The Gardner School is committed to supporting parents to ensure every child’s learning journey continues beyond the classroom. That’s why we’ve created an exclusive guide to free attractions, events, and activities in Columbus that are tailored to meet the needs of preschoolers and their families. Our guide highlights unique opportunities for fun and learning so you can discover new and exciting adventures in our beautiful city!
Free Commons for Kids
During the summer, Commons for Kids takes place at Columbus Commons each Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. with tons of free activities for little ones! Face painting, crafts, games, petting zoos, inflatables, and so many other activities are featured with a unique theme each week. Set on six acres of open space, this is a great event for your preschooler to run free and explore!
Be sure to check out the full schedule of family-friendly events (most are free) hosted throughout the week at Columbus Commons.
* This blog’s featured photo is by Robb McCormick Photography, courtesy of Downtown Columbus, Inc.
Irish Fairy Door Trail (Dublin)
Hunt for fairies and win a T-shirt on this free scavenger hunt in historic Dublin! Pick up your passport at the Dublin Visitor Information Center and get started on your magical adventure! You’ll be sent to visit ten businesses where you’ll find a fairy door and record the fairy’s name in your passport. Return your completed passport to the Dublin Visitor Information Center for a free fairy door T-shirt.
Aquarium Adventure
This retail shop is so much more than your average pet store. It’s more like a public aquarium! Aquarium Adventure Columbus is home to thousands of fish, marine animals, and aquatic plants for aquariums of all sizes. The owner is a marine biologist and his knowledgeable staff are also aquatic experts. There’s a whole lot of passion (and wildlife) inside this 12,000-square-foot facility that your little one will have a blast discovering!
Columbus Museum of Art
Located downtown, the Columbus Art Museum offers free admission every Sunday, and children ages three and under get in for free all week! Be sure to explore the Walter Wing or build a puzzle together in a gallery. Check out the rotating special exhibitions and visit the permanent collection to help introduce your child to the visual arts.
Farmer’s Markets
Whether you’re looking for some fresh produce or just want to enjoy some live entertainment, farmer’s markets are a wonderful gathering place for families with little ones. In Columbus, these markets aren’t just open on Saturdays! You can find many across the city for nearly every day of the week! A few of our favorites include Powell Chamber Farmer’s Market and Dublin Market at Bridge Park. Check out this list of markets to find one in your neighborhood.
Columbus Metropolitan Library (multiple locations)
Public libraries serve as great resources for families looking to have some fun for free. The Columbus Metropolitan Library and its nearly two dozen locations offer a variety of educational activities through different programs and storytime hours. The library’s events page contains a complete list of events at every library branch.
A Partner For Parents
The Gardner School is proud to partner with parents to provide support as you introduce your children to new places, sights, and experiences. Take a look at our blog page for inspiration and helpful tips on a wide variety of topics.
Interested in enrolling your child at one of The Gardner School locations in Columbus? Find a location near you and reach out to schedule a tour! We’re always here to answer your questions.