Top 11 Tourist Attractions in Columbus, Ohio

Last Updated on October 21, 2023 by Nikki Jain

The city of Columbus in Ohio is a fascinating place visited by many people from around the world each year. This is the state capital as well as the 15th largest city in the country. The diverse culture and rich history of the area adds to the city’s charm and character, and many people head here to explore its cultural and historical delights. However, this city has plenty more to offer with a wide variety of exciting, fun and enjoyable places to visit during your time here. Ten of the top attractions you can enjoy in Columbus are listed below.

Things To Do in Columbus

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1: Franklin Park Conservatory

Franklin Park Conservatory
Flickr/vasenka

All lovers of natural beauty and horticulture should make sure they pay a visit to this botanical garden attraction, where you will find hundreds of plant species as well as beautiful outdoor areas, one hundred species of butterfly and even a model railroad track. You can also visit the rainforest area and the water garden not to mention the Himalayas replica and the bonsai area. There is plenty to see and enjoy here, making it well worth a visit during your time in the city.

Address: 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203

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2: Columbus Zoo

Columbus Zoo
Flickr/Todd Petrie

If you are visiting Columbus with the family, you should make sure that Columbus Zoo is on your itinerary. This is a place that will provide a day of excitement and adventure for both the children and the adults in the group. You will find all sorts of animals here, from lions and leopards to alligators and elephants. You can also see take in species such as rattlesnakes, marine life, turtles, flamingoes and much more. This is a place that will provide educational fun and thrills for the kids and can also be enjoyed by parents.

Address: 4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065

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3: Center of Science and Industry

Center of Science and Industry
Flickr/tlarrow

Spanning over 300,000 square feet, this fascinating center has plenty to offer when it comes to education, fascination and fun. There are some wonderful exhibits here with displays interactive exhibits that will delight kids and adults alike. You can explore the ocean, archaeology and science through the various exhibitions and hands-on activities that take place here. Also, make sure you visit the onsite theatre for a really unique experience.

Address: 333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215

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4: Columbus Museum of Art

Columbus Museum of Art
Flickr/Larry Wentzel

All art fans and enthusiasts will be delighted when they visit this attraction, where you will find a variety of fabulous artwork from American and European artists. The works of art that can be found here include masterpieces by the likes of Picasso and Renoir amongst others. There are also photography displays and changing exhibitions as well as sculpture displays to enjoy. The demos and shows that take place here mean that it is also a great place to bring the kids to boost their interest in the arts.

Address: 480 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215

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5: The Escape Game

The Escape Game

The Escape Game offers a 60-minute immersive and thrilling experience for adventure seekers of all ages.

With various themes to choose from, groups have to go through different scenarios where they must work as a team to solve puzzles, find clues, and finally escape within a set time frame.

It consists of six unique escape rooms, each designed by skilled experts with detailed props and special effects that make you feel like you've stepped into another world. One of their newest games, The Depths, based on underwater adventure, takes the excitement to new levels.

So what are you waiting for? Gather your friends or family members and prepare yourselves for a heart-pounding journey where quick thinking and teamwork are key!

Address: 3960 Easton Station, Columbus, OH 43219

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6: Kelton House Museum and Garden

Kelton House Museum and Garden

The building in which this museum is housed dates back to the mid-1800s, and the exhibitions themselves provide a fascinating insight into life in Columbus during that century. You can enjoy taking in the Victorian architecture of the building in addition to the exhibits and displays and you should make sure you also have a stroll around the gardens to take in the diverse plant species and beautiful landscaping.

Address: 586 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215

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7: Thurber House

Thurber House

For those looking to delve into some of the area’s history and past talent, Thurber House is an excellent choice. This was once home to James Thurber, the author, who wrote many of his short stories at the house. It is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There are two floors to explore inside the building and you can enjoy a self guided tour as you learn more about Thurber as well as his family life.

Address: 77 Jefferson Ave, Columbus, OH 43215

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8: Ohio Statehouse

Ohio Statehouse
Flickr/tlarrow

This is a must-see for anyone who enjoys elaborate architecture and decor, as it is a stunning building that dates back to the mid-1800s. You will be astounded by the beautiful decor, which includes marble floors and stunning artwork. The building also has a grand staircase and a unique stained glass skylight, which is located in the Atrium.

Address: 1 capitol square, Columbus, OH 43215

9: Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum

Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum

This is a great attraction for fans of autos, as there is a fascinating display of cars on show here. You will not only be able to feast your eyes on some wonderful and unique vehicles but also other auto related memorabilia. You will be able to find out more about the history of the some of the older cars, so you can enjoy expanding your knowledge as well as taking in the exhibition.

Address: 476 E Kossuth St, Columbus, OH 43206

Also Read: Best Car Museums in The US

10: Santa Maria

Santa Maria
Flickr/houseofhall

This is a fascinating place to visit and a great place for kids to enjoy an overnight educational camp too. This is a 77-foot ship that is a replica of the Santa Maria and was moored in 1992 in order to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus and his voyage to the New World. You can take guided tours of this huge vessel and the overnight camps are designed to enable children to learn about everything from working on ship’s maintenance to loading cargo and working together to encourage teamwork.

Address: 25 Marconi Blvd, Columbus, OH 43223

11: Ohio History Center

Ohio History Center
Flickr/aloha75

This is another great attraction for those who want to delve into the area’s history, and is a great place to take the kids for an educational day out. There are some great displays that you will be able to enjoy including the ‘1950s Build the American Dream’. The interactive exhibits and displays help to ensure that the kids will also have a great time when visiting this attraction.

Address: 800 E. 17th Ave, Columbus, OH 43211

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