26 Best & Fun Things to Do in Columbus (Indiana)

Looking for the best and fun things to do in Columbus, Indiana?

The city of Columbus has many fun attractions that will make you want to stay. It is the country seat of Bartholomew Country, Indiana, United States.

Known to be the 20th largest city in Indiana, Columbus has a unique place for noted modern architecture and public art, commissioning numerous works since the mid-20th century.

Columbus is a place anyone would love to visit as it boast lots of fun activities with the many attractions featured in this city. Columbus, Indiana, is primarily known for its unique and excellent architectural designs.

This small city has gotten so much attention because of its various exploits in different areas. You wouldn’t just have fun, but learn many things while in the area. Here are the best fun things to do in Columbus, Indiana.

Things to Do in Columbus, Indiana

1. Explore Downtown Columbus Arts

Columbus is truly a beautiful place adorned with many architectural works, most of which can be seen within a few blocks of Downtown Columbus.

There are so many artworks and architectural works displayed within a few blocks.

Most visitors come only for pictures; some come to learn about architecture. Downtown Columbus is one of the best places to learn a lot about architecture.

During your trip, explore downtown Columbus, Indiana, to have a view of some breathtaking artworks it holds, this can make for a day exploration.

Do not miss out on this Columbus IN attractions, makes what to do in Columbus, Indiana for a fun time.

2. Zaharakos Ice Cream Parlour

Most times, all we need is a treat to brighten us up, and Zaharakos ice cream parlour is a perfect place to visit if that be your intention.

After you have toured around Columbus and you’re exhausted, you might need to stop here to take ice cream.

If you are visiting this place with your children, get ready to win the best parent award because they will never forget this treat in a long while.

Zaharakos ice cream parlour is also a good place for family bonding, and it is one of the many attractions in Columbus that will make you want to stay longer than you planned.

Address: 329 Washington Street, Columbus.

3. Kids Common

If you are visiting with your children and looking for a safe and best way to have fun, Columbus got you covered at Kids Common.

Kids Common has three floors of hands-on, interactive exhibits which are suitable for both kids and teenagers alike.

Guest create a masterpiece at the Kids common, and the beautiful part is that they learn other cultures while at it.

This is also a learning place for children because it teaches them about housing and another interesting feature is that children are allowed to create their drawings at the Art Studio.

Most children use this attraction to develop their thinking ability because of the task involved that they do at the Kids Art Studio.

This place is also available for rent, for events like birthday parties, special programs for schools, etc.

This is an interesting place for the kids, and it is worth adding to your list of places to visit in Columbus.

Address: 309 Washington St, Columbus, IN 47201

4. The Miller House and Garden

One of the best things to do in Columbus for architectural lovers is visiting the Miller House and Garden, and it is worth adding to your checklist.

Miller House and Garden showcase all the beautiful architectural works done by some prominent people in this field.

Some of the people who made this incredible work include; Dan Kiley, Kevin Roche, and many more.

This is one of the places you should consider as places to go, especially if you are visiting Columbus for the first time.

Miller House and Garden are also open to visitors, though, with a fee attached.

Most visitors don’t miss the opportunity to go here; this is also a trendy place because of the beauty it boasts due to the architectural works.

Address: 506 5th St, Columbus, IN 47201, United States

5. Atterbury- Bakalar Air Museum

If you are a history lover, a visit to Atterbury- Bakalar Air Museum is definitely worth adding to your list of places to visit in Columbus, Indiana.

Atterbury- Bakalar Air Museum helps you appreciate all the fallen heroes. This attraction brings to life the memory of all the civilian and military personnel who died during the civil wars fighting for the cause of the land.

Atterbury- Bakalar Air Museum also serves to remind people of those who died and their good works. Admission is into this museum is free.

If you want to know more about the cultures of Columbus, Indiana, add this place to your list of things to do while in the city.

Address: 4742 Ray Boll Blvd, Columbus, IN 47203, United States

6. Mill Race Park

Are you a lover of nature? If yes, add a visit to Mill Race Park, to your list of things to do in Columbus, Indiana.

Mill Race Park is an excellent way to connect with nature because it is located where the Driftwood River and the Flat Rock River converge in the downtown area of Columbus.

This is a place to be, especially if you come with your friends and family. You can also visit with books; the calmness of this place will make reading more interesting.

Some people ride their bicycles in the area as a way of pleasure, and there is also a basketball court and playground for children.

If you love fishing, this is the perfect place to visit because you will meet other visitors with like passion.

Additionally, Mill Race Park serves as host to several festivals and events.

Mill Race Park is a place to be; you should add it to the places you want to visit at Columbus, Indiana.

Address: 50 Carl Miske Drive, Columbus, IN 47201, United States

7. Architectural Tour

If you are into architecture, taking an architectural tour around the city should be added to your list of things to do in Columbus.

This is one of the notable things in this city, and this feature attracts several architectural lovers from different parts of the world.

Most people come here to study the buildings because of Columbus’s sound architecture.

Columbus, Indiana, is ranked 6th in the American Institute of Architects in the nation for architectural innovation.

One of the exciting parts of this tour is that the tour starts with a film in the center which gives an overview of the city and its history, making it easy for you to understand the architectural works the city boast.

The unique nature of the architecture in Columbus has made it to get regularly featured in national and international publications.

People who are not lovers of architecture fall in love with the architecture works because it is a beautiful sight to behold.

Feel free to come along with a camera while visiting because you might find it needful to take some pictures of the beautiful sights of architecture.

8. Bartholomew Country Library

Columbus, Indiana, doesn’t just give fun alone; it has a way of educating its visitors through attractions like Bartholomew County Library.

Most tourists visit Bartholomew Country Library and are amazed at the collection of books it has to offer.

This library offers not just books but other sources of information in CDs format, Computer services and many more.

If you are a bookworm, Bartholomew Country Library is the perfect place to visit, and it should be added to your bucket list of unique things to do in Columbus.

Address: 536 5th St, Columbus, IN 47201, United States

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9. Columbus Bar

For wine connoisseurs, a visit to Columbus Bar is definitely worth adding to your checklist of places to visit in Columbus, Indiana

This is the oldest operating bar in the city of Columbus, Indiana. It doesn’t just offer drinks alone; it also provides food for visitors.

A mixture of drinks and history, Columbus bar should be on your list if you want a beer. This was also the first brewpub after the civil war.

Address: 322 4th St, Columbus, IN 47201, United States

10. Arni’s Columbus

If you are looking for an excellent place to eat after the stress of the day or in between a stressful day, then a visit to Arni’s should be added to your list of Columbus attractions.

Arni’s Columbus has a variety of delicious dishes on the restaurants’ menu that are able to satisfy your craving.

Many people who visit Arni’s give quite some positive reviews because of the premium satisfaction they get from the restaurant.

Arni’s Columbus is a perfect place to visit if you are looking for where to stop by to grab breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Do add eating at this restaurant to your checklist of things to do in Columbus for a memorable dining experience.

Address: 2765 Brentwood Dr, Columbus IN, 47203, United States

11. The Crump Theatre

For some theatre time, add a visit to the Crump Theatre to your list of things to do in Columbus.

This is one place that you wouldn’t regret if you do visit, as it is one of the most exciting places in Columbus, Indiana.

The performances hosted here would make you fall more in love with Columbus, Indiana.

The entertainment received from The Crump theatre is definitely worth the hype.

Drama performances are inclusive too by some prominent performers. This theatre has its history too, as it has been in existence for a long time.

If you are visiting Columbus with your family or friends, this is an excellent place to stop by as it creates an opportunity a bonding time with the family.

A visit to the Crump Theatre is definitely worth adding to your list of places to visit in Columbus, Indiana, if you have an interest in performing arts.

Address: 425 3rd St, Columbus, IN 47201, United States

12. First Baptist Church

First Baptist Church is a worship center for Christians and also a historical center for tourists and locals.

Known for its history, this church is the first Baptist church ever existed in Columbus, Indiana.

If you are a Christian who visited Columbus, Indiana, and are looking to worship, this is an excellent place to consider.

Architectural lovers are also advised to stop by this attraction, as it has a beautiful architectural design built with red brick, and this is one of the reasons tourists find it so fascinating.

Do well to add a visit to this church to your checklist of things to do in Columbus before leaving the city.

Address: 3300 Fairlawn Dr, Columbus, IN 47203, United States

13. Columbus Indiana Philharmonic

If you have an interest in music, do add a visit to Columbus Indiana Philharmonic to your list of things to do in Columbus.

The orchestra at Columbus also hosts various artists to perform in various events, and this has helped the city to come alive in terms of music.

Columbus Indiana Philharmonic have also helped to teach schools musical programs.

Most interested students use this as an opportunity to develop their music skills and take their music career to the next level. The Columbus Indiana Philharmonic has won quite a number of awards in Orchestra.

You will appreciate the culture of Columbus more if you attend any of Columbus Indiana Philharmonic Orchestra.

Address: 315 Franklin St, Columbus, IN 47201, United States

14. North Christian Church

This is not just a worship center for Christians in Columbus, Indiana; it is also a National Historic Monument beautifully designed by Eero Saarinen.

There are two major reasons people come to this attraction, one of which is to pray and worship, especially Christians.

While the other is to take a tour around the building as it is also one of the Architectural tour’s highlights.

If you are visiting the city for the first time, this should be a place you should include in your bucket list of Columbus attractions to visit.

Address: 850 Tipton Ln, Columbus, IN 47201, United States

15. The Inn at Irwin Gardens

One of the beautiful things about Columbus is that it creates an opportunity for visitors to easily connect to nature.

The Inn at Irwin Gardens is one of the most beautiful gardens in Columbus, Indiana, which also features beautiful architectural works.

This is such a beautiful sight to behold; the exciting part is that it was built as far back as 1910.

The environment of this inn is so beautiful and quiet, which makes a perfect option for a picnic in the garden.

Though this place was built long ago, it is still excellent and well kept.

A visit to this wonderful attraction is definitely worth being on the checklist of things to do in Columbus for nature lovers.

Address: 608 5th street Columbus, Indiana 47201, United States

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16. Blue’s Canoes

Blue’s canoes is an outdoor recreational center with lots of fun to offer, and it is worth adding to your list of things to do in Columbus, Indiana.

Just as the name implies, they provide canoes to tourists and locals in Columbus so they can comfortably explore the waters of the city.

Most people come here for camping. This is one of the best ways to bond with families or friends.

Blue’s Canoes is also perfect for visitors who wish to go fishing as it boasts aquatic animals like beaver, great blue heron, osprey, wild turkey and excellent smallmouth bass.

This attraction also has shelters for overnight camping and picnics for visitors who will wish to spend time with their friends or family.

Visiting this recreational center is one of the top things to do in Columbus if you are in the city with the family.

17. Columbus Bowling Center

Columbus, Indiana, boasts many fun activities that will excite its visitors, one of which is bowling at the Columbus Bowling Center.

After you have walked around in the town and looked for a relaxing spot, you need to visit the bowling center with your friends or family.

Columbus Bowling Center features different league that fits everyone, irrespective of how they play.

Are you asking what to do in Columbus, Indiana? This serves as a relaxation spot and a place to make new friends

Address: 3010 State Street, United States

18. Anderson Falls

For some outdoor time, add a visit to Anderson Falls to your list of things to do in Columbus.

Anderson falls a forty-four-acre park located nine miles east of Columbus, which boast a beautiful view.

This waterfall is one of the most beautiful things to behold while in Columbus. If you come with your camera, get ready to take lots of amazing pictures while in the area.

This is also a good place for bonding between families. The memories you will have here will be such you will never forget.

Anderson Fall is a beautiful attraction worth visiting before leaving the city of Columbus, Indiana.

Address: 3201, 3699 N 1140 County Rd E, Hartsville, IN 47244, United States

19. Ceraland Park

For some outdoor time, add a visit to Ceraland Park to your checklist of things to do in Columbus, IN.

Ceraland Park is a 345-acre Camping Destination in Columbus, which has a lot to offer its visitors.

Among the many features of this park includes 325-stoned campsites with water, 3 bathhouses, 6 cabins, 50-amp electric hookups and WiFi throughout, a laundry facility and other wonderful camping facilities.

Other features of the park include an outdoor aquatic center, playgrounds, miniature golf, disc golf, horseshoe pits, outdoor amphitheatre, indoor fitness center and lots more.

If you are in the city and wish to go for camping, Ceraland park is one of the best options to add to your bucket list of things to do in Columbus.

Address: 3989 S 525 E, Columbus, Indiana

20. Columbus Rock Gym

Are you looking for a place to keep fit and build your body? If yes, add a visit to Columbus Rock Gym to your list of things to do in Columbus, Indiana.

Columbus Rock Gym is popular bouldering and rock climbing gym house in Columbus, which offers visitors the opportunity to climb over the padded floor with no rope required.

Columbus Rock Gym has climbing routes for both new and experienced climbers, which makes it suitable for anyone who wishes to keep fit.

This fitness attraction has gotten lots of positive reviews from visitors due to the environment and customer service.

Address: 1551 Cottage Avenue

21. David Zinn Art Work

If you are an art lover, add viewing the Davin Zinn Art Work to your list of things to do in Fort Columbus.

David Zinn will give you all the exciting things you want through the arts. He created a street art illustration.

The fun part is that all the paintings are scattered downtown; the image includes a bright green monster, the flying pig, etc.

Searching for these paintings while walking downtown can be fun, and children find it very exciting and entertaining because most of the drawings are cartoon characters.

David Zinn has been creating artworks since 1987; he has contributed greatly to making Columbus, Indiana, what it is today, as most of his artworks are scattered across the city.

David Zinn has also created artworks for commercial clients, even clients who don’t reside in Columbus, Indiana.

He has done paintings both in small and large sizes. David Zinn’s artwork is where you should see and participate in finding the characters he has drawn downtown.

22. Touch the Earth Natural Area

If you are a lover of nature, do add a visit to Touch the Earth Natural Area to your checklist of things to do in Columbus.

Touch the Earth Natural Area is a protected natural area that helps protect, retain and protect the wildlife in Columbus.

Some people come here to enjoy the view while others come here to have a quiet time. There are also around that include privet, autumn olive, etc.

You wouldn’t get tired of walking down Touch the Earth Natural Area because it has so many things that will make you want to keep looking and learning.

You can study the plants and forestry in general while in these beautiful attractions and also indulge in interesting activities like bird watching.

Touch the Earth Natural Area is a perfect place to can relax, and it also boasts several hiking options.

23. Utopia Wildlife

If you have an interest in animals, do add a visit to Utopia wildlife to your checklist of things to do in Columbus, Indiana.

Utopia wildlife is a rehabilitation place for wildlife that provides expert veterinary care for injured or sick animals.

Some of the animals that can be found in this wildlife center include reptiles, birds, and more.

This is also an excellent way to connect with nature through animals and also learn a lot about wildlife. Utopia wildlife is open to the public only during the first Saturday education events.

24. Escape 812

Anyone looking for an exciting and engaging experience should go to the facility because it is made to challenge and excite guests.

Visitors figure out puzzles, interpret hints, and cooperate to escape the concept-oriented escape rooms.

The facility provides several rooms, each with its plot and set of difficulties. There is an escape room for everyone, whether you have beaten many escape rooms or you are a novice.

The rooms are expertly created to engross tourists entirely in the plot, creating an exciting and captivating experience. Every element of the rooms is meticulously designed to improve the overall experience, from the challenging puzzles to the mood-enhancing lighting and music effects.

Visitors are assured of an unforgettable and exciting experience thanks to the variety of themed rooms and the emphasis on detail in their design.

Therefore, Escape 812 is the ideal location if you seek a fun exercise for your coworkers or a fun experience with loved ones

Address: 331 Franklin St A, Columbus, IN 47201, United States

25. Putt- Putt Fun Center

Putt-Putt Fun Center is a family-friendly amusement complex that provides a range of activities ideal for families, individuals, and people visiting as a group, seeking a fun day out.

The mini-golf courses at the Putt-Putt Fun Center are one of its main attractions. Both golf courses are exquisitely made and provide players of all abilities with a stimulating and enjoyable experience.

The facility also provides thrilling go-kart excursions for thrill-seekers. The go-kart course is well-kept, and the karts are quick and safe. The Putt-Putt’s entertaining features include batting cages, bumper boats, an arcade, and a refreshment bar.

Spending the day at the Putt-Putt Fun Center is among the best things to do in Columbus, IN, with family and friends. With its many options, guests can spend several hours taking advantage of everything the facility offers.

The Center also has reasonable prices and year-round promotions, making it a viable choice if you are on a tight budget.

Address: 1080 N Marr Rd, Columbus, IN 47201, United States

26. Touch the Earth Natural Area

The habitat, which covers 98 acres, is home to various plants and animals, including unique species heading toward extinction.

This reserve allows tourists to get back in touch with nature and retreat peacefully from the city’s rowdiness. The region’s breathtaking backdrop is a photographer’s fantasy come true, with everything from lush green pastures to imposing red rock formations.

Nature walks, birdwatching, and hiking are all enjoyable activities for visitors who want to experience the natural grandeur of the area. It’s an excellent location for family and friends to spend time together or lone visitors seeking a peaceful retreat.

Aside from its beauty, Touch the Earth’s Natural Area is a center for instruction and conservation. The region has numerous conservation initiatives to safeguard vulnerable species and maintain the environment.

Touch the Earth Natural Area is a must-go location for anyone who appreciates nature and wishes to experience its grandeur and support the conservation programs.

Address: N Country Club Rd, Columbus, IN 47201, United States

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Plan your trip to Columbus

Columbus is a beautiful city and a wonderful vacation destination with a lot to offer tourists.

These city boast lots of interesting attractions which cuts across various disciplines ranging from architecture to entertainment, history, recreation, arts, camping and lots more.

Start planning your trip, a checklist of things to do is a perfect way to begin. Do pin this article as a guide to easily fall back to while compiling your list of things to do in Columbus, Indiana.