This article collects the best date ideas and romantic things to do in Columbus for couples based on significant travel, blogs, reviews, and social media sites.
Columbus has plenty to offer if you’re looking for romantic activities. The city’s top attractions and date ideas for couples are included below. These events are open to everyone, from exquisite dining to the city’s sights.
Imagine surprising your loved one with a last-minute trip to Columbus?
Imagine what it was like when you two first met.
Bring those emotions to the forefront as you read this article.
Here are 30+ romantic things to do in Columbus with your partner.
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Table of Contents
Outdoor / Adventurous Date Ideas in Columbus To Have Fun
Snuggle up at an outdoor movie
- Cost: $0 – $10 (Ticket)
- Location: 3050 S High St, Columbus, OH 43207, United States
- Phone: +1 614-491-6771
“I had a really large Coke, popcorn, and a draft beer from the area. The visual and sound quality in the theater were excellent. Overall, a wonderful experience” -Susan
How about a movie under the stars? Sounds cool, yeah!
Numerous outdoor movies are broadcast throughout Columbus from May through September. You have to spend on the ticket.
Animation flicks and box office successes are all represented.
Free summer movie screenings are available in Easton.
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Take the fresh air on the Olentangy River Water Trail
- Cost: Free
- Location: 1121 Circle on the Green, Columbus, OH 43235, United States
- Phone: N/A
“This location, which is in the heart of Columbus, is wonderful. I ride my bike to work and immediately thereafter hit the trails in the city. Easily accessible and with a lovely landscape. I frequently get together with friends at the Boat House Dining Room.” -Joseph
Columbus invites you to stroll along a beautiful path. Use a bicycle or walk.
The path travels through Whetstone Park from Antrim Park on Columbus’ northwest side to the city’s core.
You’ll be surrounded by greenery, birdsong, and fresh air; this shared activity will give you the energy and determination to keep moving.
Revive yourself at The Scioto Mile & Genoa Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 303 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215, United State
- Phone: N/A
“It was enjoyable to stroll alongside the river and enjoy the scenery. I had to go around some construction, so I took a different route. Both the north and south ends that led to Audobon Park were enjoyable.” -Jessica
Direct your attention to The Scioto Mile in downtown Cincinnati for a stunning panoramic evening stroll.
You can park close to Genoa Park (in front of COSI) and stroll around the park to the north, stopping to sit on the illuminated steps and take in the cityscape of Columbus.
From there, go over the Broad Street bridge and take a stroll along Civic Center Drive along the Scioto promenade. In the arcade, there are swings and fountains.
Finally, you can return by crossing Main Street on the magnificently arched bridge.
Enjoy the sounds of water at Bicentennial Park
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- Cost: Free
- Location: 233 S Civic Center Dr, Columbus, OH 43215, United States
- Phone: +1 614-645-3800
“A terrific location to unwind, put your feet up, and hang out with friends is here. There is parking nearby as well as a restaurant. The views are magnificent!” -Thomas
Bicentennial Park is located near the Main Street bridge in the downtown Scioto Mile neighborhood.
Beautiful fountains in the park light up at night and provide hours of entertainment. It’s a romantic place for romance.
You will appreciate sitting near the fountains and listening to the sound of the water when the sun sets down and the city becomes quiet.
Additionally, you may take in the scenery from the Milestone 229 restaurant, which is close to the park.
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Stretch your legs around the breathtaking Green Mile
- Cost: Free
- Location: 202 E Northwood Ave, Columbus, OH, 43201, United States
- Phone: N/A
The Scioto Mile is a walkway connecting several parks along the Scioto River. Stroll along it.
In the summer, The Mile is packed with free concerts and festivals. Admire the millions of lights illuminating the trees, arbors, and bridges in December.
Challenge yourself at the climbing wall at Scioto Audubon Metro Park by dressing comfortably.
Take a backpacking trip through Scioto Grove Metro Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 172 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH 43123, United States
- Phone: +1 614-949-1078
“There are numerous wonderful walking trails, a canoe launch, and gathering shelters. Don your walking shoes and take use of the paths. There are numerous places to go bird watching in this area, so binoculars could also be a good idea.” -Charles
Take a short backpacking trip through Scioto Grove Metro Park if you enjoy being outdoors.
There are many hiking trails in Scioto Grove.
Even overnight camping is possible.
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Collect some fresh fruits at Lynd Fruit Farm
- Cost: Free Visit
- Location: 9399 Morse Rd SW, Pataskala, OH 43062, United States
- Phone: +1 740-927-8559
“Every time we visit, it’s beautiful. All our hopes were surpassed by the apple cannons. We were unaware that apples that have fallen to the ground cannot legally be sold to the general public for eating. The canons are a fascinating way to employ this overabundance of materials.” -Karen
How about picking your favorite fruits with your own hands?
You can select your apples, peaches, strawberries, pumpkins, and other seasonal fruits and vegetables at Lynd Fruit Farm.
Lynd provides U-pick tournaments all year long.
Music, Art, Historic, Educational, Cultural Date Ideas in Columbus
Imagine a parallel life for yourself in the German Village
- Free
- Location: 588 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215, United States
- Phone: +1 (614) 221-8888
“We adored exploring the German village so much! from the red brick pathways to the lovely residences with amazing character. Going in the fall is ideal since almost every home has been adorned for Halloween or with mums and pumpkins.!” -Christopher
The German Village, a 233-acre (94 ha) historic district, lies south of downtown Columbus.
It is a pleasant place to shop, dine or stroll while admiring the picturesque brick buildings and cobbled streets.
There are many conventional fiction novels, art galleries, German pubs, sweets, and loads of fine coffee to be found.
Spend the day exploring, taking pictures, and creating a fantasy life for yourself. You never know—you might find love here and now.
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Delight your senses at the Ohio Theater
- Cost: $37 – $1500 (Ticket)
- Location: 39 E State St, Columbus, OH 43215, United States
- Phone: +1 614-469-0939
“I recently saw a performance of Hamilton in this lovely venue. The elaborate details on the walls and ceiling of the structure are stunning and absolutely gorgeous! Ohio Theater is very impressive!” -Lisa
Get tickets to an Ohio Theater performance of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra for a memorable evening.
Your senses will be delighted by classical music, and the theater will amaze you. You have to spend on the ticket.
For a truly romantic encounter, treat yourself to a bottle of champagne during intermission and explore all the stunning floors of the theater.
Feel the vibes of live music at Goodale Park Music Series
- Cost: Free
- Location: 120 W Goodale St, Columbus, OH 43215, United States
- Phone: +1 614-645-3300
“We strolled into the park and around it to see the impressive brick homes that were nearby. The park has many benches and is well-kept, lush, and colorful. A lake with ducks and a five-tiered fountain with two elephants spouting water may be found there.” -Daniel
Perhaps your preferred method of romance is lounging in the grass while taking in some free live music.
Then attend one of the six yearly performances held as part of the Goodale Music Series at the gazebo in Goodale Park.
You are free to bring blankets or chairs to sit on. Additionally, food trucks are frequently seen.
Get artsy at the Columbus Museum of Art
- Cost: $6 – $14 (Ticket)
- Location: 480 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215, United States
- Phone: +1 614-221-6801
“Excellent tapestry display. From Fort Wayne, we made the entire drive. It was worth it. Also fantastic is the restaurant. fantastic cuisine and service” -Nancy
The Columbus Museum of Art is an art museum in downtown Columbus, Ohio.
It was the first art gallery to receive a charter from the state of Ohio. It was founded in 1878 as the Columbus Gallery of Fine Arts. You have to pay for the ticket but Sunday is free.
Inspire your creativity with a visit to the Columbus Museum of Art for special exhibitions, events, and the JPMorgan Chase Center for Creativity.
Revive your hipster vibes at Franklinton Fridays
- Cost: Free
- Location: 421 W State St, Columbus, OH 43215-4008, United States
- Phone: +1 614-321-5316
Franklinton invites you to explore the finest local cuisine, entertainment, art, and more every second Friday of the month.
This art crawl is free and open to the public and is hosted by galleries and other establishments in Franklinton.
Check out Columbus’ ancient earthworks
- Cost: $0 – $10 (Ticket)
- Location: 3141 McKinley Ave, Columbus, OH 43204, United States
- Phone: +1 800-840-6127
Did you know that several prehistoric tribes once called Ohio home?
You can go to Shrum Mound for free right here in Columbus.
A prehistoric burial mound may not be the “ideal date,” but it’s a terrific spot to experience Ohio’s history and discover who lived here before us.
Taste the local culture at the Columbus Arts Festival
- Cost: Free
- Location: 182 E Long St, Columbus, OH 43215, United States
- Phone: +1 614-224-2606
You may reconnect with your favorite musicians, chefs, and artists at the Columbus Art Festival.
More than 200 visual artists, three entertainment stages, and dozens of food vendors will all be present during the festival.
The Columbus Arts Festival, organized by staff with over 80 year-round volunteers and hundreds of weekend volunteers, draws premier artists from throughout the country and art fans.
Travel back in time at the Kelton House Museum & Garden
- Cost: $0 – $7 (Ticket)
- Location: 586 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215, United States
- Phone: +1 614-464-2022
Turn back into history at the Kelton House Museum & Garden.
Turn back into history at the Kelton House Museum & Garden. Tuning in is a brilliant idea if you want to understand more about the past.
You can study more specifically about city life in the 19th century. You have to purchase the ticket.
Additionally, this location is fantastic because you can learn about the art of that era there!
Furthermore, it’s fascinating to see the old house from the inside.
Indoor / Relaxing / Foodies Date Ideas in Columbus
Treat your taste buds at Wine on High
- Cost: $4 – $12(Drinks)
- Location: 789 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215, United States
- Phone: +1 614-294-8466
Wine on High is undoubtedly the right place for a romantic evening if you enjoy wine (what are the chances, right? ).
Wine on High is a wine store with endless shelves of wines at various price points, strongly focusing on wine tasting. You have to spend on drinks.
You can sample wines and handcrafted drinks at the shop along with a cheese or charcuterie plate. Your palate will adore it.
Excite your sweet tooth at Anthony-Thomas Candy Shoppes
- Cost: $16 – $62 (Chocolate)
- Location: 1777 Arlingate Ln, Columbus, OH 43228, United States
- Phone: +1 614-274-8405
Take it above and beyond the usual box of chocolates with a trip to Anthony-Thomas Candy Shoppes.
As you visit the 152,000-square-foot candy factory, discover the trade tricks. Afterward, go to the retail area and purchase a box containing a dozen chocolate roses.
If you want to make it all out, get 100 chocolate bars in advance with personalized wrappers that express your devotion.
Want to make things more romantic? Visit Chocolate Cafe for chocolate fondue, dark hot chocolate, and savory soups or sandwiches for a double dose of confections.
Eat with a waterfront view of downtown at The BoatHouse at Confluence Park
- Cost: $10 – $70 (Meal)
- Location: 679 W Spring St, Columbus, OH 43215, United States
- Phone: +1 614-469-0000
The restaurant is located at the confluence of the Scioto and Olentangy rivers.
From 4:00 to 5:30 p.m., savor a three-course prix fixe meal that includes prime rib, cedar-planked fish, and chicken with a Parmesan crust. You have to spend on meals.
Dine in front of floor-to-ceiling windows or on the patio as you watch the light fade.
Confluence Park’s Lower Scioto Greenway Trail is a pleasant place to stroll while admiring sunset reflections on the lake as you cross a pedestrian bridge.
Get a drink and enjoy the view at Vaso
- Cost: $12 – $30 (Drink)
- Location: 6540 Riverside Dr, Dublin, OH 43017, United States
- Phone: +1 614-698-2525
Vaso is a fantastic rooftop lounge where you can enjoy a picturesque view on your date night.
It is incredibly romantic to see this scenery, especially around sunset.
Additionally, this location is fantastic if you want to unwind with a drink. You have to spend on drinks.
Furthermore, you’ll enjoy the excellent Spanish tapas that are served there.
Cozy up over a cup of Coffee at Bottoms Up Coffee
- Cost: $10 – $30 (Coffee)
- Location: 1069 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43222, United States
- Phone: +1 614-662-2212
Bottoms Up Coffee offers a comfortable but distinctive craft coffee experience.
This Coffee shop is situated in the center of Franklinton in a renovated 100-year-old structure. You have to spend on coffee.
Your customized Coffee service is their top priority!
They are sure to offer you the cozy feeling that only a delicious cup of Coffee can produce, thanks to their vast selection of coffees, syrups, milk, and drinks.
Columbus’ hidden gem, undoubtedly!
Get into foodie colors and tour the Short North Food Hall
- Cost: $10 – $25 (Meal)
- Location: 1112 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201, United States
- Phone: +1 614-965-0518
You can taste your favorite foods at the Short North Food Hall.
This is because there are numerous restaurants here that all serve different foods. You have to spend on meals.
This allows you to sample a variety of cuisines all in one location, which is fantastic!
Have some laughs at a comedy club
- Cost: $8 – $75 (Ticket)
- Location: 2643 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202, United States
- Phone: +1 614-929-5545
The entertainment scene in Columbus is virtually bursting at the seams, especially in comedy clubs, just like in any other sector.
You can find stand-up comedy, musical comedy, and improv events at these venues. You have to purchase the ticket.
Among the many comedy clubs, The Nest Theater, The Hashtag Comedy Co., and Columbus Humorous Bone, one of the most popular in the US, are particularly funny.
These places put on impressive performances that will make you laugh out loud.
Soothe your stress with a spa treatment
- Cost: $65 – $211 (Ticket)
- Location: 4662 Larwell Dr, Columbus, OH 43220, United States
- Phone: +1 614-442-6754
If you want to “treat yourself,” getting a spa treatment will help you relax.
The Therapeutic Massage Center is where you can get the best massage in Columbus. This spa offers numerous alternatives for massage, facials, and other body treatments.
The spa’s techniques will be adapted to meet your inner self, leaving your body and mind at ease and relaxed. You have to spend on massage.
You’ll instantly relax and release any tension accumulated from work and home.
Active and Youthful Date Ideas in Columbus
Cheer up for Ohio State University’s Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium
- Cost: $348 – $944 (Ticket)
- Location: 411 Woody Hayes Dr, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
- Phone: +1 614-292-6330
Do you enjoy football as much as other Columbus citizens do? Check the Ohio Stadium calendar.
It is the most exciting among the fun date suggestions Columbus offers. You have to purchase the ticket.
In particular, since the Buckeyes of Ohio State University play several home games in the late summer and early fall.
The team competes in the Big Ten College Football Division, meaning the games are usually entertaining.
Show off your skills at one of Columbus’ many bowling alleys
- Cost: $4 – $7 (Ticket)
- Location: 501 Sandalwood Blvd, Columbus, OH 43229, United States
- Phone: +1 614-885-7043
Are you an accomplished bowler?
Or is it just that you enjoy yourself?
There are many affordable bowling alleys in Columbus.
Sequoia Pro Bowl offers one of the city’s most significant discounts. Games cost $7 while renting shoes costs $4.
Getting out there is a fun date night idea!
Hit the roller rink
- Cost: $2 – $3.50 (Ticket)
- Location: 3362 Refugee Rd, Columbus, OH 43232, United States
- Phone: +1 614-239-7202
Time to test your skating skills. Don’t worry; it won’t be too tricky!
Every day of the week, Skate America in Grove City offers many promos, such as Late Skate and Schools Out discounts.
United Skates of America also has discounted days, such as Family Nights, where entry is $2 and skate rentals are $3.50!
You can have a round or two of skating and practice your skills.
Nature-Inspired Date Ideas in Columbus
Connect with nature at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
- Cost: Free
- Location: 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203, United States
- Phone: +1 614-715-8000
The 13 acres (5 ha) of the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are still intact and in surprisingly sound condition after constructing a greenhouse in 1895 and numerous extensions.
The Winter Garden is among the top locations for festive cheer in the winter, and in the summer, you may view lovely flower arrangements here.
The gingerbread home competition is held here throughout Christmas.
Be a part of or observe the wonders being baked by others.
Please pay attention: it could be packed over the holidays.
Smell the roses in Whetstone Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 3923 N. High St. Columbus, OH 43214, United States
- Phone: 1-614-645-3217
The Whetstone Park of Roses is a beautiful place to visit any time.
It is busiest in the spring and summer when the rose gardens are in full bloom, but it is also worth visiting in the fall when the foliage is vibrant and in the winter when the well-kept gardens have a distinct calm.
It’s also a haven for birdwatchers. This is where a couple may spend an entire afternoon exploring the grounds, having a picnic, or even enjoying fishing.
It has numerous gardens, a fountain, a lake, and other things of interest.
There are complete tennis and basketball courts for some friendly one-on-one competition in another portion of the park.
Sit by the water and relax at Alum Creek Beach
- Cost: Free
- Location: 3400 Lewis Center Rd, Lewis Center, OH 43035, United States
- Phone: +1 740-548-4631
Sitting by the lake is one of those things that seems to make everyone happy and tranquil.
Visit Alum Creek Beach for a romantic retreat to enjoy swimming, the soothing sound of the waves, and a stunning sunset.
Make it even more memorable by bringing a picnic.
Make time for a nature hike at Scioto Audubon Metro Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 400 W Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43215, United States
- Phone: +1 614-202-5197
One of the lovely parks in the city is Scioto Audubon Metro Park.
There are woodland walks, a lovely boardwalk that crosses some marshes, and breathtaking city vistas.
Want to bring your pet along? No problem! There is even an awe-inspiring dog park. The coolest part is it’s all free.
Take a dip in the water at Alum Creek State Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 3400 Lewis Center Rd, Lewis Center, OH 43035, United States
- Phone: +1 740-548-4631
Of course, this only applies during the summer, but a trip for a swim in Alum Creek State Park would be the ideal date.
Beach vendors, grills, and volleyball nets are available along the park’s beach.
Only during the day is the beach open.
Before you start splashing, make sure you check water quality warnings.
Columbus (Ohio) ᐈ Things to do || Best Places to Visit || Top Tourist Attractions ☑️
Final Thoughts
Ohio’s Columbus is a stunning city. The city’s attractions include museums, historic sites, romantic hotels, state parks, hiking trails, golf courses, and renowned restaurants.
The city of Columbus will keep you entertained whether you plan to stay a while or are simply passing through.
With so many options, it can be challenging to decide what to do, but hopefully, this list will help get you started.
We hope you will enjoy all the places on this list.
Have a beautiful time in Columbus after reading this list.
Thanks for reading!
I like to travel but also be smart with money. Below are the places where I start my planning with. – ✈️Flights, Hotel, Tours – I seek out Flash Sales to guide my planning 👉 Find good deals – 🛡️Travel Insurance – I like to go to the source like Travelex instead of paying a broker 👉Here – 🚗Car Rental – Rental will save you lots of headaches. Search, compare, and save first up to 30-50% on Discover Cars. 👉 Save Now |