Columbus, Ohio is a vibrant city with a rich history, cultural attractions, and exciting entertainment options. However, there’s more to explore beyond the city limits. The surrounding areas of Columbus offer a diverse range of places to visit, each with its unique charm and attractions. From historic sites to natural wonders, and from outdoor adventures to family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone near Columbus, Ohio.
Why Visit Places Near Columbus, Ohio?
Visiting places near Columbus, Ohio is a great way to experience the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty. The surrounding areas offer a chance to explore new destinations, try new activities, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re a local or just visiting the area, there’s no shortage of exciting places to visit and things to do near Columbus, Ohio.
Places to Visit Near Columbus, Ohio
In this overview, we’ll explore some of the top places to visit near Columbus, Ohio. From the historic town of Newark to the scenic Hocking Hills, and from the amusement park of Cedar Point to the beautiful Lake Erie shoreline, there’s something for everyone in the area.
Top Places to Visit Near Columbus, Ohio
Here are some of the top places to visit near Columbus, Ohio:
- Newark, Ohio: Known for its historic downtown area and the Newark Earthworks, a series of ancient earthworks built by the Hopewell culture.
- Hocking Hills: A scenic region with hiking trails, waterfalls, and caves, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Cedar Point: An amusement park located in Sandusky, Ohio, known for its roller coasters and water rides.
- Lake Erie: A beautiful lake with a shoreline that offers beaches, parks, and scenic views.
- Akron, Ohio: A city with a rich history, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities, including the Akron Zoo and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
These are just a few of the many places to visit near Columbus, Ohio. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or entertainment, there’s something for everyone in the area. So, pack your bags and start exploring the top places to visit near Columbus, Ohio!
Places To Visit Near Columbus Ohio
Columbus, Ohio is a vibrant city with a rich history, cultural attractions, and exciting activities to explore. However, there are many more amazing places to visit near Columbus Ohio that offer a mix of natural beauty, entertainment, and adventure. Here are some of the top places to visit near Columbus Ohio:
Outdoor Adventures
For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of options to explore near Columbus Ohio. Here are some of the top outdoor adventures:
- Hocking Hills State Park: Located about an hour and a half southeast of Columbus, Hocking Hills State Park is a must-visit destination for hiking, camping, and exploring the stunning natural beauty of the area.
- John Bryan State Park: This park is located about an hour and a half southwest of Columbus and offers hiking trails, camping sites, and stunning views of the Little Miami River.
- Clear Creek Metro Park: This park is located just outside of Columbus and offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for kayaking and fishing.
Cultural Attractions
For those interested in history, art, and culture, there are many amazing places to visit near Columbus Ohio. Here are some of the top cultural attractions: (See Also: Best Places To Visit Near Dubrovnik)
- Cincinnati Art Museum: Located about an hour and a half west of Columbus, the Cincinnati Art Museum features a diverse collection of art from around the world, including works by famous artists like Monet and Picasso.
- Ohio History Center: Located in Columbus, the Ohio History Center is a museum that explores the state’s rich history, from prehistoric times to the present day.
- Columbus Museum of Art: This museum is located in downtown Columbus and features a diverse collection of American and European art, as well as rotating exhibits.
Entertainment and Shopping
For those looking for entertainment and shopping options, there are many great places to visit near Columbus Ohio. Here are some of the top entertainment and shopping destinations:
- Kings Island: Located about an hour and a half west of Columbus, Kings Island is a theme park that features roller coasters, water rides, and other attractions.
- Polaris Fashion Place: This outdoor shopping mall is located just north of Columbus and features a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden: Located about an hour and a half west of Columbus, the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is home to more than 500 animal species and features a variety of exhibits and activities.
Food and Drink
For foodies and those looking to try new flavors, there are many amazing places to visit near Columbus Ohio. Here are some of the top food and drink destinations:
- Findlay Market: Located in Cincinnati, Findlay Market is Ohio’s oldest public market and features a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, meats, and other local products.
- Columbus Brewing Company: This brewery is located in downtown Columbus and offers tours, tastings, and a variety of beers.
- North Market: Located in downtown Columbus, North Market is a public market that features a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, meats, and other local products.
Table: Top Places to Visit Near Columbus Ohio
Location | Attraction | Distance from Columbus |
Hocking Hills State Park | Hiking, camping, and exploring | 1 hour 15 minutes |
Cincinnati Art Museum | Art and culture | 1 hour 15 minutes |
Kings Island | Theme park and entertainment | 1 hour 15 minutes |
Findlay Market | Food and drink | 1 hour 15 minutes |
Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, entertainment, shopping, or food and drink, there are many amazing places to visit near Columbus Ohio. From the stunning natural beauty of Hocking Hills State Park to the vibrant culture of Cincinnati, there’s something for everyone in this region. So why not start planning your next trip today?
Columbus, Ohio, is a vibrant city surrounded by a plethora of exciting places to visit. From historic landmarks to outdoor attractions, there’s something for everyone in this Midwestern gem.
In this article, we’ve explored some of the top places to visit near Columbus, Ohio. We started by highlighting the Ohio Statehouse, a stunning example of neoclassical architecture that offers guided tours and a glimpse into the state’s rich history.
We also took a closer look at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city that features over 400 acres of gardens, greenhouses, and art installations. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Empire State Building)
For outdoor enthusiasts, we recommended a visit to Hocking Hills, a breathtaking region just a few hours southeast of Columbus that offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning rock formations.
Finally, we touched on the vibrant arts and culture scene in Columbus, with a visit to the Wexner Center for the Arts, a world-renowned institution that showcases innovative exhibitions and performances.
In conclusion, Columbus, Ohio, is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, art, or culture, there are plenty of exciting places to visit near Columbus that are sure to leave you with lasting memories.
We hope this article has provided you with a useful guide to exploring the best of Columbus and its surroundings. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s no shortage of exciting experiences to be had in this vibrant city.
Here are five FAQs related to “Places To Visit Near Columbus Ohio”:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular amusement parks near Columbus Ohio?
Some popular amusement parks near Columbus Ohio include Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, which is about a 2-hour drive from Columbus, and Kings Island in Mason, Ohio, which is about a 45-minute drive. Both parks offer a variety of roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions.
Are there any museums near Columbus Ohio that are worth visiting?
Yes, there are several museums near Columbus Ohio that are worth visiting. The Columbus Museum of Art is a must-visit for art lovers, and the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) is a great place for families to learn about science and technology. The Ohio History Center is also worth visiting to learn about the state’s rich history. (See Also: Good Places To Visit Near Pune)
What are some outdoor activities to do near Columbus Ohio?
There are many outdoor activities to do near Columbus Ohio, including hiking and biking at Hocking Hills State Park, kayaking or canoeing on the Scioto River, and visiting the Columbus Metro Parks, which offer hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. You can also visit the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens to see a variety of plants and flowers.
Are there any festivals and events near Columbus Ohio that are worth attending?
Yes, there are many festivals and events near Columbus Ohio that are worth attending. The Ohio State Fair is held annually in July and features live music, food vendors, and animal exhibits. The Columbus Festival of the Arts is held in June and features live music, food vendors, and art exhibits. The ComFest music festival is held in July and features live music and food vendors.
What are some nearby cities to visit from Columbus Ohio?
There are several nearby cities to visit from Columbus Ohio, including Cleveland, Ohio, which is about a 2-hour drive and features attractions like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Museum of Art. Cincinnati, Ohio, is about a 45-minute drive and features attractions like the Cincinnati Zoo and the Findlay Market. You can also visit Dayton, Ohio, which is about an hour and a half drive and features attractions like the National Museum of the United States Air Force and the Dayton Art Institute.