwhirimātea Or The Southern Cross
Tāwhirimātea is worshipped as the protector of the sea. In ancient times, the Maori sailors depended on this constellation to guide them across the Pacific Ocean.
6. Auroras
Maori people worship auroras as the spirit of their loved ones or ancestors. They even think that auroras bear significant messages from the spiritual realm.
7. Bright Planets (Venus And Jupiter)
The appearance of these bright planets was associated with the everyday life of Maori people. The appearance of these planets is predictable, and that is why they are associated with timing ceremonies and navigation.
Why Great Barrier Island Is A Stargazer’s Paradise?
With exciting hiking trails, pristine beaches, and an eco-conscious and off-grid lifestyle, the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is an ideal stargazing destination. With no ATMs, footpaths, or banks, the island has maintained a quiet existence.
Furthermore, with low air and light pollution, the stars, the Milky Way, and other celestial bodies shine bright in the sky once the Sun goes down.
In addition, around 60% of the island is protected by the Department of Conservation (DoC). So, it is home to many endemic plants, animals, and birds. So, it is also a bucket-list destination for nature and wildlife lovers.
Moreover, each islander thinks of themselves as a kaitiaki or caretaker. Thus, it has successfully emerged as a zero-waste island, and biosecurity measures with designated spots for camping, hiking, and cleaning have made this island a sanctorium of sustainable practices and natural preservation.
What Makes Aotea A Dark Sky Sanctuary?
The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) has scientifically measured the darkness of the sky of the Great Barrier Island. The IDA further offers principles to protect the night sky through awareness and restricted lighting.
“To be a Dark Sky Sanctuary, you need an mpsas [magnitude per square arc second] of 21.5, and we had an average of 21.79. Every step on that scale is twice as dark; Auckland is 18, so you can see 10 times more stars here than you can in Auckland.”
Hilde Hoven, from Good Heavens Dark Sky Experiences.
Furthermore, the darkness of the night sky of the Great Barrier Island is measured every year, and the report is sent to the International Dark Sky Association. In addition, the local people choose low-intensity lighting indoors and outdoors to adhere to the light pollution standards of the dark sky sanctuary.
In addition, there are no street lights, and the entire island practices off-the-grid living to preserve it as a Dark Sky Sanctuary.
What Are The Best Stargazing Spots On Great Barrier Island, New Zealand?
The Great Barrier Island is one of the best stargazing spots in NZ. I had the most beautiful stargazing experience at Medlands Beach. However, Awana Beach and the Mount Hobson Summit are two other prominent locations for stargazing.
1. Medlands Beach
I was fortunate enough to be a part of the Good Heavens group stargazing experience on the sand dunes above Medlands Beach. We all had access to an 8-inch telescope to get up close and personal with the stars and planets.
Furthermore, each of us had binoculars, and our guide used a laser light to point at the stars and planets and share their stories with us.
Far from urban areas, Medlands Beach offers the best views of the night sky, and the gentle waves reflect the stars and planets.
Here is a dark Sky photography guide for you if you are at Medlands Beach. You can use the contrast between the dunes and the vast sky to create a perfect composition for your picture.
2. Awana Beach
Awana Beach, one of the best beaches in Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is a natural planetarium. The shoreline here is secluded, making it even more suitable for stargazing.
Offering a clear view of the southern sky, Awana Beach is the best place to see the Milky Way on the Great Barrier Island.
Furthermore, Awana Beach is the meeting ground of amateurs and professional astronomers. The beach gets more visitors during the following celestial and planetary activities.
Planetary Alignments
Occasional Auroras
Lunar Eclipses
In addition, the tranquility of the place is ideal for experiencing stargazing as something beyond a visual spectacle.
3. Mount Hobson Summit
A hike to the Mount Hobson Summit ensures a brilliant stargazing experience. The summit is at a height of 627 meters, and thanks to the height, it is free of the atmospheric interference at the sea level or lower altitudes.
Also, once you reach the summit after a walk of 2-3 hours, you will get a 360-degree view of the night sky and the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, the height allows you to observe the Orion Nebula and other deep-sky objects with binoculars.
4. Kaitoke Hot Springs
Kaitoke Hot Springs fuses relaxation with a fascinating stargazing experience. Imagine you are soaking in warm sulfur water pools, and the stars are shining the brightest over your head. It is a multisensory experience, with the crisp air caressing you, the warm water offering comfort, and the night sky presenting the ultimate cosmic display.
Just a small tip. You must bring a waterproof laser light to see the stars without ruining the clarity or the darkness measure.
5. Windy Canyon
Windy Canyon already has that drama on the verge of being surreal, thanks to its unique geological formation. So, stargazing here feels magical, with the canyon itself functioning as a natural observatory.
The clarity of the sky is so high here that even the faintest celestial bodies become visible. In addition, the Windy Canyon is accessible for all types of visitors as the walk is short and easy.
What Are The Top Stargazing Tours & Experiences?
The Good Heavens stargazing tours and experiences are the best on the Great Barrier Island. It offers the following stargazing tours on the Great Barrier Island.
1. Heavens Above – Private Dark Sky Experience
This private dark sky experience is organized at your accommodation with a telescope, hot chocolate, and bean bags arranged by Good Heavens. They can also take you to the nearby beach.
The charge is $1560 for a group of 2 to 12 people, and beyond that, the price will be on request.
2. Moon Walk – Group Star Gazing Experience
Moon Walks happen for a week every month. During this time, the Moon looks the biggest in the sky, and the Milky Way is less visible.
The tour charge is $130 for adults and $65 for children below 13 years.
3. Look Up And Get Lost – Group Dark Sky Experience
This is a deep sky experience, and the tour continues for 1.5 hours. The charge for this tour is $130 for adults and $65 for children under 13.
How To Enjoy Dark Sky Sanctuary On Great Barrier Island Without A Tour?
Are you on an independent stargazing tour on the Great Barrier Island? Consider the following Aotea stargazing tips.
1. Checking Weather Conditions
Clear Moonless nights are the best for a stargazing experience on the Great Barrier Island. However, if you want to go for a Moonwalk, expect lesser visibility of the Milky Way and the stars.
2. Finding A Dark Sky Spot
The beaches of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, are ideal for the ultimate stargazing experience. Know the dark sky spots and drive away from urban life to see the best cosmic display.
3. Bringing The Right Gear
On guided stargazing tours, the tour operators provide binoculars, telescopes, and red laser lights. If you are on a DIY tour, you will have to carry these essentials.
4. Using Stargazing Apps And Tools
You must use stargazing tools and apps for the best stargazing experience. The best is the free NASA app, and Astrospheric is another app known for brilliant forecasting.
Furthermore, you can bring a star chart to locate and identify the stars and constellations.
Astrophotography Tips For Beginners
The Medlands Beach and Awana Beach are two of the best beaches for reflection shots on the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, here are some ideas about the essential equipment and camera modes for astrophotography on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.
Camera Mode
Manual
Aperture
\(f/2.8\) or \(f/4\)
ISO
3200 or 6400
Shutter Speed
15-25 Seconds Or, Divide 500 by the Focal Length of Your Lens
File Format
RAW or RAW + JPEG to Retain Better Color Data for Editing
White Balance
Manually Setting The White Balance to 4000 Kelvin
Tripod
Carry a Sturdy Tripod for Image Stabilization.
Focus
Keep Your Lens Focus to Infinity.
Trigger
You Can Use a Remote Trigger or Set the 2-10 Seconds Self-Timer of the Camera to Avoid Jerking while Pressing the Shutter Button.
Lens
Wide Lens (At least 24mm) for Full-Frame Cameras 18mm or Wider for APS-C Cameras
Seasonal Stargazing Calendar: What To See & When
Know when to watch meteor showers, the Milky Way, and Aurora Australis in the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.
Season / Months
Meteor Showers (Peak Dates)
Milky Way Core Visibility
Aurora Australis Chances
Summer (December–February)
• Geminids – Dec 13–14 (best annual shower)
• Ursids – December 22
• Quadrantids – January 3–4 (short, intense)
• Early Morning Visibility
• Low on Horizon before Dawn
The chances of Aurora Australis visibility are low as geomagnetic activity is subdued; occasional events only during strong solar storms.
Autumn (March to May)
• Lyrids – April 22–23
• Eta Aquariids – May 5–6
• Core Visibility from 2 AM to 5 AM
There are moderate chances of seeing the Aurora Australis. As the nights grow longer, the chances become higher, and equinox-related geomagnetic boosts the visibility chances.
Winter (June to August)
• Bootids – June 27 (variable)
• Southern Delta Aquariids – July 28–30
• It is the Best Season for Milky Way Photography.
• You Can See the Core for Most of the Night.
These months offer high chances of seeing the Aurora Australis due to high solar wind and longer nights. The chances of seeing the Aurora increase after the Equinox.
Spring (September to November)
• Draconids – October 8th
• Orionids – October 21–22
• Leonids – November 17th–18th
• The Core Visibility Becomes Less in this Season.
The September equinox gives strong geomagnetic activity. So, this season offers moderate to high chances for Aurora visibility.
Stargazing-Friendly Accommodation & Camping
Camping on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is the best option for stargazing. There are Department of Conservation (DoC) campsites such as Medlands Beach, Akapoua Bay, Harataonga, Awana Beach, The Green, and Whangapoua.
In addition, Stay High Island Camping Co. and the Great Barrier Island Campground are two privately-owned campgrounds on the Great Barrier Island.
Furthermore, stargazing tour providers, such as Good Heavens, can offer all-inclusive packages, including eco-friendly accommodations such as XSPOT Cliff House.
Beach Etiquette & Conservation For Night Sky Lovers
When you listen to the Maori stories about stars and celestial bodies, you have to respect their tradition. Be sensible, as the stories are a part of their value system and spiritual beliefs carried through generations.
Our guide asked us to remain quiet during storytelling and participate in some cultural traditions. The more respectful you are toward their culture, the more enriching your experience will be.
In addition, you have to abide by the light pollution rules and wildlife protection norms.
1. Light Pollution Rules
Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is a designated Dark Sky Sanctuary. So, the protection of the dark sky is very important. So, you have to avoid using bright lights, and even if you need to use light for safety, keep the intensity low.
Furthermore, you need to allow your eyes to adapt to the darkness of the sky. Slowly, you will also discover the faint stars.
You can use a red laser light and binoculars to enhance the stargazing experience on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.
2. Wildlife Protection
Stargazing goes hand in hand with the wildlife tours on the Great Barrier Island. The sound of black petrels kept us alert during our entire stargazing experience on Medlands Beach.
To protect the wildlife on and around your stargazing location, you must avoid feeding the animals and birds. Maintain a safe distance and remain on the marked routes to avoid disturbing their habitats and soil transfer.
Furthermore, do not trespass on any private property, and you must not leave any litter behind.
Adventure Add-Ons: Glowworms, Hot Springs & Night Kayaking
You can combine the stargazing experience on the Great Barrier Island with night kayaking at the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. As you kayak, you will notice the water of the Great Barrier Island transforming into a surreal landscape.
Furthermore, if you are on the Great Barrier Island around February-March, you will see bioluminescence in the water on warm and calmer days.
In addition, taking a bath in the Kaitoke Hot Springs after sunset is an experience that you will remeber for the rest of your life.
Final Tips For Your Aotea Stargazing Adventure
You need to have some knowledge about the moon phase if you want to enjoy stargazing on Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. The New Moon or the Crescent Moon is the ideal day for observing the night sky.
Also, even in the summer months, the temperature drops drastically after sundown. So, you will have to wear layered clothes.
Moreover, keep flashlights dimmed or the brightness of your phone screen low to avoid light pollution.
Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.
Cebu, the Sovereign City of the South, is a famous objective in the Philippines known for its dazzling sea shores, verifiable tourist spots, and dynamic culture. In the event that you're arranging an outing to Cebu visit bundles, consider booking a visit bundle to capitalize on your visit.
If this is your first time in Cebu, then it might be a little difficult ot figure what to add to your itinerary and which one you can opt out of. To make sure that you are not missing out on the best parts of your Cebu trip.
Is it cheaper if you book a vacation package?
Often, it is not just about convenience; if you book a bundle, it is also cheaper. Some of the packages often include flights to Cebu, your accommodations, airport transfers as well as Cebu tour activities. They arrange everything for you so you can relax and enjoy the trip and not worry about anything.
Here you do not have to worry about booking every other element, as they will do everything for you. This way, you just have to pay your service provider, and in return, you can save your money. With everything already figured out, you can just savor the experience and enjoy the entire trip by booking a Cebu visit bundle.
Here are the best 10 Cebu visit bundles to browse
Booking a Cebu visit bundle is something that is going to make your trip compact and save a lot of money. So, let’s check out the best visit bundles you can get.
Island Bouncing Experience:
Investigate the lovely islands encompassing Cebu, including Mactan, Olango, and Nalusuan. Swim in completely clear waters, loosen up on white sandy sea shores, and partake in a flavorful fish lunch on this entire day's visit.
City Visit:
Find the rich history and culture of Cebu tour packages, cebu tours City with a directed visit through its top attractions, like Magellan's Cross, Stronghold San Pedro, and the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. Find out about the city's Spanish provincial past and visit nearby business sectors to test conventional treats.
Whale Shark Watching:
Get very close to delicate goliaths on a whale shark-watching visit in Oslob. Swim close by these great animals right at home and wonder about their noteworthy size.
Kawasan Falls Experience:
Set out on an exhilarating canyoneering experience in Badian to arrive at the dazzling Kawasan Falls. Leap off bluffs, swim through turquoise pools, and rappel down cascades for an adrenaline-siphoning experience.
Bohol Roadtrip:
Take a ship to the close by island of Bohol and investigate its top attractions, including the Chocolate Slopes, Tarsier Safe-haven, and Loboc Stream Journey. Experience the regular magnificence and extraordinary untamed life of this charming island.
Moalboal Swimming Visit:
Plunge into the submerged universe of Moalboal and swim with brilliant marine life, including sardines, turtles, and dynamic coral reefs. Partake in the completely clear waters and stunning perspectives on this half-day visit.
Osmeña Pinnacle Trip:
Climb to the most noteworthy point in Cebu at Osmeña Pinnacle and appreciate all-encompassing perspectives on the encompassing mountains and shore. Experience the magnificence of the Cebu wide open on this difficult yet remunerating journey.
Cebu Safari and Experience Park:
Drench yourself in nature at the Cebu Safari and Experience Park, home to various extraordinary creatures and exciting exercises. Go on a safari visit, zip line through the wilderness, and connect with untamed life very close.
Bantayan Island Escape:
Departure to the flawless shores of Bantayan Island for a loosening up ocean-side excursion. Appreciate sunbathing, swimming, and water sports on its charming white sand sea shores, and enjoy new fish at nearby eateries.
Cebu Food Visit:
Enjoy the different kinds of Cebu visit bundles food that takes you to the city's best diners, and road food slows down. Test neighborhood treats like lechon, puso, and dried mangoes, and find out about the culinary customs of the district.
But why just stop at 10, let’s check out some more.
Moalboal Sardine Run
The main highlight of the Moalboal island-hopping tour is the sardine run experience. These tours include stops at Turtle Bay and Pescador Island, but most visitors wait for the infamous Moalboal’s sardine run when they go for snorkeling.
The huge glimmering underwater wall formed by sardines when they swim together is an amazing sight, so you would want to bring a waterproof camera with you to capture this magnificent sight. This is a regular phenomenon in the Moalboal’s water. Most of the tours come with transfers from Cebu, which makes it easy for you to squeeze in your itinerary.
Ocean Park Private Tour
A private full-day trip is something that is going to be tailored exclusively for you. Take a trip through the picturesque landscapes and reach the heart of the city of the Philippines. From there, most of the tour guides take you on this personalized private tour of Ocean Park.
Discover the enigmatic Cebu Ocean Park, look at its grandeur, capture a few iconic moments, and have an amazing experience at the Ocean Park. These tours are exclusively designed and are meticulously scheduled.
Most of the tour guides greet you at the hotels, pick you up from there, and drop you back at the hotel with a lot of time to relax and enjoy the rest of the day the way you wish.
Conclusion
Whether you're looking for experience, unwinding, or social encounters, these Cebu visit bundles offer something for each kind of voyager. Book your visit bundle today and prepare to investigate the magnificence and appeal of this tropical heaven.
Make sure that you have the places you want to visit in your Cebu visit bundles, and if not, try to negotiate with them and ensure that you get what you want. Try to shuffle one place for another to include your favorite place within the itinerary. Or you can just take some time off of the tour package and visit the places at your own expense.
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When you think of the ideal spring destination, what springs to mind?
For most, it’s rolling tree-lined vistas exploding with cherry blossoms; temperate weather that’s neither too hot nor too cold; a lively atmosphere, reinvigorated after a long winter; moments of serenity before the onslaught of summer tourists, etc.
It can be challenging to find all of those platonic ideals in one place, especially if you stick to the beaten path. However, if you wander away from the major tourist cities (your Parises, Tokyos, and New York, e.g.), you can find compelling cities that come to life in spring. As a bonus, these underrated cities are often less expensive than their famous counterparts–and cheaper in the shoulder season of spring.
ČeskýKrumlov, Czechia
Prague is beautiful, no doubt. Unfortunately, it’s the first and last place tourists often visit in Czechia (formerly the Czech Republic). If you’re willing to take a two-hour train from Prague (roughly $20), you can land yourself in ČeskýKrumlov, a UNESCO-recognized Gothic city in the heart of South Bohemia.
This is literally where the term Bohemian originated. The city brims with artistic energy, pristinely aged architecture, as well as nightlife. And in spring, the trees along the Vltava River bloomin magnificent abundance. Plus, if you’re a beer connoisseur, you’ll find some of the oldest European breweries at your doorstep.
Vancouver, Canada
Seattle and Portland dominate the narrative around the Pacific Northwest. But if you cross the 49th parallel into Canada, you’ll find arguably the crowning jewel of the PNW: Vancouver.
Vancouver is a city of extremes. On the one end, it’s a cosmopolitan metro on the move, complete with bumping bars, swanky restaurants, and posh shopping districts. On the other end, Vancouver is humbled by its natural surroundings – cornered by a long Pacific coastline and towering snow-capped mountains. Outdoor activities are plentiful in Vancouver; the city features an embarrassment of day hikes, suspension bridges, beaches, as well as ski trips.
Vancouver’s spring weather is notoriously unpredictable, so just be sure to pack travel clothes from Unbound Merino, which are versatile enough to withstand hot, cold, dry, and rainy weather.
Kanazawa, Japan
Kanazawa is everything you love about Tokyo or Kyoto, scaled down to a streamlined 400,000-person package. It has the spring rows of cherry blossoms. It boasts old Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. There are world-class dining experiences as well as futuristic amenities.
Best of all, Kanazawa is home to perfectly preserved Edo-era districts. It makes you feel like you boarded a time machine to get there. It’s no wonder Culture Trip named it one of the most underrated cities in Japan.
Phoenix, USA
Phoenix is underrated any time of year. The city’s desert aesthetic, top-notch Southwest food and packed calendar of events and festivals make it a true standout among American cities.
But perhaps the perfect time to visit is spring. Phoenix’s spring temperature is still manageable – not the sweltering highs it experiences in August. Prices are reasonable across the accommodation landscape. And best of all, Arizona is host to MLB’s spring training – which means cheap baseball tickets.
This spring, don’t listen to the hype. Check out these four underrated spring cities for a refreshing dose of blossoms, great food, nightlife, as well as activities.
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As someone in her early thirties and a big foodie, Columbus Ohio has always been the biggest draw for me.
Now, you may be curious about the connection between my age and the city. The city is a bustling hub of college-goers. So, whenever I visit here, I relive the days I have just left behind.
So, if you ask me “what to do in Columbus Ohio,” it’s like soaking in nostalgia for me.
Again, the foodie in me cannot avoid the allure of the North Market or Budd Dairy Food Hall. These are some of the biggest hotspots for gastronomic delight in the city.
Furthermore, the Worthington Farmers Market, with 100s of food vendors from Columbus, is a gem in the food tourism landscape of the city. It is, in fact, the best of the best on the “10 USA Today Readers’ Choice 2024” list.
However, the things to do in Columbus Ohio are beyond exploring the food landscape. So, here, I have curated the activities you can do this weekend.
What To Do In Columbus Ohio This Weekend | You Cannot Miss These Fun Activities
The scopes of what to do in Columbus Ohio are endless. So, no wonder Columbus is a city that a tourist will fall hard for.
Exceptional dining opportunities and the vivid local culture have helped Columbus get the tag of the “Fastest Growing City in America” by the Bank of America Institute.
Moreover, the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission or MORPC has predicted that Columbus will continue to grow at 1% annually till 2050.
Now, thanks to the thriving scenario, the city naturally has been a prominent tourist attraction for people from different corners of the USA.
So, in case you, too, are visiting Columbus Ohio this weekend, these are the things you can try.
“The word is getting out that Columbus is an ideal place to visit, whether you’re coming with friends or family, for a special event or for business travel. While you’re here you can immerse yourself in our award-winning, chef-driven food scene, spend time outdoors along our expansive riverwalk and abundant green spaces or explore our unique and walkable neighborhoods.” Sarah Townes, ECI, Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer at Experience Columbus.
1. Exploring The Local Breweries
https://www.instagram.com/p/DB9upnpyq-f/?img_index=1
With many local breweries and wineries around, you don’t need to think much about what to do in Columbus Ohio. So, you can explore the following vineyards and breweries here.
High Bank DistilleryAddress: 1051 Goodale Blvd ColumbusContact Number: (614) 826-5347Land Grant Brewing CompanyAddress: 424 W Town St ColumbusContact Number: (614) 427-3946Jackie O's On FourthAddress: 171 N Fourth St ColumbusContact Number: (614) 929-5265
2. Strolling Through The North Market To Explore The City’s Food Scenario
https://www.instagram.com/p/C9Lscdwqp7F/
Address: 59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215, United States
Phone Number: +1 614-463-9664
Hours Open: 9 AM to 7 PM
North Market is the place where you explore the best of Coumbus’s food scenario. The place bustles with farmers, makers, vendors, and food merchants. Further, you can try here various food items, including Tibetan, Polish and Vietnamese.
Nevertheless, when you are at North Market, you can try the best food items at the following Tour and Travel favorite restaurants.
Name of The RestaurantAddressPhone NumberMomo Ghar North Market (Nepalese Cuisine)59 Spruce St, Columbus+1 614-495-6666Hubert's Polish Kitchen59 Spruce St, Columbus +1 614-220-8787Dos Hermanos Taco Truck59 Spruce St, Columbus +1 614-670-4239Preston's: A Burger Joint59 Spruce St, Columbus +1 614-400-1675
So, when in North Market, you can explore whatever you crave!
3. Visiting The Columbus Museum Of Art
https://www.instagram.com/p/DDHcQqBNHqD/?img_index=1
Address: 480 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215, United States
Phone Number: +1 614-221-6801
Hours Open: 10 AM to 5 PM (Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday-Sunday), Thursday - 10 AM to 10 PM, Monday - Closed
The Columbus Museum Of Art is the go-to place if you want to see the biggest collection of local maestros like Elijah Pierce and George Bellows. Furthermore, you will find many collections here as examples of modernism in America and Europe.
Also, a tour of the museum will make you familiar with contemporary technology, art and photographs. Moreover, you can collect small souvenirs from the Museum Gift Store.
Moreover, the collections of the museum are updated daily and the museum hosts events on a regular basis.
4. Kayaking Along The Scioto River
If you want to know what to do in Columbus Ohio, you can kayak through the Scioto River. Kayaking in the river is also a great way to enjoy the vistas of bustling city life on the river banks.
Further, once you are done kayaking in the river, you can visit Scioto Mile. It is a brilliant example of “environmental rehabilitation.” In fact, USA Today has named it one of the top 10 riverwalks in the country.
5. Taking A Tour Of The German Village
If any dark academia fan asks me what to do in Columbus Ohio, this weekend? I will suggest them visit the German Village. The village is idyllic and built in 1820, it is a prominent example of Italianate architecture.
However, for me, the Book Loft is the biggest attraction in the German Village. You will get to explore here 32 rooms of books. You can bargain the prices and even get some aesthetic greeting cards from here.
Furthermore, German Village is a foodie’s paradise. You can explore the following restaurants here.
Restaurants In German Village, Columbus OhioAddressPhone NumberSchmidt’s Sausage Haus Restaurant240 E Kossuth St, Columbus, OH 43206, United States+1 614-444-6808Katzinger's Delicatessen475 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215, United States+1 614-228-3354The Thurman Cafe183 Thurman Ave, Columbus, OH 43206, United States+1 614-443-1570Stauf's Coffee Roasters627 S 3rd St #1060, Columbus, OH 43206, United States+1 614-221-1563
Moreover, there is a Brewery District in the West German District. It is very crucial to the beer scenario of Columbus.
6. Spend Some Time With Plants At Franklin Park Conservatory
https://www.instagram.com/p/C6v24pyNFTx/?img_index=1
Address: 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203, United States
Phone Number: +1 614-715-8000
Operating Hours: 10 AM to 4 PM every day, 5-9 PM (Monday-Thursday and Sunday), 5-10 PM (Friday and Saturday)
The Franklin Park Conservatory functions with the tagline of “Life Happens Here.” I am a plant mommy, and for me, the Gardens and Collections are the best sections of this conservatory.
You will find here more than 400 species of plants. Further, the glasswork of Dale Chihuly and horticulture places make this conservation center a unique fusion of nature and aesthetics.
Along with the conservatory and the greenhouses, you will also come across the following hotspots at Franklin Park.
John F. Wolfe Palm House and Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse, constituting the oldest part of the conservatory
The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden
Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus
Chihuly Collection
Botanical Gardens
Bonsai Collection
Light Raiment II
Cardinal Health Gallery, etc.
Entry to the Franklin Park Conservatory is free on Sundays for the residents of Columbus and Franklin County. However, on other days, the park charges an entry fee of $23.50 (10 AM to 5 PM) for people aged between 13 and 59.Further, seniors aged above 60 need to pay $19.50, and children between 3-12 years need to pay $16 for the entry. Moreover, for museum visits and special occasions, you will have to pay $3.
So, with the best sample plan for what to do in Columbus Ohio this weekend, you can now pack your bags and get going!
Also read
Unique Things To Do In Tulsa: Into The Land Of Art Deco Architecture.
Things to Do in Greenville, SC For Adults: Paranormal Walk And Food Tourism.
Free And Cheap Things To Do In Phoenix, Arizona | Phoenix Travel Guide On A Shoestring.
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