Columbus, OH is lovingly known as Discovery City for good reason. Ohio\u2019s capital is bursting with rich culture, innovative arts, breathtaking outdoor gems, and many more <\/span>local attractions<\/span><\/a> that put this city on the map. With so many unique things to do in Columbus, we asked local experts for help finding the must-sees you need to seek out when exploring this Midwestern town.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Maybe you\u2019re moving to an <\/span>apartment in Columbus, OH<\/span><\/a>, living in a <\/span>rental house<\/span><\/a> near the city, or exploring some Midwestern cities to <\/span>buy a home<\/span><\/a> in. No matter what brings you to Discovery City, this expert-curated list of unique things to do in Columbus will surely help you make your decision.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Each<\/span> Columbus neighborhood<\/span><\/a> has its own unique character, offering something a little different for everyone.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n First, check out the <\/span>Discovery District<\/span><\/a> in the heart of the city. \u201cColumbus has such a vibrant art and music scene,\u201d shares FanciMandi of <\/span>Pretty in Ink<\/span><\/a>, a neighborhood studio specializing in tiny tattoos, cosmetic tattooing, and more. \u201cIt\u2019s one of the things that inspires me most. From live shows to local galleries, there\u2019s always creative energy in the air, and I love being a part of it.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Then, head just northwest to <\/span>Grandview<\/span><\/a>. \u201cLiving in Columbus means discovering tight-knit neighborhoods like this one,\u201d adds Josif of <\/span>Jimmy V\u2019s<\/span><\/a>, a longtime local bar and grill chain serving American pub grub and drinks in a sports bar setting. \u201cHere, everyone knows your name and newcomers feel right at home. I love how Jimmy V\u2019s has become a local gathering spot. There\u2019s nothing better than seeing familiar faces and feeling like you\u2019re a part of something real.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cI can\u2019t say enough about <\/span>The Book Loft<\/span><\/a>,\u201d shares Jason, creator of the <\/span>Love Letter to Columbus<\/span><\/a> city blog. \u201cFor me, its mazelike 32 rooms are emblematic of the city as a whole: endless volumes of knowledge tucked away in a big, beautiful plot of connected old buildings in the heart of historic <\/span>German Village<\/span><\/a>. Plus, as someone who has published quite a few himself, I can hardly overlook its best feature: the greatest book selection you will find anywhere.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n While going out for a drink with friends might not sound like the most unique thing to do, but\u00a0 in Columbus, it can\u2019t be missed. \u201cColumbus has been named one of the <\/span>best beer cities in the country in 2025<\/span><\/a>, and with over 50 breweries to explore, there\u2019s no shortage of incredible craft beer,\u201d says Greg, manager of <\/span>Edison Brewing Company<\/span><\/a> in <\/span>Gahanna<\/span><\/a>. \u201cWe take pride in our award-winning brews and unbeatable skyline views of downtown Columbus. Whether you\u2019re here for the stunning sunsets or live music on our outdoor stage, you\u2019re in for a great time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Not a beer fan? Joshua, founder of<\/span> WhirlWind Dance<\/span>, confirms you\u2019re still in good hands. <\/span><\/a>\u00a0\u201cWe\u2019re housed at The Well Center for Movement in <\/span>Merion Village<\/span><\/a>,\u201d shares Joshua. \u201cOur company is geared towards elevating Columbus as a city that is doable and navigable for pursuing the life of an artist.\u201d He and a few dancers share their consistent favorites:<\/span><\/p>\n India, owner of <\/span>India Jade Photo,<\/span><\/a> says \u201cAn evening out in the cutest corners of the city is one of my favorite unique things to do in Columbus.\u201d Here\u2019s what she recommends for a good itinerary to help you get to know Columbus<\/a>:<\/p>\n \u201cI recommend swinging by <\/span>Sycamore<\/span><\/a> in German Village for a casual bite before hitting up Antiques on High for one of their famous sour beers. As a local photographer, I especially love walking around the nearby streets for the cozy aesthetics. If you\u2019re looking for something a little more formal, get all dressed up for dinner at <\/span>Lindey\u2019s<\/span><\/a> and request to sit outside. The atmosphere on the patio in the warmer months is perfect \u2013 and their pot stickers are to die for. Afterwards, you can swing by <\/span>Ginger Rabbit<\/span><\/a> for live jazz before capping off your evening with a cocktail, either at <\/span>The Citizens Trust<\/span><\/a> for a unique experience in a converted bank or <\/span>Brass Eye<\/span><\/a> in their scenic rooftop bar.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Whether you\u2019re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or just looking for unique things to do in Columbus that expand your knowledge, there are a number of incredible museums to explore in the Discovery City.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cLocated in the heart of <\/span>downtown Columbus<\/span><\/a> in the Warehouse District, <\/span>The Central Ohio Fire Museum<\/span><\/a> offers both young and old a look into the past,\u201d shares Julie, director of the museum. This neighborhood treasure pays tribute to firefighters past, present, and future through their unique collection. \u201cGrab a delicious breakfast or lunch treat at <\/span>Freedom ala Cart<\/span><\/a> before your visit. For craft beer enthusiasts, <\/span>Wolf\u2019s Ridge Brewing<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>Jackie O\u2019s<\/span><\/a> provide great atmospheres to unwind with a refreshing brew afterwards.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Avery, CEO of both <\/span>Little Italy Ristorante<\/span><\/a>, a family-owned Groveport staple since 1979, and <\/span>Main Ground Coffee<\/span><\/a>, a brand new neighborhood coffee shop focused on quality, connection, and community, recommends <\/span>The Mott\u2019s Military Museum<\/span><\/a>:<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cMott\u2019s Military Museum in <\/span>Groveport<\/span><\/a> is one of the most powerful hidden gems in Central Ohio. Packed with history, personal stories, and rare artifacts that bring our country\u2019s military legacy to life, it\u2019s a must-visit for anyone new to the area. And if you\u2019re lucky, you might meet Warren Motts or his daughter Lori. Both are walking encyclopedias of the museum and the incredible stories behind each piece.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n \u201cAs a local wedding photographer, I can\u2019t help but admire how beautifully the <\/span>Columbus Museum of Art<\/span><\/a> and its surroundings serve as a stunning backdrop,\u201d says Carrie, owner of <\/span>Caroline Rose Photography<\/span><\/a>. \u201cIt\u2019s full of character, and gives a timeless and elegant look to everything from engagement sessions to senior portraits. This wonderful and interactive place makes falling in love with Columbus easy. With thought-provoking exhibits and hands-on experiences, it\u2019s the perfect place for anyone new to the city to explore creativity and culture in the most gorgeous setting.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Among the craft breweries and delicious restaurants scattered throughout the city, there are a number of great spots to grab a treat to fit into any adventure.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cAt <\/span>Winn Winn Cafe<\/span><\/a>, living in Columbus means sharing food made from scratch and inspired by our own family restaurants,\u201d says cafe co-founder Audrey. \u201cWhether it\u2019s a warm muffin speckled with orange zest or our signature Vanilla Bean Latte, every item is crafted with love, care, and the kind of intention that makes the city feel like home.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If you\u2019re itching for something sweet, make sure to stop by <\/span>Mardi Gras Homemade Ice Cream & Cake<\/span><\/a>. This local favorite just north of <\/span>Powell<\/span><\/a> is celebrated for its vibrant mix of Indian-inspired and classic American flavors. There\u2019s a special handcrafted flavor for every taste here. Popular picks include rich Kesar Pista, creamy mango, traditional Malai Kulfi, and indulgent classics like Mud Pie and Oreo Cookies and Cream.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cOne of my favorite unique things to do in Columbus is trying new coffee shops,\u201d shares film and super 8 wedding photographer and videographer Eden of <\/span>Eden Photos & Film<\/span><\/a>. \u201c<\/span>Qahwah House<\/span><\/a> is my most recent cafe find, and I love the atmosphere and unique coffee experience it offers. And when you\u2019ve finished your coffee in the city, I always enjoy walks in <\/span>Inniswood Metro Gardens<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>Highbanks Metro Park<\/span><\/a>. Both offer beautiful nature close by.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Columbus is a treasure trove of parks and natural features, making it the perfect city for explorers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m a photographer in Columbus, and one of my favorite outdoor locations to shoot is the <\/span>Scioto Audubon Metro Park<\/span><\/a>,\u201d adds Emily, owner of <\/span>Emily Babarita<\/span><\/a>. \u201cIt\u2019s located along the Sciotot River and has beautiful trails, wildlife, lakes, and even rock climbing. It also has stunning views of the city skyline which I love capturing at sunset.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cFor me and some of our customer base, I would say we love going for walks at <\/span>Sharon Woods Park<\/span><\/a>,\u201d shares Scott, owner of <\/span>Fitzy\u2019s Old Fashioned Diner<\/span><\/a> in the <\/span>Northgate<\/span><\/a> neighborhood. \u201cThen after our walks, we come back to Fitzy\u2019s to regain those burned off calories.\u201d Enjoy homemade biscuits and gravy or a delicious omelet among other favorites at this local family-owned hidden gem.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cOne of my favorite spots is Inniswood Metro Gardens,\u201d says Kodjo, owner of <\/span>Kodjoarts Videography & Photography<\/span><\/a> specializing in capturing weddings and events throughout Columbus and surrounding areas. \u201cThe park is filled with beautiful botanical gardens, scenic trails, and charming landscapes. It\u2019s perfect for a nice walk or local events, and we love doing photography here.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Local and female owned candle shop, <\/span>Worthington Candle Works<\/span><\/a>, is the perfect place to find <\/span>seasonal scents for your home<\/span><\/a> in Columbus, or even create your own custom scented candle. Owner Tina recommends the following outdoor adventures to explore in the city:\u00a0<\/span> A plethora of annual festivals ensures you have unique things to do in Columbus all year long. What better way to connect to the culture of the city?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.apartmentguide.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Neighborhoods_shutterstock_2156148509.jpg\")
<\/p>\n1. Get to know the neighborhoods<\/span><\/h2>\n
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<\/p>\n2. Dive into the shelves of The Book Loft\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n
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<\/p>\n3. Grab a drink at a local favorite<\/span><\/h2>\n
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<\/p>\n4. Try these ideas for a perfect evening out on the town<\/span><\/h2>\n
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5. Fuel your curiosity and explore unique histories<\/span><\/h2>\n
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6. Don\u2019t forget to treat yourself\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n
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7. Discover Columbus\u2019s wealth of outdoor opportunities\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n
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<\/p>\n8. Embrace local culture with some festivals\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n
The Ohio State Fair\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n