You don’t need major funds to have fun in CBUS; just look at these activities that are full of excitement without any of the cost. Plus, we’ll never send you walking aimlessly in the park. Instead, each selection offers something entertaining to make sure you get your money’s worth (even though you aren’t spending it).
Batelle Darby Creek Metro Park
You can find bison roaming around the pastures in this local park. Be warned: It may take longer than you expect, so bring your walking shoes and patience. These 2,200+ lbs beasts are surprisingly good at hiding.
The Billy Ireland Cartoon Museum & Library is the largest collection of cartoons and comics in the world, according to its bio. | Photo via @cartoonlibrary
Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum
If you love flipping through the comics section of newspapers, this is your new favorite place on Ohio State’s campus. It features the works of many iconic illustrators, such as Ohio-based cartoonist Bill Watterson, creator of “Calvin & Hobbes.” General admission is free and open to the public.
There are nature trails and other walking paths near the Blacklick Woods Canopy Walk. | Photo by CBUStoday
Blacklick Woods Canopy Walk
This new 40+ ft structure is standing tall with netted bridges, wide walking paths, and a climbing area for kids. It’s also ADA accessible thanks to a ground level elevator. We recommend driving all the way to the back of the park to save yourself a long walk.
The carousel at the Columbus Commons is a timeless way to entertain little kids. | GIF by CBUStoday
Columbus Commons
In addition to hosting popular family events, the Commons is a great for the always free carousel + the wide open space for kids to run freely in.
This is the “Akua’ba Invocation Figure,” and it is one of eight Invocation Figures by artist Andrew F. Scott. It can be found on the CBUS Soul Sculpture Trail at The King Arts Complex. | Photo via Google Maps
CBUS Soul Sculpture Trail
Explore the city to find nine sculptures that were created by African American artists like Melvin Edwards, Omar Shaheed + Bill Agnew. Each one features text descriptions as well as audio clips for more details. Plus, if you sign up online, you can earn a free tote back after checking in to each location.
Visitors can explore the outdoor patio at the Columbus Metropolitan Library Main Branch + the nearby Topiary Park. | Photo via Columbus Metropolitan Library
Columbus Metropolitan Library
Signing up for a library card is quick, free, and easy. It took less than 10 minutes to get Senior City Editor Mitch signed up for his card, and all he needed was a valid ID.
Check out the Columbus Museum of Art’s website to see past, current, and upcoming exhibits before your visit. | Photo via Columbus Museum of Art on Facebook
Columbus Museum of Art
The museum offers free general admission each Sunday, giving everyone the chance to see ancient artifacts, eye-grabbing paintings, and thought-provoking videos.
Corn you believe these statues standing along Rings Road in Dublin? | Photo via Wikicommons
Cornhenge
Admittedly, you probably won’t spend more than 15 minutes here — but it’s worth a mention. That’s because it’s so odd to see a field of stone corn sculptures that have been standing proudly in a grassy patch since 1994.
Learn about 100+ different species of butterflies during your visit at Franklin Park Conservatory. | GIF by CBUStoday
Franklin Park Conservatory
Community Days are offered on the first Sunday of each month, giving CBUS residents the chance to check out butterflies, explore multiple greenhouses, and discover a new plants.
When you see the all-white poles, you know you’ve arrived to the Wexner Center for the Arts. | Photo by RightCowLeftCoast/Wikicommons
Wexner Center for the Arts
Stop by Ohio State’s campus to browse this free art gallery any day of the week. It features multiple galleries that are rotated throughout the year, so it’s best to check out the website to see what’s on display.
