Historic Boats & Water Park Fun in Columbus, Ohio
Tips on renting in Columbus
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Columbus, Ohio, is a vibrant city that warmly welcomes families with a wealth of engaging activities. Stroll along the Scioto Mile, a scenic stretch beside the riverfront, where Bicentennial Park invites you to relax while your children delight in the interactive fountain. Nearby, the renowned Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is home to over 10,000 animals from 800 species, promising a day filled with wonder and discovery for all ages.
For families who love the outdoors, the Scioto Greenway Trail offers a picturesque route for biking and walking along the riverbanks, seamlessly connecting to the Olentangy Trail. This 13.6-mile path meanders through lush landscapes, setting the scene for unforgettable family adventures. In autumn, the Circleville Pumpkin Show, celebrated as the Greatest Free Show on Earth, dazzles visitors with giant pumpkins and festive treats, creating cherished seasonal memories.
Make time to visit the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, where themed gardens and stunning glass art installations provide a feast for the senses. Children will be enchanted by animal-shaped topiaries and interactive exhibits in the Children’s Garden. Columbus is a destination where families can find adventure, relaxation, and cultural treasures at every turn, ensuring your visit is both luxurious and memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Columbus has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit the Andrew Jackson Higgins National Memorial in Columbus, Nebraska, arrive anytime between 8 AM and 10 PM, as the site is open daily. This memorial, featuring a full-size steel replica of a Higgins Boat and life-size bronze statues, is set in a serene and well-kept park, making it an ideal stop for history enthusiasts and families alike. The site is free, ADA compliant, and offers ample parking, including spaces for buses and motorcoaches, ensuring a convenient and immersive experience.
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To launch your boat on the Loup River Water Trail near Columbus, Nebraska, start by traveling south of Monroe on 370th Avenue and cross the Loup River Bridge. Take the turn to the east about 1/8th of a mile past the bridge and follow the road to the designated launch site, where signs provide an overview of the water trail. This launch point sets you up for a scenic 6 to 8 hour float down to Columbus, offering stunning views of tree-covered banks, abundant wildlife, and diverse plant species.
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For water skiing enthusiasts near Columbus, Nebraska, Lake North is a prime destination. This circular lake, well-suited for skiing and tubing, operates with counterclockwise boating traffic and offers camping facilities with free electrical hook-ups. Another option is Whitetail Lake, a serene spot nestled between the Platte and Loup Rivers, perfect for boating, skiing, and other water activities amidst a natural wilderness setting.
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The hiking trails in Columbus, Nebraska, are indeed accessible for people with disabilities, offering a range of scenic and well-maintained paths. The 2.4-mile Sunset Trail, which loops around Lake Esther, and the 1.5-mile trail at Lake North Park, are both 8 to 10 feet wide and made of concrete, ensuring a smooth journey for wheelchairs. These trails are open to the public at no charge, making them ideal for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers of all abilities.
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To hike and enjoy scenic views along the Loup River in Columbus, Nebraska, head to Pawnee Park, where the Pawnee Park Trail offers a winding path perfect for walking, jogging, biking, or rollerblading. This trail, part of the Columbus Area Recreational Trails system, is 1.5 miles long and free to use, providing a beautiful route through the park along the river. For additional scenic hiking, consider the Two Lakes Trail, a 2.4-mile concrete pathway that runs along the north side of Lake North and Lake Babcock, offering stunning views and wildlife spotting opportunities.