When the weather isn’t playing nice or you just feel like staying indoors, the nature centers in Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks are perfect. They’re free to visit and packed with fun activities and exhibits for nature lovers of all ages. Plus, if you check the Metro Park website before you go, you’ll often find free, family-friendly programs happening.
Here’s a guide to some of the best nature centers in the area.
Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park (Southwest)
- Opening Date: Tuesday, June 8th
- Hours: 9am-8pm
- Address: 1415 Darby Creek Dr, Galloway, OH 43119
- Website
Blacklick Woods (Southeast)
- Hours:
- April-September: 9am-8pm
- October-March: 9am-6pm
- Address: 6975 E Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg, OH
- Website
Blendon Woods (Northeast)
- Hours:
- April to September: 9am to 8pm
- October to March: 9am to 6pm
- Address: 4265 E Dublin Granville Rd, Westerville, OH 43081
- Website
Highbanks Nature Center (Northwest)
- Hours:
- April to September: 9am to 8pm
- October to March: 9am to 6pm
- Address: 9466 Columbus Pike, Lewis Center, OH 43035
- Website
Scioto Audubon – Grange Insurance Audubon Center
๐๐ก๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ฌ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐จ:
Adventure & Discovery Backpacks: Borrow nature-themed backpacks for all ages! Adventure Backpacks for school-aged children, Discovery Backpacks for preschoolers. Visit the front desk to check them out.
Animal Ambassadors: Meet 3 turtles and a hissing cockroach in the animal room.
Binoculars and Activities Check-Out: Explore with binoculars, field guides, nature play blocks, chalk, games, and moreโavailable for checkout at the front desk.
Craft and Coloring Tables: Enjoy monthly crafts and coloring sheets.
Forest Playroom: Indoor fun with a 2-story climbing structure, puppet show/discovery tunnel, toys, and costumes for little nature explorers.
Migration Game: Life-sized board game with 24 stations teaching about bird migration challenges and how to help.
Preschool Story Time: Thursdays at 10:15AM. Nature-themed stories, music, mini bird hikes, crafts, and more! Pre-registration required due to limited space.
- Hours:
- Sunday: 1-6:30 pm
- Monday: CLOSED
- Tuesday: 10am – 5pm
- Wednesday: 10am – 5pm
- Thursday: 10am – 5pm
- Friday: 10am – 5pm
- Saturday: 10am – 5pm
- Address: 505 W Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43215
- Website
Whether it’s a rainy day or you just need a break from the outdoors, the nature centers in Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks are perfect. You’ll find loads of fun and educational activities, from learning about local wildlife to exploring interactive exhibits. The best part? They’re free to visit! It’s a great spot for families, school groups, or even solo explorers looking for a cozy indoor adventure. So next time you’re looking for something to do, check out these awesome nature centers!
