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Amelita Mirolo Barn event venue in Upper Arlington, OH
Photo: Charles T Madden
View of Amelita Mirolo Barn in Upper Arlington, OH
Photo: Bob Roehm
View of Amelita Mirolo Barn in Upper Arlington, OH
Photo: Bob Roehm

Amelita Mirolo Barn

4.7(163 reviews)$Activity
🕑 1-2 hours for most classes; half-day to full-day for camps👶 Best for ages 4-14. Younger elementary kids thrive in the structured camp programs and creative classes, while tweens enjoy the social aspects of youth activities and special events. Preschoolers can participate in select parent-child programs.

About

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.

Highlights

  • Wide variety of youth enrichment classes from art to STEM activities
  • Popular seasonal day camps with themed activities
  • Charming historic barn atmosphere that makes activities feel special
  • Community events and family celebrations throughout the year
  • Well-organized, professionally-run programs with experienced instructors

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Register early for popular summer camps and classes as they fill up quickly,check the Upper Arlington Parks & Recreation website for seasonal catalogs
  2. 2.Parking is available in the adjacent lot on Carriage Hill Lane; arrive 10 minutes early for classes to find your room and get settled
  3. 3.The barn hosts special family events throughout the year,follow their social media for announcements about seasonal celebrations and open houses
  4. 4.Pack water bottles and snacks for longer programs, though there are no vending machines on-site
  5. 5.The rustic setting means air conditioning may be limited in summer,dress kids in layers and comfortable clothing for activities

Best Time to Visit

Weekday afternoons and Saturday mornings are ideal for enrolled programs and classes. Visit during fall for the cozy barn atmosphere paired with beautiful Ohio foliage, or check the event calendar for family-friendly seasonal celebrations when you can explore the facility casually.

What to Know

Program costs vary by activity,check the Upper Arlington Parks & Recreation registration system for specific class fees and camp pricing. Free parking is available on-site, and the historic barn setting adds character but may have accessibility limitations in certain areas.

Seasonal Notes

Summer camp programs are the biggest draw from June through August. Fall and spring offer the most diverse class schedules. Check for holiday-themed events in October and December. Some programs may be reduced during school breaks.

Nearby Eats

Head to Kingsdale Shopping Center (5 minutes away) for family favorites like Chipotle and Panera Bread, or try The Avenue Steak Tavern for a sit-down meal. Nearby Reed Road also offers quick pizza and sandwich options perfect for post-activity hunger.

More Activities Near Upper Arlington

Park

Tremont Center

Free

Tremont Center is a beloved Upper Arlington community park that offers something for every member of the family. With well-maintained playgrounds, spacious fields for running and sports, and plenty of shaded areas for picnics, it's an ideal spot for both planned outings and spontaneous play dates. The variety of amenities makes it easy to spend a whole afternoon here without anyone getting bored.

Activity

Kingsdale Shopping Center

Free

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.

Park

Fancyburg Park

4.8Free

Fancyburg Park is a beloved Upper Arlington gem that hits the sweet spot for families with young children. This well-maintained neighborhood park features quality playground equipment sized perfectly for little ones, plus generous open green spaces where kids can run freely, play ball games, or enjoy a family picnic without feeling crowded.

Library

Upper Arlington Public Library: Tremont Road Branch

4.7Free

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.