Is there any time lovelier than spring in Columbus? Our reward for making it through another rough winter is a season filled with outdoor events and the return of our favorite attractions. Here are eight great ways to experience life in Downtown Columbus this spring.
Stroll the Scioto Mile
The recently renovated Scioto Mile boasts 175 acres of parkland along the Scioto River in Downtown Columbus. Enjoy an urban stroll or bike ride along the miles of multi-use trails running from Bicentennial Plaza to North Bank Park.
Party on the rooftop
Make it a priority to head to Juniper, the new rooftop dining and event space located atop The Smith Bros’ Hardware Co. building. Enjoy small plates, shared plates and entrees along with fabulous views from 5-9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 5-9:30 p.m. Friday. Check Juniper’s events calendar for the monthly live music lineup.
Kayak the Scioto & Olentangy
Columbus Recreation and Parks Department partners with HERO USA for Paddle in the City. Experience nature in an urban environment through weekly guided kayak and canoe classes on the most scenic portions of the Scioto and Olentangy rivers. In 2018, classes will be offered every weekend May 5-October 28. Watch for special sunset paddles, as well!
Picnic at the Scioto Audubon Park
Head for an outdoor picnic at Scioto Audubon. The Metro Park offers three picnic shelters with tables and grills, including access to play equipment, volleyball courts and playfields for soccer and other grass sports. Bring a pair of binoculars, too—the Audubon Center is one of the best birding areas in the city.
Cheer on the Columbus Clippers
The Columbus Clippers return to Huntington Park on April 12 against the Durham Bulls. Head to the Minor League Baseball stadium for Dime-a-Dog Night every Monday, City Barbeque 4 for $6 Night every Tuesday and $5 Brewfest and Winefest every Friday.
Ogle the blooms at Franklin Park Conservatory
Head to the Conservatory for Columbus Blooms, a celebration of spring with over 100,000 flowering tulips, narcissus, hyacinth and more. The vibrant display runs April 1-30, 2018.
Explore bike sharing
Curious about the benefits of biking? Try out a CoGo Annual Membership for $75 a year. Members get a special key that can quickly unlock and access bicycles from any docking station within the CoGo network. Explore the city in a whole new way by riding along the Scioto Trail, offering spectacular views of the Columbus skyline, or other popular routes.
Ride the Columbus Commons Carousel
The Columbus Commons Carousel opens for the season on April 24. Hours are 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Check out the ever-changing Columbus Commons Gardens display, designed and maintained by Franklin Park Conservatory. The Gardens offer a mix of perennials, shrubs, ornamental grasses, evergreens and annuals for four-season appeal.