Picture this: it’s the first day of summer, and chaos ensues. It’s 10AM—the kids are amped up, crumbs are on the floor, someone’s crying, the dogs are barking non-stop, and the TV is way too loud.
Now you’re realizing that you’ll need to find a way to keep the kiddos busy, or risk losing your mind every single day…until they go back to school in August.
Time to find some fun summer activities for kids in Columbus, OH! This way, the kids can have some summer fun, and you can enjoy some peace and quiet at home.
10 Best Summer Activities For Kids Near Columbus, Ohio
Do you have children looking for fun things to do near Columbus, OH? Then be sure to read this list from top to bottom so you don’t miss out on any of the best summer activities for kids in Bexley, Westerville, Downtown, and more!
#1 – Franklin Park Conservatory
1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203
Classes, camps, and programs galore! There’s a never ending variety of fun to be had at Franklin Park Conservatory. Your kiddos can learn all about gardening and nature through summer education programs for kids at the Children’s Garden.
There are half day and full day summer programs available for ages 3-8. From Jurassic Franklin Park to Wizards and Magical Creatures, there’s so much to choose from!
#2 – Innis Woods Gardens
940 S Hempstead Rd, Westerville, OH 43081
Get them out of the house and into good ol’ nature this summer! At Innis Woods Gardens, children can have a true adventure in the woods. There are multiple trails to pick, ranging from 0.1 miles to 0.6 miles.
Have fun biking, hiking, playing a game of disc golf, or the one and only obstacle course. Check out their traditional and adventure nature camps. Registration for these camps opens March 7.
#3 – Ballet & Dance Classes
Is your child interested in starting ballet or dance classes? Maybe they’re ready to continue their dance journey this summer? Here are some ways to get your little dancer signed up for classes.
BalletMet
322 Mt Vernon Ave, Columbus, OH 43215
- Summer Dance Camp (Ages 4-8)
- Intensive Camps (7-20)
Artisan Dance Studio
4140 Indianola Ave, Columbus, OH 43214
- Summer Session #1 – June 17-June 28th
- Summer Session #2 – July 15-July 27th
- Pre-Classes Ballet (Ages 3 & 4)
- Competition Team Boot Camps (Ages 7-11 & Ages 12+)
- Ballet Academy (Different Levels) (All academy classes are open to drop-ins)
K Studio Columbus
1152 Kenny Centre Mall, Columbus, OH 43220
- Most Classes Start June 3
- Ballet/Tap Combo (Ages 4-5)
- Creative Movement (Ages 3-4)
- Pretty Princess Camp (Ages 4-6)
- Hip-Hop & Jazz (6-7)
- Tiktok Hip Hop Camp (Ages 8-10)
#4 – World Drumming Classes
2738 East Main Street, Bexley, OH, 43209
Discover the vibrant rhythms of African drumming through world drumming classes. Offered in both Bexley and Columbus, these classes provide an exciting opportunity for children to immerse themselves in the rich musical traditions of other cultures.
Designed specifically for ages 5 to 8, the classes are an engaging way for young learners to understand and practice different rhythms from around the globe.
#5 – Private Music Lessons
2738 East Main Street, Bexley, OH, 43209
Sometimes one-on-one music lessons are better than group classes—especially if you have a child who tends to be shy. Private music lessons usually last from 30 minutes to an hour.
#6 – Mommy & Me Music Lessons
2738 East Main Street, Bexley, OH, 43209
Mommy and Me classes offer the perfect chance to squeeze in some bonding time. Grandparents and caregivers are more than welcome to join in on the fun, too. No need to bring anything but yourselves.
Expect interactive activities like tummy time, sing-a-longs, and playing with cool instruments!
- Every Tuesday from 9:30AM-10:00AM
- Ages 0-5
- Registration Open
#7 – Tropical Music Summer Camp
2738 East Main Street, Bexley, OH, 43209
Campers will sing along with their favorite Polynesian Disney Princess at this tropical music summer camp, where there’s no time for boredom at this musical summer camp. They’ll be singing this sea-loving soundtrack in the car all summer long.
Your kiddos will have tons of fun learning and playing traditional instruments like the guitar and flute. They’ll also learn cool, traditional Pacific dance moves!
- July 8-19
- Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-3:30 PM
- Registration Open Now (Limited to 60 Campers)
#8 – World Drumming Summer Camp
2738 East Main Street, Bexley, OH, 43209
So many drums, so little time! Your campers will learn how to play different types of percussion instruments, such as bongos and hand drums. Campers will express their creativity through all kinds of drum-themed arts and crafts activities.
- July 22-August 2
- Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-3:30 PM
- Registration Open Now (Limited to 60 Campers)
#9 – Columbus Symphony Orchestra “Young People’s Concerts”
55 East State Street, Columbus, OH 43215
The Columbus Symphony’s Young People’s Concerts offer thematic, grade-appropriate musical experiences for students throughout the greater Columbus area. Held at the Ohio Theatre, these concerts include curriculum materials and playlists aligned with Ohio Academic content standards.
- Free for Title I Schools or $5 per seat
- May 1st – Link Up: The Orchestra Sings – 10:30AM
- Grades 3-5
#10 – Music-Themed StoryTimes at Libraries
850 N Nelson Rd, Columbus, OH 43219
Did you know the Columbus Metropolitan Library offers a multitude of music-themed storytimes? If you have a music lover at home, bring them to a storytime! They’re free, and hosted by ProMusica.
Activities For Kids in Columbus, OH: Frequently Asked Questions
What can kids do in Columbus in the summer?
From engaging music and dancing lessons to immersive nature exploration experiences, the options are truly endless! Children can attend captivating concerts or shows, or immerse themselves in the wonders of a fun-filled summer camp adventure.
What are some free kids activities in Columbus?
On a budget? No worries, there are free or low-cost summer activities for kids! YMCA of Central Columbus offers many programs and classes for children. This includes before and after school programs, art and cooking classes, swimming lessons, sports and more.
What are some fun activities for kids in Columbus year round?
Whether your kid loves music, dancing, or drawing, there’s an event or class for them to busy themselves. Talk with your kids and see what classes or programs they’re interested in.
Sign Up For A Summer Full Of Activities: Summer Camp Awaits!
Designed for kids aged 5-9, our camps offer a fun, enriching experience that combines music, dance, and arts and crafts inspired by diverse cultures. Whether they’re exploring tropical island rhythms or mastering global drum beats, your child will grow their social skills, make new friends, and enjoy plenty of outdoor activities.
Now is the perfect time to secure your child’s place for a summer filled with song, sun, and learning. Don’t wait–enroll your camper today and make this summer unforgettable!
