There’s no better place to experience fall than in the Midwest. We have the benefits of vibrant fall foliage, farms to visit, and apples to pick. Plus, our crisp autumn days are more comfortable than cold. It’s been said that Ohio is a hidden gem – and this time of year offers plenty of opportunities for you and your preschooler to explore what the capital city has to offer.
Columbus Children’s Theatre
On cooler days, come inside for a show at the Columbus Children’s Theatre. Their 2023-2024 season kicks off in late September. Performances are typically one to two hours long and offer a fun, engaging way to introduce children and their families to the theatre.
Columbus Metropolitan Library
Fall is the perfect time to cozy up with a good book. But first, build upon your preschooler’s emerging reading skills at Ready for Kindergarten Family Storytime. Held on Saturday mornings at various locations throughout the Columbus Metropolitan Library System, the entire family is welcome for books and fun activities.
Columbus Zoo
The zoo is always an excellent place for curious preschoolers to have hands-on learning experiences. But, on weekends in October, the Boo at the Zoo transforms it into a “merry-not-scary” Halloween celebration! Children and parents can wear costumes and enjoy hayrides, character meet-and-greets, storytelling, music, and more.
Lehner’s Pumpkin Farm
A family-owned and operated farm, Lehner’s Pumpkin Farm is open for pumpkins and more from mid-September to late October. With more than 30 family-friendly fall activities, children will enjoy taking a barrel train ride, visiting with farm animals, wandering through a corn maze, and taking home the perfect pumpkin.
Lynd Fruit Farm
Located approximately 30 minutes east of Columbus, preschoolers will enjoy picking apples at Lynd Fruit Farm. The farm offers more than a dozen varieties to choose from, including crowd favorites like Honeycrisp. After the apple-picking season, come back to pick your own pumpkins!
The Pumpkin Show
Just 25 miles south of Columbus, the Pumpkin Show is called the “Greatest Free Show on Earth.” Admission is free to Ohio’s oldest festival, which features pageants, Big Wheel races, Midway carnival rides for all ages, arts and crafts, fall-themed food, and so much more. There is even a contest for the largest pumpkin; last year’s winner weighed over 1,800 pounds!
The Scioto Mile
Take a stroll on the Scioto Mile for incredible views of vibrant fall foliage in the heart of downtown Columbus. Families will enjoy leisurely walks exploring this urban parkland, with local wildlife scattered among views of the city. In early fall, it may even be warm enough to splash in the fountains at Bicentennial Park!
Skull Session at Ohio State
Aside from its spooky name, a Skull Session is actually anything but! It’s a game day tradition at the university where fans can gather for a free, high-energy pep rally. Music-loving preschoolers will enjoy the band, while football-fan parents can hear brief speeches from their favorite coaches and players.
It’s never too early to start learning.
The Gardner School offers an engaging curriculum and caring teachers to support preschoolers’ natural curiosity while supporting a strong educational foundation. To learn more about enrolling in one of our Columbus-area preschools in Dublin and Powell this fall, contact us to set up a tour.
