10 Must-Know Fun Places for Kids in Columbus

This is one of those posts that I’ve been working on for awhiiile and, this summer, I’ve done some major “research” with my babe to give you a valuable guide on where to take those littles ones around the city. I get a lot of questions about fun places for kids in Columbus. Now that my girl is in full toddler-mode, she has as much fun at these spots as much as I do! I hope you enjoy this list and I also hope you’ll leave a comment if you have some more ideas! I’d love to hear them! I’ve said it once, I’ll say it again: We mamas have to help each other out! The saying, “It takes a village,” is oh-so-true! 🙂

1. COSI

COSI is PERFECT for rainy and/or cold days! Buying an annual membership is the way to go, as we’ve found we go to their little kidspace (first grade and under) all the time! Of course, they have tons of exhibits and fun and educational offerings for the older ones too!

2. Columbus Zoo & Aquarium / Zoombezi Bay

The Columbus Zoo entertains for hours! Our favorite things to do? Watch the cheetah run and feed the giraffes in the Heart of Africa! A membership is totally worth it if you plan to go a few times per year. Also, Zoombezi Bay, Columbus’s largest water park, is just next door and offers water fun for the entire family!

3. Play Cafes

There are a few great play cafes in Columbus that offer hours of fun for a small price! These ones top the list:

– Piccadilly in Bexley: I hear their sensory class is so fun!
– Firefly Play Cafe in Clintonville
– Treehive Play + Cafe in Powell

4. Parks

We’re all about the toddler-friendly parks right now with Schiller Park in German Village topping our list. Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks are also outstanding. Watch the bison at Batelle Darby Creek or explore the natural play area at Blendon Woods. You can find a full listing of the parks HERE.

5. Cub Shrub

Okay, so you may not want to take your kids, but you can definitely shop for them here! Cub Shrub is the sweetest, cutest boutique shop for children that has two locations: Short North and Grandview. Both are equally as darling and I doubt you’ll leave empty-handed! I did an entire post about the new location HERE.

6. Slate Run Historical Farm

Part of the Metro Parks system, this historical farm is absolutely a best-kept secret in Central Ohio! It’s FREE! They have tons of farm animals like horses, cows, and pigs! It’s like walking back in time. Sooo fun! Pack a picnic!

7. Libraries

The Columbus Metropolitan Library system is amaaazing, ladies! I could go on and on! Story times, book clubs, play areas, and more! We love the library! Check out all their locations HERE.

8. Splash Pads

Because you can’t beat water fun in the summer! These parks will guarantee your little ones’ a great nap after your trip:

– Scioto Mile Fountains in Bicentennial Park
– Powell Splash Pad
– Hilliard’s Station Park
– Spray and Play Park at Veteran’s Park in Delaware

9. Farmers Markets

There are markets all days of the week around Central Ohio but these are our go-to spots for farm-to-table fun:

– Worthington Farmers Market: Our absolute favorite on a Saturday morning.
– Clintonville Farmers Market: We love hitting up this one after the Worthington one.
– Granville Farmers Market: This charming town’s market is worth the short drive east on 161.
– North Market: This market is so fun all year-round but during the warmer months, they have even more options outside!

10. U-Pick Farms

Farm fun for both the kids and adults! Our faves include:

– Hann Farms, Doran’s Farm Market, or Circle S for strawberries in May/June
– Columbus Blueberry for blueberries in late June/early July
– Lynd Fruit Farm for apple picking, pumpkins, and fall fun in September & October

I know the title of this post said “10” places, but I have to include these ideas too:

– Taking in a show at the Columbus Children’s Theatre
– See the butterflies at Franklin Park Conservatory – explore their new Children’s Garden!
– Taste test all the ice cream at Jeni’s
– Make art in the Wonder Room at Columbus Museum of Art
– Learn to swim at Goldfish Swim School.