Things to Do at Night in Columbus, Ohio

Columbus, Ohio is a vibrant city with plenty of activities for those looking for a night out on the town. From live music to outdoor activities, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out or a night with friends, Columbus has you covered.

From the trendy Short North Arts District to the historic German Village, Columbus offers a wide variety of nightlife activities. Whether you’re looking for a casual evening or a night out on the town, there’s something for everyone in Columbus. Below are some of the best things to do at night in this vibrant city.

Live Music

Columbus is home to some of the best live music in the Midwest. From jazz to rock, there is something to suit any music fan. The city has several venues that host regular live music events, including the Newport Music Hall, the Lincoln Theatre, and the A&R Music Bar. Whether you’re looking to get your groove on or just relax and listen to some great tunes, Columbus has you covered.

For those looking for a more intimate evening, there are several acoustic and folk venues in the city. Check out venues like Kobo, the Rumba Café, and the Basement for an evening of great music and good vibes.

If you’re looking for something a little more upbeat, head to one of Columbus’s many dance clubs. From hip-hop to EDM, you’re sure to find a club that fits your musical taste. Check out venues such as Axis, Skully’s Music-Diner, and Park Street Tavern for a night of dancing and fun.

Outdoor Activities

Columbus offers plenty of great outdoor activities for those looking to get out and explore. From biking to kayaking, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the city’s beautiful outdoors. Check out Scioto Mile, a five-mile riverfront park with paths for walking, jogging, and biking, as well as kayak and canoe rentals.

For a more relaxing evening, grab a blanket and head to one of the city’s many outdoor movie screenings. Movies in the Park is a popular event held throughout the summer in several of Columbus’s parks, featuring classic and new movies shown on a 40-foot inflatable screen. Or, head to one of the city’s many rooftop bars or patios for an evening of drinks and views.

If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, check out the city’s many zip lining and rock climbing courses. Both offer an exciting way to explore the outdoors while getting your adrenaline pumping!

Dining and Drinking

Columbus is home to some of the best restaurants in the Midwest. From classic American fare to ethnic cuisines, there is something to suit any palate. The city also boasts an impressive craft beer and cocktail scene. Check out Wolf’s Ridge Brewing or Barley’s Brewing Co. for a night of great beer and conversation.

If you’re looking for a more upscale evening, head to one of the city’s many fine dining establishments. The city is home to several high-end restaurants, including the Refectory and Mitchell’s Steakhouse. For a more casual evening, check out the city’s many gastropubs, craft breweries, and wine bars.

No matter what type of evening you’re looking for, Columbus has plenty of dining and drinking options to choose from.

The Arts

Columbus is home to several art galleries and museums, offering a great way to explore the city’s creative side. The Wexner Center for the Arts at Ohio State University is one of the city’s most popular art destinations, featuring cutting-edge contemporary art. For a more classic experience, head to the Columbus Museum of Art, which features a wide range of art from the Renaissance to today.

The city also offers plenty of opportunities to explore the performing arts. From ballet to Broadway musicals, the city’s many theatres offer a wide range of experiences. The Ohio Theatre, the Southern Theatre, and the Palace Theatre are just a few of the city’s many venues. For those looking for a more intimate experience, check out the city’s many smaller theatre companies and venues.

No matter what type of art experience you’re looking for, Columbus has something for everyone.

Sports

Columbus is home to several professional and collegiate sports teams, offering plenty of opportunities to catch a game. The Columbus Blue Jackets of the NHL, the Columbus Crew of the MLS, and the Ohio State Buckeyes of the Big Ten are just a few of the city’s teams.

The city also offers plenty of opportunities to watch minor league sports. The Columbus Clippers of the International League are the city’s Triple-A baseball team, while the Columbus Destroyers of the Arena Football League are the city’s indoor football team. The city also has several minor league hockey and soccer teams.

Whether you’re looking to catch a pro game or support the city’s minor league teams, Columbus has plenty of sports to choose from.

Shopping

If you’re looking for a night of shopping, Columbus has plenty to offer. The city is home to two major malls, Easton Town Center and Polaris Fashion Place, as well as several smaller shopping centers. The Short North Arts District is also home to several boutique shops, perfect for those looking for something a bit more unique.

For those looking for a more vintage experience, check out the city’s many thrift stores and antique shops. From furniture to clothing, there is something to suit any budget. The North Market, located in the Arena District, is also a great spot for those looking for unique food and gift items.

No matter what type of shopping experience you’re looking for, Columbus has something for everyone.

Comedy

Columbus is home to some of the best comedy in the Midwest. From open mic nights to improv classes, there are plenty of opportunities to get your laugh on. The city’s many comedy clubs offer a great way to enjoy a night of laughs. Check out venues such as the Funny Bone, the Columbus Improv, and the Comedy Caravan for a night of great comedy.

The city also offers several improv classes, perfect for those looking to hone their comedic skills. The city’s many comedy venues also host regular improv jams, giving budding comedians a chance to test their mettle and hone their skills.

Whether you’re looking for a night out with friends or a more intimate experience, Columbus has plenty of comedy to choose from.

Karaoke

For those looking for a more interactive evening, Columbus has plenty of karaoke bars to choose from. From classic rock to pop, there is something to suit any karaoke fan. Check out venues such as KJ’s Pub and the Karaoke Bar for a night of singing and fun.

If you’re looking for something a bit more laidback, the city’s many pubs and restaurants offer karaoke nights throughout the week. Check out venues like The Three-Legged Mare and The Daily Growler for a night of singing and beers.

No matter what type of karaoke experience you’re looking for, Columbus has plenty of venues to choose from.

Bowling

For those looking for a more laidback evening, Columbus offers several bowling alleys. From classic bowling alleys to modern venues, there is something to suit any bowler. Check out venues such as the Columbus Square Bowling Palace and the AMF Sawmill Lanes for a night of strikes and spares.

For those looking for a more unique evening, head to one of Columbus’s many glow-in-the-dark bowling venues. Check out venues such as the Star Lanes Polaris and the Star Lanes Westerville for a night of neon-lit bowling fun.

No matter what type of bowling experience you’re looking for, Columbus has something for everyone.

Arcade Games

For those looking for a more nostalgic evening, check out one of Columbus’s many classic arcade games. From pinball to Skee-Ball, there is something to suit any nostalgist. Check out venues such as the 16-Bit Bar+Arcade and the Level One Bar+Arcade for a night of classic gaming fun.

If you’re looking for something a bit more modern, head to one of the city’s many video game bars. From retro consoles to virtual-reality games, there is something to suit any video game fan. Check out venues such as the Arcade Super Awesome and the Arcade Legacy for a night of gaming and drinks.

No matter what type of gaming experience you’re looking for, Columbus has something for everyone.

Conclusion

Columbus, Ohio is home to plenty of great nightlife activities. From live music to outdoor activities, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out or a night with friends, Columbus has you covered. Whether you’re looking for a casual evening or a night out on the town, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.