If you have time for a day trip, Ohio has plenty of waterparks that you can check out. But if you’re looking for a quicker trip that costs nothing, there are some awesome splash pads located all over Central Ohio that are free and open to the public.

Ready for a little fun in the sun? Don’t forget the sunscreen and probably some snacks, because let’s be real. No one wants to fight the kids back into the car to go home for lunch!

Ballantrae Community Park

Hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., from May 24 through September 1, 2025
Amenities: The Ballantrae Community Park is a massive splash pad. The park has a large grassy area perfect for summer picnics, as well as parking and restrooms.
Address: 6350 Woerner Temple Rd, Dublin, OH 43016
Website: Ballantrae Community Park

Hilliard’s Station Park

The Scioto Mile Fountain

Scioto Southland Sprayground

Village Green Park

North Bank Park

Partners Park

Blackburn Community Center

Veterans Park Splash Pad

Easton Town Center

The post Make A Splash: The Best Free Water Play Areas In Central Ohio appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

The first official week of summer is here, and so is the heatwave. If you’re a parent in Central Ohio, you’re probably facing a familiar dilemma: the kids are bouncing off the walls, but it’s too hot to send them outside to play. Don’t sweat it — Columbus is packed with indoor gems that are fun, air-conditioned, and perfect for escaping the swelter.

Here are 15 top-notch indoor activities across the city to keep the whole family cool, entertained, and (mostly) sane.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Easton Town Center | $21.99–$47.99
More info: LEGOLAND Discovery Center

An indoor Lego wonderland with a 4D cinema, rides, and even a miniature Lego version of Ohio.

Columbus Museum of Art

480 E. Broad St., Downtown | $10–$20 (Free on Sundays)
More info: Columbus Museum of Art

Discover interactive art spaces like the Wonder Room and Big Idea Gallery that are perfect for creative play.

COSI

333 W. Broad St., Downtown | $25–$30
More info: COSI

Named the best science center in the nation (four years running), COSI is packed with hands-on exhibits, a dinosaur gallery, and the ever-popular Little Kidspace.

Glow Putt Mini Golf

Gahanna | $8–$10
More info: Glow Putt Mini Golf

Play a full round of glow-in-the-dark, safari-themed mini golf — dinosaurs and all.

Columbus Metropolitan Library – Main Branch

96 S. Grant Ave., Downtown | Free
More info: Columbus Metropolitan Library

Storytimes, reading nooks, a huge children’s area, and regular kid-friendly programming — plus a café for tired grownups.

Franklin Park Conservatory

1777 E. Broad St., East Columbus | $17–$25 (Free first Sundays for Franklin Co. residents)
More info: Franklin Park Conservatory

Explore global plant life, splash through misted walkways, and visit butterflies — all under glass.

Game Arena

Near OSU Campus | Gameplay charged hourly
More info: Game Arena

This high-end gaming lounge lets kids (and teens) dive into the latest PC and console games — with comfy chairs and snacks to match.

Otherworld

5819 Chantry Dr., East Side | $24–$30
More info: Otherworld

Step into 32,000 square feet of surreal, immersive art installations, interactive rooms, and secret passageways.

Little Diggers

Dublin | $12–$21/hour
More info: Little Diggers

An indoor sandbox paradise designed for kids 7 and under, packed with sensory toys and play options.

Rockin’ Jump Trampoline Park

Westerville | $12–$25.99
More info: Rockin’ Jump Trampoline Park

Burn off summer energy with dodgeball arenas, vertical climbing walls, and tons of open jump space.

Ohio History Center

800 E. 17th Ave. | $7–$13, free for members
More info: Ohio History Center
Dive into Ohio’s past with hands-on exhibits, historical artifacts, and kid-friendly learning zones. From natural history to Civil War stories, there’s plenty to explore in the museum’s cool, air-conditioned halls.

Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum

OSU Campus | Free
More info: Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum

Home to the world’s largest collection of comic art, this hidden gem is a must-visit for any cartoon or graphic novel fan.

Central Ohio Fire Museum

260 N. 4th St., Downtown | $6–$8
More info: Central Ohio Fire Museum

Part museum, part kid-friendly firehouse play zone, this spot offers both fun and fire safety education.

Slick City Action Park

2200 Ikea Way, Columbus (North) | Pricing varies
More info: Slick City Action Park

America’s first indoor slide park — with thrilling dry slides, air courts, launch pads, and a zone just for younger kids. Big fun with no sunscreen required.

Anthony-Thomas Candy Factory Tour

More info: Anthony-Thomas Candy Factory
West Columbus | $1–$2

Cool down with a behind-the-scenes look at how chocolate is made — and yes, there are free samples.

Featured image via Facebook.

The post 15 Cool (Literally) Indoor Activities To Beat The Heat In Columbus appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

No matter what time of year, there are different outdoor spaces around the city where the kids can get out and explore, play, and burn off some energy.

Whether you’re looking for old-school swings or high-tech playground equipment, Columbus has your back. So load up the kids, grab the sunscreen, and pack up the snacks!

It’s time to check out some of the city’s best parks and playgrounds.

Scioto Audubon Metro Park Playground

 

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The Scioto Audubon Metro Park is the perfect place to wear the kids out! Not only is there tons of nature to explore, including trails, overlooks, and a boardwalk, there is a unique playground full of fun things to climb on.

Fryer Park

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Located just outside Columbus in the suburb of Grove City, Fryer Park isn’t your traditional playground. Oversized musical instruments and space-age inspired equipment encourage children to use their imagination while playing outside. The park is conveniently located near the Grove City YMCA and they opened a brand new Splash Pad this summer, perfect for hot, sunny days.

Ballantrae Community Park Spray Fountains  

Speaking of splash pads, Ballantrae Spray Fountains in Dublin is the perfect warm-weather destination for kids of all ages. On hot days, the fountains can get pretty packed, so be sure to get there early! Grab yourself a nice spot on the grass and enjoy a picnic while taking a break from the water.

Jeffrey Park

Located behind the historic Jeffrey Mansion in Bexley, Jeffrey Park is an awesome place to spend a sunny afternoon. With plenty of shade, a shelter house, and playground equipment for kids of all ages, it’s a wonderful resource for parents in Columbus. One of the coolest parts about this playground is that the kiddos can have a massive “make-believe” session on the castle grounds.

Columbus Commons

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The Columbus Commons is one of the most popular downtown parks, and in my opinion, it has the most fun for kiddos! Not only is there an interactive section of the park that encourages kids to use their creative and imaginative play skills, it has something no other park in Columbus has! The Carousel at the Commons will, without a doubt, be the highlight of your visit. Open from April to October, kids can hop aboard the merry-go-round for for free!

Schiller Park

In the heart of German Village sits the historic Schiller Park. One of the most well-known parks in Columbus, Schiller has plenty of space to keep the kids entertained. In addition to the recently renovated playground, there are walking paths, tennis and basketball courts, and even a pond, perfect for duck feeding or fishing!

Natural Play Areas

Several parks in central Ohio have whimsical, natural play areas for kids. Whether they’re building forts with sticks or splashing around in creek beds, your kids will have a great time and you’ll have a blast watching them embrace nature.

Natural Play Areas

Several parks in central Ohio have whimsical, natural play areas for kids. Whether they’re building forts with sticks or splashing around in creek beds, your kids will have a great time and you’ll have a blast watching them embrace nature.

Shale Hollow Nature Preserve

If it’s an especially hot day, a visit to Shale Hollow Nature Preserve will be perfect. Kids can enjoy the natural play area, splash around in crystal clear creek water, and test their bravery on a fun, wobbly bridge. You can read more about Shale Hollow Nature Preserve here.

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden at Franklin Park Conservatory

The Children’s Garden at Franklin Park Conservatory has to be one of the best additions to kid-centric places in Columbus. Take your children to explore the 2-acre section of the park that includes a tree canopy, a splash area, fairy gardens, and so much more. You can read more about The Children’s Garden here.

Blendon Woods Metro Park

 

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There is a 10-acre natural play area at Blendon Woods that features a wooded hillside and ravine where the kids can stretch their legs. Play structures in the area include a zipline, a teeter-totter, a basket swing, a cargo climbing net, a tether-ball, and more. To get to the play area, just turn right at the ranger station then take the second left to the parking lot. The entrance to the natural play area is at the far end of the lot.

Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park

The 9-acre natural play area at Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park has boulders and fallen logs to climb on, as well as easy access to the creek where you can wade into the water. The kids can run along the footpaths and enjoy visitor-made forts. The natural play area is right off the last parking lot in the Indian Ridge Picnic Area.

Glacier Ridge Metro Park

The natural play area at Glacier Ridge may not be the largest, but it’s full of so much fun. There are towers, ramps, ropes, ladders, and even a zipline! If the kids are interested in a challenge, there’s also a 4-acre obstacle course at the park.

Three Creeks Metro Parks

A beautiful pine forest is the site of the natural play area at Three Creeks. The children can climb on trees, build forts with sticks and branches, or play hide and seek in the woods. The play area is 12 acres, so there’s plenty of space to spread out and enjoy some sunshine and good times.

The post 12 Awesome Columbus Area Playgrounds To Get Your Kids Outside appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Whether it’s freezing temps or pouring rain, inclement weather can be a real bummer for kids. It’s always best for parents to have a few indoor activities up their sleeves.

Columbus institutions like COSI and Franklin Park Conservatory offer educational programs. Places like trampoline parks and rock climbing gyms promise fun through physical activity. We’ve compiled some of the best ways to keep your children happy and busy below.

Vertical Adventures

Vertical Adventures is family fun for your kids of all ages. For the little ones, the ABC Climbing program offers a unique way to build agility, balance, and coordination. For older kids, consider their competitive climbing team, Team Vertical or their recreational Climber’ Club.
More info: Vertical Adventures

COSI

Since opening to the public in 1964, COSI has become a local institution here in the capital city. Offering activities covering a wide range of science and technology, COSI is the perfect place to spend a snowy day. Kids can learn about topics ranging from Space to electricity, all in a fun and inclusive environment. COSI even offers a space for younger children, which encourages imaginative play and creativity.
More info: COSI

Columbus Museum of Art

Open the artistic mind of your child by exploring the Columbus Museum of Art. Free every day for children under 5 and for all on Sundays, the Museum offers tons of activities for your family. Explore the Wonder Room or set out on a museum-wide scavenger hunt, all while experiencing one of the most unique places Columbus has to offer.
More info: Columbus Museum of Art

Columbus Metropolitan Library

When the weather turns gloomy, venture into a world of knowledge and imagination at the Columbus Library. Offering a haven for young readers and families, the library is more than just a collection of books. Explore interactive exhibits, participate in storytelling sessions, and engage in educational activities designed to spark curiosity. With a welcoming atmosphere, the Columbus Library provides the perfect escape for your little ones to discover the joy of reading and learning. Find a branch and programming near you at the link below.
More info: Columbus Library

Franklin Park Conservatory

At Franklin Park Conservatory, you’ll find the perfect activity for children aged 3-5. Nature School meets Tuesdays & Wednesdays until November 14, with two sessions per day. It’s a great way for your kids to participate in a green lifestyle all year long. The program allows young minds to be immersed in the nature around them, all while building skill sets across many different subjects.
More info: Franklin Park Conservatory

Big Bounce

Giant inflatables allow your kids to jump through all of their excess energy, just in time for nap time! Offering both open-bounce and private parties, Big Bounce has something for everyone, including the adults. My word of advice is, don’t forget to bring socks for your kids and yourself if you plan on bouncing.
More info: Big Bounce

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

From indoor rides to awesome building experiences, LEGOLAND Discovery Center is a great way to spend a cold or rainy afternoon. The kids can explore Miniland, an awesome LEGO recreation of Columbus, build their own creations, or hop on a ride. Having been there myself, I can tell you with confidence that LEGOLAND Discovery Center is truly fun for all ages.
More info: LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Little Diggers Play Space

The post The Best Indoor Activities For Kids In Columbus appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Everyone’s been to a birthday party at Magic Mountain. And sure, it’s a great place to plan a party, but that’s just it. Everyone’s already been there.

If you want to get the coolest-parent-in-the-world award, you need to look at this list of the best places to host a birthday party in Columbus. Your kiddo and their friends will be talking about the party for ages.

Little Diggers Playspace

Skate Zone 71

Skate Zone 71 is an all-around fun time. Their concession stand has pizza and soft pretzels to fuel the partygoers’ energy. If you have kids that are a little wobbly on skates, there’s an arcade and lazer tag, too. Hey parents, maybe you can lace up a pair of skates and show the kids how it’s done!

Location: 4900 Evanswood Dr, Columbus, OH 43229
Website: Skate Zone 71

The Movement Lab

Does your child have what it takes to be the next American Ninja Warrior? It sounds like they better start honing in on their skills. The Movement Lab is the perfect place to test your abilities on all sorts of obstacles. There will be certified instructors there to help your kids safely navigate each one. These parties are designed for kids age 5 and older.
Location: 7086 Huntley Rd, Columbus, OH 43229
Website: The Movement Lab

Mr. Game Room

Mr. Game Room will bring the party to you! These mobile arcades are sure to impress not only your kiddo’s friends, but their parents as well. You can choose different packages which include a 20-player arcade experience, a 16-player arcade experience, and a 12-player mobile laser tag party.
Location: 947 E Johnstown Rd, Gahanna, OH 43230
Website: Mr. Game Room

The Chiller

Whether your child is inspired by Gracie Gold or Sergei Bobrovsky, a birthday party at the Chiller should be on your radar. Don’t worry about the pizza and the cake. The Chiller birthday party package comes with: one of hour ice skating, tableware, invitations, pizza, lemonade, water, a sheet cake, and more!
Location: 3600 Chiller Ln, Columbus, OH 43219
Website: Chiller

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

LEGOLAND Discovery Center is probably one of the legit coolest places a kid could ever celebrate their birthday. There are 3 different packages for parents to choose from, but all of them include access to play experiences, rides, and the 4D movie theater, as well as drinks and cake!

Location: 157 Easton Town Center, Columbus, OH 43219
Website: LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Perfect Events

Planning the ultimate kids party can be stressful. If you want to skip out on the work of figuring out all of the details yourself, you totally can. Perfect Events plans celebrations for kids, including epic glamping sleepovers. Seriously, where were these when I was growing up?
Location: Lewis Center, serving the Greater Columbus Area
Website: Perfect Events

COSI

The post The Best Places To Have Your Kid’s Birthday Party In Columbus appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Finding the balance between taking your kids someplace they’ll enjoy while also enjoying it yourself isn’t always as easy as it should be. Luckily, Columbus is, on the whole, a family-friendly city.

There are so many unique places you can swing in with the kids for a bite to eat, whether you’re looking for somewhere with built-in activities or a super kid-friendly menu, this city has your back.

Schmidt’s

Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace

Budd Dairy Food Hall

Just Chicken

Nothing appeases an upset child quite like chicken tenders. At Just Chicken, you and your kiddo can snack on some chicken, fries, or mac & cheese, aka the favorite three food groups of picky toddlers everywhere. The food is delicious, shareable, plus the close proximity to Franklin Park Conservatory means that you can enjoy lunch and let the kids run off a bunch of energy before heading home!
Address: 212 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205
Website: Just Chicken

Starliner Diner

Swensons Drive-In

Combustion Brewery

Buckeye Donuts

The post Kid-Friendly Restaurants Around Columbus That Parents Will Love Too appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Whether I was meeting international counselors who helped shape my view of the world or goofing around with my friends after lights out, I always had a memorable time at camp. Luckily for the youth of Columbus, there are so many wonderful opportunities to explore this summer.

Camps have changed in the last decade or so, becoming more specialized and inclusive, meaning that there is literally a camp for every kind of kid out there. Does your child come home from school each day with doodles scattered through their notebooks? Check out an art camp.

Do they never stop talking about Minecraft? There’s a camp for that too! Or are they just looking for a traditional sleepaway camp where they can make friendship bracelets and lifelong friends? Because Columbus has plenty of those camps to choose from.

Outdoor

Metro Parks Summer Camps

Metro Parks Summer Camps are weekly programs designed for kids to explore nature and make new friends. Typically, they offer a variety of Summer Camp options for kids from Pre-K through Grade 12. Registration info should be released very soon, but it’s typically in the beginning of March.
More info: Metro Parks

City of Columbus Summer Camps

Columbus Recreation and Parks Department have tons of camps taking place this summer. Sports, arts, recreational, and educational camps are all available for your child to participate in this summer.
More info: Columbus Recreation and Parks

Boy Scouts Summer Camp

Boy Scouts in Central Ohio have a few different summer camp options to choose from. Some are residential and some are day camps, but all provide scouts with a chance to experience a myriad of summer activities.
More info: Boy Scouts Summer Camp

Girl Scouts Summer Camp

Like the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts summer camps are a chance for scouts of all ages to have a traditional camp stay. There are both residential and day camp options available.
More info: Girl Scouts Summer Camp

Camp Lionheart

Camp Lionheart is truly a unique camp experience. Specializing in youth who have dealt with the loss of a parent, sibling or caregiver, Lionheart allows children experiencing these traumatic events the chance to heal and recover with peers and professionally trained staff. This week-long camp boasts all of the activities of a traditional camp, including hiking, swimming, and arts & crafts, all while “incorporating structured grief and trauma-informed group counseling sessions with trained, licensed professionals.”
More info: Camp Lionheart

Camp Wyandot

Nestled in the beautiful Hocking Hills, Camp Wyandot has both day and overnight camp options. Focusing on nature, sleepaway campers stay in traditional camp cabins at night, while exploring Ohio’s hills and waterways by day. Located in one of the most bio-diverse regions in the United States, Camp Wyandot forests, meadows, lakes, and rivers all waiting to be explored by campers. Ages and dates for camps vary, with options from June through August.
More info: Camp Wyandot

Camp Swoneky

Camp Swoneky is an overnight camp run by The Salvation Army that provides an exciting outdoor adventure for campers ages 7-13. From archery to swimming to disc golf, Swoneky has a little bit of everything, perfect for campers who want to have an exciting and full week at camp.
More info: Camp Swoneky

Ohio 4 H

Through the Ohio State University, Ohio 4 H is able to provide tons of camp experiences for kids. Offering Sea Camp, Space Camp, Leadership Camp, Sports Shooting Camp and so much more, Ohio 4 H focuses on teaching campers responsibility, independence, teamwork, and creativity. Age ranges and dates for camps vary.
More info: Ohio 4 H

Big Brothers Big Sisters Oty’Okwa Summer Camp

Since 1942, Camp Oty’Okwa has worked with the belief in mind that working with children “in small, family-oriented groups away from their home environment could produce positive results that could last a lifetime.” And 70 years of success may just prove their point. At Oty’Okwa, campers ages 6-14 spend their week camping, hiking, learning about nature and spending time with their peers. The camp also works with parents to plan and personalize schedules and activities for campers with a variety of special needs, including learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, behavior or mood disorders and Autism.
More info: Big Brothers Big Sisters Oty’Okwa Summer Camp

Academic, Science, & Technology

Columbus Zoo And Aquarium Summer Camp

Whether you have a toddler or a teenager, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has the perfect summer camp for your child! With chances to work directly with animals and learn about not only the creatures but the environment they exist in, campers can take away a meaningful experience of animal care and conservation.
More info: Columbus Zoo And Aquarium Summer Camp

Classroom Antics Tech Camps

From game design to stop motion animation to Minecraft to Youtube, Classroom Antics has a variety of Tech Camps this summer for kids ages 7-14. Half-day and Full-day options are available and lunch is provided.
More info: Classroom Antics Tech Camps

Lego Robot Camp

For Lego lovers ages 5-16, Lego Robot Camp is a great way to get kids interested in robotics in a fun and exciting way. By using the latest technology, including 3D Printers and Lego Mindstorms EV3, campers spend their time building Lego Bots, culminating in an epic bot battle. They also learn how robots solve real-world problems. There are in-person and virtual camp options.
More info: Lego Robot Camp

OSU SLIYS: Summer Linguistic Institute for Youth Scholars

SLIYS is a very specialized camp, and this year it will be held virtually. Focusing on foreign language, SLIYS is for high school students who want to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for foreign language and culture. SLIYS  is divided into 3 different sessions, increasing in difficulty as they move through the summer.
More info: OSU SLIYS: Summer Linguistic Institute for Youth Scholars

Columbus Academy “Summer Experience”

Through the weeklong day camps at Columbus Academy Summer Experience, campers can partake in programs dedicated to academics, as well as arts & sciences and athletics.
More info: Columbus Academy “Summer Experience”

CSG Summer Programming

Columbus School For Girls is teaming up with IDEAS Summer Camps to offer a list of programs, workshops, and camps for boys and girls over the summer break. Students from grade Pre-K through 8 can engage in meaningful programs, from technology to game development.
More info: CSG Summer Programming

Sports

Ohio State Sports Camps

OSU typically has an incredibly comprehensive Sports Camp program. Covering just about every sport offered at the university, from synchronized swimming to football.
More info: Ohio State Sports Camps

Capital Sports Camps

With camps for softball, basketball, football, and more, the Capital University Sports camps are a complete athletic experience. Each camp has specific age requirements, but campers in grades 2-12 can find something to learn at these crusader camps!
More info: Capital Sports Camps

Chiller Ice Rinks Camps

Do your kids need a break from the summer heat? Chiller has camps that run throughout the Spring/Summer at both the North and Dublin Chiller locations, focusing on both hockey and ice skating.
More info: Chiller Ice Rinks Camps

Arts & Music

Columbus Museum of Art Summer Workshops

The Columbus Museum of Art offers workshops for students in grades 1-8. The workshops include a variety of topics, but all focus on helping kids grow through creativity and imagination. Camps are half-day or full-day depending on age.
More info: Columbus Museum of Art Summer Workshops

King Arts Complex Summer Camp

Youth Arts Education is a year round endeavor at King Arts Complex. The Summer Arts Camp program is an 8-week, all day program. Summer Academy runs throughout the Columbus City Schools summer recess. The camp will run on a STEAM module (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) and will include dance, music, coding, visual arts, creative writing, and photography.
More info: King Arts Complex Summer Arts Camp

Arts Castle Summer Camps

Offered for kids ages 3-18, The Arts Castle offers a variety of camps over the course of eight weeks. With more than fifty camps to choose from, like Anime and cartooning, ceramics, drama, creative building, and more. The Arts Castle is located just north of Columbus, in Delaware.
More info: Arts Castle Summer Camps

CCAD Creative Summer Workshops for Kids

Columbus College of Art & Design’s Creative Summer Workshops offer the perfect way for kids, teens, and adults to explore their creativity. Classes include art and design for young artists, botanical art, printmaking, fashion design, animation, 3D illustration, digital comics, painting, puppetry, game development, and much more. Classes are held weekdays; 9 a.m. to noon for morning sessions, or 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. for afternoon sessions.
More info: CCAD Creative Summer Workshops for Kids

Ohio Craft Museum

The focus of our summer art camps and workshops at the Ohio Craft Museum is all about creativity and fun! The goal of the camps is to offer projects that encourage children and teens to use their imaginations, explore different mediums, and develop practical skills as a maker of art. The camp schedule has yet to be announced for 2024, but you can keep an eye on the website below.
More info: Ohio Craft Museum Summer Camps

Columbus Children’s Theatre Camps

At CCT, they take a holistic approach to theatre education. That means giving students a 360-degree theatrical experience that provides students with both onstage performance experience as well as backstage production experience in theatrical disciplines like scenic design, costuming, and more. Registration is already open.
More info: CCT Camps

YMCA Summer Camps

YMCA Day Camp

YMCA Day camps are a ton of fun Monday-Friday throughout the summer. A variety of exciting themes are being offered this year where kids of all ages can explore, learn, and create. There are specialized camps for sports and the arts, and activities vary based on YMCA location. Online registration opens on February 1, 2024.
More info: Day Camp

Camp Willson

YMCA’s Camp Willson is the quintessential American summer camp experience. From outdoor activities like horseback riding, hiking and canoeing to traditional camp activities like arts & crafts and talent shows, this sleepaway camp is an experience young campers will never forget. Camp Willson offers a full eight-week camp schedule, with many different types of camps for kids aged 7-17.
More info: Camp Willson

The post The Best Summer Camps In Columbus appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Digging into the Details

As you step into Little Diggers, you’re greeted with more than just sand. Over 200 individual toys, most following a construction theme, await the eager hands of your little ones. From toy trucks to shovels, the play possibilities are as endless as the sandbox itself.

No reservations are needed – just drop in and let the fun begin. Admission is $12 for the first child in a half-hour play window, with additional siblings at $10. Opt for a full hour at $16 for the first child, $12 for a sibling, and $10 for any additional siblings. And here’s the parent-approved bonus – you can join the fun right alongside your kiddos!

The Perfect Playground for Celebrations

Little Diggers isn’t just a day out; it’s a venue for unforgettable birthday parties. For $275, the birthday package includes admission for 10 children. Your child and their friends get exclusive access to the sandbox, with additional kids at $20 each.

The party room is a highlight, offering a 2-hour private sandbox experience for up to 24 people, making it a fantastic space for mingling and celebrating. The construction-themed setup adds to the festive atmosphere, with truck-themed tablecloths, utensils, and plates creating a vibrant backdrop.

Each little digger receives an Honest Kids juice box to stay refreshed during playtime and a construction hat to make them feel like part of the construction crew. The creative fun continues with truck sticker sheets for hat decoration, letting each child express their unique style with their favorite trucks.

And the best part? You can bring your own food, cake, and refreshments to complete the party. The party room even comes with a small countertop prep area, ensuring convenience for dining and celebrating.

Visit and Play

Little Diggers is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Ready to dive into a world of imaginative play and construction-themed fun? Learn more at littlediggersplayspace.com and make your next family outing a sand-filled adventure at Little Diggers Playspace in Dublin!

The post This Massive, 1,000 Sq. Ft. Sandbox Is The Perfect Indoor Playspace For Your Kids appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Because they include three things that it’s impossible to have a bad time while partaking in:

1.) Pancakes
2.) Bacon/Sausage
3.) Santa

Seriously, what else do you need for an awesome morning? Some of these events are completely free, some require reservations, and some will definitely sell out, so start making your plans now.

Upper Arlington’s Breakfast & Brunch with Santa

Westerville Central High School’s Breakfast with Santa

Franklin Park Conservatory’s Breakfast with Santa

Breakfast with Santa at Pickerington Senior Center

What: Enjoy a festive morning with breakfast, music, crafts, a bake sale, photos with Santa, Secret Santa Shop, and so much more. Tickets must be purchased in advance and will not be sold at the door.
Cost: $10 (1 and under free)
Time: December 2 at 8, 9:30, and 11 a.m.
Location: 150 Hereford Dr, Pickerington, OH 43147
More info: Pickerington Senior Center

Prairie Township Community Center’s Breakfast with Santa

What: Santa’s coming! Jolly Old St. Nick will be making a special trip to the Prairie Township Community Center to eat breakfast with your whole crew! It will be a wonderful morning where kids will visit with Santa and discuss their Christmas wishes. Families will also be able to work on a special craft project during breakfast. Don’t forget your camera
Cost: $12/residents, $15/non-residents
Time: December 9 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.
Location: Prairie Township Community Center
More info: Prairie Township Community Center

RMHC of Central Ohio Breakfast With Santa

Scene 75’s Breakfast with Santa

Breakfast with Santa at Landoll’s Mohican Castle

The post Where To Have Breakfast With Santa Around Columbus 2023 appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Children’s Garden at Franklin Park Conservatory has to be one of most imaginative outdoor spaces in the city. There’s so much to do and explore, all while staying outside and having plenty of space to practice social distancing.

Visitors enter the Scotts Miracle-Gro Children’s Garden by passing through the Sunshine Celebration Arch. When the Conservatory was planning the garden, they asked kids what they would want to see in a garden just for them. Two things they mentioned were water and rainbows, both of which you can find throughout the garden.

The garden is full of fun nooks and crannies to explore and create. There are interactive areas with lots of fun activities including musical instruments, gardening, and natural art.

One of the coolest sections in the garden is a Hocking Hills inspired waterfall area. There are shallow pools below the fall perfect for the kiddos to splash around in on a warm summer afternoon.

Perhaps the biggest adventure awaiting children in the garden is the canopy. resting in the branches of a 75-year-old mulberry tree, the canopy walk has rope bridges, an ever-changing nest area, and a large rope hammock perfect for staring up at the clouds.

Near the base of the canopy, you’ll find a large outdoor play area with hollowed logs for climbing, a fort-building area, a swing, and lots of other fun plays to inspire the imagination.

If you need a good place to start winding down before loading the kids back into the car, you have to head over to the Whisper Gardens. Here you’ll find a peaceful reading garden, complete with a library, a fairy garden, and the Whisper Bench.

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Children’s Garden is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission to the Children’s Garden is included in admission to the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. For more information, please click here.

The conservatory has several health & safety guidelines in place to help keep guests safe during their visit. Reserved ticket times, face coverings, and limiting exhibit capacity are just a few of the steps their taking. Here’s everything you need to know before you go to the conservatory for a visit.

All images were taken prior to COVID-19. Masks are required for those over 6 years old.

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