Columbus is full of energy, incredible food, and a mix of neighborhoods that all have their own personality. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a whole week, these are the five things you absolutely can’t miss if you’re searching for the Top Things to Do in Columbus Ohio and want the full local experience.
If Columbus has a “cool neighborhood,” this is it. The Short North is packed with colorful murals, indie boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants. Spend a few hours just wandering — snap photos of the murals (they’re everywhere), pop into the shops, and stop for coffee or brunch along the way.
Wendy’s Tip: Go in the morning or early afternoon when the light is good for photos and the shops aren’t too crowded.
If you want to plan a full weekend in the city, check out my Romantic Getaway in Columbus – 2-Day Itinerary for more ideas.
North Market is Columbus’s foodie hub — an indoor food hall with dozens of vendors. There’s something for everyone here, from spices and flowers to full meals.
Must-Try Stops:
Jeni’s Ice Cream – Brown Butter Almond Brittle, Goat Cheese with Red Cherries, and Wildberry Lavender are my go-to flavors. Get it in a butterscotch waffle cone for the ultimate experience.
Mo Mo Ghar – Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Order the Johl Mo Mo dumplings or Choila Set for something spicy, flavorful, and totally unique.
Barrel & Boar – Solid BBQ if you want something savory.
Wendy’s Tip: Grab lunch here, then wander through the stalls for souvenirs like spice blends or local honey.
Visiting North Market is easily one of the Top Things to Do in Columbus Ohio, especially if you’re a foodie. To round out your trip, don’t miss my guide on Where to Stay in Columbus, Ohio so you’re close to everything.
Watershed Kitchen & Bar is one of Columbus’s best restaurants — and it just happens to be attached to a working distillery. Book a distillery tour ahead of time to see how their spirits are made, then stay for dinner.
What to Order (My Picks):
Crispy potatoes – 8/10
Caesar salad – 8.5/10
Mushroom pasta with short rib – 9/10
Pork chops – 8/10
Wendy’s Tip: Portions are generous, so split an appetizer, entrée, and dessert if you want to try more than one thing.
Save this for later on Pinterest so you don’t forget it.
German Village is like stepping into another era — red-brick streets, gas lanterns, and 19th-century homes. Stroll through the neighborhood and make time for The Book Loft, a 32-room maze of books that’s one of the largest independent bookstores in the country.
Don’t Miss:
Boutiques and shops along Mohawk Street.
Lindey’s Restaurant for dinner (make reservations two to three weeks in advance).
Private drive near St. Mary’s Church — follow it back to discover hidden courtyards and a little candle shop.
For a full review of this spot, read my blog on Unforgettable Dining at Lindey’s Columbus Ohio.
Columbus has some truly beautiful parks, and sunset is the best time to see them. Here are a few favorites:
Scioto Mile – Best cityscape views along the river.
Scioto Grove Metro Park – Climb the fire tower for panoramic sunset views.
Highbanks Metro Park – Scenic overlooks surrounded by trees.
Antrim Park – A tranquil lake that reflects the evening light.
Wendy’s Tip: Pack a blanket or pick up takeout and make it a picnic night.
Columbus is a city that surprises people—it’s creative, walkable, and full of good food and hidden gems. If you’re looking for the Top Things to Do in Columbus Ohio, these five experiences are the perfect place to start. You’ll leave feeling like you really experienced the city.
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You can also search current hotel prices and availability through Booking.com.
Browse Viator for Columbus tours, food experiences, and other activities you can book ahead of your visit.
I use my Airport Backpack to carry my camera, water bottle, and anything else I need while exploring the city.
Columbus is very walkable, so I also bring my Brita Water Bottle to refill throughout the day instead of buying bottled water.
For a shorter visit, follow The Perfect 24 Hours in Columbus, Ohio.
Plan your meals with The Ultimate Columbus Foodie Guide.
Staying longer or looking for more places to explore? Read The Best Day Trips from Columbus, Ohio.
YES is always the answer... ✈️
I’m Wendy, and yes, I travel for a living (still pinching myself). After 15 years teaching middle school math, I traded the whiteboard for a passport and never looked back. Knoxville is home base, but Arizona sunsets are on another level, and if it’s been sitting on your list, this is your sign to finally say yes and book it. City guides, hotel reviews, and foodie spots are all on the blog. So glad you’re here 🌵☀️
A café, bakery, market, and wine shop all in one Phoenix stop 🍊
At La Grande Orange, order the crepes first, they’re the thing I’d go back for. The chicken salad sandwich is perfect if someone wants lunch while you’re still on breakfast, and the red velvet mini cupcake and a chai latte round it out. The sea salt chocolate chip cookie is heartier than gooey, so it’s best for dunkers. It’s counter service with easy parking, and the market has quirky gifts you won’t find elsewhere. Leave time to browse, because you’ll stay longer than planned.
Save this for your Phoenix trip ☀️
“Outside Terminal 3” is not a pickup location at PHX.
Before your driver pulls in, text them four things: your terminal, north or south side, door number, and inner or outer curb. Grab your bags first, then call them in. Drivers can wait free in the cell phone lot instead of circling. Getting through security is easy; getting picked up is the hard part.
Save this for your Phoenix trip ✈️
Come for the architecture, stay for the view.
The Chapel of the Holy Cross has been built into Sedona’s red rocks since 1956. The outside overlooks get busy, but inside is quiet, with huge windows framing the rocks. It’s free, takes 30-45 minutes, and has a paved, wheelchair-accessible ramp. Make sure to bring water in summer.
Save this for your trip planning!
Order it well done. Trust me.🍑🍕
Peach & Pancetta Pizza at Hideaway House in Sedona: roasted peaches, salty pancetta, ricotta, basil, extra-crispy crust. Split the house salad, grab a prickly pear lemonade, and get a patio table facing the red rocks. Skip the bread if you want room for another slice.
Save this for your Sedona trip✈️
Follow @travelwithwendyplummer for Beautiful Beach Destinations, City Guides, Foodie Spots, and Luxury Hotel Recommendations.
