Top 10 Outdoor Activities in Columbus
From riverfront trails to hidden metro parks, here are the best ways to get outside and enjoy Columbus like a local.
Columbus isn't just a college town or a Midwest capital — it's a surprisingly green city once you know where to look. Between the Scioto River, the Olentangy Trail, and more than 20 metro parks within a short drive, there's no shortage of fresh air here. Whether you're new to the 614 or you've lived here for years, these ten outdoor activities belong on your weekend list.
1. Walk or bike the Scioto Mile. Downtown's riverfront park stretches along the water with fountains, benches, and skyline views. It's free, dog-friendly, and one of the best places in the city for a sunset stroll. Summer nights often bring free concerts at Bicentennial Park.
2. Ride the Olentangy Trail. This paved path runs from Worthington all the way through campus and down to downtown. It's flat, scenic, and the easiest way to see the city on two wheels. Start near OSU and ride south for about 45 minutes to hit the Scioto Mile.
3. Hike Highbanks Metro Park. Just 20 minutes north of campus, Highbanks has real hiking trails, a nature center, and overlooks above the Olentangy River. The Overlook Trail is the local favorite — especially in fall when the leaves turn.
4. Explore the Franklin Park Conservatory. The outdoor gardens here are just as impressive as the indoor biomes. Walk through the community garden, the rose garden, and seasonal installations like Blooms & Butterflies in the spring.
5. Spend an afternoon at Goodale Park. Located in the heart of the Short North, this is Columbus's oldest park and one of its prettiest. Bring a blanket, grab coffee from a nearby café, and people-watch under the gazebo.
6. Kayak the Scioto River. Rentals launch from the Scioto Mile and give you a completely different view of downtown. It's calm water, beginner-friendly, and one of the most underrated ways to spend a Saturday morning.
7. Visit Scioto Audubon Metro Park. Built on a former industrial site, this park has climbing walls, a wetland boardwalk, and some of the best bird-watching in the city. The downtown skyline behind the marsh makes for a unique photo.
8. Wander the OSU Oval and Mirror Lake. Campus itself is an outdoor destination. The Oval is perfect for frisbee or studying in the grass, and the renovated Mirror Lake area is beautiful in every season.
9. Take a day trip to Battelle Darby Creek. About 25 minutes west, this metro park has bison herds, prairie trails, and one of the most peaceful stretches of the Darby Creek. It's worth the short drive.
10. Catch a Columbus Crew match at Lower.com Field. Outdoor sports count too — and the energy at a Crew game is hard to beat. Tickets are affordable, the stadium is modern, and the Nordecke supporters' section is electric.
The best part? Most of these are free or cheap, and several are easy to reach from campus-area rentals. Living near OSU means you're never far from a trail, a park, or a riverfront view. Get outside and see why Columbus keeps people here long after graduation.
