Families in Columbus can choose from a wide range of major kid-friendly attractions. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is often at the top of the list, offering animal exhibits, seasonal events, and interactive experiences. COSI (Center of Science and Industry) is another standout, with hands-on science exhibits, live demonstrations, and dedicated areas for younger children. The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is popular for its indoor biomes, outdoor children’s garden, and rotating exhibits. For more active play, many families enjoy the Columbus Metro Parks, which offer playgrounds, nature trails, and educational programs. These core attractions provide a mix of education, entertainment, and outdoor time suitable for various ages and interests.

When planning a full day in Columbus with kids of different ages, aim for a mix of structured activities and open-ended play. Start with a major attraction such as COSI or the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, where older children can explore exhibits independently while younger kids enjoy age-appropriate zones and live shows. Schedule a midday break for lunch at a nearby family-friendly restaurant or food hall to give everyone time to recharge. In the afternoon, choose a more relaxed stop such as a neighborhood playground, a Metro Park, or the Scioto Mile riverfront, where kids can run, play, and unwind. Build in flexible time so you can adjust based on your children’s energy levels, and consider purchasing tickets in advance to reduce waiting time at popular sites.

Columbus offers many budget-friendly and free activities for families with children. The Columbus Metro Parks system provides free access to parks with playgrounds, trails, nature centers, and seasonal programs for kids. The Scioto Mile and surrounding riverfront areas offer open green spaces, fountains in warm months, and walking paths with skyline views. Several neighborhoods, such as German Village and the Short North, are enjoyable to explore on foot, with opportunities for window shopping and occasional public art. Some museums and attractions offer free or discounted admission days, so it is helpful to check their calendars before visiting. Local libraries often host free story times, craft sessions, and family events, making them a valuable resource for low-cost entertainment.

Columbus has a variety of indoor options for days when the weather is not ideal. COSI is a leading choice, with interactive science exhibits, planetarium shows, and creative play spaces that can easily fill several hours. The Columbus Museum of Art often features family-friendly galleries and hands-on activity areas, and many local recreation centers offer indoor pools and gym facilities. Indoor play centers and trampoline parks around the city provide active play opportunities, while bowling alleys, family entertainment centers, and escape rooms with age-appropriate themes offer additional variety for older children. Libraries and community centers also serve as reliable indoor destinations, especially for story times, crafts, and special programs during school breaks and holidays.

To discover seasonal and special events for kids in Columbus, start by checking the event calendars of major attractions such as the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, COSI, and Franklin Park Conservatory, which regularly host holiday celebrations, themed weekends, and family festivals. The City of Columbus and local Metro Parks publish schedules for outdoor movies, nature programs, and community events throughout the year. Many parenting blogs, local tourism websites, and city guides maintain up-to-date listings of family-friendly activities, including fairs, parades, and cultural festivals. Subscribing to email newsletters or following social media pages for local venues, libraries, and parks can also help you stay informed about upcoming programs and limited-time experiences suitable for children.