Looking for something fun to do this weekend in Columbus? Try out one of these family-friendly Columbus and Ohio–based events and activities!
Please double check the link and/or call to make sure events are still happening! Lots of things are changing during this time and this information may change after it is published!
1. Jurassic Quest Epic Indoor Event! At Ohio Expo Center
This weekend starting on Friday January 28th you can visit the Ohio Expo Center to see the largest and most realistic traveling dinosaur event in North America. Dig up fossils, ride your favorite life sized dinosaur, enjoy dinosaur shows and more! Pricing and tickets are available online.
2. Kids Dream Family Film Series at Marcus Theatres
On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays you can see a family-friendly film at Marcus Theaters at Crossroads or Pickerington. Get a voucher for 2 free tickets courtesy of American Family Insurance (see link). Cost is $3/ticket.
3. Riverside Crossing Park Ice Rink in Dublin
A brand-new, temporary ice rink is open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through mid-March at Riverside Crossing Park in Dublin. Admission is $10 per person and includes skate rental.
4. Make it a Crafternoon and SPREAD THE LOVE to Meals on Wheels Clients with Seeds of Caring
Having a cozied-up-at-home kind of winter weekend? Why not have a crafternoon and help Seeds of Caring spread love to homebound Meals on Wheels clients? We have some adorable Valentine’s crafts that need your artistic touch! This group- and family-friendly project teaches kids about empathy followed by crafting up some sweetness to be included in the meal trays for our friends served by LifeCare Alliance. Sign up today and spread the love through February 20!
5. The Works: Around Town, Marine Biology With Laura Romano
Visit The Works this Friday the 28th and interact with Biologist Laura Romano. Where you will learn about the day in the life of working in Marine Biology. This exhibit at The Works focuses on all of the different things people do all day for jobs and future careers. The event is included with admission and starts at 9:30am. Recommended for ages 2-6 and their favorite grown up!
6. Little Adventurers : Winter At Gallant Woods Park
On Saturday January 29th from 10am-noon, explore nature with your little ones! Bundle up and discover what the winter season offers with different stations along the way featuring hands-on activities and crafts. Please dress for the weather. Recommended for ages 0-5.
Related: 25 Fun Outdoor Activities for Kids in Columbus
7. Columbus Winter Carnival At Franklin County Fairgrounds
On Saturday January 29th from 11am-6pm is the Columbus Winter Carnival at the Franklin County Fairgrounds. There will be prizes, balloon artists, carnival food, games, a bounce park and entertainment for all! Registration and ticket sales are required in advance.
8. Happy Tails-N-Trails At Sharon Woods Metro Park
On Saturday January 29th at 1pm take man’s best friend out to hit the trail! This is a 2-mile hike followed by a doggie treat at the end for your furry friend. Meet at the Apple Ridge Bulletin Board.
9. Worthington Library: Polar Crafts & Games
On Saturday January 29th from 2-3pm visit the Worthington Library for some winter fun! At this event there will be crafts, experiments and play all featuring this snowy time of year! For ages 6-11. This event will be held outdoors! Remember to wear your cold weather clothing. Registration is required! The event will be canceled in the occurrence of inclement weather.
10. Archeologist For A Day: Using Dig Pits At Tremont Library
On Saturday January 29th from 2-3pm at the Tremont Library meet archeologist Jeff White from Archeology, Can You Dig It? At this event you will be able to excavate actual artifacts just like an archaeologist using dig and grid pits. Recommended for children ages 5-12. Registration required, space is limited.
11. Pie Iron Cooking At Scioto Grove Metro Park
On Saturday January 29th from 4-6pm visit Scioto Grove Metro Park and get cooking! We always referred to these as “Campfire Pies” but whatever you call them or if you have never used them you will enjoy being outdoors around the fire making some great recipes. You will also learn some tips and tricks on using the pie iron. Meet at the campfire in Arrowhead picnic area.
12. Harriers & Short- Ears At Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park
On Saturday January 29th at 5pm you will have the chance to visit the wetlands to look for Harries and Short-eared Owls on a short Prairie Hike. Dress for the weather and muddy trail conditions.
13. Family Forts After Hours At Miller Park Library
On Saturday January 29th from 6-7pm visit Miller Park Library to build a fort with your family at the library after closing. Bring your own building materials of sheets, blankets, etc. The library will provide flashlights and books for family fort reading! Registration is required for this event, space is limited.
14. Lantern Hike At Blacklick Woods Metro Park
On Saturday January 29th at 6:30pm visit Blacklick Woods Metro Park for a 2-mile lantern-lit hike around the golf course. There will be some lanterns available for use, feel free to bring your own lantern, flashlight, or headlamp. Meet at the Pro Shop building.
Related: 2 Great Metro Park Nature Centers for Columbus Kids
15. Pleasant Valley Hike At Pleasant Valley Area
On Sunday January 30th at 2pm visit Battelle Darby Creek’s pleasant little valley for a 2-mile hike. Get some fresh air and take in all of the views that this time of year presents. Parking will be at the second lot, unless the bridge is closed due to road conditions.
16. Family Concert Featuring ProMusica Chamber Orchestra At Tremont Library
On Sunday January 30th from 2-3pm visit the Tremont Library in the main Atrium for a special music storytime. Books and songs are enhanced through live music as Tremont’s youth librarian and ProMusica perform. All ages are invited.
17. Art In The Nature Center At Homestead Metro Park
On Sunday January 30th at 3pm meet in the nature center at Homestead Metro Park for a fun nature themed craft. All materials will be provided and masks are required while inside the nature center. This event is recommended for ages 5 and up.
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*Please be aware, information is gathered from multiple community sources. Times, dates and locations are subject to change. There may be a fee to participate in a featured activity. Please call ahead or check links to confirm activities. Inclusion of an event on this list is not considered an endorsement. Please use your best judgement when attending public events and consult your doctor if you have questions regarding the safety level of a public event. Read my disclaimer here. Enjoy what you do today!*