School is out and summer has finally arrived! Taking a summer vacation is an annual tradition for many families, but the idea of taking mini staycations throughout the summer is also gaining popularity, and for good reason. With a staycation, you get to explore the attractions in your own backyard. See the sights that bring more than 36 million visitors to Columbus every year. Not only do you get to skip packing and sleep in your own bed, you can take several staycations for the same amount you would pay in airfare alone for a summer vacation. There are so many great things to do in Columbus Ohio over the summer and we’ve compiled a list of our favorite must-do activities for the area.
ZipZone Canopy Tours
See the central Ohio landscape from a whole new perspective – the treetops! ZipZone Canopy Tours offers a 2-hour, zip line tour located at Camp Mary Orton with professionally trained guides. See streams and ravines you may not even know existed. Walk across sky bridges and experience some of Ohio’s stunning old growth trees up close. We’re not the only folks who think so, either. Come see for yourself why 97 percent of TripAdvisor reviewers have given ZipZone Canopy Tours Excellent ratings.
Zoombezi Bay
Cool off this summer at Zoombezi Bay, the 22-acre water park located next to Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Offering 17 waterslides, two river rides, a wave pool, and kiddie pool, Zoombezi Bay has something for kids of all ages. As an added bonus, admission to the Zoombezi Bay includes general admission to the attached Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
Ohio State Fair
This annual Ohio event is back for its 162nd year. Live music, entertainment, rides, educational displays, and fair food will be available daily July 29th through August 8th. In addition to livestock and youth organization competitions, this year’s fair will feature a pork rib-off, national kiddie tractor pull, and even a beard competition.
Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks
Metro Parks comprises 17 parks and more than 200 miles of trails for public enjoyment. Hiking, bird watching, fishing, canoeing, and golfing are just the few of the ways you and your family can enjoy the multi-use natural area parks. Metro Parks has free programs and activities year-round like Family Creek Exploration at Clear Creek and Geocaching and S’mores at Glacier Ridge. For a full list of programs and activities, visit Metro Parks online at http://www.metroparks.net/programs-and-activities/programs/.
COSI Science Center for Families
Some days the weather just won’t cooperate for outdoor activities. On days like these, the COSI Science Center is on the very top of our list. This summer, COSI is featuring a special exhibit called, “Top Secret: License to Spy.” In the interactive spy exhibit, visitors can solve a double agent mystery using techniques and tools used by real spies.