12 Indoor Activities In Columbus, Ohio For Fun And Relaxation

Nestled along the banks of the Scioto River, Columbus, Ohio is a vibrant city that boasts a diverse range of entertainment options - both indoor and outdoor. But when the weather outside is less than inviting, it's time to head indoors and seek out some fun and relaxation. Whether you're a visitor or a long-time resident, we've got you covered with our top 12 indoor activities in Columbus, Ohio. From museum hopping to gaming and everything in between, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, grab your friends or family and prepare for a fun-filled and memorable day in Columbus!

COSI Science Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Center of Science and Industry (COSI)
Type	Science museum in Columbus, Ohio
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 2,037
Address	333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
Phone	(614) 228-2674
Hours	Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM
Profiles

If you're looking for exciting indoor activities to do in Columbus, Ohio, then the COSI Science Center should be at the top of your list! COSI (Center of Science and Industry) has been a popular attraction for science lovers and families for more than 55 years.

Located in downtown Columbus, COSI Science Center features more than 300 interactive exhibits covering a broad range of topics from dinosaurs to life in outer space. This award-winning science center offers a fun and educational experience that will engage visitors of all ages.

One of the highlights of COSI Science Center is the Giant Screen Theater where you can watch large-format films that showcase the latest in science and technology. The screen is 60 feet wide and three stories tall, providing a cinematic experience that is both immersive and awe-inspiring.

In addition to the theater, COSI Science Center offers a variety of fun activities including a planetarium, a science playground, and a hand-on science lab. The planetarium is the perfect place to explore the wonders of the universe and learn more about our solar system. The science playground offers a place for kids to explore and learn about science through play, while the hands-on science lab allows visitors to conduct their own experiments and learn more about science in an interactive setting.

Aside from the exhibits and activities, COSI Science Center offers a variety of dining options where visitors can enjoy a delicious meal or snack and take a break from exploring the exhibits. The Gateway Cafe serves fresh salads, sandwiches, and wraps while the Atomic Cafe offers coffee, tea, and pastries for a quick snack.

With so much to see and do, COSI Science Center is a perfect destination for families, science enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to learn more about science and technology. Plan your visit today and get ready to explore the wonders of science in a fun and engaging environment!

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Characteristic	Description
Name	Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Type	Botanical garden in Columbus, Ohio
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 9,390
Address	1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203
Phone	(614) 715-8000
Hours	Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Monday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM
Profiles

If you're looking for indoor things to do in Columbus, Ohio, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens should definitely be on your list. This 88-acre park is located just east of downtown Columbus and offers a wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities for visitors of all ages.

The Conservatory itself is a stunning glass and steel building that houses a wide variety of exotic plants, flowers and trees from all over the world. Inside, you can explore various biomes such as a rainforest, a desert, and even a Himalayan mountain range! The conservatory also features several seasonal exhibits throughout the year, such as a Butterfly Show in the spring and a holiday display in the winter.

If you're looking to get your hands dirty, you can participate in one of the many workshops or classes offered by the conservatory. These include classes on flower arranging, terrarium building, and even cooking with herbs and spices.

For those with green thumbs, the conservatory also offers a variety of gardening classes and workshops. Learn how to cultivate the perfect garden or how to grow your own food with their expert staff.

Outside, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens features several beautifully landscaped gardens and outdoor spaces. You can take a stroll through the peaceful Community Garden Campus, which showcases sustainable growing practices and edible landscaping. Or, you can explore the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children's Garden, designed specifically for kids to play, learn and explore nature.

Overall, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is an excellent indoor activity option in Columbus, Ohio. With its stunning glass conservatory and beautiful outdoor spaces, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, with all of the classes and workshops offered, you can even learn a new skill or two!

Easton Town Center

Located on the eastern side of Columbus, Ohio, Easton Town Center is an expansive shopping, dining, and entertainment destination that provides visitors with a wide range of indoor activities to enjoy. Whether you're looking to shop at top retailers, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants, or indulge in some fun-filled activities, Easton Town Center has something for everyone.

The shopping experience at Easton Town Center is one of its main draws. The center boasts over 240 stores, ranging from high-end boutiques to popular chain stores. If you're looking for designer fashion, you can't go wrong with Easton's selection, which includes stores like Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Tory Burch. Meanwhile, if you're looking for affordable fashion, stores like H&M and Forever 21 won't disappoint. Whether you're shopping for clothing, accessories or home goods, Easton has it all.

Foodies will also rejoice at Easton Town Center's vast selection of dining options. With over 60 restaurants, cafes, and bakeries, you can choose from international cuisine, fast-casual options, and upscale dining. You can start your day with a hot coffee and fresh breakfast from Northstar Cafe, enjoy a hearty lunch at Rusty Bucket, or indulge in a special dinner at Smith & Wollensky. Whatever your taste, Easton has something to satisfy your cravings.

If you're looking for something different from shopping and dining, Easton Town Center also offers various indoor activities. You can catch a movie at the 30-screen AMC theater, challenge yourself with an escape room at Breakout Games, or test your bowling skills at the Punch Bowl Social. There's also the Legoland Discovery Center, where children can explore and build Lego creations, and the Easton Ice Rink, where you can lace up your skates and show off your moves on the ice.

Overall, Easton Town Center is an excellent destination for those looking for indoor things to do in Columbus, Ohio. With its variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, it offers something for everyone. Whether you're visiting with friends, family, or on your own, Easton Town Center promises to provide a great experience.

Columbus Museum of Art

Columbus, Ohio is a city full of incredible indoor activities to enjoy, even on the most dreary of days. If you're looking for something to do indoors that is both educational and exciting, the Columbus Museum of Art should be at the top of your list.

The Columbus Museum of Art is located in the heart of the city's downtown, making it a convenient stop for anyone in the area. The museum is home to some of the most impressive art collections in the region, featuring works from renowned artists from all over the world. The museum offers a diverse range of exhibitions and showcases cutting-edge contemporary art and classic masterpieces, all within a stunning and well-lit space.

One of the most popular exhibitions in the museum is the "Think Outside the Brick" display, which features intricate LEGO creations of all shapes and sizes. This exhibit is a hit with both adults and children alike, offering an engaging and interactive experience for all visitors. The museum also offers a number of informal and formal guided tours, which provide visitors with a more in-depth look into the museum's collections and the artists behind them.

In addition to the exhibits, the Columbus Museum of Art also offers a number of classes and events throughout the year, including workshops, lectures, and tours by the museum's curators. These events provide a unique opportunity to learn more about art history and the creative process while also engaging with other art lovers in the community.

Overall, for anyone looking for an indoor activity to enjoy in Columbus, Ohio, the Columbus Museum of Art is an incredible option. Whether you are looking to immerse yourself in a world of beautiful art, explore the intricacies of LEGO creations, or learn more about the art world through workshops and events, the Columbus Museum of Art is a must-visit destination.

Escape Rooms

What is an escape room, you might ask? An escape room is a game where players are locked in a themed room and need to escape by examining clues, solving puzzles and find hidden keys or codes before the clock runs out. The rooms are designed to test the participants’ problem-solving skills as well as their ability to work efficiently as a team.

Columbus has a wide range of escape rooms, with various themes to choose from, such as horror, mystery, science fiction or adventure. One example is the "Locked In - A Houdini Experience" located in the Short North Arts District. As the name suggests, the room is an homage to the famous magician Harry Houdini. In this scenario, you are a member of Houdini's team, and you must solve a series of puzzles to escape from the room and avoid being trapped forever.

Another escape room worth mentioning is the "The Grumpy Troll" in Dublin, Ohio. This room has a fantasy theme, where the players assume the role of adventurers who must uncover the mystery of the local troll's disappearance. The players must work together to find clues, solve puzzles and avoid being tricked by the grumpy troll.

For those looking for a challenging and exciting experience, "The Great Escape Room" in Columbus is the one to try. This escape room requires its players to escape from the most iconic escape artist's cell - Harry Houdini. Through interactive puzzles and immersive designs, this experience gives participants a chance to try and escape from a real-life Houdini-style challenge, making it an unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, indoor activities provide an exciting way to spend time together with friends or family. Among the vast selection of options, escape rooms have become incredibly popular in Columbus. They require critical thinking, teamwork and problem-solving skills, making them a great bonding opportunity for groups. With numerous escape rooms available in Columbus, you are sure to find one that suits your and your group's interests. It's time to sharpen those minds and have some fun, Columbus!

Dave & Buster's

When it comes to finding indoor things to do in Columbus, Ohio, Dave & Buster's is definitely one of the top options. This popular entertainment venue has something for everyone, from arcade games to food and drinks. Here's what you can expect when you visit Dave & Buster's Columbus location.

Arcade Games

Perhaps the main attraction at Dave & Buster's is the wide variety of arcade games available. They have everything from classic games like Pac-Man to newer titles like Halo: Fireteam Raven. You'll also find plenty of racing and sports games, shooting games, and skill games. With over 150 different games to choose from, you could easily spend hours playing and still not try them all.

Food and Drink

Private Rooms and Event Spaces

If you're planning a party or event, Dave & Buster's can also provide the perfect space. They have private rooms that can accommodate groups of various sizes, from small birthday parties to large company events. Some rooms even have their own private bars and multiple TVs.

Special Offers and Promotions

Finally, it's worth mentioning that Dave & Buster's often has special offers and promotions. Sign up for their email list to stay up-to-date on the latest deals, which might include discounted game play or free food and drinks. They also have a rewards program called Power-Up Rewards that lets you earn points for every dollar spent, which can be redeemed for prizes.

Overall, Dave & Buster's is a great choice for indoor things to do in Columbus, Ohio. Whether you're with friends or family, you're sure to have a fun and entertaining time here.

Rock Climbing at Vertical Adventures

Characteristic	Description
Name	Vertical Adventures
Type	Rock climbing gym in Columbus, Ohio
Website	Go to website
Address	6513 Kingsmill Ct, Columbus, OH 43229
Phone	(614) 888-8393
Hours	Saturday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 8 PM Sunday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 6 PM Monday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 10 PM Tuesday - opens at 7 AM and closes at 10 PM Wednesday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 10 PM Thursday - opens at 7 AM and closes at 10 PM Friday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 10 PM
Profiles

Are you looking for an exciting indoor activity in Columbus, Ohio? Look no further than Vertical Adventures for a thrilling rock climbing experience.

Vertical Adventures offers a state-of-the-art climbing facility with over 18,000 square feet of climbing terrain, making it Ohio’s largest climbing gym. The facility is also suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced climbers. The gym has a team of professional and certified instructors who are always available to assist you and ensure your safety.

One of the standout features of this climbing gym is its impressive indoor rock walls, which offer a range of challenges to climbers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, Vertical Adventures has a variety of boulder problems, top rope climbs, and lead climbs that will test your skills and challenge your physique.

If you’re new to rock climbing, the gym offers introductory classes that will teach you the fundamentals. These classes cover topics such as climbing terminology, basic moves, and techniques to ensure that you have the skills and knowledge to climb safely and effectively.

In addition to climbing, Vertical Adventures also offers other fun activities for guests, including yoga classes and fitness training. You can also take advantage of the facility’s lounge and snack bar, which serves a variety of drinks and snacks to help you fuel up before or after your climb.

Overall, if you’re looking for an exciting and challenging indoor activity in Columbus, Ohio, then rock climbing at Vertical Adventures is the perfect choice. So gather your friends, put on your climbing shoes, and head down to this fantastic gym for an unforgettable climbing experience.

Bowling at Ten Pin Alley

If you're looking for fun indoor activities in Columbus, Ohio, consider spending an afternoon at Ten Pin Alley for a game of bowling! With 32 lanes, Ten Pin Alley is the perfect place to bring friends and family for a great time.

Located in Hilliard, Ohio, Ten Pin Alley boasts a modern, state-of-the-art facility that provides a fantastic atmosphere for socializing and bowling. Whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner, there's something for everyone. The facility also offers programs and events for kids, adults, and leagues, making it a great choice for all ages and skill levels.

What puts Ten Pin Alley above other bowling alleys is its commitment to creating a fun and unique atmosphere. Each lane is equipped with a live scoring system that displays leaderboards and fun graphics throughout the game. Additionally, Ten Pin Alley has curated an impressive menu of food and drinks that can be enjoyed while playing.

If you're looking for a little more than just bowling, Ten Pin Alley also features several other attractions. You and your friends can team up for an exciting game of laser tag or test your skills in their arcade. There's truly something for everyone at Ten Pin Alley!

The staff is friendly, and the prices are reasonable, making it the perfect place for a quick afternoon of entertainment or a full night out. It's always a popular spot on weekends, so make sure to call ahead and book your lane.

In conclusion, there are plenty of exciting indoor activities available in Columbus, Ohio, and bowling at Ten Pin Alley is undoubtedly one of the best. With excellent amenities, affordable pricing, and a fun, lively atmosphere, it's no wonder why bowling at Ten Pin Alley is one of the most popular entertainment options in the city. Visit Ten Pin Alley today to enjoy a fun-filled bowling experience like no other.

Ice Skating at OhioHealth Chiller Ice Rinks

If you're looking for an exciting activity to do indoors in Columbus, Ohio, consider going ice skating at OhioHealth Chiller Ice Rinks. This popular destination offers a variety of options for both experienced skaters and beginners alike.

Located in four different locations throughout the city, OhioHealth Chiller Ice Rinks provide an opportunity to enjoy ice skating year-round. Whether you're looking for a fun family outing, a romantic date, or a solo activity, you're sure to find something that suits your needs at one of these rinks.

One of the best things about ice skating at OhioHealth Chiller Ice Rinks is that they offer a wide range of skating programs and activities. For instance, the rinks host regular public skating sessions where you can ice skate for a couple of hours without any commitments or pre-registration.

If you're looking to improve your skills, OhioHealth Chiller Ice Rinks also offer skating lessons for both adults and kids. These lessons are taught by experienced instructors who will help you master the basics of skating or teach you advanced techniques to take your skating to the next level.

Finally, if you're looking for some holiday fun, OhioHealth Chiller Ice Rinks offer special events throughout the year. From Halloween-themed skating parties to figure skating exhibitions and ice dancing shows, there's always something going on at these rinks.

All in all, ice skating at OhioHealth Chiller Ice Rinks is an excellent indoor activity to do in Columbus. Whether you're a seasoned skater or a complete beginner, you're sure to have a blast at one of these rinks. So gather your friends or family and hit the ice for a fun-filled day of skating!

Topgolf

Looking for a fun way to spend your time indoors in Columbus, Ohio? Look no further than Topgolf. This premier entertainment venue offers an experience like no other, combining the fun of a driving range with the excitement of a game of bowling.

At Topgolf, guests can enjoy hitting microchipped golf balls to targets that vary in distance and size, earning points based on their accuracy. There are three levels to choose from, making it fun for golfers of all skill levels. And if you're not a golfer? Don't worry! Topgolf is just as much about the entertainment experience as it is about the golfing itself.

One of the best things about Topgolf is that it's fun for everyone. From families looking to spend an afternoon in a unique way to groups of friends celebrating a special occasion, there's something for everyone. The venue also offers a full-service bar and restaurant, meaning you can enjoy drinks and food while you play.

If you're worried about the weather, don't be—Topgolf is indoors, so you can enjoy the entertainment rain or shine. And while it's certainly popular, the venue's spacious layout means that you'll never feel overcrowded.

In addition to golfing, Topgolf also offers a range of other games and activities, making it a great place to spend an entire day. Whether you're looking to up your golf skills or just have some fun with friends, Topgolf is a must-visit.

Overall, if you're looking for an exciting indoor activity in Columbus, Ohio, you can't go wrong with Topgolf. With its unique combination of golfing, entertainment, and delicious food and drinks, it's an experience you won't soon forget.

Painting class at Wine & Canvas

Columbus, Ohio is an excellent destination for those who love indoor activities. One of the best things to do in Columbus, Ohio is to attend a painting class at Wine & Canvas. This art studio offers a unique experience to everyone who wants to get creative, learn something new, and socialize with others at the same time.

Wine & Canvas is a popular art studio located in the heart of Columbus, Ohio. It is a perfect place for beginners and seasoned artists alike who are looking for a new, fun experience. The facility provides all the necessary materials, including paint, canvas, and brushes. The instructors are friendly and knowledgeable, and they will help you create a masterpiece that you'll be proud to take home to display.

The best part about the classes at Wine & Canvas is that you don't need to have any prior painting experience to participate. The instructors guide you through the painting process step-by-step, so you don't have to worry about messing up your artwork. You can bring your favorite bottle of wine or beer to enjoy while you paint, making it a perfect activity for a weekend night out with friends.

What's more, Wine & Canvas offers themed painting classes, allowing you to pick a painting that aligns with your interests or hobbies. They offer a wide range of painting themes, including landscapes, cityscapes, animals, and abstract art, just to name a few. You'll be able to find a painting that suits your style, and you'll have a fun experience exploring your creative side.

Attending a painting class at Wine & Canvas is also an excellent opportunity to meet new people, socialize, and have fun. It is a great venue for birthday parties, bridal showers, and corporate events, as well as a unique first-date idea.

In conclusion, if you're looking for indoor things to do in Columbus, Ohio, attending a painting class at Wine & Canvas is an excellent choice. It is a fun, unique, and engaging experience that provides all the necessary tools to create a beautiful painting in a relaxing environment. Whatever your skill level may be, you're sure to have fun, learn something new, and meet like-minded individuals by attending a class at Wine & Canvas.

Arcade games at Old North Arcade

Characteristic	Description
Name	Old North Arcade
Type	Bar
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 1,649
Address	2591 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202
Hours	Saturday - opens at 12 PM and closes at 2:30 AM Sunday - opens at 12 PM and closes at 1 AM Monday - opens at 4 PM and closes at 1 AM Tuesday - opens at 4 PM and closes at 1 AM Wednesday - opens at 4 PM and closes at 1 AM Thursday - opens at 4 PM and closes at 1 AM Friday - opens at 4 PM and closes at 2:30 AM
Profiles

Columbus, Ohio, is known for its beautiful parks, world-class museums, and delicious food scene. But when the weather is chilly or rainy, you might want to stay indoors while you're out and about. Don't worry- there's plenty to do inside Columbus, too. One of the most fun and unique indoor activities in the city is playing arcade games at Old North Arcade.

Located in the trendy Short North neighborhood, Old North Arcade has quickly become a favorite hangout spot for locals and visitors alike. As soon as you step inside, you'll be transported back to the golden age of arcades, with walls adorned in vintage posters and neon lights. But unlike old school arcades of yore, Old North Arcade offers a creative bar menu with local brews, craft cocktails, and even adult slushies. Order a drink, grab some friends, and prepare to have a blast playing games that range from classic pinball to modern console games.

One of the best things about Old North Arcade is the sheer variety of games they have available. Do you have a soft spot for vintage arcade games? Check out favorites like Pac-Man, Ms. Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and Frogger. Are you more of a pinball wizard? They've got multiple pinball machines to choose from, including Star Wars and Ghostbusters. If you prefer playing games with friends, try out multi-player games like Mario Kart or NBA Jam. And if you're in the mood for something truly unique, Old North Arcade even has rare games like Red Tent Double Dragon and Smash TV.

No matter what games you choose to play, you're sure to have a great time at Old North Arcade. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with a laid-back crowd that's always up for some friendly competition. The sound of flashing pinball machines and video game soundtracks fills the air, creating a playful mood that's contagious. And if you get hungry or thirsty during your gaming session, the staff is always happy to accommodate you with a refill or snack order.

Overall, if you're looking for a fun indoor activity in Columbus, it's hard to beat the retro nostalgia and playful vibe of Old North Arcade. Whether you're a competitor, a gamer, or just looking for a night of fun with friends, this arcade is sure to leave you feeling happy and entertained.

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