1. Millstone Creek Park
Millstone Park in Westerville is by far one of our favorite parks. This sprawling park has everything you’d ever want for all ages. Endless slides, a futuristic NEOS game, soft rubber ground, lots of things to climb, swings, climbing walls, instruments and great little spots for young walkers that’s just their size. It’s a central location and easy parking, and it’s so big that no matter how many people are there it never feels crowded. There is also a serene wetlands play area with a walking path for kids to explore.
2. COSI
My older son is really into space and astronauts and has been for a long time, so once we got our membership we’ve been coming almost on a weekly basis. Sometimes we just pop in to say hi to our “astronaut friend,” (lifesize astronaut in a real costume on display) and play in the little kidspace, which could be a museum all on its own. There are lots of little details I love about this space – like how easy it is for young kids who are potty-training to use the kids’ bathrooms, or the nursing area and the giant foam blocks that are great for some gross motor building. They have lots of creative activities throughout the year for kids and families, and now that the weather is warm again, we can’t wait to play out in the outdoor play space again! Also be sure to check out the Ocean exhibit, which we missed the first few times we went there. This water playspace is breathtakingly beautiful and fun for all ages.
3. Peapod Play Café
There are lots of great play cafes in Columbus, but this one is my favorite lately because it’s ideal for crawlers and let’s be honest, it’s close by. Sometimes you just need to get out that energy, and Peapod does it. There’s a wide array of toys that foster creativity and imagination and it never feels cluttered. I love the bright décor, especially on a rainy day. And don’t miss the Magna Tiles or art/craft options in the front area if kids want a little more of a relaxed activity.
Photo by Aaron Taylor Photography
As a mom of two boys, Shepard, 3, and Beau, 1, Julie is constantly on the go and looking for energy-burning activities for her boys. She and her husband Clint moved to Columbus in September of 2016 from Tampa, FL, and since then, she’s been blogging about their adventures together in a new city and how to find balance and joy in the parenting trenches at Borm & Co. blog. She is a part-time communications consultant and enjoys being outdoors with her family, dark coffee and home decorating.