Outdoor Adventures
7 hiking, farms, nature centers, and outdoor adventure spots rated and reviewed by families.
🌳 ParkInniswood 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.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🦁 ZooOlentangy 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.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🧗 AdventureBig 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.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🧗 AdventureClintonville 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.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🧗 AdventureAlum 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.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🧗 AdventureThe 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.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🧗 AdventureHayden Falls offers families a quick nature escape right in Columbus, featuring a beautiful 35-foot waterfall that's just a short walk from the parking area. The easy, paved trail makes this waterfall accessible for strollers and little legs, while the observation deck provides safe viewing for kids to marvel at the cascading water without the challenges of a strenuous hike.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →