Hi! You probably got here by googling “fun things to do in Columbus with kids.” Well, anyone who has lived around Columbus for any amount of time can answer that. We all know the biggies like COSI, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and Legoland Discovery Center. And honestly, those probably came up when you searched. But, you are looking for MORE, right?
Here are 5 unique things to do in Columbus with kids, that you may not have considered.
1 Big Air Trampoline Park
My boys had their birthday party here last year when it was still Airhouse Adventure Park. We were most impressed by the variety of activities. It’s not just a trampoline park. There is also an arcade, climbing walls, and obstacle courses. The kids had a blast! This fun center is under new ownership, but it still looks great! And it’s conveniently located within the Polaris Mall. So you can make a really fun day of it in Columbus – grab a bite to eat, do some shopping, and burn off some energy!
https://www.bigairusa.com/columbus/
2 Tour the Whistle Factory
I had no idea that The American Whistle Corporation is the ONLY manufacturer of metal whistles in the United States! Furthermore, I had no idea that factory was right here in Columbus. What a cool business for kids to see! Your family can take a 45 minute tour of the thriving manufacturing plant. Not only do you get to learn some interesting information about whistles, but can also see the fascinating machinery. This company has been around since 1956. All ages are welcome, from preschoolers to senior citizens. Tours are tailored to suit all age groups. You must scheduled in advance, which can be done on their website: https://www.americanwhistle.com/tours
3 Visit the Olentangy Caverns – something to do on the north side of Columbus
My boys loved visiting the caverns! First, they thought going underground was really cool. Then, they discovered the loved the petting zoo and loved that just as much! It was fun for all of us! There is a lot to do. While there, you can take a cavern tour and visit the petting zoo. But, they also have a gift shop, miniature golf, a walking trail, and gem mining. The Olentangy Caverns are open daily 9:30-5:00. They are closed during the winter months. Be sure to check the website for their operating season each year (usually March-October).
4 Tour a Chocolate Factory – something to do with kids on the west side of Columbus
It all started back in 1916, when Anthony Zanetos opened a co-op dairy. That business stayed in the family and is now what we know so well as Anthony Thomas Chocolates. The company employs over 200 people and produces 50,000 pounds of chocolates daily! During your one hour tour you can experience the making of candy from start to finish. Tours are available every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday and must be booked online.
https://www.anthony-thomas.com/
5 Visit Slate Run Historical Farm – fun on the outskirts of Columbus
Last on the list of unique things to do in Columbus with kids is a farm house from the 1880’s. Experience first-hand what life was like on an Ohio. During your visit you will see the farm’s costumed staff and volunteers going about their daily chores. You can also see some pigs, geese, turkeys, horses, and other heirloom animals. The 1856 farmhouse was restored by Metro Parks for authenticity. Guests can tour the living room, parlor, and kitchen. Admission is FREE!
https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/slate-run-historical-farm/
I really hope this give you some new ideas for things to do in Columbus with your kids!
Need some nostalgia in your life? Do you want to introduce your kids to some blast from the past? Then you should visit a vintage toy store! Here’s my top list!
