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May
14

This post was updated on April 9, 2019 to include up-to-date information.

When the weather gets warm, Columbus residents know there is no better place to be than outside enjoying the sunshine. While our town is home to a variety of outdoor experiences and patios perfect for soaking up some Vitamin D, we also have a large number of farmers' markets that serve a dual purpose — allowing you to enjoy the day while purchasing locally produced groceries for the week. Sure, supermarkets are fine, but no one can deny that meals just taste better when created with farm-fresh produce and breads you picked out at the market that day. During the summer months, there are a plethora of markets around the city open almost every day of the week (some are even open daily). We've broken them down by day, so pick a time, find the one closest to your neighborhood, and enjoy!  

Pearl Market May 24 through October 11 Tuesdays and Fridays, 10:30 am-1:30 pm The opening of Pearl Market is highly anticipated every year, and every year, it manages to live up to the hype. Here you'll find all kinds of loot, from hand-crafted clothing and woodwork to delicious food. It's a great place to spend the morning, grab lunch, or simply swing through for a mood-booster. The Hilliard Farm Market May 28 through September 10 Tuesdays 4-7 pm At the Hilliard Farm Market (as with most markets in the area), all of the items sold are grown or made by the vendor. This guarantees a freshness and a quality that you just don't find at the supermarket, as well as wonderful conversations throughout your shopping experience.

The Farmers' Market at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens June 5 through September 4 Wednesdays, 3:30-6:30 pm Summer is the best time to be at the Franklin Park Conservatory — not just for the gorgeous blooms, but also for the Wednesday night markets. Don't miss the chance to shop for local produce, baked goods, sauces and flowers (of course) in a beautiful setting. Upper Arlington Farmers' Market June 5 through September 25 Wednesdays, 3-6 pm At the Upper Arlington Farmers' Market, you'll find a variety of delicious produce, perennials, herbs, hanging plants and more, all provided by local vendors. The market is held rain or shine, so don't be discouraged if those clouds start building up! Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market May 1 through October 30 Wednesdays 3-6 pm The Uptown Westerville Farmers' Market has been running for 11 years now, and is a prime destinations during summer afternoons for locals and visitors alike. You'll find fantastic produce, plenty of character, and an open-air atmosphere that will call you back week after week. Go ahead and bring your furry friend along! Dogs are welcome at this market.

Bexley Farmers' Market May 23 through October 24 Thursdays 4-7 pm At the corners of Dawson and Main Street, you'll find a thriving market that is as committed to the community as it is to the producers who sell there. In addition to the traditional goods you find at most farmers' markets, you'll also find food trucks, events for the kids and live music. The New Albany Farmers' Market June 20 through September 12 Thursdays 4-7 pm There's no better place to be on a sunny Thursday afternoon than at the New Albany Farmers' Market. Enjoy seasonal offerings, locally made honey and coffee, freshly baked pastries and more alongside local food trucks. It's a thriving market in the town's center, and is a great place to see familiar faces and stock up on groceries for the week. Pearl Market May 24 through October 11 Tuesdays and Fridays, 10:30 am-1:30 pm The opening of Pearl Market is highly anticipated every year, and every year, it manages to live up to the hype. Here you'll find all kinds of loot, from hand-crafted clothing and woodwork to delicious food. It's a great place to spend the morning, grab lunch, or simply swing through for a mood-booster. The Clintonville Farmers' Market Beginning on April 27 Saturdays 9 am-noon Stop by the Clintonville Farmers' Market on Saturday mornings, and start your weekend off right! 2017 marks the market's 15th season, so the vendors are obviously doing something right. If you choose to ride your bike (or bring a stroller), you can park it at the Baer Wheels Bike Corral! Westgate Farmers' Market June 1 through October 19 First and third Saturdays, 9 am-1 pm The Westgate Farmers' Market was created by a group of like-minded local residents with one goal in mind: to make healthy, locally produced foods more accessible to the community. Since the market opened, it has grown each year, drawing Columbus farmers and artisans to show their stuff and build relationships with Westgate community members. The Canal Winchester Farmers' Market May 25 through September 28 Saturdays, 9 am-12 pm Now in its 19th season, the Canal Winchester Farmers' Market continues to grow every year, offering varying supplies of fresh produce, warm baked breads and pastries, flowers and artistic trinkets to its guests — all while maintaining the atmosphere of a friendly, old-fashioned marketplace. The Worthington Farmers' Market Year-Round May through October | Saturdays, 8 am-noon November through April | Saturdays, 9am-noon The Worthington Farmers' Market is the largest in the area, boasting more than 70 farmers, artisans, bakers and more from Columbus and the surrounding neighborhoods. The market is open year-round, but moves indoors for the colder winter months. Here you'll find everything you need to make a fantastic wholesome meal, from maple syrup and breads to high quality cuts of meat, dairy, and fresh produce.   Grove City Chamber of Commerce Farmers' Market May 18 through September 7 Saturdays 8 am-noon Peach chipotle barbecue sauce, apple jelly, fresh breads, oh my! Find all of this and more at the Grove City Chamber of Commerce Farmers' Market.

North Market Year-Round Sunday-Monday, 10 am-5 pm | Tuesday-Saturday 9 am-7 pm Since 1876, the centrally-located North Market has served Columbus residents — which makes it the most seasoned market in the area. The vendors (be they candy makers, fishermen, bakers or farmers) strive to promote the diversity and vibrancy of our Ohio community, serving only the best in locally produced products. The HTH Farm Market April 2 through December 22 Monday-Friday, 10 am-5 pm | Saturday & Sunday, 9 am-5 pm Visiting this market-meets-Christmas tree lot is an experience in itself. Expect friendly service, plenty of options for fresh produce grown onsite, and a stirring conversation with the owners!

Happy Shopping!

May
4

Columbus is certainly making its mark in the craft beer industry. With 35 breweries (and counting), we have established ourselves as one of the beer hubs of the Midwest, and that's something to celebrate! Residents and visitors alike don't have to look far to find a crisp and refreshing ale, but the challenge is figuring out where to settle down for happy hour or a weekend bevvie with friends — there are just so many choices! In honor of Columbus Beer Week (May 12-20), we've rounded up our favorite breweries in the city, and listed a stellar brew to try at each one. The scene is constantly evolving, and we are always on the lookout for recommendations, so let us know if we missed one of your go-to brews!

Seventh Son Brewing Company

Photo courtesy of Nathan Ward via Seventh Son Brewing Company

Tucked into a charming corner of Columbus's Italian Village lies Seventh Son Brewing Company — a collaboration between childhood friends and a stellar spot to enjoy a beer. Stop in for a unique brew in a range of flavors and varieties, and be sure to accompany your choice with a bite from the food truck of the day. Beer to try: The Humulus Nimbus This strong pale ale toes the line between an IPA and a pale, and includes berry-piney hops and light malts. Mmm mm good! ABV: 6%

Four String Brewing Company

If you haven't visited this Rock 'n' Roll-inspired brewery, the time has come. Founder Dan Cochran is a bass guitar musician with a passion for creating interesting beer you can't find anywhere else — and it rocks. He has been perfecting his recipes since 1994, so stop in for a pint and see what all the buzz is about! Beer to try: The Switchblade IPA Tropical fruits and citrus are the flavor focus in this IPA, but this ain't no tooty fruity bevvie. The savage amounts of hops take this ale to the next level. ABV: 6.5%

Sideswipe Brewing

Photo courtesy of Sideswipe Brewery

This small-operation brewery focuses on quality, not quantity — and that might be why a pint here is so dang delicious. The cozy taproom is located mere steps from downtown Columbus, and offers a no-frills experience with a friendly atmosphere, fun games and great company. Beer to try: The Coop Looter This American-style saison is made with whole white wheat and aromatic Belgian malts, and is packed with effervescent flavors, thanks to the hints of grapefruit and cracked pepper. ABV: 6%

Actual Brewing

Science is the name of the game at Actual Brewing, where the brewers don't hide their process. Rather, they revel in it, brewing each beer with courage, precision and experimentation (of course). Need a bit of a pick-me-up after sampling a few beers? Enjoy a hot cup of coffee made from house-roasted beans. Beer to try: Conductor Imperial Rye IPA This imperial IPA is a favorite for many, offering a flavor that is subtle, striking and complex all at once. Enjoy a stellar malt to hop balance that is worth every penny. ABV: 8.1%

Pigskin Brewing Company

Photo courtesy of Pigskin Brewery

This friendly brewery in Gahanna offers excellent brews created and served with love — and excellent food to boot! Stop in for Won off Wednesdays, during which the company will share a unique weekly small batch brew for one time only. Once it's gone, it's gone for good! Proof that the best things in life are fleeting. Beer to try: Autumn Wind Russian Imperial Stout An intensely roasty, dark brew with complex malts and hops. Look for notes of chocolate and coffee. ABV: 10.5%

Wolf's Ridge Brewing

Photo courtesy of Wolf's Ridge Brewing

Wolf's Ridge Brewing is where elegance meets adventure. Stop in at either the tap room or the more formal dining room to get a taste of incredible beer and delectable bites. In the tap room, you'll find bar snacks, shareables and sandwiches, and in the dining room you'll find more upscale fare. Look out for the Hudson Valley foie gras, the shrimp and grits, the scallops, and the New Zealand lamb rack — and make sure to chase down your choice with a house-made beer. Beer to try: Clear Sky Cream Ale This easy-drinking, crisp ale took home first place in the 2017 Beer Army Beer Wars. Pick up a bottle or a pint on draft, and we're sure you'll taste the winning quality. ABV: 5%

Barley's Brewing Company

Barley's Brewing Company has been on the scene for a while, perfecting its ale recipes since 1992. Over more than 20 years, the taproom on High Street has welcomed visitors and locals alike (even an impressive lineup of celebrities) to try its signature brews and enjoy the friendly atmosphere! Make sure you're one of them this year. Beer to try: Blood Thirst Wheat This refreshing ale is a joy to drink year-round, but especially satisfying in the warm summer months. The beer has an impressive citrus flavor due to the Sicilian blood orange zest added to the brew kettle, and purée added during and after fermentation. ABV: 5%

North High Brewing

Photo courtesy of North High Brewing

North High Brewing, located on (surprise!) North High Street, offers a new kind of experience — one that focuses on the actual brewing of the beer! While you can stop in anytime to enjoy a signature brew on draft (and we highly recommend that you do), you can also "Schedule a Kettle" and brew your own beer with the help of the owners using a North High recipe. Beer to try: The North High Pale Ale The North High Pale Ale is an easy-drinking brew with plenty of hops and caramel malt to balance the flavor. You might feel like a champ for drinking it, as this winning beer has secured a gold medal at Beer Wars, a silver at the 2016 World Beer Cup, and a bronze at the Best of Craft Beer Awards in Bend, Oregon. Look out for notes of tropical fruit, citrus and herbs. ABV: 5.5%

Zauber Brewing Co.

Photo courtesy of Chris Heidel via Zauber

This brewery offers traditional German and Belgian beers served in a quirky, low-key environment that is 100% American. Zauber initially opened as a small alley-side growler fill station in 2012, but is now a lively, full-service bar and taproom nestled on 5th avenue. Stop in on Wednesday for board game night, or on weekend morning to catch the EPL soccer games. Beer to try: Wunderland A Belgian strong dark ale brewed in the traditional way, with only yeast, malt and hops. Still, the flavor is rich, complex and strong. ABV: 8.7%

Land Grant Brewing Company

Photo courtesy of Matthew Carbone via Land Grant Brewing Company

Born from a passion for great beer, intriguing design and midwestern sports, Land Grant Brewing Company has certainly become a Columbus staple since it opened in 2014. The founders all come from different backgrounds, which means each offers an interesting perspective on the style of the taproom and of the beers themselves. Everything about Land Grant is a collision of flavor and culture! Stop in seven days a week to try the beer and sample from an impressive lineup of food trucks. Beer to try: Son of a Mudder A brown ale that is truer than true. Brewed with toasty hops and balanced with seven different malt varieties, you'll find flavors of toffee, caramel and coffee. This beer is sure to warm you to the core! ABV: 6.1%

Zaftig Brewing Co.

If it's a full-bodied ale you're after, look no further than Zaftig Brewing Co. This brewery specializes in hefty Ambers, Stouts and IPAs. In fact, the lightest beer on the menu clocks in at an impressive 7% ABV. Don't make your decision lightly — try a flight to get a little bit of everything. Beer to Try: The Shadowed Mistress American Strong Ale hopped with Citra hops, balanced with roasted malt, and amped with a tropical juice flavor blast. ABV: 9%

Elevator Brewing Company

Elevator Brewing Company was founded in 1999 by a father/son duo that found almost as much joy in making quality beers as they did in drinking them. Their passion shines through in the quality of the beers, which have won a smattering of awards and bring Columbus locals back to the tap room time and time again. Beer to try: Dark Force Lager A year-round staple and a palate-pleaser, this beer earned a bronze medal in the 2007 Great American Beer Festival (out of 2,832 submissions, mind you). The brew is well-balanced, lightly hopped and full of warm flavor. ABV: 5.9%

Lineage Brewing

As the name suggests, Lineage Brewing pays homage to its roots (and the history of its home, Clintonville) while constantly trying to find new ways to evolve and pave a path for the Columbus craft beer scene. The brewery is located in an old car wash, but has been transformed into a well-lit, modern space with a friendly atmosphere. The brewers are constantly on the quest to create the perfect pint, but we're sure when they find it, they won't stop there. Bonus: This brewery is dog friendly, so bring Fido along for the ride! Beer to try: The Oscura Obscura We bet you haven't seen many blonde stouts in your beer tasting ventures. Brewed like a traditional stout, but without the toasted malt, this delightfully confusing beer incorporates cocoa nibs and vanilla beans to create a robust, creamy flavor. ABV: 7.9%

Columbus Brewing Co.

Columbus Brewing Company was originally founded in 1830, but the name was resurrected in 1988 to dub the current operations. We'd certainly hope that a brewery with our city's namesake would produce beers worth bragging about, and we haven't been disappointed! While Columbus brewing's tap room is still under construction, you can find bottles of the tasty brews in liquor stores around town. Do not confuse this spot with CBC Restaurant, which is also quite tasty, but not affiliated with the brewery. Beer to try: Thunderlips Experimental Pale Ale The deep golden color of this pale ale is produced with Simpsons Golden Promise Malt, which is then amped up with plenty of hops in several varieties. The result is striking and thunderous, if you will. ABV: 5.3%

Smokehouse Brewing

Photo courtesy of Cheryl Harrison via Smokehouse Brewing

Smokehouse Brewing is the spot to settle if you're looking for a bit of barbecue with your beer. While the juicy wings, sauerkraut balls and messy ribs are certainly delightful, the refreshing beers are certainly the main event. The tart IPAs and bold stouts pair well with the sauces, and always leave you wanting another. Beer to try: The Woody Haze Barrel Aged Scotch Ale Brewed every Valentine's Day, this dark, amber ale is a celebrated staple of Smokehouse Brewing. The bourbon barrel-aging process gives the brew a rich flavor that pairs well with gamey meats.

Cheers! 

April
20

The weekend has finally arrived, so it's time to plan date night! While there is no shortage of fantastic restaurants in the Columbus area, maybe the time has come to shake up your traditional dinner and a movie routine. Whether you're on a first date or going out on the town with your sweetheart of 20 years, there are plenty of fun activities in our beloved town that are sure to provide a good time and even better memories. We've rounded up some of our best date night ideas, from letting your inner child soar at a bounce park, to romantic sunset picnics. All you have to do is choose what to try first!

Fly High at Sky Zone

Love is in the air (literally) at Sky Zone. While trampoline parks are now common, Sky Zone in Columbus was the first indoor bounce park in the nation, and is filled from wall-to-wall with massive floor trampolines. Flit and fly across the floor, and then flip into a foam pit filled with 10,000 cubes. If you're feeling competitive, position yourself across from your date on the trampoline dodgeball court. It's a workout like you've never experienced, and your inner child will be grateful for the gigglin' good time.

Catch a Concert at EXPRESS LIVE!

Located in the Arena District, EXPRESS LIVE! is Columbus's most desirable venue for nationally renowned acts, offering both indoor and outdoor accommodations as well as state-of-the-art acoustics. There are more than 100 events to choose from every year, so check out the schedule and pick a night to experience the sound with your beloved! There's sure to be an artist you both love on the agenda.

Picnic in Schiller Park

Pack your picnic basket with the essentials (wine and cheese, of course), and head out to Schiller Park to catch sunset. There's nothing quite as romantic as sharing a picnic on a blanket in a beautiful park. Schiller, nestled in the famed German Village, is certainly one of the prettiest around, but also has an interesting history. The 23.5-acre park was established in 1857, originally dubbed Stewart's Grove. In 1891 however, the park was renamed for the famous German poet, Friedrich Von Schiller, who is forever commemorated by his statue in the center of the park. In World War I, when American sentiment was anti-German, the park was named after Washington (along with several nearby streets), but luckily the change didn't last long. Due to the poetic nature of this Columbus gem, it is only fitting it is named after an artist! Enjoy your packed meal here among the trees and beautiful scenery, and hit a nearby pub for cocktails in the German Village afterward.

Cheer on The Columbus Clippers

Photo courtesy of Joe Santry via the Columbus Clippers

When the weather gets warmer, buy yourself some peanuts and cracker jacks and take yourself out to the ballgame! The Columbus Clippers play on summer evenings at Huntington Park, which has been named the best ballpark in the nation. Root, root, root for the home team alongside your sweetheart. This is a great opportunity to see where his or her loyalties truly lie. Go Clippers!

Go Rock Climbing at Vertical Adventures

Photo courtesy of Cooper Fenske Photography via  Vertical Adventures

Rock climbing is a fun and challenging way to work your mind and your body at the same time, and it's even more fun when you take your honey along with you! Whether you're belaying or bouldering (no ropes), you will work together to help each other complete problems and reach the top. And bringing a plus one means you'll always have a partner to hold the ropes. Just don't tick them off while you're on the wall — your life is in their hands. On your first visit to Vertical Adventures, you have the option to start bouldering right away, or take Rope 101: Intro to Climbing. This class is $39 a person, but includes your lesson, equipment, and a two week trial at the gym.

Watch a Blue Jackets Game at Arena District

No list would be complete without Columbus's beloved Blue Jackets, which play during the winter months in the Arena District. Don your red, white and blue apparel, and get ready to hoot and holler along to what is bound to be a thrilling game — the Blue Jackets always put on a show for their fans.

Bowl in Style at Star Lanes Polaris

Photo courtesy of Star Lanes Polaris

We see you rolling your eyes — bowling is nothing new. But when you reserve a lane at Star Lanes Polaris, you can count on a party. It's bowling like you've never seen it before. Grab a bite and cocktails at the Point Bar & Grill before hitting the pins. Far from typical bowling food, the cuisine here is contemporary, made fresh to order, and delicious as heck. Then grab your shoes, pick out a ball, and aim for the pins in a black-lit setting with private suites and quirky decor.

See a Drive-in Movie

Make movie night a bit more interesting by hitting the drive-in theatre. You'll be able to catch the latest hits from the comfort of your own car, enjoying a picnic dinner and your choice of bevvie in the front seats or from a blanket. If you have the time, you can stay and enjoy two movies for just over $9 a person — well worth it for a fun and cozy night out with your plus one.

Go Wine Tasting at Wine on High

Photo courtesy of Wine on High

Ready to wind down with a glass or two of your favorite label? Or looking to try something new? This locally-owned shop is home to more than 300 varieties of wine, all of which are available to enjoy by the glass, in a tasting, or in a bottle that you can take home with you. Kick back with your sweetheart and take in the upscale atmosphere while you sip and savor to your heart's content. We recommend pairing your choice with a charcuterie board, filled with artisan cheeses and meats.

Create a Work of Art at Wine & Canvas

What's better than drinking a glass of wine with your sweetheart? Sipping that wine while creating an awesome work of art to hang in your lovely home! At Wine & Canvas, you'll find all of your supplies waiting for you before you sit down, and learn to paint the featured piece while an instructor patiently guides your strokes. You'll have some liquid courage from the wine, so go ahead — paint the town red!

Catch a Performance at Shadowbox Live

Photo courtesy of Tommy Fiesel Shadowbox Live

The Shadowbox Live troupe produces a wide variety of theatrical shows each year, ranging from rock operas and traditional musicals to contemporary dances and comedy shows. Currently Columbus residents can catch the popular sketch comedy, the Lunchbox on select Fridays, Evolutionaries (the stories of Prince and Bowie) through June 22, and so much more.

Have a Great Date!

April
7

There's no doubt about it — tacos are at the top of everyone's list when it comes to favorite meals. From seafood tacos to veggie alternatives and even flavorful asian fusion, there's something for everyone, and somehow, they never go out of style. We love tacos just as much as the next person, so we've compiled a list of our favorites in Columbus. Next time the lunch spot is up for debate, or next time Tuesday rolls around, check these out. Regardless of your craving, you'll definitely have something to taco 'bout.

Condado Tacos

1227 North High Street

Photo courtesy of 

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March
23

Columbus is bursting with fun things to do. Our innovative food scene, nationally acclaimed museums and unforgettable nightlife makes our town one of the most attractive places to live. Even so, when the wallet is feeling a little light, we might be tempted to stay inside and ignore the incredible lifestyle Columbus has to offer.

Worry not — while there are plenty of opportunities to spend money in Columbus, there are also a number of activities that are just as fun and completely free! So if the budget is looking a little tight this week or you're just looking for a new adventure, check out this list.

Stop and Smell the Columbus Park of Roses

Photo courtesy of George C. Anderson via the Columbus Park of Roses

Ahh, breathe it in. This public garden in the heart of Columbus has grown over the years to include over 12,000 roses or more than 400 varieties. We didn't even know that many rose varieties existed! While late May through mid-June is the best time to visit to find peak bloom, each season offers a unique and beautiful perspective. The park is free year-round and open to visitors dawn to dusk. Also note that a new entrance is in the works and should be open this spring, and if you're looking to be more involved, the park is always looking for volunteers!

Peruse the Worthington Farmers' Market

Established in 1987, the Worthington Farmers' Market is an experience unlike any other. Even if you're not up to purchasing anything, meeting local artisans and farmers and soaking in the culture of our beloved city can be an easy breezy way to spend a Saturday.

Spend a Sunday at the Columbus Museum of Art

The Columbus Museum of Art has something for people of any age. Enjoy art and exhibitions from world-renowned artists and bring your kids to engage in hands-on educational activities. The museum offers free admission every Sunday from 10 am–5 pm, so take advantage!

Take the 52 Hike Challenge of the Columbus Metro Parks

If it's a gorgeous day outside, you might consider visiting one of Columbus's 19 metro parks and hitting the trails. If you're a real go-getter, make it a life goal to hike all of the trails in the area with the 52 hike challenge!

Get Lost in the Book Loft

Nestled in the German Village, one of Columbus's most popular neighborhoods, the Book Loft offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It is one of the nation's largest independent bookstores, and is made up of a grouping of pre-Civil War era buildings that were once general stores, a saloon and a nickelodeon cinema. The 32 rooms of bargain-priced books are bound to make you forget about the outside world for just a bit.

Explore Your Artsy Side at the Short North Gallery Hop

On the first Saturday of each month, galleries, restaurants, boutiques and salons come together to showcase Ohio-based artists while singers, saxophonists, improv dance troupes and other entertainers perform in the streets. The event has been a town favorite for over 30 years, and it's not tough to see why.

Feel the Summer Vibes at Rhythm on the River

Photo courtesy of Columbus Recreation and Parks

Rhythm on the River takes place on select Fridays June through September, and features free performances from local arts organizations and national treasures alike. Bring some snacks and a blanket to enjoy a romantic picnic under the stars during the show.

Explore Hocking Hills

Waterfalls, prehistoric caves and spectacular cliff-top vistas await you at Hocking Hills. Head out for an afternoon or weekend trip to experience one of Ohio's most beautiful nature preserves, and hit some of the nearby art galleries while you're at it.

Attend a Free Summer Film at the Gateway Film Center

Having fun isn't hard when you've got a library card! In this free summer film series, the Gateway Film Center will show movies that have been adapted from books. All you need to do to get free entry is present your library card.

Hit up a Free Festival

Photo courtesy of Columbus Recreation and Parks

We have no shortage of excuses to celebrate in our city, and we make sure to throw festivals throughout the year to prove it. Want even more reason to celebrate? Some of these festivals, including biggies like ComFest, Jazz & Rib Fest, Doo Dah Parade and the Columbus Arts Festival, are completely free.

Go on a Self-Guided Drive of The Covered Bridges of Union County

The historical covered bridges in Union County were designed and built by Reuben L. Partridge in the late 1860s and 1870s. The five still standing are gorgeous, and offer a window into what once was. Spend a day giving yourself a self-guided driving tour of the bridges, reading up on each one as you encounter it.

Check out the Chadwick Arboretum and Learning Gardens

Take a walking tour of the idyllic Chadwick Arboretum using the free walking tour app, and experience more than 60 acres of flora and trees. It's a good way to experience a slice of nature if you're near The Ohio State University's main campus.

Visit the Sculptures at the Topiary Park

Photo courtesy of the Topiary Park 

Inspired by Georges Seurat's famous painting, A Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grande Jatte, this park is truly a local gem. Stroll through the garden and admire the artistry of the sculptures, each of which has a personality of its own.

Volunteer at a Columbus Gives Back Event

Engaging in a volunteer event gives you a chance to experience Columbus in a new way while giving back to the community you love. Columbus Gives Back offers a range of volunteer activities, from cookie baking at the Ronald McDonald House to leading a dance for individuals with disabilities. The events are fun, interesting and completely free to participate in!

Check out an Exhibition at the Riffe Gallery

The Riffe Gallery showcases the work of talented Ohio artists as well as collections from the state's museums and galleries. Admission is free, so stop by at your leisure to see the latest exhibition.

Walk the Scioto Mile

Photo courtesy of Columbus Recreation and Parks

The Scioto Mile, which stretches along the river from the Arena District to the Whittier Peninsula, is a lush, urban oasis home to parks, bikeways and pedestrian paths. Bring your bike, walking shoes, or a picnic and blanket to simply stretch out and enjoy a beautiful day.

Climb the Largest Free Outdoor Climbing Wall in the Country

While you're on the Scioto Mile, stop by the climbing wall. Standing 35 feet tall and covering 6,100 square feet, it's the largest free outdoor climbing wall in the country. Climbers serious about ascending more than a few feet need to bring their own shoes and rope. Not interested in actually climbing? Sitting back and watching the athletes is an activity in itself.

Visit the Thurber House

The Thurber House, once home of humorist, author and New Yorker cartoonist James Thurber, is now a non-profit literary center and museum. Thurber called the Victorian-style building home while attending THE Ohio State University, but the house now welcomes readers, writers and all interested in learning. You can give yourself a tour free of charge.

Have fun exploring!

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