COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — With travel costs skyrocketing, it is no surprise that more Americans are choosing to remain close to home this summer and enjoying time off with a staycation.
According to a new Airbnb survey, the top travel destination for 2025 is not a coastal getaway or mountain escape — it is the would-be traveler’s home. In fact, 60% of families said that they are planning trips near where they live, and 43% of Americans plan to drive instead of fly.
For local families who are staying put in central Ohio, here are some fresh and unexpected Columbus summer staycation ideas that go beyond the typical zoo or museum outing:
Actors’ Theatre Outdoor Shows
• Schiller Park Amphitheatre, 1000 City Park Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43206
Bring a blanket and enjoy free outdoor theater in the heart of historic German Village. This summer’s lineup includes “Emma,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Shane” and “She Kills Monsters,” all performed under the stars.
Details:
• Thursdays through Sundays at 8 p.m.
• Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend
• Admission is free (donations encouraged)
Anthony-Thomas Chocolate Factory Tours
• 1777 Arlingate Ln., Columbus, OH 43228
A behind-the-scenes look at one of Columbus’ tastiest treasures. Tours are available weekdays in the summer and no reservations are needed for groups under 20.
Details:
• Open house tours in June, July and August
• Tour hours, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Admission is $4 per person for 18 years and older and $2 per person for 2- to 17-year-olds.
• Free samples included
Ohio Statehouse Tours
• 1 Capitol Square, Columbus, Ohio 43215
History buffs can take a free guided tour of the Ohio Statehouse, one of the oldest statehouses in the U.S. The tour explores the building’s architecture, historical artifacts, and Ohio’s legislative past. Tours are offered multiple times daily and walk-ins are welcome.
Details:
• Weekday walk-in tours start from the Map Room on the hour, every hour, starting at 10 a.m., with the last tour at 3 p.m.
• Weekend walk-in tours start at noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m.
• The Ohio Statehouse is handicapped accessible and senior-friendly
• Admission is free
Otherworld
• 5819 Chantry Dr., Columbus, Ohio 43232
For something truly unique, Otherworld offers an immersive art and technology experience perfect for all ages. This surreal interactive museum features dozens of rooms filled with large-scale installations, secret passages, and mind-bending environments that encourage exploration and play.
Details:
• Open daily with extended evening hours on weekends
• Purchase tickets in advance online for the best availability
• General admission is $30 for adults and $24 for children ages 3 to 12
Renaissance Hotel rooftop pool day pass
• 50 N. 3rd St., Columbus, OH 43215
Turn a regular day into a mini escape with a day pass to the heated rooftop pool at the Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel. Unwind in the hot tub with skyline views, sip craft cocktails from Bar 41, and grab a bite from Latitude 41, all without booking a room.
Includes:
• Poolside lounge seating and towel service
• Rooftop hot tub access
• On-site dining and drinks delivered poolside
• Locker rooms and complimentary Wi-Fi
• Discounted valet parking, $23 for up to 8 hours
Trapper John’s Canoe Livery
• 7141 London Groveport Rd., Grove City, OH 43123
Sightseers can go on a peaceful paddle down Big Darby Creek, one of Ohio’s designated scenic rivers. Rent a canoe or kayak and pick from several routes that range from short samplers to all-day adventures. Some walk-ins are welcome, bookings are available for all trips. Prices range from $35 to $75 per person.
Some options include:
• Sampler trip: 1 to 2 hours, offered 7 days a week
• Upper trip: 2 to 3 hours, offered 7 days a week, starting at Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park
• Lower trip: 2 to 4 hours, offered 7 days a week, ends at an old-fashioned bridge
The Trolley Pub Columbus
• Short North and Downtown, starting location, 152 N Young St., Columbus, Ohio 43215
The Trolley Pub offers a pub crawl on wheels and stops at some of Columbus’s best bars. Participants can customize their route with drink deals along the way. For family-friendly fun, book the Experience Cbus City Tour, where trolley captains offer an entertaining and informative look at the city.
ZipZone Outdoor Adventures
• 7925 N High St., Columbus, OH 43235
A one-of-a-kind, outdoor experience located just outside I-270 north inside Camp Mary Orton, ZipZone is a treetop thrill. Select from zip line tours, a tree-top obstacle course, or a ground-level kids’ park perfect for families with younger adventurers. Tours are professionally guided and family-friendly.