15 Must-Try Tours & Things To Do In Columbus

Columbus isn’t just Ohio’s capital; it’s a city brimming with fun activities and memorable tours that appeal to all sorts of travelers. Whether you’re after an adrenaline rush, a foodie adventure, or a playful scavenger hunt, Columbus offers experiences that are authentic and engaging.

We’re particularly fond of the Escape Game at Easton Town Center because it provides a perfect mix of challenge and teamwork, making it ideal for groups or couples looking for a fun mental workout.

The Trolley Pub is another favorite, letting you pedal your way through town with some drinks in hand—great for both visitors wanting a relaxed sightseeing day or locals celebrating a special occasion.

For a more active experience, the Outdoor Escape Room in Downtown Columbus takes you on a real-world puzzle adventure right in the city’s heart.

Columbus’s diversity in tours makes it easy to tailor your visit. From hands-on LEGO building at LEGOLAND Discovery Center to delicious Short North Food Tours, you’ll find something for every mood and interest. Below, you’ll find a curated list of the 15 best tours and activities that showcase what makes Columbus special.

1. The Escape Game at Easton Town Center in Columbus

This escape room experience offers six different scenarios, each designed to challenge your puzzle-solving skills. With approximately 1 hour 15 minutes of immersive fun, you’ll work in teams of up to 12 to find clues, crack codes, and complete your mission. The game is guided by a trained staff member who helps keep the energy high.

The variety of themes—like escaping from a submarine or a prison—means you can pick the challenge that excites you most. Guests consistently praise the ease of booking and the engaging nature of the games.

One reviewer said, “We had a blast and would totally book through them again.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for groups, families, or colleagues, this activity offers a mix of problem-solving and teamwork that guarantees a memorable time.

2. Explore Columbus on The Trolley Pub

At number 2, the Trolley Pub takes sightseeing to a different level—by pedal power! For about two hours, you’ll ride an electrically assisted party bike that hits key spots around Columbus.

Your guide ensures you see the city’s hotspots while stopping at partner bars for discounts, where you can bring your own wine or beer. The lively atmosphere and social vibe have earned this tour a perfect 5-star rating from over 110 reviewers.

Many rave about the fun stops, like Sweeney’s, and the knowledgeable, respectful captain, making this a hit for friends or couples.
Bottom Line: It’s a lively, inclusive way to see the city, with plenty of opportunities to meet new people and enjoy Columbus’s nightlife.

3. Outdoor Escape Room in Downtown Columbus

This outdoor adventure combines a scavenger hunt with the thrill of an escape room, set right in downtown Columbus. Over roughly two hours, your team searches murals, statues, and landmarks for clues, solving puzzles that are accessible via an app. The experience is flexible—you can reschedule with no fees, making it convenient for busy travelers.

Reviews are limited but enthusiastic, with players saying it’s a memorable city exploration that mixes urban discovery with puzzle-solving.
Bottom Line: A fantastic option for those who love a bit of outdoor activity combined with mental challenges—ideal for families and groups alike.

4. Columbus: 1-Hour Themed Escape Room Adventure & Narrative

This indoor escape adventure features six themed rooms, from a heist to a deep-sea adventure. For just $42 per person, you get about an hour of high-energy puzzle solving. The game offers unlimited hints, so it’s accessible even if you’re new to escape rooms. Guests repeatedly mention how engaging and immersive the puzzles are, with the added bonus of multiple rooms in each game.

One reviewer shared, “It’s exciting, immersive, and fun for everyone.” This experience is well-suited for friends, date nights, or small groups who want a quick, yet intense, challenge.
Bottom Line: Fast-paced, engaging, and perfect for those who want a well-designed escape room experience in just an hour.

5. Short North Walking Food Tour

For about three and a half hours, this tour takes you through Columbus’s hip Short North arts district. Starting at North Market Downtown, you’ll sample foods from several vendors, then stroll through the neighborhood’s galleries, murals, and boutiques. The tour includes stops at popular restaurants and a walk through Goodale Park.

Priced at $89 per person, it offers a comprehensive look at local cuisine and culture. Guests love the engaging guide, Abby, who makes the history and food come alive.

It’s a great way to experience Columbus’s vibrant arts and foodie scene in one outing.
Bottom Line: Best for food lovers and culture seekers who enjoy leisurely walks and delicious bites.

6. Shared Yoga and Coffee Experience On The Trolley Pub

Combine wellness and fun with this unique tour. Starting with breathing exercises, you’ll pedal to Goodale Park for an outdoor yoga session led by a licensed instructor. Afterward, continue to Bada Bean Bada Booze for coffee or cocktails. This two-hour experience costs $39 per person and is perfect for those who want to relax and socialize.

Reviewers appreciate how friendly and welcoming the guide is, making it suitable for all skill levels.
Bottom Line: A refreshing mix of exercise and indulgence, excellent for groups looking to combine health with socializing.

7. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus Ticket

Ideal for families, this ticket provides entry to Columbus’s ultimate LEGO play zone. For $26.24, you’ll enjoy access to attractions like the LEGO Factory, Miniland featuring regional landmarks, DUPLO® Farm, and LEGO Racers. The 4D cinema and LEGO rides round out the fun.

The reviews highlight how the entire family can keep busy for hours, with one reviewer mentioning, “Our 5 and 7-year-olds loved it and would come again.”
Bottom Line: Best suited for families with young children, offering a full day of interactive LEGO fun without waiting in lines.

8. Columbus Crusade Scavenger Hunt

This highly rated, 2-hour interactive scavenger hunt involves a live remote host guiding you via phone. You solve puzzles while exploring Columbus’s streets and landmarks with clues hidden in murals, statues, and neighborhoods. The mix of detective work and city exploration makes it a hit for travelers who want to add a bit of mystery to their sightseeing.

A reviewer shared, “We met a police officer who helped us interpret a clue,” highlighting how engaging and interactive this tour can be.
Bottom Line: Perfect for puzzle lovers and those wanting a flexible, guided urban adventure.

9. Holiday Lights Tour with Trolley Pub Columbus

During the holiday season, this 2.5-hour tour lights up your evening. The enclosed trolley takes you through the Short North Pole, Arena District, and Downtown, stopping at the city’s best holiday displays. Sing along to Christmas carols with the onboard stereo and enjoy a festive, social atmosphere.

The positive review notes how it’s a “fun and festive way to celebrate the season,” making it a great choice for family or friends.
Bottom Line: A cheerful, celebration-ready tour for the holiday season, combining city sights with festive fun.

10. Columbus Scavenger Hunt Adventure

This app-based scavenger hunt lasts about 2.5 hours, guiding you through Columbus’s landmarks like the Capitol and war memorials. You solve clues and complete challenges at your own pace, making it ideal for families and groups wanting a flexible activity.

One participant noted, “It made me really see what I was looking at and learn new things,” showing how educational and entertaining this tour can be.
Bottom Line: Great for curious travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and fun challenges.

11. Columbus to Columbus John Glen Airport (CMH) – Departure Private Transfer

For a smooth exit, consider this private transfer service. It guarantees a comfortable, door-to-door ride from your hotel to the airport, with professional drivers and flight tracking. Priced at $102.96 per person, it’s a reliable way to avoid last-minute hassles at the end of your trip.

Although not a typical tour, it’s essential for stress-free departures.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a hassle-free, comfortable way to get to Columbus Airport.

12. Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Columbus by Operation City Quest

This scavenger hunt app costs just $10 per person and lasts about two hours. You explore Columbus independently, with a remote guide available via chat. The hunt takes you to sights like the Ohio Statehouse and historic theaters, with puzzles to solve along the way.

One user commented, “It was a fun way to see the city and learn some trivia,” highlighting its educational aspect.
Bottom Line: An affordable, flexible activity perfect for families or friends who like self-guided adventures.

13. Columbus: Multiple Attractions Pass

This pass offers access to top attractions like the Columbus Museum of Art, Zoo, and Franklin Park Conservatory for 1-3 days. Priced at $55 per person, it’s a convenient way to see several highlights without multiple tickets. Reviewers note the diversity of options, from polar bears at the zoo to stunning glass art.

It’s ideal for visitors wanting an overview of Columbus’s cultural and recreational sites.
Bottom Line: Great for multi-day visitors wanting flexibility and variety in their sightseeing.

14. Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Discovering Columbus

This interactive photo scavenger hunt costs $12.31 per person and takes about two hours. Using an app, you visit landmarks like Topiary Park and the Lincoln Theatre, answering trivia questions along the way. One reviewer said, “It was fun and got us to see things we wouldn’t have found otherwise.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for groups who want a self-paced, educational activity with a touch of challenge.

15. Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Columbus Sails East

This scavenger hunt leads you through Columbus’s east side, including sites like the Kelton House Museum. It’s an app-based activity costing $12.31, lasting around two hours. You can play alone or in teams, making it ideal for parties or team-building.

A small number of reviews point out how it offers a fun way to learn local facts and explore at your own pace.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly way to discover Columbus’s east side with minimal planning.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Columbus

Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If you love puzzle-solving and team challenges, the Escape Game or Outdoor Escape Room might be ideal. For a more relaxed, social experience, the Trolley Pub or Holiday Lights Tour offer lively, scenic outings.

Foodies should consider the Short North Food Tour for a delicious exploration, while families with kids will find the LEGOLAND Discovery Center and interactive scavenger hunts perfect.

Be sure to book popular experiences early, especially during peak seasons or holidays. For example, the holiday lights tour is best during December, while the self-guided scavenger hunts allow flexibility if your schedule is uncertain. Look at reviews and consider whether you prefer guided or independent adventures.

Final Thoughts

Columbus offers a diverse range of entertaining and educational tours for every taste. Whether you’re after a thrilling escape room, a family-friendly LEGO adventure, or a culinary walking tour through the lively Short North, you’ll find activities that suit your style.

Two standout choices are the Escape Game at Easton Town Center for its immersive puzzles, and the Trolley Pub for a lively way to explore and socialize.

For families, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center remains a top pick, while solo adventurers might enjoy the self-guided scavenger hunts for their flexibility and value.

Remember to book early, especially for popular tours, and tailor your choices to your interests—Columbus’s vibrant scene makes it easy to find just the right activity. Whether for an action-packed day or a laid-back exploration, the city’s variety of tours will help you get the most out of your visit.