Top Columbus Ohio Attractions for Couples: Fun and Romantic Things To Do (2024)

Are you planning a romantic getaway or a fun day out with your partner? Columbus, Ohio, has plenty of exciting attractions for couples that promise unforgettable moments.

Whether you’re into art, wildlife, outdoor adventures, or delicious food, this city offers something special for every type of duo.

Beautiful parks are perfect for peaceful strolls, lively events that spark creativity, and cozy restaurants to enjoy intimate dinners. From the vibrant streets of the Short North to the tranquil Columbus Park of Roses, there’s always a new place to explore.

No matter what kind of experience you’re craving, Columbus has the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and romance. Let’s dive into some of the top things to do in Columbus, Ohio, and start planning your perfect outing!

Unique Attractions in Columbus for Couples

Columbus, Ohio, is packed with exciting attractions that are perfect for couples looking to explore together. From fascinating museums and zoos to breathtaking outdoor adventures, this vibrant city has something for every lovebird.

Museums and Zoos

Columbus features a variety of museums and zoos that offer not just education but also fun for couples.

One standout is the Columbus Museum of Art, where couples can admire stunning contemporary and traditional art. The serene environment invites long discussions about favorite pieces and inspires creativity in a romantic atmosphere.

Another fantastic spot for animal lovers is the Zoombezi Bay Zoo, part of the larger water park complex. This zoo houses a wide variety of animals and offers interactive experiences that allow couples to engage uniquely with wildlife.

Here’s a quick overview of attractions for couples:

Attraction	Description
Columbus Museum of Art	Home to contemporary and traditional art collections. Enjoy peaceful galleries with conversation starters.
Zoombezi Bay Zoo	A fun zoo experience with interactive exhibits and a variety of animal encounters. Great for animal lovers!

Outdoor Adventures

For couples who crave the great outdoors, Columbus is filled with beautiful parks and adventures.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a gem, featuring stunning floral displays and tropical plants. A stroll through the gardens is both romantic and peaceful, making it a perfect date spot for enjoying nature together.

The Scioto Mile is another must-visit outdoor attraction. Spanning 175 acres, this parkland includes walking paths, bikeways, and playgrounds alongside the river.

Couples can enjoy breathtaking views of downtown Columbus as they walk hand in hand, relax on swings, or even share a picnic.

Here’s a snapshot of outdoor attractions:

Outdoor Location	Features
Franklin Park Conservatory	Lush gardens, floral displays
Scioto Mile	Walking paths, downtown views
Columbus Park of Roses	13 acres of roses, romantic benches

The Columbus Park of Roses, one of the largest rose gardens in the U.S., is an enchanting place where couples can admire around 12,000 varieties of roses.

It’s an ideal spot to sit and soak in the beauty and tranquility.

Whether exploring a museum, engaging with wildlife at the zoo, or enjoying nature in the park, Columbus offers many attractions for couples.

For more unique experiences or accommodations, such as quirky accommodations in Columbus Ohio, check out other sections of the guide to plan your perfect getaway!

Best Restaurants in Columbus for a Date Night

For couples seeking culinary delights in Columbus, the city offers a vibrant dining scene perfect for a romantic evening.

From top-rated restaurants to intimate settings, they’ll find plenty of options that suit their taste and make for memorable dining experiences.

Top-Rated Restaurants

Columbus boasts numerous highly-rated restaurants that are perfect for a date night. Here’s a list of some of the top recommendations based on reviews:

Restaurant Name	Cuisine Type	Location
Lindey’s	American	German Village
Mozart’s	Bakery/Café	Bexley
Mandrake Rooftop	American	Downtown
The Refectory	Fine Dining	Northwest Columbus
Z Cucina di Spirito	Italian	Grandview Heights
Mitchell’s Ocean Club	Seafood	Easton Town Center
Martini Modern Italian	Italian	Short North
Barcelona	Spanish	Short North
The Guild House	American	Short North
Basi Italia	Italian	Victorian Village

These restaurants offer a variety of delicious dishes that highlight local and seasonal ingredients.

For example, Basi Italia is cherished for its cozy atmosphere and scrumptious Italian dishes, created with a personal touch by its husband-and-wife owners (Experience Columbus).

Intimate Dining Experiences

For couples yearning for a more intimate dining experience, several gems within Columbus provide a unique and cozy atmosphere:

• Third & Hollywood: Located in Grandview, this spot offers comfort food with an intimate vibe, making it perfect for enjoying dishes like grilled fish or short ribs.
• Alqueria Restaurant: Situated in the Victorian Village, this restaurant highlights rustic yet complex fare and has a happy hour for couples looking to enjoy quality cocktails and snacks together.
• The Keep Kitchen & Liquor Bar: Nestled within the LeVeque Tower, this venue creates a cozy dining ambiance under gas lights with a charming view of the hotel lobby.

By exploring these culinary delights, couples can immerse themselves in the rich dining culture of Columbus.

Whether they prefer a lively atmosphere or a serene setting, they’re bound to discover the perfect spot to savor delicious food and enjoy each other’s company. For a weekend escape with more romantic options, check out romantic weekend getaways in columbus ohio.

Best Date Night Ideas Columbus Ohio

Columbus, Ohio, offers exciting options for couples looking to create memorable date nights.

Whether seeking a thrill or a unique experience, couples can explore the diverse attractions around the city.

Adventurous Activities

For couples who love adventure, Columbus has plenty to offer. One unforgettable option is the Trolley Pub, where they can hop on an electrically-assisted trolley for a fun BYOB tour around the city.

Pedal together while enjoying drinks and taking in the sights. The trolley is also enclosed and heated during the colder months, making it a cozy choice for winter adventures. More information can be found on Katie Goes There.

Couples can also unleash their creativity at Glass Axis, where they can participate in glass-blowing classes.

This unique date night idea lets them create stunning glass art pieces together, like sculpted flowers or playful glass hot dogs. This hands-on experience is sure to spark joy and artistry. Details are available at Katie Goes There.

Unique Experiences

For something truly special, a romantic staycation at Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph can set the mood for couples.

This downtown gem offers luxuries including drinks at the lobby bar, delicious dining at The Guild House, breakfast in bed, and relaxing couples massages at the hotel’s spa. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a getaway while still being in the heart of the city.

Another enchanting experience is exploring the beautiful Columbus Park of Roses, where couples can admire blooming flowers and enjoy a peaceful walk together.

This romantic spot can set the tone for an intimate day out. For an element of fun, participating in Franklinton Fridays is an excellent option.

This local event features art, music, and community vibes, allowing couples to enjoy the vibrant culture of Columbus together.

These adventurous activities and unique experiences available in Columbus, Ohio, create the perfect backdrop for couples looking to bond and make lasting memories. For those seeking unique accommodations for their stay, be sure to check out options like quirky accommodations and themed hotels in the area.

Memorable Stay Options in Ohio

For couples seeking a delightful escape without leaving the city, Columbus, Ohio, offers a range of memorable staycation options.

From luxurious accommodations to special packages tailored for romance, there are plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories together.

Luxury Accommodations

Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph is a standout for those looking for a romantic getaway. This downtown hotel features a stylish lobby bar and lounge, perfect for sipping signature cocktails.

Couples can indulge in dinner at The Guild House, enjoy breakfast via room service, and unwind with a couples massage at the hotel’s spa suites.

This combination of luxury and convenience is ideal for creating an intimate experience that celebrates love and connection.

Hotel Name	Highlights	Location
Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph	Lobby bar, Spa suites, The Guild House restaurant	Downtown Columbus
The Hilton Columbus at Easton	Modern amenities, Close to shopping	Easton Town Center
The Sheraton Columbus Hotel at Capitol Square	Rooftop views, Near local attractions	Capitol Square

Couples may also find boutique hotels like those found in boutique hotels in Columbus ohio especially charming, offering personalized service and unique character.

Themed and quirky accommodations are also available for those desiring a distinctive stay, highlighted in articles about themed hotels in columbus ohio and quirky accommodations columbus ohio.

Special Packages

Many hotels in Columbus provide special romantic packages designed for couples. For instance, staycation deals often include complimentary breakfast, dinner reservations, and spa services.

These packages are great for making any ordinary weekend feel extraordinary.

Package Name	Includes	Hotel
Romance Package	Breakfast, Dinner, Spa credit	Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph
Weekend Getaway Special	Late checkout, Free drinks	The Hilton Columbus at Easton
Ultimate Relaxation Package	Massage, Room upgrade	The Sheraton Columbus Hotel at Capitol Square

When planning a staycation, consider exploring the various romantic weekend getaways highlighted in romantic weekend getaways in columbus ohio.

These thoughtfully crafted packages are perfect for couples looking to celebrate special occasions or simply enjoy a weekend away with loved ones.

Diving into these luxurious accommodations and special packages ensures a memorable staycation filled with romance and adventure.

Unique and Fun Things to Do in Columbus Ohio

Columbus, Ohio offers a variety of options for couples looking to enjoy fun experiences or indulge in some much-needed relaxation.

From interactive activities to serene spa days, couples can create lasting memories together.

Fun Experiences

For couples seeking playful and unique activities, Columbus has a few standout options. One of the most exciting ways to explore the city is at the Trolley Pub.

This fun BYOB tour allows couples to pedal an electronically assisted trolley, providing an entertaining way to enjoy drinks while sightseeing together. The enclosed trolley is heated during the cooler months, making it a cozy choice for winter outings.

Another fantastic option is taking a glass-blowing class at Glass Axis. This creative experience allows couples to learn the art of glass blowing, where they can craft their beautiful glass pieces such as balls or flowers.

It’s a perfect way to bond and leave with a handmade memento of your time together.

Experience	Description
Trolley Pub	BYOB tour on a pedal-powered trolley
Glass Axis	Glass-blowing classes for couples

For a cultural experience, couples can visit the Gallery Hop in the Short North Arts District. This vibrant event takes place on the first Saturday of every month, where galleries and shops extend their hours.

Street performers and vendors add to the lively atmosphere, making it an enjoyable date night with plenty to see and explore (What Should We Do Today Columbus?).

Spa and Wellness Activities Near Ohio

For those looking to relax and unwind, Columbus is home to several fabulous spas that cater to couples.

They offer a variety of services, from relaxing massages to rejuvenating facials. Spending a day at the spa can help couples recharge and bond while enjoying some pampering.

A popular choice is a couple’s massage, allowing partners to enjoy the soothing experience together.

Many local spas also offer special packages that include access to relaxation rooms, saunas, and hot tubs, providing a full day of indulgence.

Spa Activity	Description
Couple’s Massage	Relaxing experience together
Spa Packages	Includes multiple services and relaxation amenities

After a day of fun activities, couples can top off their experience with dinner at Watershed Kitchen & Bar, known for its expertly curated cocktails and a delicious menu of comfort foods. This will be a perfect end to an exciting day spent exploring Columbus, Ohio (Experience Columbus).

With so many options for entertainment and relaxation, couples are bound to find joy in exploring the vibrant atmosphere of Columbus and creating unforgettable memories together.

Affordable and Free Date Ideas in Columbus Ohio

Columbus, Ohio, is a treasure trove of activities that couples can enjoy without breaking the bank.

From vibrant parks to exciting cultural events, there is something for everyone. Here are some affordable options and free activities that lovebirds can explore together.

Affordable Options

Columbus offers many cheap and delightful date ideas that won’t pinch the wallet. Here are some options to consider:

Activity	Location	Description
Park of Roses	Columbus	A lovely park to admire beautiful flowers and enjoy a serene stroll.
Quarry Trails Metro Park	Columbus	A hiking spot featuring a picturesque waterfall—perfect for a scenic hike.
Franklinton Fridays	Franklinton	A monthly event showcasing local artists, music, and community spirit.
Columbus Commons	Downtown	Enjoy free concerts and community events in this lively park.
Billy Ireland Cartoon Museum	Columbus	Dive into the world of cartoons and comics at this unique museum offering free admission.

These activities provide a blend of nature, art, and entertainment, allowing couples to strengthen their bond while having fun together. For more unique places to stay, check out our guide on quirky accommodations in Columbus, Ohio.

Free Activities at Ohio

Columbus also hosts a variety of free events that make for memorable dates. Here are some popular options:

• Gallery Hop: Held in the Short North Arts District on the first Saturday of each month, this event invites couples to explore open art galleries and shops late into the night while enjoying street performers and vendors.
• Concert at Columbus Commons: Attend free concerts in the park for a lively evening filled with music and camaraderie.
• Outdoor Movie Nights: During the summer, enjoy films under the stars at various parks across the city. These casual events encourage cuddling up with popcorn and your partner.
• Windows on the World: Explore public art installations throughout Columbus. With art scattered around the city, it’s a creative way to discover local talent together.

These free activities not only provide enjoyable options for couples but also highlight the charm and creativity of Columbus.

Whether seeking budget-friendly adventures or free experiences, couples can find plenty to do in Columbus, Ohio, that makes their time together memorable!