☀️ How to Have Fun in Columbus This Summer Without Going Broke

Plus: 🐍 What Is Ancient Ohio's Greatest Achievement?

Author

Chelsea Wiley
July 09, 2025

Sponsored by the Greater Columbus Arts Council 🖼️
From neighborhood block parties to music, food, and cultural festivals, there’s something happening almost every weekend in Columbus. Don’t miss your chance to explore the city through art, creativity, and a whole lot of fun. Find your next summer favorite at columbusmakesart.com/events.

Hello, Wednesday! Chelsea here.

Hot take: You don’t need to drop $100 to have a good time in Columbus this summer. From free movie nights and museum visits to concert singalongs and state park hikes, the city is packed with ways to have fun on the cheap — or for free. I rounded up some of the best wallet-friendly things to do this season, so you can keep your plans full and your budget intact.

🪓 Dueling Axes Has Taken Over A Historic Grove City Bowling Alley
An old bowling alley in Grove City just got quite the overhaul, and it's now home to axe throwing, cosmic lights, and a full bar. Here's what you can expect and when you can check it out for yourself!

🐍 The Stunning Serpent Mound Is Ancient Ohio's Greatest Achievement
Ohio is home to the world’s largest ancient serpent effigy, and its true purpose is still a mystery. Serpent Mound is a prehistoric site unlike anything else in the U.S., and it’s just a short drive from Columbus.

Headlines 📰 

🚊 Columbus hasn’t had passenger rail service since 1979, but a new study could change that. State leaders are reconsidering train travel, and this time, they might actually mean it. (NBC4)

📈 Tourism in Hocking Hills has skyrocketed, especially since the pandemic, and the crowds aren’t slowing down. Locals are feeling the strain, from housing pressures to EMS overload, as they try to balance booming business with small-town life. (WOSU)

🩷 Fifteen years ago, Kathleen Day opened Katalina’s in a tiny gas station with a dream and a skillet full of Pancake Balls. In this personal reflection, she shares what’s changed (and what hasn’t) about food, community, and Columbus itself. (Columbus Monthly)

🌦️ Weather: 87 and partly sunny with a chance of showers

Sponsored by Columbus Recreation and Parks 🎶
Your favorite ’90s bands (sort of) are back. Tribute Tuesdays is bringing free live music, food, and drinks to Bicentennial Park all summer long. Catch tribute sets of Beastie Boys, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nirvana, and more. It’s all happening along the Scioto Mile and admission is totally free. Music starts at 6:30, but come early for happy hour vibes at 5. Please click here for more info.

Coming Up 📆

Today's Photo 🤳

🪻 Once a hub of heavy industry, the transformation of the Whittier Peninsula into one of Columbus' most scenic escapes has been so much fun to watch throughout my life. Today, Scioto Audubon Metro Park offers unbeatable views of downtown, and a rare slice of nature in the heart of the city.

Want your photo to be featured? Use #columbusnavigator or tag us!

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- Chelsea