Columbus with kids
The Scioto river in downtown Columbus
If you’re in Columbus for work like I was recently, bring your family, add on one more day and explore the city! This was more than enough time to check out two areas of town, with great shopping and meals for the adults and cool museums for the kids.
Places to stay
For thoughtful decor and many comfortable spaces to meet or work remotely, stay at the Junto Hotel in downtown Columbus. Rooms come with a specialty old fashioned cocktail and unique pour over coffee from Maudine’s, the coffee shop on the ground floor, which also serves great breakfast. If you want a more traditional stay than this boutique experience, there are plenty of Marriotts, including the Hotel LeVeque, an Autograph Collection property.
Where to eat
Reserve dinner at Veritas for a spectacular seafood tasting menu. This place is fresh and seasonal, with a menu that rotates every couple of months. You may not get what we pictured here, but definitely expect to enjoy several outstanding courses.
Take a drive to Worthington for quaint small-town shopping. Try a glass of wine at House Wine and then eat at Whitney House, with both a cozy indoor dining room and lovely outdoor patio.
Additional food recommendations from a local foodie friend to try on another visit:
Downtown
Speck for Italian
Chapman’s Eat Market or Lindy’s for new American
North of Columbus
Vaso Rooftop Lounge for fancy drinks
Akai Hana for sushi
Third and Hollywood for a fancy meal
Valentina’s for good wine
Novella Osteria for pasta
Things to do
Columbus features great city planning and the neighborhood around the Junto is good for walking and biking, with views of the river and the multiple bridges in the city.
If you brought kids with you, right across from the Junto is a large museum complex. The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) has interactive exhibits and a store with science kits and educational toys. The Museum of Natural History is adjacent to this, as are a variety of outdoor features, including a playground, butterfly garden, and multiple seating options.
On the list for the next trip to Columbus: Viewing art at the Columbus Museum of Art and galleries in the Short North Arts District.