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National Veterans Memorial and Museum, United States of America - Things to Do in National Veterans Memorial and Museum

Things to Do in National Veterans Memorial and Museum

National Veterans Memorial and Museum, United States of America - Complete Travel Guide

The National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio, stands as America's first and only memorial and museum dedicated to honoring the stories of all veterans from all branches of service. Located in the vibrant Franklinton neighborhood along the Scioto River, this architectural marvel opened in 2018 and serves as a powerful tribute to the men and women who have served in the U.S. military throughout history. Columbus, Ohio's capital and largest city, offers visitors a perfect blend of Midwestern charm and urban sophistication. Beyond the memorial, the city boasts a thriving arts district, world-class museums, diverse neighborhoods, and a renowned food scene. The Short North Arts District, German Village's brick-lined streets, and the bustling downtown area provide excellent opportunities for exploration, making Columbus an ideal destination for those seeking both meaningful remembrance and cultural enrichment.

Top Things to Do in National Veterans Memorial and Museum

Explore the National Veterans Memorial and Museum

Immerse yourself in the comprehensive exhibits that chronicle the veteran experience from service to civilian life. The museum features interactive displays, personal artifacts, and powerful storytelling that honors veterans from all eras and branches of military service.

Booking Tip: Admission costs around $15 for adults with discounts for seniors, military, and students. Purchase tickets online in advance for guaranteed entry, especially during weekends and holidays. Allow 2-3 hours for a complete visit.

Stroll Through German Village Historic District

Wander through one of the country's premier historic districts featuring beautifully preserved 19th-century German architecture. The cobblestone streets, brick houses, and charming gardens create a picturesque setting perfect for leisurely exploration and photography.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on your own, but guided walking tours are available for $15-20 per person. Visit during spring and summer for the best garden views, and consider booking restaurant reservations in advance as this area is very popular.

Discover the Short North Arts District

Experience Columbus's premier arts and entertainment destination featuring numerous galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife venues. The monthly Gallery Hop on the first Saturday of each month transforms the district into a vibrant street festival.

Booking Tip: Gallery Hop is free and runs from 4-10 PM on first Saturdays. Parking can be challenging during events, so consider using rideshare or public transit. Many galleries offer free admission year-round.

Visit the Columbus Museum of Art

Explore an impressive collection of American and European art, including works by Monet, Picasso, and Bellows. The museum is particularly renowned for its American art collection and innovative contemporary exhibitions.

Booking Tip: General admission is $18 for adults, with free admission on Sundays for Franklin County residents. Special exhibitions may require additional fees. Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities.

Experience the Scioto Mile Riverfront

Enjoy this beautiful urban park system stretching along the Scioto River, featuring walking and biking paths, fountains, and stunning city skyline views. The area hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year and offers excellent recreational opportunities.

Booking Tip: Free to access year-round. Bike rentals are available for $8-15 per hour from various vendors along the path. Best visited during spring through fall for optimal weather conditions and active fountain displays.

Getting There

Columbus is easily accessible by multiple transportation methods. John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) is located about 10 miles east of downtown and serves major airlines with direct flights from most U.S. cities. The city is well-connected by interstate highways I-70, I-71, and I-270, making it convenient for road trips from Chicago (5.5 hours), Cincinnati (2 hours), or Cleveland (2 hours). Amtrak does not currently serve Columbus, but Greyhound and Megabus provide affordable bus service from major cities throughout the region.

Getting Around

Columbus offers various transportation options for visitors. The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) operates an extensive bus system with routes connecting major attractions, downtown, and surrounding neighborhoods, with fares starting at $2 per ride. The city is increasingly bike-friendly with CoGo bike share stations throughout downtown and popular districts. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available and convenient for reaching attractions. For maximum flexibility, rental cars are recommended, as Columbus has relatively light traffic and ample parking compared to larger cities, though downtown parking can be expensive during events.

Where to Stay

Downtown Columbus
Short North Arts District
German Village
Grandview Heights
Dublin
Easton Town Center

Food & Dining

Columbus has emerged as a significant culinary destination with a diverse food scene that reflects its multicultural population. The city is famous for unique local specialties like Buckeye candy, Cincinnati-style chili, and Schmidt's cream puffs in German Village. The North Market downtown serves as a food hall featuring local vendors and international cuisines. German Village offers upscale dining in historic settings, while the Short North provides trendy restaurants and craft cockteries. Don't miss the city's thriving craft brewery scene, food trucks, and the growing number of James Beard-recognized chefs who have made Columbus their home.

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 (May-June) and early fall (September-October) when temperatures are comfortable and the city's parks and outdoor spaces are at their most beautiful. Summer months offer the most festivals and outdoor events but can be hot and humid. Winter visits are perfectly feasible for indoor attractions like the Veterans Memorial and Museum, though weather can be unpredictable with snow and cold temperatures. Spring brings blooming flowers to German Village gardens, while fall offers stunning foliage along the Scioto Mile and in surrounding parks.

Insider Tips

Visit the National Veterans Memorial and Museum on weekday mornings for a more intimate and reflective experience with fewer crowds
Take advantage of the free downtown circulator bus that connects major attractions and eliminates the need for parking fees
Many of Columbus's best restaurants don't take reservations, so arrive early or be prepared to wait, especially in German Village and the Short North

Explore Activities in National Veterans Memorial and Museum