There is a lot to take into consideration when planning an outing with young children. The ideal family adventure is close to home, entertaining for multiple ages, flexible around nap times, accommodating to wiggles and bursts of energy, and perhaps most importantly, has easy access to snacks.
Fortunately, Columbus offers many options for young families looking for hands-on outings. So, get the car packed with all the essentials—we know there are many when you have small children—and hit the town to create an adventure in Columbus, Ohio! The best part? There’s something educational to experience every step of the way!
Morning (9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.)
Morning is usually the best time for activities that require more calm and focused behavior. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the Olentangy Indian Caverns, and the Columbus Metropolitan Library are great for experiential learning combined with movement and creative thinking. Plus, with all attractions opening between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m., you may be able to squeeze in another activity before that afternoon nap!
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
No matter how often your family goes to the zoo, there is always something new to explore. Maybe it’s an animal or activity you haven’t seen before. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has over 10,000 animals, from African lions to zebra sharks. With one for nearly every letter of the alphabet, it’s a great way to practice letters and sounds. “I spy an animal that starts with the letter A…” - Olentangy Indian Caverns
Of course, Olentangy Caverns offers incredible, child-friendly cavern tours. Your children might jump at the chance to pan for gold and mine for gems. While they may not see the real thing, there is always some fool’s gold to find and keep. Plus, the petting zoo, a walking trail, and a fire truck—a real one they can climb and play on—were just as fascinating as the stalagmite and stalactite formations. - Columbus Metropolitan Library
Settle in for family story time at one of the Columbus Metropolitan Library’s nearly two dozen locations. Your preschooler will work to develop reading skills through books, music, and fun activities. With different branches offering different dates and times, you can find one that works for your family. Search “storytime” on the library’s events page for details.
Lunch and Snack Time (11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.)
For most families, snacks are a necessity for a successful day out! Thankfully, everyone in the house can usually agree that popcorn is one of the best snack options. Stopping at the famous Al’s Delicious Popcorn Factory can give you a chance to have a little fun while you refuel.
- Al’s Delicious Popcorn Factory
A trip to Al’s Delicious Popcorn is a special treat: the smell of freshly popped kernels, the array of colors and flavors, and the crunch of salty (or sweet!) popcorn. If your schedule permits, book a popcorn tour to learn how the popcorn is made and taste the finished product. Tours are free and last just half an hour. - Lunch
If you’re in search of more than just a snack to refuel after an adventurous morning or looking for a meal option to kick off your afternoon, check out our recommended child-friendly restaurants in Dublin, OH!
Afternoon (1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.)
An afternoon energy surge always comes on for children, especially after a day of exploring and car riding. We Rock the Spectrum is one of our favorite indoor places to get our wiggles out and regroup. When the weather is nice, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens provide excellent opportunities for fresh air and open green space, and the little kidspace at COSI is a perfect indoor play space for curious minds.
- We Rock the Spectrum
A favorite, inclusive space for all children, We Rock the Spectrum offers sensory-friendly play in a nurturing environment. Every child that visits will love climbing, running, and jumping on several different play structures! The gym is designed with equipment that encourages free play while building balance, fine motor skills, strength, hand-eye coordination, and so much more.
- little kidspace at COSI
Imaginations can run wild at the little kidspace at COSI. According to the Center of Science and Industry, “young children need opportunities to explore without the fear of competition from older, stronger children.” At little kidspace, children can explore a farm, play in a tree, drive an ambulance, and experiment with the properties of water. Plus, if you have older siblings in grades 2-5, they can explore the nearby Big KidLab.
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Get outside for some fresh air at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Included in the cost of admission is The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden. The garden, designed to connect children to nature and with parents and caregivers, features new, hands-on, themed learning opportunities each month. Of course, free play is always welcome, too!
Keep the Adventure Going at The Gardner School
The Gardner School encourages hands-on, experiential learning for all ages, from infants to preschool. Our program nurtures each student’s emerging sense of self through a balanced curriculum, qualified and caring teachers, creative play with friends, and a supportive environment designed for exploration. Contact us today to learn more!