What To Do In Columbus Ohio This Weekend | A Brief Ohio Travel Guide

Dec 11, 2024

Last Updated on: Jul 8, 2025

Travel Guides

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 

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

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 Distillery
Address: 1051 Goodale Blvd ColumbusContact Number: (614) 826-5347
Land Grant Brewing Company
Address: 424 W Town St ColumbusContact Number: (614) 427-3946
Jackie O’s On Fourth
Address: 171 N Fourth St ColumbusContact Number: (614) 929-5265

2. Strolling Through The North Market To Explore The City’s Food Scenario

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 Number
Momo Ghar North Market (Nepalese Cuisine)59 Spruce St, Columbus+1 614-495-6666
Hubert’s Polish Kitchen59 Spruce St, Columbus                                                    +1  614-220-8787
Dos Hermanos Taco Truck59 Spruce St, Columbus  +1 614-670-4239
Preston’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

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

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 Number
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus Restaurant240 E Kossuth St, Columbus, OH 43206, United States+1 614-444-6808

Katzinger’s Delicatessen
475 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215, United States+1 614-228-3354
The Thurman Cafe183 Thurman Ave, Columbus, OH 43206, United States+1 614-443-1570

Stauf’s Coffee Roasters
627 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

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

Share on Social Media

Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE Acropolis of Athens

Acropolis Of Athens Tickets

BY  Arnab May 12, 2023

The Acropolis of Athens is an iconic monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts millions of visitors every year. It is a symbol of ancient Greek civilization and a testament to human achievement in architecture, engineering, and art. What’s even better? You get Acropolis Of Athen Tickets at quite affordable prices! The Acropolis of Athens is located on a rocky hill overlooking the city of Athens. It consists of several ancient buildings, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, as well as the Propylaea. These buildings were constructed in the 5th century BC and are considered some of the most impressive examples of classical Greek architecture. If the Acropolis of Athens is the place that you want to visit, you will need to purchase Acropolis of Athens Tickets. These tickets can be purchased online or even at the entrance of the site. The ticket includes access to the Acropolis as well as several other archaeological sites in Athens, including the Ancient Agora and the Roman Agora. Visitors to the Acropolis of Athens should be prepared for a steep climb to reach the top of the hill. However, the effort is worth it for the stunning views and the opportunity to see one of the most important historical sites in the world. The site is open year-round. But it can get crowded during peak tourist season, so it's best to arrive early in the day to avoid long lines. Site Monuments at the Acropolis of Athens Here are some of the site monuments you cannot miss while you are in Athens: The Parthenon The Parthenon is the most famous of the Acropolis site monuments as well as one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. It originates from the 5th century BC as a temple in dedication to the goddess Athena, the patron goddess of Athens. The temple features a massive colonnade, a pediment with sculptures depicting scenes from Greek mythology, and a frieze that tells the story of a religious procession. The Parthenon remains an outstanding example of classical Greek architecture. Despite earthquakes damaging it and other natural disasters over the centuries, it is a testament to the skills of the ancient builders who created it. The Propylaea The Propylaea is the monumental gateway to the Acropolis and originates from the 5th century BC. It features impressive columns and a grand staircase. Its design is a fitting entrance to the sacred site of the Acropolis. The Propylaea is an excellent example of classical Greek architecture. Its imposing presence still impresses visitors to the site today. The Erechtheion The Erechtheion is a temple in dedication to both Athena and Poseidon and it originates from the 5th century BC. The temple features several distinctive elements, including the famous Caryatids, columns shaped like female figures. The Erechtheion is famous for its intricate design. It includes a variety of different levels and sections, as well as stunning decorative elements such as sculptural friezes and ornate moldings. The Temple of Athena Nike The Temple of Athena Nike stands in honor of the goddess Athena. This was a symbol of victory and reached completion in the fifth century BC. The temple is a small but elegant structure featuring beautiful friezes and commanding views over the city of Athens. Despite its relatively small size, the Temple of Athena Nike is a significant example of classical Greek architecture and an important part of the Acropolis site monuments. The Odeon of Herodes Atticus The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a semi-circular theater that was built in the 2nd century AD. It was constructed in honor of Herodes Atticus. He was a wealthy Roman citizen who sponsored many public works projects in Athens. The Odeon was used for concerts and other performances and is still used for cultural events today. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Acropolis site monuments. The architecture is an important reminder of the cultural significance of the ancient city of Athens. The Theatre of Dionysus The Theatre of Dionysus is an ancient Greek theater originating from the 5th century BC. It was the site of the first performances of many famous Greek plays. It includes the works of Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides. The theater was in dedication to the god Dionysus. He is the patron of theater as well as wine and became the birthplace of theater. The Theatre of Dionysus is an important part of the Acropolis site monuments. It is a must-see destination for anyone who likes the history of theater. The Stoa of Eumenes The Stoa of Eumenes is a long-covered walkway that originates from the 2nd century BC. It held public gatherings and as a marketplace as well as is an excellent example of ancient Greek architecture. The Stoa features a colonnade with beautiful columns. Its location on the Acropolis offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The Temple of Olympian Zeus The Temple of Olympian Zeus is one of the largest temples in Greece. It has been standing tall since the 6th century BC. The temple is in dedication to the god Zeus and features a massive colonnade with 104 columns. Only 15 remain standing today. The Temple of Olympian Zeus is an impressive example of ancient Greek architecture. It is a reminder of the importance of religion in ancient Greek society. The Sanctuary of Asclepius The Sanctuary of Asclepius, a small temple, is a dedication to the god of healing as well as medicine. Its making date is in the 4th century BC. The temple features beautiful columns and a small altar and was a popular destination for pilgrims seeking healing as well as wellness. The Sanctuary of Asclepius is a reminder of the importance of health and wellness in ancient Greek society. It is an interesting addition to the other more well-known site monuments on the Acropolis. Read Also: The Best 5 Places To Visit In Sicily This Year 10 Best Places To Travel In April – Travel Guide 2022 10 Best Places To Travel In November – Travel Guide 2022

READ MORE Deluxe Studio

Differentiating The Grand Floridian Resort Studio Vs Deluxe Studio

BY  Arnab Mar 14, 2023

The Disney Resort and Hotels are famed for their beautifully-crafted rooms and suites. They vary from one location to another as the theme of the rooms greatly reflects that of the overall vibe of the resort or hotel. As this is not just any typical accommodation, you would want to choose wisely and correctly so that everyone in your travel party will have the most comfortable stay. With that being said, the focus of this article will be on the different room types in the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. Continue reading this article to find out the significant key similarities and differences between the Grand Floridian resort studio vs the deluxe studio and how reliable real-estate brokers like DVC Resale Experts can help you secure your preferred accommodation. Grand Floridian Resort Studio Vs Deluxe Studio: Comparison https://www.instagram.com/p/BWbhLAml1RT/ Why do we need to compare the two? All the accommodation that is made available by Disney Resorts is amazing, however, there are several differences which make you understand the significance of the two. Learning about the Grand Floridian resort studio and Disney Deluxe studio helps you identify their relativity along with which one would you need based on the purpose and number of people. You also need to learn about requirements based on shorter stays and travel parties! So, when we highlight Deluxe studios, furniture that you expect there are king-sized beds, a chaise longue or plump armchair and velvet headboards. There is a lot of space to relax in this suite while in the Grand Floridian has several bedroom villas along with accommodation! Similarities Of course, location is the number one similarity between these two different room types. Although located in two different buildings, they are housed within the same complex, which is the Grand Floridian. Another key similarity is that both variations come with world-class service, which is only to be expected from Disney. Both room types also sleep the same number of guests, which is five. It is also important to note that the deluxe studio comes in two variations: the original deluxe studio and the refurbished deluxe studio, which was added in 2022. Both have the same square footage, which comes to a total of approximately 374 square feet. Differences The ambiance is among the top when it comes to the differences between these two room types. The resort studio comes with a crisp, easy-on-the-eyes color palette accentuating the view from outside, while the deluxe studio leans toward a more neutral color. Bed configurations are also different, with the deluxe studio having one queen-size bed, one pull-down queen-size bed, and one single pull-down bed, while the resort studio is fitted with two queen-size beds, which may be because the resort studio is bigger in size with approximately 440 square footage. When it comes to bathrooms, you will have to choose between having two showers and a tub for the deluxe studio or a shared bathroom with the resort studio. The resort studio also offers a view of the theme park, so if this is your preference, then definitely book a resort studio instead of a deluxe studio. I am also considering the way these two resorts have been designed to give you some of the best experiences of your trip! The studio rooms of Grand Floridian are a part of Disney Vacation Club villas. There are several pre-existing deluxe studios in the Grand Floridian Resort!  The Deluxe studios when compared with Grand Floridian resorts! When you are staying in these rooms, you will get to learn about how to choose your accommodation. Elegance and services come together in both these resorts leading to development in using space! Grand Floridian Resort Studio Vs Deluxe Studio: Which Is Better? https://www.instagram.com/p/BWYgcVClA0j/ At the end of the day, the right choice will be the one that can comfortably house everyone traveling with you. It will all boil down to preference, but of course, it would be better to have all the cards laid out on the table so that you can consider all factors and choose the best one for you and your loved ones. Questions like are you traveling with kids? Are you with adults who prefer privacy to shared bathrooms? Do you want to have a theme park view? With the similarities and differences between the deluxe and resort studio all provided to you, it should help you decide on narrowing down the best option. Grand Floridian Resort Studio Vs Deluxe Studio: How To Book? https://www.instagram.com/p/BWzwCFUFjVc/ With how beautiful the rooms are at the Grand Floridian, you can expect them to sell out quite fast. So if you want to make sure that you can book the room of your choice, best to become a DVC member by purchasing a resale contract from real estate brokers like DVC Resale Experts- just make sure that you select a contract with the Grand Floridian as your home resort. You will be given a privilege in the form of a booking window allowing you to book as early as 11 months in advance. Final Thoughts Accommodations are important. Some people tend to forego the importance of this travel variable, but in reality, it is just as important as transportation and activities. Your room or lodging is the place you will come home to after a long and tiring day enjoying all the activities you had planned out, so you might as well make sure that it will be able to accommodate every individual in your travel party comfortably. Read Also: 10 Things To Do In Madeira Beach In 2022- Tour And Travel Guides The Last Ski-Only Resorts In The USA: Why Do They Still Exist? 4 Fun Trip Ideas To Plan For This Year

READ MORE Costa Rica Vacation Rental

How To Choose The Perfect Costa Rica Vacation Rental: A Step-By-Step Guide

BY  Nabamita Nov 9, 2023

Costa Rica, with its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and abundant wildlife, is a dream destination for many travelers. If you're planning a vacation to this beautiful Central American country, one of the most important decisions you'll need to make is where to stay.  While there are plenty of hotels and resorts to choose from, many travelers are now opting for vacation rentals to enjoy a more personalized and immersive experience.  To help you choose the perfect Costa Rica vacation rental, we've put together a step-by-step guide that covers everything from location and budget to amenities and safety. Step 1: Define Your Vacation Goals Before you start browsing through vacation rental listings in Costa Rica, it's essential to determine what you want to achieve from your trip. Are you looking for a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a group gathering? Are you interested in exploring the rainforest, lounging on the beach, or a mix of both? Understanding your vacation goals will guide your decision-making process throughout the rental selection. Step 2: Choose the Right Location Costa Rica offers a diverse range of landscapes, from the tropical rainforests of the Arenal region to the beautiful beaches of the Guanacaste province. The location you choose should align with your vacation goals. If you're seeking a quiet beach retreat, consider areas like Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, or Santa Teresa.  For those interested in nature and adventure, the Arenal and Monteverde regions are great choices. And if you want to immerse yourself in local culture and explore the vibrant capital city, San Jose is the place to be. Step 3: Determine Your Budget Costa Rica vacation rentals come in all price ranges, so it's crucial to set a budget that's comfortable for you. Keep in mind that the cost of living in Costa Rica can vary significantly, and some areas may be more expensive than others.  Decide how much you're willing to spend on accommodation and factor in other costs like food, transportation, and activities to ensure your overall budget is realistic. Step 4: Research the Rental Platforms There are several rental platforms that offer listings for vacation rentals in Costa Rica. Each platform has its own search and filtering options, user reviews, and booking processes. Take some time to familiarize yourself with these platforms and explore the rental listings available. Step 5: Set Your Rental Preferences Once you've chosen a rental platform, you can start refining your search by setting preferences such as the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and any specific amenities you desire. Consider whether you want a private villa, a cozy cabin, or a beachfront condo. These preferences will help narrow down your options. Step 6: Read Reviews and Ratings Reading reviews from previous guests is a crucial step in ensuring a positive rental experience. These reviews often provide insights into the property's condition, the responsiveness of the host, and any issues guests may have encountered. Look for rentals with consistently positive feedback to increase the likelihood of a seamless vacation. Step 7: Contact the Host Don't hesitate to reach out to the property's host with any questions or concerns you may have. This is an opportunity to clarify details such as check-in and check-out procedures, house rules, and any special requests you may have. Good communication with the host can set the tone for a pleasant stay. Step 8: Check for Essential Amenities Make a checklist of essential amenities you need for your vacation. This could include a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, internet access, a swimming pool, or a washer and dryer. Ensure that the rental you're considering meets your basic requirements to avoid any inconveniences during your stay. Step 9: Safety and Security Costa Rica is a relatively safe country for travelers, but it's always wise to prioritize safety and security. Look for rentals in well-established neighborhoods and inquire about security measures at the property, such as locks, alarms, or gated communities. Additionally, consider purchasing travel insurance for added peace of mind. Step 10: Check Cancellation Policies Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes plans change. Before booking a vacation rental, review the property's cancellation policy. Some rentals offer flexible cancellation options, while others may have stricter policies. Knowing the terms and conditions can save you from potential financial losses in case you need to cancel or modify your reservation. Step 11: Plan for Transportation Consider how you'll get to your vacation rental from the airport or your point of entry into Costa Rica. Many rentals offer airport transfer services or can help you arrange transportation. Alternatively, you can rent a car or rely on public transportation, depending on your location and travel plans. Step 12: Explore Nearby Activities While the rental property itself is important, the activities and attractions in the surrounding area can greatly enhance your vacation experience. Research what there is to see and do near your chosen rental, whether it's zip-lining through the rainforest, hiking to waterfalls, or enjoying local cuisine. Ensure that the location aligns with your interests. Step 13: Review the Rental Agreement Before finalizing your booking, carefully review the rental agreement provided by the host or property manager. This document will outline the terms and conditions of your stay, including payment details, check-in and check-out times, house rules, and any additional fees or charges. Make sure you're comfortable with all the terms before confirming your reservation. Related: Is Costa Rica Safe For Visit For Travelling? Step 14: Book Early Costa Rica is a popular tourist destination, and the best vacation rentals tend to get booked well in advance, especially during the high season. To secure the perfect rental for your trip, it's advisable to book as early as possible. This also allows you to take advantage of early bird discounts and availability. Step 15: Prepare for Your Trip With your vacation rental secured, it's time to start preparing for your trip. Make a packing list, arrange your travel documents, and ensure you have any necessary vaccinations or travel insurance. Familiarize yourself with local customs and basic Spanish phrases, and don't forget to inform friends or family of your travel plans and share your itinerary with them. In Conclusion Choosing the perfect vacation rental in Costa Rica requires careful planning and consideration of your specific needs and preferences. By following this step-by-step guide, you can make an informed decision that ensures a memorable and enjoyable stay in this beautiful country.  Whether you're looking for relaxation on a tranquil beach or adventure in the heart of the rainforest, Costa Rica offers an abundance of options for every type of traveler. With the right vacation rental, you'll have the ideal base to explore and experience all that this stunning destination has to offer. Read Also: Paradise Found: Exploring Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica’s Tropical Gem! How Safe Is Morocco For Travel In 2021? Is japan Really A Expensive place? Have A look