Columbus Museum of Art, United States of America - Things to Do in Columbus Museum of Art

Things to Do in Columbus Museum of Art

Columbus Museum of Art, United States of America - Complete Travel Guide

Columbus, Ohio's vibrant capital city, offers an impressive blend of arts, culture, and innovation that surprises many first-time visitors. Home to The Ohio State University, the city pulses with youthful energy while maintaining a sophisticated cultural scene anchored by world-class institutions like the Columbus Museum of Art, which houses an exceptional collection of American and European works spanning centuries. Beyond its artistic offerings, Columbus has emerged as a culinary destination with a thriving food scene that ranges from innovative farm-to-table restaurants to diverse international cuisines. The city's numerous neighborhoods each offer distinct personalities, from the trendy Short North Arts District with its galleries and boutiques to the historic German Village with its charming brick streets and 19th-century architecture.

Top Things to Do in Columbus Museum of Art

Explore the Columbus Museum of Art

Discover an outstanding collection featuring works by Monet, Picasso, and Degas alongside contemporary pieces and an impressive photography collection. The museum's interactive Wonder Room provides hands-on art experiences for visitors of all ages. Special exhibitions regularly showcase both emerging and established artists from around the world.

Booking Tip: Admission is free for permanent collections, with special exhibitions typically costing $5-15. Visit on Thursday evenings for extended hours and often reduced-price or free admission to special exhibitions. Book guided tours in advance for deeper insights.

Stroll Through German Village

Wander through this meticulously preserved 19th-century neighborhood featuring over 1,600 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The area's brick streets, ornate architecture, and charming gardens create a European atmosphere. Browse unique shops, cozy cafes, and the famous Book Loft with its 32 rooms of books.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walking is free, but consider joining weekend guided tours ($10-15) offered by the German Village Society. Visit during spring or fall for the most pleasant weather and beautiful seasonal displays in the neighborhood's many gardens.

Experience the Short North Arts District

Explore Columbus's premier arts and entertainment district, packed with galleries, theaters, restaurants, and unique boutiques. The monthly Gallery Hop on the first Saturday evening draws thousands of visitors to experience art openings, street performances, and local culture. The area serves as the heart of Columbus's creative community.

Booking Tip: Gallery Hop events are free and run from 4-10 PM on first Saturdays. Arrive early for the best gallery experience before crowds peak around 7 PM. Many restaurants offer Gallery Hop specials, so check menus in advance.

Visit the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Immerse yourself in exotic plant collections from around the world housed in stunning glass pavilions, including rainforest, desert, and Himalayan mountain biomes. The conservatory features rotating art installations that blend nature and creativity. The outdoor gardens showcase seasonal displays and sculptures throughout 88 acres.

Booking Tip: Admission ranges from $15-20 for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. Purchase tickets online for small savings and guaranteed entry during peak seasons. Visit weekday mornings for smaller crowds and better photography opportunities.

Discover Columbus Food Scene

Embark on a culinary journey through Columbus's diverse neighborhoods, sampling everything from innovative American cuisine to authentic international dishes. The city has gained national recognition for its restaurant scene, with acclaimed chefs creating memorable dining experiences. Food halls and markets offer opportunities to try multiple local specialties in one location.

Booking Tip: Food tour prices typically range from $50-80 per person for 3-4 hour experiences. Book tours that include both established restaurants and hidden local gems. Weekend tours fill up quickly, so reserve at least a week in advance.

Getting There

Columbus is easily accessible via John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), located just 10 miles from downtown with direct flights from major US cities. The city sits at the intersection of major highways I-70 and I-71, making it highly accessible by car from cities like Cincinnati (2 hours), Cleveland (2 hours), and Chicago (5.5 hours). Greyhound and Megabus provide regular service to Columbus, while Amtrak's Cardinal line offers train service three times weekly, though with limited scheduling.

Getting Around

Columbus offers various transportation options, with the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) providing comprehensive bus service throughout the metro area for $1 per ride. The free CBUS circulator connects downtown attractions, the Short North, and German Village, running every 15 minutes. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, while the city's bike-share program CoGo offers convenient short-term rentals. Downtown Columbus is quite walkable, especially between major attractions, and many neighborhoods are pedestrian-friendly.

Where to Stay

Downtown Columbus
Short North Arts District
German Village
Arena District
Victorian Village
Grandview Heights

Food & Dining

Columbus has evolved into a remarkable food destination with a dining scene that punches above its weight class. The city offers everything from James Beard Award-nominated restaurants to beloved local institutions, with particular strengths in farm-to-table cuisine, craft brewing, and international foods reflecting the city's diverse population. The North Market downtown serves as a food hall showcasing local vendors, while neighborhoods like German Village and Short North host acclaimed restaurants. Don't miss Columbus-style pizza with its thin crust and edge-to-edge toppings, or the city's thriving coffee culture with numerous local roasters.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Columbus

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

The Thurman Cafe

4.6 /5
(6666 reviews) 2
bar

Cap City Fine Diner and Bar

4.6 /5
(4112 reviews) 2
bar

Lindey's

4.6 /5
(2737 reviews) 3

Forno Kitchen + Bar

4.5 /5
(2458 reviews) 2

The Old Mohawk

4.5 /5
(2153 reviews) 2
bar

The Guild House

4.5 /5
(1923 reviews) 3

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Columbus is during late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) when temperatures are comfortable and the city's many parks and outdoor spaces are at their most beautiful. Summer brings numerous festivals and outdoor events, though humidity can be high. Winter visits offer indoor cultural attractions at their peak, with fewer crowds at museums and theaters, plus potential savings on accommodations. The city's strong arts scene and indoor attractions make it a year-round destination, though spring and fall provide the most pleasant weather for exploring neighborhoods on foot.

Insider Tips

Take advantage of the free CBUS circulator to easily hop between downtown, Short North, and German Village without parking hassles
Visit the Columbus Museum of Art on Thursday evenings for extended hours and often free admission to special exhibitions
Time your visit to coincide with the first Saturday Gallery Hop in Short North for the best arts district experience with free events and street performances

Explore Activities in Columbus Museum of Art