50 Fun Date Ideas in Columbus, Ohio

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Columbus is a bustling city in the state of Ohio. It has an array of landmarks and attractions and is a great place to plan a date, whether you're on a first date or planning something with a long-term partner.

Couples in Columbus can explore local parks and botanical gardens, visit museums like the Kelton House Museum, check out cool bars and coffee shops, and so much more. Keep reading for all 50 fun date ideas in Columbus, Ohio, and the surrounding area!

Heading to Columbus and planning last-minute?

To make the most of your visit to Columbus, we recommend you book accommodations and experiences soon. We've pulled together top suggestions below.

🏨 Top accommodations in Columbus

• Comfort Suites Columbus West - Hilliard (relax by the pool)
• Hampton Inn & Suites Columbus Polaris (rated highly)
• Best Western Suites Columbus (under $100 USD a night)

☂️ Top tours and experiences in Columbus

• The Escape Game Columbus - Epic 60-Minute Adventures (rated highly)
• Pedal Through Columbus on The Trolley Pub (rated highly)
• LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus Ticket

50 Columbus, OH, Date Ideas

Romantic Things to Do in Columbus, Ohio

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Discover rare books at the Book Loft of German Village

Couples that love to read won't want to miss taking a trip to the Book Loft of German Village together. At the shop, you'll discover many unique books, and there are rows upon rows of bookshelves to explore that are spread over 32 rooms.

Even if you don't buy a book, you'll both have a memorable time looking around and seeing what's on offer! Events, like meet the author sessions, are also held at the store.

🏨 Nearest accommodations to The Book Loft of German Village

• Drury Inn & Suites Columbus Convention Center (rated highly)
• Sonesta Columbus Downtown (rated 4-stars)

Tour Watershed Distillery

Watershed Distillery is a Columbus-based distillery specializing in high-quality gin, bourbon, and vodka. A memorable thing to do with your date is taking a distillery tour. You'll learn all about the distillery process and get to taste samples.

You can then pick up a bottle of your favorite spirit to enjoy together on your next date. There's also a bar and kitchen on-site, where you can grab lunch or dinner and cocktails with Watershed Distillery liquors.

🏨 Accommodation close to the Watershed Distillery

• The Urban

Walk or bike around Scioto Audubon Metro Park

Scioto Audubon Metro Park is another great outdoor attraction to visit with your other half. This park sits on a former brownfield site that has been transformed into an oasis with trails, lakes, and lots of wildlife. You and your date can stroll around the park together or take a scenic bike ride. There are also lots of grassy areas to stop for a picnic.

🏨 Stay near the Scioto Audubon Metro Park

• Home2 Suites by Hilton Columbus Downtown

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Be kids again at LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Spending an afternoon at the LEGOLAND Discovery Center is a fun way for you and your date to feel like kids again. At the attraction, you can watch Lego movies at a 4D cinema, see amazing lego models, learn how Lego bricks are made, and much more. To make admission easy, purchase LEGOLAND Discovery Center tickets in advance.

Rock climb at Vertical Adventures

One of the most fun dates in Columbus, OH, for adventure activity enthusiasts is going rock climbing at Vertical Adventures. The 16,000-square-foot climbing center has walls for all ability levels, and classes are available.

Whether you and your partner are experienced climbers or looking to learn, Vertical Adventures is a great spot to check out! The venue also hosts yoga sessions.

🏨 Stay nearby Vertical Adventures

• Hyatt Place Columbus Worthington (relax by the pool)

Have breakfast at Cafe Elena

You and your other half can start the day off right with breakfast at Cafe Elena. This popular spot has an extensive breakfast menu, with dishes like blueberry lemon pancakes, fruit-topped brioche French toast, and a full American or British breakfast plate. You can also treat yourselves to sweet treats at the cafe's bakery, such as cinnamon buns or croissants.

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Treat your date at Easton Town Center

If you want to spoil your partner a little, take them shopping at Easton Town Center! At the shopping mall, you'll find around 150 stores, including high-end and luxury shops and independent retailers.

There are also lots of chains, and options range from clothing stores to jewelry and beauty shops. After shopping around, you can relax with a meal and drinks at one of many on-site eateries and bars.

Get ice cream at Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

If you want to plan a relaxed date in Columbus, OH, simply head over to Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams to treat your partner to some sweets. This ice cream shop serves a variety of unusual but delicious flavors as well as lots of classics.

Some flavor options include goat cheese with cherries, whiskey and pecan, and frozen rosé (frozé) sorbet. Dairy-free flavors are also available.

Chat with a coffee at One Line Coffee-Short North

Couples looking to hang out and chat with a coffee should definitely plan to visit One Line Coffee-Short North. Located within the Short North Arts District, the trendy coffee shop serves a range of coffee beverages, from espresso and cappuccino to a unique honey latte, all using freshly roasted coffee. You can accompany your drinks with baked goods and pastries.

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Visit Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

The beautiful Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is an Ohio landmark and also a great place to visit with your date. The gardens span 13 acres and features pretty flower displays, including those with tropical plants.

Exploring the tranquil outdoor space and conservatory will help you and your partner unwind, and the gardens make a great backdrop for photos together.

Go to the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum

One of the excellent things for couples to do in Columbus, Ohio, on a rainy day is going to the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum. At the specialty museum, you can see the world's largest collection of cartoon and comic-related artifacts. Things to see include original drawings, first-edition comic books, newspaper comic strips, and much more.

Find unique craft pieces at the Ohio Craft Museum

Another art-based attraction to visit with your partner is the Ohio Craft Museum. The venue hosts exhibitions with artworks by local artists and art fairs where you can purchase some one-of-a-kind pieces. You and your date can even attend an art class; just check the website event calendar to find out what's happening at the museum.

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Appreciate artworks at the Columbus Museum of Art

Art enthusiasts won't want to miss taking their date to the Columbus Museum of Art. This museum was the first art museum in the state of Ohio and today has a vast collection spread over a 30,000-square-foot gallery.

Just a few of the famous artists with pieces on display include Monet, Henri Rousseau, and Picasso. The museum stays open until late on Thursdays if you want to visit together in the evening.

Play a round at Miner 49'er Black Light Mini Golf

Playing a game or two of mini-golf at Miner 49'er Black Light Mini Golf is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening with your partner. The indoor course is Western-themed and, as the name suggests, has fun black lights. After a game, you can grab pizza and beer or milkshakes at the on-site bar and eatery.

See dinosaurs at the Orton Geological Museum!

The Orton Geological Museum is another fun museum to visit with your date. Located at Ohio State University, the museum has a range of geology exhibits.

You can see rocks from space, fossils, and even dinosaur skeletons. Before you leave, don't forget to stop by the museum gift shop to pick up some dinosaur merch!

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Stroll around Schiller Park

Located in the German Village, Schiller Park is a scenic place to go for a walk with your loved one. The 23.45-acre park has trails that take you through gardens and past lakes and water features. You could also pack a picnic to take with you to enjoy surrounded by plants and flowers or next to the lake.

🏨 Accommodations close to Schiller Park

• Hotel LeVeque (4-star rating)
• Residence Inn Columbus Downtown

Shop at Polaris Fashion Place

Polaris Fashion Place is somewhat of a Columbus landmark and is a great place to go shopping with your partner. At the mall, you'll find an array of stores, from chains to specialty and high-end brands. If you both want to stop for a meal, there are lots of sit-down restaurants as well as mall snack vendors, like Cinnabon.

Tackle an escape game

You and your date can improve your teamwork skills by trying to break free from an escape room. The Escape Game Columbus has various themed rooms to choose from, including Gold Rush, Prison Break, and Art Heist. Whichever theme you pick, you'll have an hour to work together and solve puzzles to escape.

Look around the Kelton House Museum and Garden

The Kelton House Museum and Garden is a historical landmark that's very interesting to visit. Constructed in 1852, the Greek Revival and Italianate house is notable as it was a stop on the Underground Railroad. Today, you can explore the home and gardens, see artifacts, and learn more about its role in Ohio history.

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Get food at the North Market Food Hall

If you and your partner can't decide where to go to eat, heading to the North Market Food Hall is an excellent idea. Opened in 1876, the market remains a highly popular place for locals and tourists to visit.

Once you arrive, you can browse the vendors, which include those serving ready-to-eat dishes, drinks, and sweets like ice cream. Picking up a few different dishes to share is a fun thing to do and allows you to try food from multiple vendors.

Create glass art at Glass Axis

Couples that like crafts can learn a new skill by going to a glass art class. At Glass Axis, you can take various classes, like a stained glass art course or a class where you make glass ornaments. Not only will you learn a new skill, but you'll also get to take a cool handmade souvenir of your date home.

Snuggle with cats at Kitty Bubble Cafe & Bar

Cat-loving couples will be excited to learn that there's a cat cafe in Columbus. At Kitty Bubble Cafe & Bar, you can grab some yummy bubble tea or coffee drinks before heading into the cat area to hang out with cute kitties.

All of the cats are up for adoption, so if you and your partner have been thinking about getting a pet, you may find the perfect fluffy friend during your visit!

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Explore the Short North Arts District

If you want to plan a laid-back date, simply head to the trendy Short North Arts District! You can wander around, checking out the unique independent shops and art galleries, before stopping in a bar or two for drinks. There'll likely be events going on when you visit as well, like art exhibitions.

Share brunch at The Northstar Cafe

The Northstar Cafe is the perfect place to have a brunch date with your loved one. You can find a few locations in central Columbus, and dishes to enjoy include ricotta pancakes, smoothie bowls, and sweet potato hash. Craft cocktails can also be ordered.

If you enjoy your meal, you can return another time for lunch or dinner. Live jazz performances are also hosted in the evening at the Easton Town Center location.

Relax at the spa

One of the most romantic things to do in Columbus, Ohio, is relaxing at a spa with some treatments. Woodhouse Spa at the Polaris Fashion Place is a popular spa to visit. Treatments on offer include facials, massages, and body exfoliations. You can also book packages that combine multiple treatments.

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See an Ohio State Buckeyes game at Ohio Stadium

Going to an Ohio State Buckeyes game is one of the most fun dates in Columbus, Ohio, for couples that love sports. The Ohio State University team plays at Ohio Stadium from September through November in the regular season. You can also see concerts at Ohio Stadium if your date likes music more than sports!

🏨 Accommodation in close proximity to the Ohio Stadium

• Staybridge Suites - University Area OSU (relaxing pool)

Paint pottery at Clay Cafe

Visiting Clay Cafe is another fun date idea for couples that like crafts. When you arrive, you'll pick a piece of pottery that you can then paint with your own custom design. Items to paint include mugs, vases, and ornaments. Clay Cafe is also BYOB, so you can bring wine or beer to sip on as you paint.

Hang out at Tabletop Game Cafe

Tabletop Game Cafe is another unique place to hang out instead of a traditional bar. At this venue, you can choose from a vast library of games to play together.

You can also order coffee, alcoholic beverages, or soft drinks, and food items like sandwiches are available. Tabletop Game Cafe is open in the afternoon through late at night, so you can check it out no matter when your date is scheduled.

Make candles at Penn and Beech

If you're looking for more crafty date ideas, going to Penn and Beech is recommended. At the store, you can create your own candle, from choosing scents to pouring. The candles will set for a few hours, and then you can take them home. On your next at-home date night, you can light the candles you made together!

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Eat your way through Columbus with Columbus Food Adventures!

There are an array of excellent eateries in Columbus, and a great way for you and your date to visit the best spots is by taking a Columbus Food Adventures tour.

You can choose from various tours, including those that take you around the German Village or Short North. Private tours are also available, and you'll go to five to seven eateries, with samples of each spot's signature dishes included.

Grab breakfast at Katalina's

If you and your partner are looking for another of the best breakfast spots in Columbus, Katalina's has to be on your must-visit list. The charming cafe has an extensive menu, with dishes like breakfast tacos, vegan fried "chicken" sandwiches, and the cafe's famous pancake balls that come with a range of fillings. You can accompany your meal with coffee, tea, or fresh juice like blood orange juice with passion fruit.

Zip line through the forest

Going ziplining with ZipZone Outdoor Adventures is a fun date idea for adventure activity enthusiasts. On a two-hour canopy tour, you'll zip line through 20 acres of forest, taking in the breathtaking views. Alternatively, you could book a nighttime tour to experience views above the forest after dark.

Fun Date Night Ideas in Columbus, OH

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See a performance at the Ohio Theatre

One of the most romantic things to do in Columbus for couples in the evening is seeing a show at the Ohio Theatre. The renowned performance venue hosts musicals and shows by the Columbus Symphony Orchestra within an opulent Spanish Baroque theater. No matter what you see, going to the Ohio Theatre will be a memorable experience!

🏨 Accommodations nearby the Ohio Theatre

• Hyatt Place Columbus OSU (relax by the pool)
• Graduate Columbus (4-star rating)

Sip cocktails at The Bottle Shop

Columbus has many one-of-a-kind bars to check out with your partner. The Bottle Shop is one spot that should be on your must-visit list.

At the trendy bar, you can order unique craft cocktails, such as a strawberry tequila, prickly pear liqueur, and grapefruit liqueur mix. In the warmer months, you can also enjoy your drinks on a stylish outdoor patio.

🏨 Accommodation nearby The Bottle Shop

• Hyatt Regency Columbus

Get drinks and play arcade games at 16-Bit Bar + Arcade

16-Bit Bar + Arcade is an excellent spot for a fun and laid-back drinks date. At the bar, you can play many retro arcade games like Asteroids or Pac-Man. As you play, you can order drinks, including gaming-themed cocktails, wine, and beer.

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Plan a bowling date at Star Lanes Polaris

There are many places to consider for couples planning laid-back date nights in Columbus, Ohio, like Star Lanes Polaris. The bowling alley features traditional lanes and fun 'hyper bowling' lanes with LED lights.

After a game or two, you can get snacks and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, at the bar and grill. There's also an arcade, ping pong, and many other amusements.

🏨 Place to stay close to the Star Lanes Polaris

• Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel (4-star rating)

Roller skate at Skate Zone 71

You and your date can have a retro date night roller skating at Skate Zone 71. The rink stays open late most nights and has adult-only nights. There's also a laser tag arena, arcade, and cafe with snacks like pizza.

Dine at The Guild House

Having a dinner date is one of many romantic things to do in Columbus, OH, and booking a table at The Guild House is highly recommended. The rustic and trendy eatery focuses on seasonal dishes, like beetroot salad with goat cheese, ricotta gnocchi, and sea bass with lobster broth.

A decadent dessert menu is also available, as is an extensive wine list and cocktail menu. If you can't make it for dinner, brunch and lunch are also served.

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Watch a Columbus Blue Jackets game

If you and your partner love sports, a top date in Columbus, Ohio, to plan is going to a Columbus Blue Jackets game. You can see the NHL team play at Nationwide Arena on the edge of downtown Columbus.

The team plays between October and April during the regular season, with games in the evening as well as in the afternoon on weekends and holidays.

Go to Topgolf

Topgolf is another fun and laid-back place to spend the evening with your date. The entertainment venue features golf games that all abilities can play.

As you enjoy the games, you can order food and drinks, including sharing cocktails. Topgolf is also open in the afternoon if you're planning an earlier date.

Have drinks at a burlesque speakeasy

Forty Deuce is a highly unique and fun spot to go with your date. The venue has a speakeasy bar and supper club that hosts burlesque shows. As you enjoy the show, you can order drinks, and there's also a food menu.

Fun Things to Do Near Columbus for Couples

Take a trip to Cincinnati

Cincinnati is an Ohio destination that's well worth visiting for a couples getaway. You can reach the city in about two hours when driving from Columbus.

Once you arrive, you'll find many fun things to do in Cincinnati, from going on an underground tour to visiting breweries or watching a Cincinnati Bengals game. If you stay a few days, you'll also discover many cool things to do at night in Cincinnati.

🏨 Places to stay close to Cincinnati

• Hyatt Regency Cincinnati (lounge by the pool)
• TownePlace Suites by Marriott Cincinnati Downtown (scored highly by guests)

Bar hop on the Celtic Cocktail Trail

Dublin is another Ohio city located only 20 minutes from central Columbus. If you and your date like finding unique bars and trying craft cocktails, heading to Dublin to complete the Celtic Cocktail Trail is a must.

The trail features the area's best cocktail bars and dining options. Access to the trail's stops is free, and you can visit as many stops as you like. No matter how many places you go, you'll get to enjoy lots of delicious food and drinks with your loved one.

🏨 Places to stay close to Dublin

• TownePlace Suites by Marriott Columbus Dublin (take it easy by the pool)
• Drury Inn & Suites Columbus Dublin (rated very highly)

Spend a fun day at Zoombezi Bay Water Park

During the spring and summer, you can have a fun day out together at Zoombezi Bay Water Park. Covering 22.7 acres, the park features multiple pools and lots of waterslides. Cabanas are also available to rent, and there are bars serving tropical cocktails, as well as restaurants and an ice cream shack.

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Spend the day in Cleveland

Cleveland is another excellent overnight or weekend trip destination from Columbus that can be reached in just over two hours. Things to do in Cleveland include trying top restaurants in Little Italy, taking a ghost tour, and visiting the Cleveland Museum of Art.

You can also see many Cleveland landmarks, like Cleveland Public Square and Terminal Tower.

🏨 Accommodations close to Cleveland

• Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland Downtown (well-regarded)
• Hyatt Regency Cleveland at The Arcade (very highly rated)

Head underground to explore the Olentangy Indian Caverns

Located about 30 minutes outside Columbus in Delaware, Ohio, the Olentangy Indian Caverns are another unique attraction to check out with your partner.

You can venture underground to explore caverns, caves, and natural passages. There's also a mini golf course, and you can even try cave yoga, a yoga class held within the caves!

Fly above Ohio on a hot air balloon ride

Going on a hot air balloon ride is a highly memorable and unique activity. With Columbus Aeronauts, you and your date can fly over central Ohio, taking in views of Columbus and the surrounding area.

The flight takes off just outside Columbus, in Dublin, and you can book two spots on a group flight or organize a private flight for two. Romantic sunrise and sunset flights are available.

🏨 Accommodations near Dublin

• AC Hotel Columbus Dublin (4-star rating)
• Marriott Columbus Northwest

Drive to Akron

If you're looking for another day trip location, consider driving to Akron. You can reach the city in just under two hours when driving, depending on traffic.

Fun things to do in Akron range from wandering around the Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens to going rock climbing at Rock Mill Climbing or getting drinks at Akronym Brewing. Akron is also only 40 minutes from Cleveland, so you could stop by on the way between Columbus and Cleveland.

🏨 Stay nearby Akron

• Courtyard by Marriott Akron Downtown (rated highly)
• Berrodin Bed & Breakfast

Stargaze at Perkins Observatory

Located about 35 minutes from Columbus in Delaware, OH, Perkins Observatory is a highly unique place to take your date. The observatory is owned by Ohio Wesleyan University and allows you to look up at the stars via state-of-the-art telescopes.

Public events generally happen on Friday nights but check the website for the most up-to-date schedules.

🏨 Place to stay close to the Perkins Observatory

• Quality Inn & Suites Delaware

Taste local beer at Rockmill Brewery

Couples that enjoy visiting local breweries will be interested in visiting Rockmill Brewery. The brewery is located about 30 minutes from central Columbus in Lancaster, Ohio.

At the brewery, you can try various beers, from light beers to stronger options, like a nitro coffee lager. Wine is also available, and you can take your drinks outside or have them inside the rustic tasting room.

In Conclusion

Columbus has no shortage of great places to go on a date. Whether you and your partner like outdoor activities, visiting museums, finding the best bars and restaurants, or almost any other activity, Columbus will have many date spots for you!

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Learn more about Columbus:

• 20 Landmarks in Columbus, Ohio, That Can't Be Missed

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• 15 Cleveland Nicknames That Will Surprise You
• Where to Stay in Cincinnati, Ohio - 5 Best Areas & Hotels
• 50 Interesting & Fun Facts About Ohio State
• 40 Fun Date Ideas in Cleveland, Ohio, for the Perfect Date
• 35 Cincinnati Date Ideas That Will Impress Your Partner

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