Things To Do With Kids in Westerville, OH

Taylor Farm Park is a family-friendly gem in New Albany featuring an extensive network of beautifully maintained paved trails that wind through gorgeous landscaping. Perfect for teaching kids to ride bikes, pushing strollers, or enjoying a leisurely family walk, the park's smooth, safe paths connect neighborhoods and offer scenic views that make exercise feel like an adventure.

Highbanks Metro Park offers families over 1,200 acres of natural beauty with gentle, well-maintained trails perfect for little legs, a fascinating nature center with hands-on exhibits, and a historic 1850s farm where kids can glimpse pioneer life. The park's diverse habitats mean you might spot deer, woodpeckers, and other wildlife, making every visit an exciting nature adventure right in the Columbus area.

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.

Academy Park is a well-loved Gahanna neighborhood gem that offers everything families need for an active outdoor day. With its combination of modern playground equipment, multiple baseball fields, tennis courts, and expansive grassy areas perfect for running around or spreading out a picnic blanket, this park provides hours of entertainment for kids of all energy levels.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Rose Run Park is a peaceful woodland retreat where families can reconnect with nature through meandering trails, creek exploration, and fishing adventures. This natural gem offers kids the chance to catch tadpoles, skip stones, search for wildlife, and experience the kind of unstructured outdoor play that's increasingly rare in suburban settings.

New Albany Country Club offers member families a premium summer retreat with exceptional pool facilities, competitive swim teams, and tennis programs. With its family-focused amenities and organized summer activities, it's designed to keep kids active and engaged throughout the warmer months while parents enjoy the country club atmosphere.

Graeter's Ice Cream in Gahanna is a beloved destination where families can treat themselves to premium, hand-crafted ice cream made using the traditional French pot process. Kids will be amazed by the generous chocolate chips and rich, creamy flavors, while parents appreciate the quality ingredients and charming atmosphere that makes every visit feel special.

North Road Park is a welcoming neighborhood gem in Lewis Center that delivers all the essentials for a successful family outing. With well-maintained playground structures designed for younger children, plenty of open green space for running and playing, and easy walking paths perfect for strollers or beginner bike riders, this park offers a relaxed atmosphere where parents can actually unwind while kids burn off energy.

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.

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.

Big Walnut Trail offers families a beautiful, paved multi-use path perfect for introducing kids to outdoor adventures in a safe, accessible environment. This scenic trail winds through Gahanna's parks and nature areas, making it ideal for family bike rides, nature walks, scavenger hunts, and spotting local wildlife along the creek. With connections to multiple parks and playgrounds, you can easily turn a simple trail outing into an all-day adventure.

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.

Olentangy Mini Golf is a charming, budget-friendly mini golf course that's become a beloved neighborhood gem in the Delaware area. With 18 well-maintained holes and a relaxed, low-key atmosphere, it's perfect for families looking for classic outdoor fun without the crowds or high prices of larger entertainment complexes. The bonus ice cream shop on-site makes it a complete family outing destination.

Glow Putt LLC offers a triple-threat of family fun under one roof in Gahanna, combining glow-in-the-dark mini golf with classic arcade games and exciting bumper cars. With an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 770 families, this indoor entertainment venue provides the perfect solution for Columbus-area parents looking for activities that engage kids of all ages, rain or shine.

Creekside Plaza serves as Gahanna's vibrant heart, offering families a beautiful blend of natural spaces and recreational amenities. With its interactive fountain perfect for summer play, well-maintained playground equipment, and scenic walking paths through gardens, it's an ideal spot for everything from quick afternoon outings to full-day community event experiences.

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.

Pizzurro's Pizza is a beloved Gahanna institution where families gather for authentic Italian comfort food in a relaxed, welcoming environment. This locally-owned pizzeria has built its reputation on serving up delicious pizza and pasta that both kids and parents genuinely enjoy, without the noise and chaos of larger chain restaurants.

Shale Hollow Park is a hidden gem nature preserve in Delaware that offers families an authentic outdoor experience with kid-friendly hiking trails, creek exploration, and wildlife spotting opportunities. With its well-maintained paths and accessible creek areas, this scenic park provides the perfect setting for hands-on nature learning and adventure that keeps children engaged for hours.

Village Green Park is the heart of Powell's downtown, offering families a perfect blend of play and community charm. This well-maintained park features quality playground equipment set in a picturesque setting, complete with a classic gazebo and scenic walking paths that make it ideal for both active play and leisurely family strolls. The park's seasonal concerts and community events add extra magic, transforming a simple park visit into a memorable family outing.

Alum Creek State Park Campground Beach offers families a classic lake beach experience just minutes from Delaware's city center. With its sandy shores perfect for castle-building, designated swimming area, and spacious picnic spots overlooking the water, it's an ideal destination for a full day of outdoor fun without the long drive to the coast.

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.

Friendship Park is a sprawling community gem in Gahanna that delivers everything active families need for a full day of outdoor fun. With its extensive modern playground equipment, scenic walking trails perfect for stroller walks or family bike rides, and wide-open green spaces ideal for picnics and play, this park consistently earns rave reviews from local parents who appreciate its well-maintained facilities and variety of activities.

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.

Olentangy Caverns offers a unique underground adventure that combines education with entertainment. Kids will be mesmerized exploring the cool limestone caves on guided tours while learning about geology and Native American history, then can enjoy above-ground fun with mini-golf and hands-on gem mining activities that let them take home their discoveries.

Powell Pool is a modern recreation center that's a one-stop destination for active families in the Powell area. With dedicated family swim times, open basketball courts, and a variety of fitness and recreational programs, this facility keeps kids of all ages entertained while parents can join in the fun or squeeze in their own workout.

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.

Graeter's Ice Cream in Powell is a Cincinnati institution that's been delighting families for generations with their signature French pot ice cream process that creates incredibly creamy scoops packed with massive chocolate chips. Kids will be amazed at the size of the chocolate chunks (some as big as their thumbs!), while parents appreciate the old-fashioned quality and reasonable prices that make this a sweet treat the whole family can enjoy.

Flyers Pizza & Subs in Lewis Center is a neighborhood favorite where families can relax and enjoy classic comfort food without breaking the bank. With a menu featuring pizzas, subs, and American favorites, there's something to satisfy even the pickiest eaters, and the welcoming atmosphere means parents don't have to stress about little ones being a bit noisy.

Geroux Herb Gardens at Creekside offers a delightful sensory experience for families, with themed garden beds bursting with fragrant herbs that kids can smell and learn about. The educational signage makes it easy to turn a peaceful stroll into an interactive nature lesson, while the beautiful landscaping provides a calming backdrop perfect for young explorers to discover different plants and insects.

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.

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.

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams brings Columbus's beloved artisan ice cream brand to the airport, making it a perfect treat stop for traveling families or locals exploring the area. Kids will be amazed by the creative, colorful flavors like Wildberry Lavender and Brambleberry Crisp, while parents appreciate the quality ingredients and unique taste combinations that go beyond typical ice cream shops.

Liberty Park is a beloved Powell neighborhood gem that delivers all the essentials for a fantastic family outing. With well-maintained playground structures that cater to multiple age groups, shaded walking trails perfect for stroller walks, and plenty of open green space for running around, this park consistently earns high marks from local families who appreciate its clean facilities and welcoming atmosphere.

Thompson Park is a beloved Upper Arlington gem that draws families year-round with its well-maintained playgrounds, scenic walking paths, and ample green space for active play. With a stellar 4.6-star rating from nearly 650 reviews, this community park offers the perfect blend of structured play areas and open fields where kids can run, explore, and burn off energy while parents enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Tanger Outlets Columbus offers families a climate-controlled shopping experience perfect for rainy days or hot Ohio summers. With over 70 brand-name stores offering kids' clothing, shoes, toys, and sporting goods at outlet prices, parents can outfit growing children without breaking the bank while keeping everyone comfortable indoors.

True Spec Golf in Dublin offers a fantastic combination of activities that keep kids of all ages entertained while introducing them to sports in a low-pressure environment. With mini golf, a driving range, batting cages, and arcade games all under one roof, families can easily spend hours rotating through different activities, making it perfect for both budding athletes and kids who just want to have fun.

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.

Reed Road Park is a family favorite in Upper Arlington, offering something for everyone with its diverse mix of playgrounds, walking trails, sports fields, and natural wooded areas. The expansive grounds give kids plenty of room to run, explore nature, and burn off energy while parents can enjoy the well-maintained facilities and scenic walking paths.

The Dublin Branch of Columbus Metropolitan Library offers families a modern, welcoming space that goes far beyond books. With an extensive children's section featuring regular storytimes, hands-on craft programs, and cutting-edge technology resources, this highly-rated library serves as both an educational hub and an entertaining destination for kids of all ages.