Best things to do in Columbus

Designed to resemble an Early American town, Easton Town Center houses dozens of shops, such as Claire's, Coach, The Walking Store, and Zumiez, and restaurants offering everything from pretzels and coffee to fine dining and ethnic foods. Services aplenty range from an Apple Store and Art of Shaving barber spa to opticians, florists, and Trader Joe's. The enormous variety of tenants here is one of its biggest draws. Consider a visit to the movie complex, or enjoy ice cream from one of the courtyard kiosks next to the fountain.

Home to more than 360 aircraft and missiles, National Museum of the US Air Force is the world's largest and oldest military aviation museum. Located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, the museum houses a long list of aircraft and artifacts of historical and technological significance. See missiles, fighters, one-of-a-kind test planes, and bombers, including the plane that dropped the Fat Man atomic bomb on Nagasaki, Japan. Don't miss the museum's collection of presidential planes, including those used by Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry Truman, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, and Richard Nixon. Wear comfortable walking as 92,900 sq m (1 million sq ft) of exhibits span three hangars. Some exhibits are outside, so dress appropriately for the season.

The Pedal Wagon is a multi-person, pedal-powered, rolling party. Operating 7 days a week, you can reserve the entire Pedal Wagon or just part of it.

Choose from a variety of cruises, on which you will share a memorable experience with friends, co-workers, or complete strangers while enjoying Columbus’ great restaurants, bars, and “best-kept secret” local establishments.

Perfect for bachelorette/bachelor parties, corporate outings, birthdays, progressive dinners or just because!

Built in 1895, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens features exotic plants, exhibitions, and work by renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. The conservatory houses more than 400 species of plants grouped by biome, such as Himalayan Mountains, Tropical Rainforest, Desert, Succulent Patio, and Bonsai Courtyard. The Palm House features 43 species of palm trees from around the world, many of which are either endangered or threatened. One of the original trees in the Palm House, the Ficus lyrata, or Fiddle-leaf Fig, is a highlight. The conservatory and gardens were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

Home of the oldest zoo building in the United States, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is known for its extensive breeding and conservation program. In 1987, the oldest portions of the park were designated as National Historic Landmarks: the "Elephant House," the "Reptile House," and the "Passenger Pigeon Memorial." The reptile house claims the title of the oldest--it was built in 1875.

Columbus SCUBA, Inc. (CSI) offers SCUBA diving courses and certifications in the Central Ohio Area. Columbus SCUBA, Inc is Ohio's leader, offering the highest level of diving education, training, and certification in the Midwest.

Kings Island plays home to more than 80 rides, including many world-class roller coasters. The 147 hectare (364 acre) park receives much fame for its position at the center of the roller coaster industry's revival in the 1970s. Its famous wooden coasters The Beast and The Racer are some of the most popular. You can explore the park's themed sections, including International Street, Oktoberfest, and Action Zone, as well as its very own waterpark, Soak City. The kids' area has a top-notch reputation. Check the park's online schedule for special offers, activities, and live entertainment.

Popularly referred to as Columbus' "art and soul," the vibrant Short North Arts District is home to an array of stores, bars, and restaurants. It boasts a long-standing history of creativity and a bohemian atmosphere, but it once was a run-down part of town. In recent decades, the district has been rejuvenated--but it retains a proud, artsy edge. Its early 20th-century buildings, many of which display brightly colored murals, now host some of the city's most desirable places to see and be seen. Browse the galleries and boutiques, stop for a cocktail in a hip bar, and order some international cuisine at its restaurants.

Walk through a preserved village established in the 1800s by German settlers at German Village. Stroll down the cobbled streets and take in the gardens, parks, and restored or preserved homes and buildings. Stop in at one of the many restaurants, such as the Sausage House, to appreciate authentic German cuisine. Look through the interesting shops, such as a pre-Civil War-style book shop, wine and gift shops. You can peruse the collections in the art galleries, too. You can explore myriad landmarks and bars. Keep an eye out, too, for events to enjoy in the street.