Things To Do
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
While the "Wildlights" holiday event will have concluded by mid-January, the Zoo is much less crowded this time of year, offering a peaceful and personal experience with the animals. Did you know, many animals are actually more active in the cold than they are in the summer heat! This is the best time to see: Polar Bears and Arctic Foxes in the Polar Frontier, Red Pandas in Asia Quest (they love the snow!), & Amur Tigers and Wolves who are often much more playful in chilly weather. There are also several large, climate-controlled indoor pavilions that allow you to "hop" from one warm environment to another.
North Market Downtown
A historic public market where you can warm up with local coffee, explore diverse food vendors, and pick up unique Ohio gifts.
Natalie's Grandview
While located just south of Powell in the Grandview/Northwest area, Natalie’s often features big-band jazz or tribute shows during this weekend. It's a cozy venue known for its wood-fired pizza and intimate stage.
Otherworld
This is a 32,000-square-foot immersive art installation that feels like walking through a sci-fi dream. It’s entirely indoors and highly interactive.
C. O. S. I.
Center of Science and Industry Voted one of the best science centers in the country, it offers several floors of interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a giant screen theater.
Ohio History Center
Dive into Ohio’s past, from ice age mammals to mid-century modern life.
Columbus Blue Jackets
Check the schedule for Nationwide Arena. Catching a hockey game is a quintessential Columbus winter activity.