Weekend Escapades: Things To Do In Chattanooga

BY  Sibashree Jan 28, 2026

South India has been my go-to place whenever I lacked clarity about “What is Next?” After exploring the beaches in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, I wanted to continue my journey, and my destination was the Western Coast of India.  The quiet Varkala Beach or Papanasam Beach with dramatic cliffs won me over.  With golden sands, blue waters, and gentle waves, Varkala Beach is therapeutic. No wonder that it is such a popular place for outdoor Yoga practices.  Furthermore, being a west-facing beach, it offers dramatic sunset views.  Here is more about the  Location of Varkala Beach How to reach Varkala Beach Best beaches in Varkala Where to stay in Varkala Beach When is the best time to visit Varkala Beach Best things to do in Varkala Beach Places to eat and drink Is Varkala Beach worth it?  About Varakala Beach Let me introduce the Varkala Beach to you with some quick answers.  ⁍ Where is Varkala Beach? Varka Beach is in Varkala. It is a coastal town on the southwestern coast of India. ⁍ In which state is Varkala Beach situated? Varkala Beach is situated in the southern state of Kerala in India.  ⁍ Varkala Beach, in which district? The Varkala Beach is in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala.  ⁍ Varkala Beach distance: It is located at a distance of 40 km from Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala.  Varkala Beach is the place where spirituality, wellness, religious fervor, and coastal recreation meet. It is also known as the Papanasam because people believe that taking a dip here washes away all your sins.  In fact, the mineral-rich water of the Arabian Sea here has healing properties.  Furthermore, the beach stretch is long, a little over 6 kms and it is the middle ground between the red cliffs and the blue waters.  However, there are two things I did not like about the Varkala Beach. Firstly, all the eateries and shops lining the red cliffs obstruct the views.  The more alarming thing is the amount of trash and plastic on the beach. There were food wraps and food wraps everywhere. Now, this shows a lack of maintenance and the absence of civic sense.  Does The Varkala Beach Have A Shade? No, the Varaka Beach does not have any designated or constructed shade. Also, naturally, there is rarely any shaded spot with very few trees around.  Furthermore, there are some lizards in the sand here. They don’t bother anyone, but it was a big issue for me.  Finally, I rented a shade and a chair from a clifftop cafe.  However, be ready get heavily tanned as the Sun here is so strong that no amount of sunscreen can protect you.  How Safe Is Varkala Beach?  Varkala Beach is a safe place, and it is one of the best destinations for a solo trip in India. It has a laid-back vibe, typical of the coastal areas of South India.  However, I could not find any lifeguards for the longer stretch of the beach. So, swimming here is something you need to do at your own risk.  Also, the current here is very strong. So, if you have plans to swim with kids, you have to be very careful.  How To Get To Varkala? The Varkala Beach is closest to the Trivandrum International Airport (TRV). The distance is around 45 kilometers. Furthermore, the nearest railway station, Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station, is a little over 4 km away.  However, the Trivandrum Central (TVC) is at a distance of 1 hour, and the Kollam Junction (QLN) Railway Station is around 40 minutes away. Both these stations have frequent train options from different parts of India.  1. How To Get To Varkala Beach From Trivandrum Airport I booked an Uber to reach the Varkala Beach from the Trivandrum Airport, and the charge was INR 1160. This is the safest option if you are new to the place.  Local cabs and other online car rentals are also available. However, if you cannot negotiate, they will charge you between INR 1500 and INR 1600.  Furthermore, the cheapest option to travel from Trivandrum to Varkala is to take a bus run by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). Buses are available every 15 minutes.  However, the KSRTC bus stop is around 15 km away from the beach. So, from there, you will again have to take a local bus or taxi.  2. How To Travel From The Varkala Railway Station To Varkala Beach?  You can take a local taxi to reach the beach from the Varkala Railway Station. Local buses are also available. What Are The Best Beaches In Varkala? The Varkala Beach is the main attraction in the town of Varkala. However, it has many other beaches, such as the Black Sand Beach, Odayam Beach, Kappil Beach and Beach Park, Edava Beach, and Thiruvambadi Beach.  1. Black Sand Beach View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nat Geo Traveller India (@natgeotravellerindia) The Black Sand Cliff is close to the north cliff. If the Varkala Beach is overcrowded, you can consider this one as an alternative.  2. Odayam Beach Odayam Beach is perfect if you want to enjoy a long stroll along the waters early morning or late in the evening.  It is located at the north of the main cliff.  3. Kappil Beach And Beach Park The Kappil Beach and Beach Park are further north of the Varkala town. It is the place where you will have a bit of the famous Kerala backwater experience.  Also, it is the confluence of the Arabian Sea and the Kappil River.  4. Edava Beach The Edava Beach is cleaner. Also, this quaint beach offers a delightful cultural experience. Here, you can meet the fishermen.  Though language was a barrier sometimes, a few of them knew English. Also, I must say, after the rich cultural experience in Jaffna, this was another culturally enriching moment for me.  5. Thiruvambadi Beach It is the most secluded beach in Varkala. It has black and dark sand. Also, it has a calm environment, allowing you to just relax and introspect.  Where To Stay In Varkala? You can visit the Kerala Tourism website to find out where to stay in Varkala. It has Varkala beach resort options such as the Coconut Cove Beach Resort, the Pulari Gardens Tourist Resorts, and the nearest Karthika Plaza Resort Pvt. Ltd.  Furthermore, there are hotels near Varkala Beach, such as InDa Hotel, the Lost Hostels, and Maison Sangham.  I stayed at the Bougainvillea Homestay, which is very close to the Varkala beach cliffs.  When To Visit Varkala? October to March, or the winter and spring seasons, are ideal for visiting Varkala.The rainfall is minimal in these months, and the temperature hovers around 20 to 30 degrees Celsius.  Furthermore, less rain and moderate weather conditions are ideal for watersports such as jet skiing and paragliding.  However, during my visit in February, I found the water current to be quite strong for swimming. So, check with the locals and the fishermen around before getting into the water.  What Are The Best Things To Do In Varkala Beach? The Varkala Beach is a welcome relief if you are exploring South India. It is not a place if you are planning an action-packed holiday.  However, try these watersports.  Surfing At Varkala Beach You will find places such as Soul and Surf here to camp and learn surfing. Furthermore, the ideal surfing condition for a visitor depends on their expertise level.  For Beginners: November to February For Sufers of Intermediate or Advanced Levels: October to March Advanced Surfers: The Monsoon Season or June to August  Paragliding Varkala Paragliding is the most adventurous thing you can try at Varkala Beach. You can have a hawk-eye view of the water and the golden sand by flying from one end of the cliff to another.  Also, paragliding feels magical during sunset. Varkala Beach Nightlife  The bars, restaurants, and rooftop cafes of the North Cliff are the epicenters of a happening nightlife in Varkala.  These places are ideal for candlelit dinners and enjoying a lively vibe with DJs and live acoustic music performances. What Are The Places To Visit Near The Varkala Beach? Varkala is an ideal place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, many religious and spiritual travelers combine a Varkala beach trip with a visit to Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple and the Sivagiri Mutt.  The Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple is a 2000-year-old Vishnu shrine. It is associated with the legends of Lord Brahma and Narada Muni.  On the other hand, the Sivagiri Mutt is home to the saints and sanyasins of the order started by Sree Narayana Gurudev. His primary teaching was “One Caste, One Religion, One God for Man.” Established in 1904, this Mutt practices inclusiveness.  What Are The Places For Eating And Drinking In Varkala? There are many cafes and restaurants in Varkala. I chose a humble, local place for lunch and dinner.  However, to experience the cafe culture here, I chose a few upscale places.  1. Lunch At Vinayaka Vegetarian Restaurant I ordered a veg Keralan thali at the Vinayaka Vegetarian Restaurant. The rice grains were thick, and they were filling. Furthermore, they served the rice with five types of sides, pickle, and papad. It only cost me INR 90.  2. Dinner At Chimney Restaurant At the Chimney Restaurant, it was a continuation of my great seafood experience in Jaffna. The staff here suggested that I try a Kerala fish curry.  The fish was fresh, and the curry was sharp and spicy (a little less than Jaffna). It was a perfect balance to the acidic element of rice.  You must also try the village-style chicken curry here. It is a family-friendly restaurant.  3. Cafés I was at Cafe Trip is Life during sunset. The view was amazing, and I loved the grilled prawns and mojitos there. A bit pricey, but worth it! Another café I loved here was Café Sarwaa. I was impressed with the Bohemian decor the moment I entered the place. I tried some samosas and banana pancakes there.  However, you can eat here the whole day. Their paratha and Kerala beef curry are the most famous.  Is Varkala Worth It? Should I Just Go To Goa? The only similarity between Varkala and Goa beaches is the bohemian vibe. However, both beaches offer different experiences.  Varkala is more nature-focused with the landscape of the Varkala Beach and a view of the Arabian Sea. Furthermore, it is more about relaxation and wellness thanks to the Yoga centers frequently found here.  However, despite watersports and adventure facilities such as paragliding and surfing, Varkala is not as happening as Goa. Goa offers a wider range of watersports.  Moreover, the nightlife of Goa is more vibrant.  So, if you want a spiritual and wellness retreat and some quiet beach time, Varkala is the best. The 2000-year-old Vishnu temple is an added attraction here.  For a vibe and a high-energy experience, choose Goa.  Varkala Beach: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Varkala Beach.  1. Varkala Beach Or Kovalam Beach, Which Is Best? I cannot pick a favorite between the Varkala Beach and the Kovalam Beach. The Varkala Beach, with a bohemian vibe, is more laid-back and nature-focused. On the other hand, the Kovalam Beach has the iconic crescent beaches, and it offers a diverse range of watersports and a vibrant nightlife. 2. Which Beach In Varkala Has Bioluminescence? The Varkala Beach has bioluminescence. You can especially notice the bioluminescence near the cliff and along the northern stretch of the beach. Here, tiny marine organisms emit blue and green light due to a chemical reaction. When the wave is disturbed, these organisms get scattered, and it looks like the water is glowing. Furthermore, from September to November is the best time to see the bioluminescence of the beach.  3. What Is The Varkala Beach From Bangalore Distance? The distance between Varkala Beach and Bangalore is around 670 km. You can travel by road, which takes around 14 hours. So, the easiest way to travel is to take a train from Bangalore Cantonment to Varkala. The travel time is around 13-15 hours. Furthermore, if you want to take the fastest way to travel, you must take a flight from the Bangalore Airport to the Trivandrum Airport and then take a bus or taxi to Kovalam.

BY  Sibashree Jan 14, 2026

You think of the nature resorts, the famous wine tours, hiking, and birdwatching when we talk about exploring Tucumán. However, Tucumán has recently also emerged as an astrotourism hotspot.  The Ampimpa Astronomical Observatory in the Calchaquí Valleys of Tucumán is at the epicenter of this happening astrotourism scenario.  Now, this is an added feather to the crown of Tucumán, the smallest province of Argentina. It offers a vertical journey from the jungle to the desert in 50 kms.  Also, the nickname of Tucumán is not just a fancy phrase. It means a biological reality and refers to the historical event of Argentina’s independence from Spain in 1816.  Furthermore, El Jardín de la República, or the Garden of the Republic moniker, goes well with its subtropical climate and the lush landscape.   You guessed it right, as today, this Tucumán nature guide will take you to the Yungas Rainforest and the highlands of the Andes. Also, if you are planning a road trip, you must go through our Tucuman Argentina, itinerary. The Yungas Rainforest (The Green Belt) The Yungas Rainforest is known as the Green Belt, as it is an ecodiverse region. Home to a diverse flora and fauna, the Yungas Rainforest hosts a variety of bromeliads, orchids, and ferns.  Furthermore, among the animals here, you will find tapirs, wild cats, and panthers. You will even spot species such as Yungas Guan while birdwatching in Yungas, Argentina.  Also, it is home to the Campo Los Alisos in Tucumán, which helps to preserve the threatened ecosystem of the Yungas Rainforest region.  Moreover, containing around 50% of the biodiversity of Argentina, parts of the Yungas Rainforest are also marked as UNESCO Biosphere Reserves.  1. Parque Sierra De San Javier View this post on Instagram A post shared by Parque Sierra de San Javier (@parquesierradesanjavierunt) Parque Sierra de San Javier, or the San Javier Mountain Range Park, was established in 1974, and now the National University of Tucumán (UNT) maintains it.  It is one of the top nature reserves in Tucumán, Argentina.  The home to various flora and fauna of Argentina, this park also functions as the green lung by cleaning the air, protecting the watersheds for the city, and regulating the climate.  This park, furthermore, has many beautiful trails. You can enjoy an easy 30-minute jungle walk through the Cascada del Río Noque trail. If you are seeking silence while hiking in San Javier, Tucumán, you can opt for the Sendero Anta Yacu trek.  It is around 25 km west of Tucumán. If you are a budget traveler like me, you can take the Bus No 340 to reach the park.  2. Reserva Experimental Horco Molle View this post on Instagram A post shared by Asociación de Prestadores de Turismo Activo de Tucumán (@aptattucuman) This small but compact nature park is ideal for families. It is home to the tapir and condor rescue projects. It covers 600 acres and is just 15 km from the capital.  Also, it has picnic areas, barbecue areas, and play areas for children.  3. Aconquija National Park: The Untouched Wilderness View this post on Instagram A post shared by Parque Nacional Aconquija (@parquenacionalaconquija) Aconquija National Park, with over 600 species of endemic animals and birds, is the jewel of North America.  Taruca deer, puma, and ocelot are some of the endemic animals living here. In addition, you will find several Incan ruins scattered through the park. The Incan Highway remains, and the “Ciudacita” ruins are part of the UNESCO World Sites.  The Campo de los Aliso near Alpachiri is the main Aconquija National Park entrance. Furthermore, Cochuna is the wilder southern entrance of the Aconquija National Park.  Furthermore, the Mythical Trek of La Ciudacita, the Inca Ruins at 4400 meters, is the main highlight of this national park.   The High Andes & Puna (Tafí del Valle & Beyond) The harsh, cold conditions and a rich wildlife with the presence of vicuñas, flamingos are the highlighting features of the High Andes and Puna, at an altitude of 3000 meters.  This region has critical water resources that support livelihoods such as alpaca and llama. Let’s find out about the major nature reserves of this region.  1. Quebrada De Los Sosa Nature Reserve Take a drive up through Route 307 to find the Quebrada De Los Sosa Nature Reserve, where the jungle meets the clouds.  It is a 30 km-long gorge carved by the Los Sosa River, and it is home to more than 100 bird species.  With a winding pathway, it is also home to the Tafí del Valle. 2. Los Núñorcos & Reserva La Angostura Los Núñorcos, or the Cerro Núñorco mountain and Parque provincial Los Ñuñorcos are the prominent locations for hiking in Tucuman, Argentina.  As you explore the challenging trails here, you will enjoy a beautiful view of the Dique la Angostura lake and the Tafí del Valle. Tafí del Valle also has the Bald Mountain, or the Cerro El Pelao. You can start the trek near the Tafí del Valle center. It is a 1.5-hour-long trek.    Wildlife Watching Calendar In Tucuman, Argentina  Tucuman in Argentina is ideal for wildlife sightings throughout the year. Tafí del Valle and areas around Route 307, especially the best areas for wildlife spotting in Tucumán.  Check out the wildlife watching calendar in Tucuman below. Year-Round Sightings• Mammals: Capybaras, Some Foxes, and South American Sea Lions• Birds: Doves, Hummingbirds, and Toucans Spring (September to November) • Birds: Doves and Hummingbirds • Flowers: Pink Trumpets and Jacaranda treesSummer (December to February) • Mammals: Elephant Seals and Sea Lions• Birds: Penguins in Patagonia and Burrowing ParrotsAutumn (March to May)• Mammals: The Red Deer Rut• Birds: PigeonsWinter (June to August) • Reptiles: Yellow Anacondas• Birds: Waterfowl  What Are The Expert Tips For Hiking In Tucumán?  An entry to the Aconquija National Park is free. However, do you know that you have to register at the ranger station at least 48 hours in advance? It is crucial for the safety of the hikers. For more such insider knowledge, these expert tips will be very handy. 1. Bus #118 Is Your Friend  You don’t have to hire a car to see the jungle and the nature reserves. You can take the 118 bus from San Miguel de Tucumán directly to the foot of the San Javier trails.  The ticket price is even less than $1.  2. Watch The Fog (Neblina) The Fin del Mundo" statue area on route 307 is often the zero-visibility zone. There is dense fog in this area even at around 4 PM. You have to drive the car carefully, and there must be low beams to defeat the fog.  3. Ticks Exist In The Yungas  The lush greenery of the Yungas is ideal for picnics and nature exploration. However, there are ticks. So, you must check your ankles after a hike or use a blanket.  4. Hire A Guide For "La Ciudadacita" Are you planning a 4-day trek to La Ciudacita or the Inca Ruins? You must have a guide because the high altitude path, at an elevation of over 4000 meters, is unmarked. You need technical assistance for the navigation. Moreover, you must contact the Asociación Argentina de Guías de Montaña to hire a guide.  5. The "El Indio" Stop You will find the best dried meat or Charqui at the vendor stalls at the El Indio monument on Route 307. These stalls also have the best local honey.  Stop by these stalls and have the dried meat and honey for a great start to your hike.  6. The Waterfalls In Tucuman Are Seasonal  No Instagram reel will tell you that the waterfalls in Tucuman are seasonal. March to May, or the end of the rainy season, is ideal for visiting these waterfalls.  7. Beware Of The "Mala Mala" Local folklore speaks of the "Mala Mala" spirit in the mountains. Whether you believe it or not, respecting silence in nature is a huge part of the local culture. 8. No Cell Signal Once you pass the "El Indio" monument or enter Aconquija Park, your cell signal dies. Download offline maps (Maps.me or Google Maps) before leaving the city. 9. Condors Fly At Noon If you want to spot Andean Condors, look up between 11 AM and 1 PM when the thermal currents are strongest. They rarely fly early in the morning. Tucumán Nature Guide: Listen To The Authority Voices  Asociación Argentina de Guías de Montaña (AAGM): The Aconquija range is "one of the most undervalued trekking destinations in Argentina," offering Himalayas-like isolation without the crowds. Birding Ecotours (Global Operator) Rio Los Sosa is a prime spot for seeing the "Torrent Duck" (Pato de Torrente), a bird that can swim upstream in raging rapids. La Ruta Natural (Argentine Tourism Ministry) "Ruta de las Yungas" is a key scenic drive, highlighting the importance of driving slowly to spot the crossing fauna like the Corzuela (small deer). Tucumán Nature Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Tucumán Nature Guide.  1. What Is The Best Time Of Year For Hiking In Tucumán? April to September, or the dry season, is ideal for hiking in Tucuman. The cool temperature is ideal for outdoor exploration. On the other hand, heavy summer rains make the trekking trails here dangerous and muddy.  2. Do I Need To Pay To Enter The Nature Reserves? The entry fee to the national parks depends on the specific administrative and management authority. For example, you don’t need to pay any entry fee for the Aconquija National Park. However, prior registration is crucial. Further, for Reserva Horco Molle, you will have to pay an entry fee of $2.  3. Is It Safe To Hike Alone? Yes, it is safe to hike alone on the well-marked trails of Tucuman, such as the Rio Noque or Funicular. However, if you are going to high-altitude summits or jungle treks, you will need a guide. It is more crucial because of the presence of the fog and the absence of signage.  4. Are There Snakes In The Yungas? Yes, the Yungas have pit vipers or Yarará. So, you wear long trousers and watch your steps. Furthermore, you must follow the trail marks properly to not disturb the habitats of the snakes or other wildlife.  5. How Do I Get To Aconquija National Park Without A car? It is difficult to reach the Aconquija National Park without a car. You have to first take a bus to Concepción and then a local bus to Alpachiri. From Alpachiri, it is another 10 km taxi ride to the park entrance.  6. Can I Camp In The Reserves Of Tucuman? Yes, Aconquija National Park has designated wild camping zones (like Puesto La Mesada). However, Sierra de San Javier does not allow camping. So, it is for day use only. 7. What Is The "Yungas"? The Yungas, or a cloud forest in Tucuman, Argentina, is a mountain rainforest. It functions as a connector between the Andes and the Amazon.It has ferns, moss, and high humidity.  8. Can I See Toucans In Tucuman? Yes, you can see toucans in Tucumán. In recent years, toucans have made a comeback in this region.You can spot them in the trees around San Javier and Horco Molle. 9. What Is Hiking Altitude In Tucuman?  Hiking in Tucumán covers a wide altitude range, from the lows of San Javier (around 600 to 1200 meters) to the moderate Tafí del Valle (2000m). Furthermore, the Aconquija high summits reach more than 5000 meters. 10. Is The Water In The Streams Safe To Drink In Tucuman? No, the water in the Tucuman streams is not drinkable even with a clear view. Cattle graze in the higher areas and thus make the water unsuitable for drinking. So, you have to use purification tablets or a filter for purified drinking water. 

BY  Sibashree Dec 11, 2024

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.