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Ohio Statehouse, United States of America - Things to Do in Ohio Statehouse

Things to Do in Ohio Statehouse

Ohio Statehouse, United States of America - Complete Travel Guide

The Ohio Statehouse stands as the magnificent centerpiece of Columbus, Ohio's government district, serving as both the seat of state government and a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture. Built between 1839 and 1861, this National Historic Landmark features a distinctive dome-less design that sets it apart from other state capitols, with its impressive limestone facade and meticulously maintained grounds creating an iconic symbol of Ohio's political heritage. Surrounding the Statehouse, Columbus offers visitors a vibrant blend of political history, cultural attractions, and modern urban amenities. The downtown area buzzes with government activity during weekdays while transforming into an entertainment hub during evenings and weekends, featuring world-class museums, diverse dining scenes, and easy access to the nearby Short North Arts District and German Village neighborhoods.

Top Things to Do in Ohio Statehouse

Ohio Statehouse Tours

Explore the stunning Greek Revival architecture and rich political history of Ohio's seat of government through guided tours. The building features beautiful rotunda spaces, historic legislative chambers, and impressive artwork depicting Ohio's heritage.

Booking Tip: Free guided tours are offered Monday through Friday and select Saturdays, with advance reservations recommended especially for groups. Tours last approximately 45 minutes and include security screening, so arrive 15 minutes early.

COSI Science Museum Visit

Discover hands-on exhibits and interactive displays at this renowned science center located along the Scioto River. The museum features planetarium shows, traveling exhibitions, and engaging demonstrations perfect for all ages.

Booking Tip: General admission costs around $20-25 for adults with discounts for children and seniors. Purchase tickets online for slight savings and consider combo packages that include planetarium shows, typically adding $5-8 to admission.

Short North Arts District Exploration

Stroll through Columbus's premier arts and entertainment district featuring numerous galleries, boutique shops, and trendy restaurants. The area hosts monthly Gallery Hop events on the first Saturday of each month with extended hours and special exhibitions.

Booking Tip: Gallery Hop events are free and run from 4-10 PM, with the best atmosphere between 6-8 PM. Paid parking is limited, so consider using ride-share services or public transportation during peak events.

German Village Historic District Tour

Wander through this charming historic neighborhood featuring beautifully preserved 19th-century brick homes, cobblestone streets, and authentic German architecture. The area offers unique shopping at the Book Loft and dining at traditional German restaurants.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walking is free year-round, while guided tours are available seasonally for $10-15 per person. The Book Loft stays open until midnight, making it perfect for evening visits after dinner in the district.

Scioto Mile Riverfront Activities

Enjoy outdoor recreation along Columbus's scenic riverfront featuring walking and biking paths, fountains, and green spaces. The area includes the Scioto Audubon Metro Park with climbing wall and numerous festivals throughout the year.

Booking Tip: Access to the riverfront paths and most areas is completely free. Bike rentals are available at various locations for $15-25 per day, and the climbing wall at Scioto Audubon charges a small fee of around $3-5 per climb.

Getting There

John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) serves the city with direct flights from major US cities, located about 10 miles east of downtown with taxi, ride-share, and rental car options available. Columbus is easily accessible by car via major interstates I-70, I-71, and I-270, with downtown parking readily available in numerous garages and metered street spaces. Greyhound and Megabus provide intercity bus service, while Amtrak does not currently serve Columbus directly.

Getting Around

Downtown Columbus is highly walkable, especially around the Statehouse and nearby attractions, with most major sites within a comfortable walking distance of each other. The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) operates an extensive bus system with downtown circulator routes, and the free CBUS provides convenient transportation around the downtown core and Short North areas. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available, while bike-share programs and scooter rentals offer alternative transportation options for exploring the riverfront and nearby neighborhoods.

Where to Stay

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

Food & Dining

Columbus boasts a thriving culinary scene that reflects both its Midwestern roots and international influences, with everything from James Beard Award-winning restaurants to beloved local institutions. The Short North and German Village offer the highest concentration of acclaimed dining options, featuring innovative American cuisine, authentic ethnic restaurants, and craft breweries. Don't miss local specialties like Thurman's legendary burgers, Schmidt's cream puffs in German Village, or the city's famous Buckeye candies, while the North Market provides an excellent food hall experience with diverse vendors under one roof.

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 and the Ohio Statehouse is during late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) when temperatures are comfortable for walking tours and outdoor activities, and the Statehouse grounds are beautifully landscaped. Summer months offer the most festivals and outdoor events but can be hot and humid, while winter provides fewer crowds and holiday decorations but requires warmer clothing for outdoor exploration. Weekdays are best for Statehouse tours and experiencing the government district's active atmosphere, while weekends offer better access to cultural attractions and nightlife.

Insider Tips

Visit the Statehouse on weekdays during legislative sessions (typically January through June) to potentially observe government in action and experience the building's primary purpose
Combine your Statehouse visit with a walk through the nearby Topiary Park, featuring a living recreation of Georges Seurat's famous painting 'A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte'
Take advantage of free parking on Sundays at most downtown meters, making it an ideal day for exploring multiple neighborhoods without parking fees

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