Things To Do With Kids in Gahanna, OH

Inniswood Metro Gardens offers 123 acres of botanical beauty where kids can run free on meandering trails, discover fairy garden installations, and explore themed garden spaces from herb gardens to rock gardens. The wide-open lawns are perfect for picnics and letting little ones burn energy while parents enjoy the peaceful surroundings and stunning seasonal blooms.

Schneider Park is a charming neighborhood gem in Bexley that offers families a peaceful escape with all the essentials for outdoor fun. With its well-maintained playground, spacious open fields for games, and scenic walking paths, this park provides the perfect setting for everything from active play to relaxing family picnics under the shade trees.

The Ohio History Center brings the Buckeye State's fascinating past to life through interactive exhibits that kids can actually touch and explore. From prehistoric mastodons to vintage vehicles, this engaging museum makes history fun with hands-on activities, immersive displays, and kid-friendly storytelling that transforms learning into an adventure the whole family will enjoy.

Waggoner Park is a welcoming neighborhood park in Reynoldsburg that offers families a perfect spot for outdoor play and exercise. With its combination of playground equipment, basketball courts, and scenic walking paths, it's an ideal destination for burning energy and enjoying fresh air without venturing far from home.

The Reynoldsburg Community Center YMCA offers families a fantastic summer retreat with its seasonal outdoor pool featuring exciting water slides, diving boards, and dedicated shallow areas perfect for little ones just learning to splash. With a stellar 4.5-star rating from over 550 reviews, this popular YMCA combines classic pool fun with the safety and cleanliness families expect from a community wellness center.

The Gramercy serves as New Albany's vibrant downtown gathering spot where families can enjoy free community concerts, seasonal festivals, and regular food truck gatherings. This well-maintained central green space offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for letting kids run around while parents enjoy community events and the charming downtown setting.

Plain Township Aquatic Center is a seasonal outdoor pool complex that offers New Albany residents a perfect summer escape with something for every age. The zero-entry areas make it easy for toddlers and nervous swimmers to wade in gradually, while the water slides provide thrills for older kids, and parents can enjoy lap swimming during designated times.

Market District Supermarket anchors New Albany's charming village center, offering families more than just groceries. The walkable area features family-friendly restaurants, boutique shops, a seasonal farmers market, and regular community events that create a pleasant outing when you need to combine errands with quality family time.

East Main Street in Reynoldsburg offers families a charming small-town downtown experience perfect for leisurely afternoons. Stroll the historic streetscape while popping into locally-owned shops, enjoying ice cream or casual dining, and catching seasonal festivals that bring the community together with live music, activities, and local vendors.

Ugly Tuna Saloona 2 offers a surprisingly family-friendly dining experience in Columbus's campus area with colorful, fun decor that keeps kids entertained. The casual atmosphere means parents can relax while children enjoy a dedicated kids menu and games, making it more than just a typical restaurant outing.

The Clintonville Community Market transforms Saturday mornings into a delightful sensory experience for kids, where they can sample fresh produce, watch local bakers at work, and learn where their food comes from. This welcoming neighborhood farmers market offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for families to stroll, taste seasonal treats, and connect with friendly local vendors who are happy to chat with curious young shoppers.

Sequoia Pro Bowl is a family-friendly bowling center in Columbus that makes the sport accessible and fun for all ages. With kid-friendly features like bumper lanes, lightweight bowling balls, an arcade area, and on-site food options, it's a one-stop destination for several hours of entertainment without needing to venture elsewhere.

The Columbus Museum of Art transforms the traditional museum experience into an interactive adventure perfect for families. With dedicated art-making studios where kids can create their own masterpieces and specially designed children's galleries that encourage touching and exploring, this museum proves that art appreciation can be hands-on and fun for even the youngest visitors.

Columbus Metropolitan Library is a state-of-the-art learning destination that goes far beyond books. With its expansive children's section featuring interactive play areas, hands-on STEM activities, storytimes, and creative programs, this modern library offers endless opportunities for young learners to explore, discover, and grow in a welcoming, free environment.

Topiary Park offers a truly unique outdoor experience where kids can walk through a living recreation of Georges Seurat's famous painting 'A Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grande Jatte.' Children will be delighted to explore among 54 life-sized topiary figures including people, dogs, a monkey, and a cat, all meticulously sculpted from yew plants, making art appreciation interactive and fun for the whole family.

Highlands Park Aquatic Center is Westerville's go-to summer destination for families looking to beat the heat. This well-maintained outdoor water park offers something for every age, from a zero-depth entry pool perfect for toddlers to thrilling waterslides that keep older kids entertained for hours, all at a fraction of the cost of major theme parks.

Clintonville Outfitters is your gateway to easy family paddling adventures on the calm Olentangy River. The knowledgeable staff specializes in helping first-time families get on the water safely, offering kayak and bike rentals along with detailed advice on the best kid-friendly routes and put-in spots along this gentle urban waterway.

Caffe Apropos is a welcoming Clintonville coffeehouse that goes beyond the typical cafe experience by actively embracing families with kids. With a dedicated kid-friendly menu, comfortable indoor seating, and an outdoor patio perfect for letting little ones stretch their legs, it's an ideal spot for a relaxed breakfast, lunch, or afternoon treat when you need a break from the playground circuit.

Alqueria Farmhouse Kitchen brings farm-to-table dining to families in a warm, welcoming atmosphere where kids are genuinely embraced. This New American restaurant offers diverse menu options that please both adventurous young eaters and picky toddlers, with attentive staff who understand the rhythm of dining with children.

Pins Mechanical Co. in Lewis Center offers a unique blend of retro entertainment that appeals to both kids and adults. This spacious venue combines duckpin bowling (smaller balls and pins perfect for little hands), classic arcade games, and outdoor lawn games, creating a nostalgic yet family-friendly atmosphere where everyone can find something fun to do.

The Hilton Columbus Downtown offers families a convenient home base in the heart of the city with a popular indoor pool that's perfect for letting kids burn energy after a day of sightseeing. Located on High Street, this hotel provides easy access to Columbus attractions while offering on-site entertainment options that make downtime just as fun as exploration time.

Overbrook Ravine Park is a peaceful nature escape tucked away in Clintonville that feels worlds away from the city. This hidden gem features scenic wooded trails that wind through ravines and streams, making it perfect for families looking to introduce kids to hiking and nature exploration without venturing too far from Columbus.

The Westerville Public Library is a standout destination for families, earning its impressive 4.8-star rating through exceptional children's programming and hands-on learning spaces. From engaging storytimes for little ones to maker spaces where older kids can explore STEM concepts, this award-winning library system offers far more than just books,it's a community hub designed to spark curiosity and creativity in children of all ages.

The Southern Theatre brings the magic of live performance to Columbus families with its welcoming community theater atmosphere and high-quality, family-friendly productions. Located in a beautifully restored historic building downtown, this venue offers an affordable introduction to theater arts with musicals and shows that captivate children and parents alike, creating memorable cultural experiences without breaking the bank.

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams in Worthington offers families a sweet destination with inventive, high-quality flavors that go beyond typical vanilla and chocolate. Kids will be fascinated by unique options like Wildberry Lavender and Brambleberry Crisp, while parents appreciate the use of whole ingredients and grass-grazed milk. The welcoming atmosphere and generous taste-testing policy make this a fun, low-stress outing where even picky eaters can find something to love.

Hanby Park is Westerville's beloved community hub where families can easily spend a full morning or afternoon. The combination of well-maintained playgrounds, a refreshing splash pad for hot days, and shaded picnic areas makes it a go-to destination for parents seeking quality outdoor time without driving far from the suburbs.

The Book Loft of German Village is a literary wonderland where kids can embark on a treasure hunt through 32 interconnected rooms spanning multiple historic pre-Civil War buildings. With its labyrinth layout, creaky wooden floors, and cozy nooks around every corner, this massive independent bookstore transforms book shopping into an adventure, featuring an extensive children's section that keeps young readers engaged and excited about discovering their next favorite story.

Pistacia Vera is a charming French bakery in German Village where kids can press their noses against the glass case to choose colorful macarons and flaky pastries while parents savor quality coffee and light lunch fare. The bright, welcoming atmosphere and visually stunning treats make this a delightful stop during a neighborhood stroll or as a special treat destination that feels magical for little ones.

The German Village Society's annual June home and garden tour offers families a unique opportunity to explore one of Columbus's most charming historic neighborhoods. Kids can admire stunning brick streets, beautiful period architecture, and lush gardens while learning about 19th-century German heritage in a walkable, stroller-friendly setting that feels like stepping back in time.

Schmidt's Sausage Haus brings German culture to life in a lively, welcoming atmosphere where kids can experience authentic European cuisine in a fun setting. The festive decor, live accordion music on weekends, and famous giant cream puffs make dining here feel like a mini cultural adventure that keeps children entertained while parents enjoy quality German fare.

Katzinger's Delicatessen is a beloved German Village institution where families can enjoy authentic New York-style deli fare in a nostalgic, welcoming atmosphere. The enormous sandwiches are perfect for sharing, and kids love picking out their own pickles from the barrel while soaking in the old-school deli charm that's been delighting Columbus families since 1984.

The Olentangy Trail in Clintonville offers families a beautiful, paved pathway perfect for bikes, scooters, and strollers along the scenic Olentangy River. This multi-use trail winds through charming neighborhoods with plenty of natural scenery, making it ideal for active families who want to enjoy the outdoors without venturing far from the city.

Uptown Westerville offers families a delightful small-town downtown experience where kids can safely explore tree-lined streets filled with ice cream shops, toy stores, and family-friendly eateries. The walkable historic district makes it easy to navigate with strollers and young children, while seasonal festivals and community events throughout the year provide entertainment for all ages.

Shadowbox Live brings dinner theater to life for families with original musical comedies, rock shows, and sketch comedy performances that entertain all ages. This Columbus institution combines live entertainment with a full dining experience, creating an interactive theatrical atmosphere where kids can enjoy professional performances while munching on kid-friendly meals.

ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, home to the Columbus Crew, delivers an electrifying soccer experience perfect for introducing kids to professional sports. With its intimate stadium setting, family-friendly atmosphere, and energetic crowd, even first-time young fans feel swept up in the excitement. Beyond match days, the venue hosts special family events and activities that make soccer accessible and fun for all ages.

The Scioto Mile Fountain is a downtown Columbus gem where kids can splash, play, and explore along the scenic riverfront. This FREE urban park features an interactive fountain that shoots water up to 60 feet in the air, expansive playgrounds, and paved trails perfect for strollers, bikes, and scooters,all with stunning skyline views that make it a favorite for both locals and visitors.

This beloved 23-acre historic park in the heart of German Village offers families a perfect blend of natural beauty and active recreation. Kids can feed the ducks at the scenic pond, burn energy on the playground, run across open green spaces, and enjoy free summer concerts,all within a beautifully maintained setting that feels like stepping back in time.

Selby Park is a well-loved community hub in Powell offering everything families need for a full day of outdoor fun. With multiple playgrounds catering to different age groups, well-maintained baseball fields, scenic walking paths, and covered picnic shelters, it's the perfect spot for active play, birthday parties, or casual family gatherings.

Tucked in the charming brick-paved streets of German Village, Schiller Park Playground offers families a delightful neighborhood play space with modern equipment that keeps kids engaged for hours. The playground's climbing structures and swings attract a friendly community of local families, creating a welcoming atmosphere where children can make new friends while parents enjoy the historic neighborhood's beautiful surroundings.

Apex Jumps Trampoline Park in Westerville is an energetic indoor playground where kids can bounce off the walls,literally! With dedicated toddler areas, foam pits, dodgeball courts, and challenging obstacle courses, this trampoline park offers something for every energy level and age group, making it perfect for burning energy rain or shine.

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams in charming German Village is a must-visit destination for families seeking artisan ice cream with adventurous flavors kids and parents will love. The shop features unique creations made from scratch with local ingredients, offering everything from classic favorites to inventive combinations that turn a simple ice cream stop into a fun tasting adventure.

COSI is Columbus's premier hands-on science museum where kids don't just observe,they experiment, build, and discover. With over 300 interactive exhibits spanning multiple themed learning worlds, plus an immersive planetarium and giant-screen OMNIMAX theater, this award-winning attraction keeps curious minds engaged for hours while parents enjoy learning alongside them.

Graeter's Ice Cream in downtown Westerville is a must-visit destination for families craving truly exceptional ice cream. This beloved local chain serves handcrafted French pot ice cream made in small batches, famous for its incredibly rich, creamy texture and signature giant chocolate chips that kids go wild for. The charming location on State Street makes it perfect for a sweet treat after exploring Westerville's walkable downtown.

Schneider's Bakery is a beloved Westerville institution where families gather for warm donuts, hearty breakfasts, and casual lunches in a welcoming, no-fuss atmosphere. Kids will be mesmerized watching bakers work through the open kitchen while parents enjoy quality scratch-made treats at wallet-friendly prices that won't break the budget.

Turnberry Community Park is a well-loved neighborhood gem in Reynoldsburg that hits all the right notes for families seeking outdoor fun. With modern playground equipment that keeps kids entertained, spacious open fields perfect for impromptu soccer games or flying kites, and scenic walking trails where you can push a stroller or let little ones ride their bikes, it's an ideal spot for burning energy and enjoying fresh air together.

Heritage Park is a Westerville gem that offers something for every family member with its expansive playgrounds, wide-open fields perfect for kite flying or frisbee, and shaded walking trails that wind through peaceful wooded areas. With a stellar 4.6-star rating from local families, this well-maintained neighborhood park provides the perfect backdrop for everything from toddler exploration to family picnics and nature walks.

Bevelhymer Park is a welcoming neighborhood park in New Albany that hits the sweet spot for families with young children. With well-maintained playground equipment, plenty of open grass for running around, and paved walking paths perfect for strollers or learning to ride bikes, it's an ideal spot for a casual morning outing or afternoon picnic without the overwhelming crowds of larger parks.

Alum Creek Trail in Westerville offers families a beautiful, paved pathway perfect for bikes, scooters, strollers, and little legs learning to walk. This scenic multi-use trail winds through natural areas where kids can spot wildlife, explore creekside views, and burn energy in a safe, car-free environment that's accessible for all skill levels.

There appears to be a mismatch in the venue information provided - Body Ache Escape Massage Center is an adult wellness facility specializing in massage therapy and spa services, not a family roller skating rink. This venue is designed for adult relaxation and therapeutic services, making it unsuitable for children's activities or family outings.

The Old Worthington Library is a family favorite that goes far beyond books, offering an extensive children's section designed to inspire young readers. With regular storytimes, engaging summer reading programs, and hands-on educational activities, this welcoming library makes learning fun and provides a perfect indoor destination for families year-round.

Hoff Woods Park offers families a refreshing escape into nature without leaving the neighborhood. This charming wooded park combines the best of both worlds with natural trails perfect for little explorers and playground equipment for active play, making it an ideal spot for kids to burn energy while connecting with the outdoors.

The Westerville Community Center is a fantastic year-round destination that keeps kids active and entertained no matter the weather. With an indoor pool offering swim lessons for all ages, a full gymnasium for pick-up games, and diverse youth programming, this modern facility has become a go-to hub for local families seeking affordable recreational activities.

Boston Stoker Coffee in Grandview Heights is a welcoming neighborhood coffee shop that goes beyond the typical café experience for families. With comfortable seating arrangements that accommodate strollers and wiggly kids, plus kid-friendly treats alongside quality coffee for parents, it's an ideal spot for a relaxed morning outing or afternoon pick-me-up that doesn't require everyone to be on their best behavior.

Graeter's Ice Cream in Pickerington is a beloved local spot where families can indulge in premium handmade ice cream and frozen custard made using a time-honored French Pot process. With a welcoming atmosphere, outdoor seating perfect for warm days, and a candy store section that delights young shoppers, it's an ideal destination for a sweet treat after school, sports games, or weekend outings.

Village Green Park serves as Worthington's charming historic heart, offering families a picturesque open green space perfect for picnics, free play, and community connection. Throughout the year, this quintessential New England-style town square hosts seasonal festivals, outdoor concerts, and family-friendly events that give kids a taste of small-town America right in the Columbus suburbs.

Grace FTC (For the Community) is a comprehensive family recreation center in Pickerington that truly lives up to its 5-star rating. With swimming pools, a full gymnasium, fitness areas, and an impressive lineup of camps, classes, and special events, it's a one-stop destination for active family fun year-round. The welcoming community atmosphere and diverse programming make it easy to find activities that engage kids of all ages.

Grandview Theater and Drafthouse offers a refreshing alternative to big-chain cinemas with its cozy, independent vibe and family-friendly film selections. Parents love that they can enjoy food and drinks delivered right to their seats while kids watch the latest family movies in a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere. The combination of great service, reasonable prices, and community feel makes this a local favorite for family movie nights.

McConnell Arts Center is a welcoming community hub where families can explore creativity together through hands-on art classes, pottery workshops, and rotating gallery exhibitions. Located in charming historic Worthington, this arts center offers structured programs for all ages alongside drop-in opportunities to spark your child's artistic imagination in a supportive, non-intimidating environment.

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams in Grandview Heights is a Columbus treasure where families gather for expertly crafted, inventive ice cream flavors that go beyond the ordinary. With friendly staff who happily offer samples, a welcoming neighborhood vibe, and flavors like Brambleberry Crisp and Brown Butter Almond Brittle alongside kid classics, it's a sweet destination that delights both adventurous young eaters and parents seeking quality ingredients.

McCord Park is a well-loved Worthington neighborhood gem that offers something for everyone in the family. With multiple playgrounds for different age groups, open sports fields perfect for pickup games, tennis courts, and peaceful walking paths, it's an ideal spot for everything from active play to relaxed family picnics under the shelter areas.

Step back in time at this charming 1811 pioneer home where kids can see how Ohio's earliest settlers lived over 200 years ago. The Orange Johnson House Museum brings history to life with authentic period furnishings, hands-on educational tours, and stories of frontier life that help children understand what daily life was like without electricity, running water, or modern conveniences.

Grandview Avenue is a delightful walkable main street that feels like stepping into a classic American small town, making it perfect for a relaxed family outing. Kids will love strolling from shop to shop, stopping for ice cream, and soaking in the friendly neighborhood vibe while parents enjoy the local boutiques and excellent dining options. The pedestrian-friendly atmosphere means little ones can safely explore without navigating busy parking lots or sprawling complexes.

This award-winning neighborhood library is a hidden gem for families in Grandview Heights, offering far more than just books. With its highly-rated children's programs, regular storytimes, and a welcoming dedicated kids' section, it's become a beloved community hub where young readers can explore, learn, and develop a genuine love of reading in a nurturing environment.

Wyman Woods Park is a beloved neighborhood gem in Grandview Heights that offers families a peaceful escape with all the essentials for a great outdoor day. With well-maintained playground equipment, shaded walking paths, and plenty of open green space, it's the perfect spot for active play, family picnics, or simply letting kids run free in a safe, community-focused environment.

Upper Arlington Swim Club is a classic community pool complex that offers something for every swimmer in the family. With dedicated lap lanes for serious swimmers, exciting diving boards and slides for thrill-seekers, and safe shallow areas perfect for little ones just learning to splash, this well-rated facility has been a summer staple for local families looking to beat the Ohio heat.

Worthington Pools offers a classic community pool experience with something for every swimmer in the family. The outdoor complex features diving boards for thrill-seekers, dedicated lap lanes for serious swimmers, and gentle shallow areas perfect for little ones just learning to splash around. Plus, seasonal swimming lessons make it easy to help kids build water confidence and skills throughout the summer.

Harmon Road Park is a well-rounded neighborhood park in Pickerington that offers something for every family member. With its combination of modern playground equipment, sports facilities including basketball courts and baseball fields, and scenic walking paths, it's an ideal spot for families looking to spend active time outdoors without traveling far from home.

Amelita Mirolo Barn is a beloved historic gem in Upper Arlington that brings community charm to family fun. This rustic recreation center offers an impressive variety of youth programs, seasonal camps, and hands-on classes that keep kids engaged year-round, all within a uniquely charming barn setting that feels like stepping back in time.

Northam Park is a well-loved Upper Arlington gem that delivers exactly what families need: modern, safe playground equipment, open grassy spaces perfect for running off energy, and tennis courts for active older kids. With its excellent maintenance and neighborhood-friendly atmosphere, it's the kind of reliable park where kids can climb, swing, and play while parents enjoy the peaceful, well-kept surroundings.

Mallway Park is a charming neighborhood park in Upper Arlington that offers a perfect blend of active play and relaxation for families. With well-maintained playground equipment, basketball courts for older kids, and plenty of shaded spots for parents to relax, it's an ideal destination for casual playdates or afternoon outings without the overwhelming crowds of larger parks.

Kingsdale Shopping Center is a convenient neighborhood destination in Upper Arlington that combines essential shopping with family-friendly dining and treats. While not a typical attraction, it's a perfect spot for a casual family outing that includes grabbing lunch and ending with a sweet reward at the beloved Graeter's Ice Cream, making errands feel like an adventure for little ones.

The Upper Arlington Public Library: Tremont Road Branch is a beloved community hub where families can enjoy an impressive lineup of children's programming throughout the year. From engaging story times for toddlers to creative craft activities for older kids, this highly-rated library provides a welcoming, educational space where children can explore books, participate in hands-on activities, and connect with other families in the Upper Arlington area.