Eat Play CBUS

Inspiring Spots Within Your Reach - A Guide to Columbus Ohio

The Ultimate Guide to Indoor Family-Friendly Activities in Columbus, Ohio

Are you searching for the best indoor family-friendly activities in Columbus, Ohio? Whether it’s a rainy day or chilly weather, we’ve got you covered! From thrilling arcades and trampoline parks to creative art experiences and nature centers, there’s something for everyone. This ultimate guide to indoor fun in Central Ohio features top spots for kids and families to enjoy, with updated 2025 details. Let’s explore all the exciting things to do indoors in Columbus!

Updated January 2025

Just a heads up, the hours for these indoor activities can change depending on the season/day/really anything. To make sure you’re not caught off guard, I definitely recommend checking out the place’s website or social media before you go. It’ll give you the latest updates and any other important info you might need. Also, if I’ve been to a spot before, I’ve linked a blog or social post with a behind-the-scenes look. Be sure to check those out for extra tips

Arcades and Game Spots in Columbus

  • Chuck E Cheese – Columbus: 3631 Soldano Blvd. Columbus, OH 43228
  • Chuck E Cheese – Dublin: 2711 Martin Rd. Dublin, OH 43016
  • Dave & Busters – Polaris: 1554 Polaris Pkwy #206, Columbus, OH 43240
  • Dave & Busters – Hilliard: 3665 Park Mill Run Dr, Hilliard, OH 43026
  • 16-Bit in Dublin {Before 8 and Sundays} – Dublin: 6564 Riverside Drive, Dublin, OH 43017
  • Level One – 130 Hutchinson Ave. Columbus, OH 43235
    • Every Saturday and Sunday persons under the age of 21 are welcome from Noon to 6pm.
    • Website
  • LegoLand
  • Pins
  • Scene 75 {Largest indoor entertainment center in the country at 220,000 square feet}

Family-Friendly Art and Culture Spots

  • Otherworld {Immersive Art Experience} – 5819 Chantry Drive, Columbus, OH 43232
    • 40,000 square feet and 45+ rooms of immersive, psychedelic, and interactive art
    • Website
    • Check out this Instagram Reel from our last visit.
  • PBJ & Jazz – Jazz Arts Group of Columbus
    • PBJ & Jazz concerts are 1-hour long interactive concerts designed to introduce jazz and American music to young children and their families.
    • PBJ & Jazz concerts are presented at the Lincoln Theatre Ballroom (769 E. Long St, Columbus, OH 43203) from November through March, then outdoors at the Topiary Park (480 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215) in June through September. 
    • Cost: $23.81 Ticket + 5% Columbus Arts & Entertainment Fee For a family of 4 to 7 attendees
  • Columbus Museum of Art – 480 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Website
    • Free Admission on Sundays
    • The Wonder Room is GREAT for kids + there are hands-on activities throughout the museum.
  • Columbus Children’s Theatre
  • Wexner Center for the Arts – 1871 N High St, Columbus, OH 43210
    • Website
    • All visitors are admitted to the exhibitions for free on Fridays after 4 PM and every Sunday courtesy of the American Electric Power Foundation
  • Candle Making at Penn & Beech Candle Co. {Multiple Locations}
  • Candle Making at Worthington Candle Works
    • 646 High St., Worthington
    • Website
  • Clay Cafe {Paint-Your-Own Pottery} – 1644 West Fifth Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
    • Website
    • Kids Paint Free Wednesdays are special days when kids get to paint without paying the typical paint fee; they paint for just the cost of the piece(s) they select.
  • Ohio Craft Museum – 1665 W 5th Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
    • 1665 West 5th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43212
    • Columbus, OH 43212
    • Website
  • Billy Ireland Cartoon Museum – 110 Sullivant Hall – 1813 N. High Street Columbus, OH 43210 (Campus)
  • CAPA (Columbus Performing Arts) leads the way in performing arts and family-friendly events. Check out their website for a list of upcoming shows.

Trampoline Parks and Bounce Clubs for Kids

  • Get Air {Hilliard} – 3708 Fishinger Blvd, Hilliard, OH 43026
    • Website
    • They have toddler time Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday
    • Check out this Instagram Reel from our last visit.
  • Buckeye Bounce {Powell} – 3967 Presidential Parkway, Powell, OH 43065
    • Website
    • They have dedicated preschool open jump and toddler time.
  • Rockin’ Jump {Westerville} – 1220 County Line Rd, Westerville, OH 43081 and {Dublin} – 5625 Shier Rings Rd. Dublin, OH 43016
    • Website
    • They have a dedicated time when parents can have fun with their smaller children while socializing with their friends in a comfortable, low-key, air conditioned environment. You can out more about Junior Jumpers here. Ages 5 and under.
  • Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
    • 6314 E Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
    • 7679 Dublin Plain City Rd, Dublin, OH 43016
  • Fun City Adventure Park – 2570 Bethel Rd, Columbus, OH 43220
    • This places is wild! They have over 15+ attractions in one building. It is in the old “Dollar” theater on Bethel.
  • Big Air Trampoline Park – Inside Polaris Fashion Place
    • 1400 Polaris Pkwy, Columbus, OH 43240
    • They have different deals throughout the week. The best is Ten Buck Tuesday – You get one hour for $10. They also offer Toddler Time for $12. Not available when local schools are closed.
    • Website

Indoor Bowling Alleys in Central Ohio

  • Star Lanes Polaris – 8655 Lyra Drive, Columbus 43240
    • Website
    • Kids eat FREE on Wednesday (5P-Close)
    • 1/2 price shoe rental & 1/2 price hourly bowling on Mondays
  • AMF Sawmill Lanes – 4825 Sawmill Road, Columbus 43235
  • Ten Pin Alley –  5499 Ten Pin Alley, Hilliard 43026
  • Rule (3) – 650 Windmiller Dr., Pickerington 43147
  • Columbus Square Bowling Palace – 5707 Forest Hills Blvd., Columbus 43231
  • Gahanna Bowling and Family Fun Center – 215 W. Johnstown, Gahanna 43230

Looking for a fun and affordable summer activity for your kids? Look no further than Kids Bowl Free! Your little ones can enjoy two free games of bowling every day at participating centers nationwide, including five awesome locations in Columbus. Keep your kids entertained all summer long with this awesome program, while staying safe and on budget. Check out our blog post for more information and get ready for a summer of bowling fun!

Fun and Free Church Play Spaces in Columbus

  • Central Park Playland – 471 E College Ave, Westerville, Ohio
    • Tuesday from 9:45 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
    • Website
  • The Naz – 4770 Hoover Road, Grove City, OH, United States
    • Monday-Friday: 10 AM – 2 PM | Wednesday: 10 AM – 2 PM + 5 PM – 6:30 PM | Saturday: 10 AM – 4 PM
    • Website
  • Genoa Church – 7562 Lewis Center Rd, Westerville, OH 43082
    • Monday, Thursday, Friday 8am – 12pm, Tuesday & Wednesday 12pm – 4pm
    • Website
  • New Life Church – 3690 N Stygler Rd, Gahanna, OH 43230
    • Every Wednesday and Friday mornings 10am-12pm.
  • Orange Friends Church – 3467 E Orange Rd Lewis Center, OH 43035
    • Friday from 9:30 to 11:30
    • Kids 5 years old and younger! 
    • Website

Indoor Ice Skating Rinks

  • Chiller Ice Rinks
    • Multiple locations, click here to find then closest to you.
  • The Ohio State University Ice Rink
    • 390 Woody Hayes Dr., Columbus, OH 43210
    • Website

Indoor Putt-Putt

Indoor Swimming

  • Worthington Community Center: 345 E. Wilson Bridge Rd. ​Worthington, OH  43085
  • Dublin Rec Center: 5600 Post Road Dublin, OH 43017
  • Westerville Rec Center: 350 N Cleveland Ave, Westerville, OH 43082

Looking for a staycation hotel with a great pool for kids – check out Holiday Inn Express at Polaris! Here is a video!

Laser Tag

  • Laser Kraze {Gahanna} – 5524 N. Hamilton Rd, Gahanna, OH 43230
  • Coliseum X {North Columbus}– 100 Dillmont Dr, Columbus, OH 43235
  • Skate Zone 71 {Columbus} – 4900 Evanswood Dr, Columbus, 43229
  • Scene 75 – 5033 Tuttle Crossing Blvd, Columbus

Libraries

We absolutely love the libraries in Central Ohio! Columbus is home to an incredible library system with over 20 locations, many of which have been completely renovated or even built from scratch. These modernized spaces are not only beautiful, but they also feature amazing play areas for kids, making them more family-friendly than ever. From simple yellow bus play spaces to interactive zones designed for all ages, there’s something for everyone. We especially adore Westerville’s play area, which includes a fun treehouse and is always a hit with the little ones!

What’s even better? Many of these libraries are constantly adding more impressive play areas and exciting updates to make them even more enjoyable for families. I’ll soon be doing reviews on each of them, so stay tuned to hear about our favorite spots!

We’re incredibly lucky to have so many great library options for kids to explore and enjoy in Central Ohio! Click here for the Columbus Metropolitan locations closest to you or maybe explore a new area you haven’t visited yet! For more details on the Westerville location, click here and Worthington, click here.

Malls in Central Ohio with Play Areas for Kids

  • Mall at Tuttle Crossing – 5043 Tuttle Crossing Blvd, Dublin, OH 43016
    • Keep in mind this is hit or miss. I never know if Tuttle is still open or what is going on there. Last time it was sort of a STEM type play area?
  • Polaris Fashion Place – 1500 Polaris Parkway, Columbus, OH 43240

Movie Theatres in Central Ohio

  • AMC Theatres
    • 275 Easton Town Ctr, Columbus, OH 43219
    • 5275 Westpointe Plaza Drive, Columbus, OH 43228
    • 6700 Village Pkwy, Dublin, OH 43017
    • 4218 Buckeye Parkway, Grove City, OH 43123
  • Marcus Theatres
    • Check out the Kids Dream Series. They do them a couple times a year and they play the biggest hits from the year for $3. More Info Here.
    • 200 Hutchinson Ave, Columbus, OH 43235
    • 1776 Hill Rd N, Pickerington, OH 43147
  • Cinemark Theatres
    • 1071 Gemini Pl, Columbus, OH 43240
    • Stoneridge Plaza Shopping Center, 323 Stoneridge Ln, Gahanna, OH 43230
  • Phoenix Theatres

Museums

  • Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum
    • The Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum houses the world’s largest collection of materials related to cartoons and comics, including original art, books, magazines, journals, comic books, archival materials, and newspaper comic strip pages and clippings.
    • 1813 N High St, Columbus, OH 43210
    • Website
  • COSI – Center of Science and Industry
    • 333 West Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Website
  • Columbus Museum of Art
    • 480 E Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
    • Website
    • Free on Sundays
  • Central Ohio Fire Museum & Learning Center
    • 260 N. Fourth Street, Columbus, OH
    • Check out our last visit here. Keep in mind its from 2016!
  • Franklin Park Conservatory
    • 1777 E Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203
    • Website
    • They put on a lot of great indoor events. Learn more here.
  • Jack Nicklaus Museum
    • 2355 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH 43210
    • Website
    • 12,000 square-foot educational and historical facility with over 2,000 pieces on display
  • Kelton House Museum and Garden
    • 586 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Website
    • They offer tours which highlight the restored Museum and tell you about life in early Columbus through the eyes of the Kelton family. 
  • National Veterans Memorial and Museum
    • 300 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Website
  • Ohio Craft Museum
    • 1665 W. Fifth Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
    • Website
    • Admission to the Ohio Craft Museum is free.
  • Ohio Statehouse
    • 1 Capitol Sq, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Guided tours are available every day, except on state holidays. On weekdays, walk-in tours start from the Map Room on the hour, every hour, starting at 10 a.m. with the last tour starting at 3 p.m. During the weekends, walk-in tours start at noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. 
  • Orton Geological Museum
    • 155 Oval Dr S, Columbus, OH 43210
    • Website
    • Admission the Orton Geological Museum is free.
  • Wexner Center for the Arts
    • 1871 N High St, Columbus, OH 43210
    • Website
    • All visitors are admitted to the exhibitions for free on Fridays after 4 PM and every Sunday courtesy of the American Electric Power Foundation.

Check out this post to see how you can use your library card to get FREE admission to museum all over Columbus. Yes, FREE!!! 

Nature Centers at Metro Parks

Enjoy free admission to the Metro Park Nature Centers, but be sure to check their website and social media before you visit, as hours may vary depending on the season. For more detailed information and pictures of what to expect at each center, check out our blog post . Get ready to explore the wonders of nature!

  • Grange Audubon Center –  505 W. Whittier Street, Columbus OH 43215
    • Forest Playroom
    • Grab a  nature-themed backpacks for you and your family and explore. Families will be able to check out a backpack for an hour and a half at a time.
  • Battelle Darby Creek – 1775 Darby Creek Dr, Galloway, OH 43119
    • A 53-foot living stream flows through the center’s exhibits, stocked with creatures found in Big Darby Creek. Natural and cultural history exhibits, many of them interactive, allow visitors to enjoy learning about the wonders of nature
  • Blendon Woods – 4265 E Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus, OH 43081
    • Discover nature through displays and look through the nature center’s windows to see wildlife at the features and stream.
    • Instagram Reel from our last visit
  • Blacklick Woods – 6975 East Livingston Avenue, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
    • Features exhibits of local and natural history, with observation windows to view wildlife.
  • Highbanks – 9466 Columbus Pike, Lewis Center, OH 43035
    • Discover nature and cultural history at the many displays and see wildlife at the feeders through the nature center’s windows

Make sure you subscribe to the Metro Park emails or check their website for events. They do a great job with their preschool programs.

Scheduled Open Gym

This is updated as of January 25, 2025. I will check back after Winter to update the Spring Hours!

  • Westerville Community Center – Drop in Play
    • Pee Wee Play Gym & Toddler Time
      • Pee Wee Play Gym – Mondays, January 27-March 3, 9:45am-11:45am, 3 and under with an adult.
      • Toddler Time Fridays, January 31-March 7, 9:30-11:30am, Kindergarten age and under with an adult.
    • 350 N. Cleveland Ave., Westerville, OH
    • $3 per participant or frequent visit cards can be purchased at the front desk of the Community Center. Cards are $15 for six visits.
    • Website
  • Hilliard Community Center – Little Tyke Time
    • Tuesdays, January 14 – March 18, 9:00am – 11:00am
    • Registration is required, but the playtime is self-led where parents provide supervision. Equipment includes mats and play equipment such as balls, ride-on-toys, blcoks, colirng, and more.
    • Activity No. 152002201, More Information
    • Cost: R $24, NR $30
  • Gym Skills – Open Gym {Swing on the bars, jump into the foam pit, or walk on the balance beam.}
    • 710 Cross Pointe Rd., Gahanna, OH 43230 
    • Every Friday (Ages 6+): 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Every Saturday (Ages 6+): 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
      • Cost: $18 per child, $15 per sibling
    • They also offer Stay & Play open gym during the week for ages walking and up!
      • Monday, Tuesday & Friday, 9am – Noon
      • Cost: $15 per participant
      • Website – You MUST RSVP. Limited Spots Available.
  • Integrity Gymnastics – 8185 Business Way, Plain City, Ohio 43064
    • This is a walk-in program, registration will take place at the door, for your first vist please arrive 5-10 minutes early to fill our the registration form. Always check this page before attending open gym as there are times when the program is canceled on a specific day.
      • Ages: Walking to 7 years (Non-walking siblings are Free)
      • Tuesdays & Fridays: 9:30am – 10:30am
      • Pricing: $10 for single / $18 for family
      • Website
    • They also offer a ‘Day-Time Open Gym’ for School Age Children! This program is designed for school-aged students and homeschool groups to stay active, socialize, and have fun during the day. It is offered on the 2nd Friday of the Month at 11:00am! Next Dates Include: February 14th • March 14th • April 11th • May 9th

Play Cafes & Indoor Gyms for Kids

  • Fun Town Play and Learn Café 
  • MomiLand Indoor Playground
    • Polaris/Lewis Center – 704 Radio Dr Lewis Center, OH 43035
    • Hilliard – 3681 Park Mill Run Dr Hilliard, OH 43026
    • Gahanna –  310 S Hamilton Rd, Gahanna, OH 43230
  • Little Arrows Play Cafe
  • Bug & Bear Play Cafe
  • Better Together Playnasium {Indoor Playground}
  • Graeter’s Scoops and Shoots Play Area
    • 2136 Bethel Rd, Columbus, OH 43220
  • We Rock the Spectrum {Indoor Playground with Safe Sensory Experiences)
    • Oak Creek Center, 1250 E Powell Rd, Lewis Center, OH 43035
  • Recreations Outlet {Playground Equipment}
    • 484 W Olentangy St, Powell, OH 43065
    • Website
    • Save money & donate to charity during charitable play hours. Tuesday-Thursday from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. for just $4/child.
  • Vertical Adventures {Rock Climbing}
    • 6513 Kingsmill Ct, Columbus, OH 43229
    • Website

Roller Skating Rinks

  • Skate Zone 71 – 4900 Evanswood Dr, Columbus, OH 43229
  • Skate America – 4357 Broadway, Grove City, OH 43123

VR/Gaming Experiences

  • Dreamscape
    • 275 Easton Town Center, Columbus, OH 43219
    • Website
  • Sandbox VR
    • 6737 Longshore St #130, Dublin, OH 43017
    • Website
  • Omni Arena at Star Lanes
    • 8655 Lyra Dr, Columbus, OH 43240
    • Website
  • Activate Columbus
    • Enter the game where you become the player in the world’s first active gaming facility. Jump, climb, problem-solve and laugh, as you and your friends move between challenges. Each dynamic game room has interactive technology that reacts in real time, ensuring an adrenaline-filled adventure.
    • 8735 Lyra Dr, Columbus, OH 43240
    • Website

Columbus Sports: Best Local Teams for Indoor Family Fun

Make sure to check out the Greater Columbus Sports Commission  for all things Sports related including upcoming special events!

Kid Friendly Tours

  • Learn how chocolate is made at Anthony-Thomas Candy Company
  • Learn how whistles are made at the American Whistle Corporation
    • Website
    • 6540 Huntley Rd, .Columbus, OH 43229
  • Learn all about popcorn with a Tours/Tastings at Al’s Delicious Popcorn
    • 1500 Bethel Road Columbus, OH 43220
    • Website

Other Ideas

  • Aquarium Adventure {Fish Store} – 3649 Fishinger Blvd, Hilliard, OH 43026
    • This is one of our most favorite, random adventures! Yes, it is a fish store but they have EVERYTHING! The girls like it more than going to the typical aquarium, plus it doesn’t cost us anything to visit! Last visit they even had a scavenger hunt for the kids.
  • Visit the Ohio State Airport
    • Discover more about Ohio State’s aviation history on our centerpiece timeline wall, take in the buzz of activity from our comfy observation deck, explore unique aviation artwork in our gallery, be inspired by our vintage Piper Cub J-3, snap a photo with Barnstormer Brutus Buckeye and enjoy free popcorn and coffee in their vibrant, new terminal.
    • Website
    • 2160 West Case Road, Columbus, OH 43235
    • Download and print this scavenger hunt before going!

Now that you have the ultimate list of indoor family-friendly activities in Columbus, Ohio, it’s time to plan your next adventure! Don’t forget to check the hours and follow the social media pages of each location to stay up-to-date. Have a favorite spot that’s not listed? Send me a message to get it added!

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