Visiting Columbus and Central Ohio

Columbus marks its Bicentennial in 2012. The city showcases 200 years of history and heritage in the yearlong celebration “200 Columbus The Bicentennial”. The Columbus Museum of Art host’s special bicentennial exhibits, as well as events at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Look for the Capital Pride Concert Band performing at Lincoln Theatre downtown, and bicentennial editions of events like the Capital City Half Marathon. Columbus honors its 200th birthday with the construction of the Columbus Bicentennial Pavilion in Columbus Commons. Celebrate the opening May 2012 with a visit to the heart of the city and kick-off the season in downtown Columbus.

Home of Ohio State University, nothing draws a crowd of fans more than Buckeye athletic events. Die hard Buckeye football fans; be sure to catch the finale of spring training at the 2012 Ohio State LiFE Sports Spring Game April 21st. It’s a double header Saturday with the Ohio State men’s lacrosse team hosting Air Force in the morning and the Ohio State Football game in the afternoon. Enjoy these spring sports events at Ohio Stadium.

The Bicentennial Edition of the Capital City Half Marathon is May 5th. Events include the Half Marathon, Quarter Marathon, 5K and kids mascot chase. Pick your distance and join the fun running or walking in Columbus’ beautiful spring weather. The start of the race is the Scioto Mile, at Broad Street and Civic Center Drive, with the course routing participants through the sites and neighborhoods of Columbus. Along with the race events, be sure to visit the Health and Fitness Expo, enjoy local bands and performers along the course and celebrate the race at the Extra Mile Finish Line Party.

Its just about time for Zoombezi Bay to launch its 2012 season. Opening for weekends May 19th, with daily summer hours beginning Memorial Day, Zoombezi waterpark features 17 water slides, lazy river, action river and a wave pool – plenty of fun to keep anyone entertained. Located on the grounds of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, remember a your ticket to Zoombezi Bay is also good for admission to the zoo.

The Columbus Arts Festival returns to downtown Columbus for 2012. Sponsored by Time Warner Cable and produced by the Greater Columbus Arts Council, the Columbus Arts Festival celebrates its 51st year on the Downtown Riverfront. Join the festivities the weekend of June 1st through 3rd at the Columbus Center of Science and Industry, and along the Scioto Mile.

Browse artist’s tents spanning Rich Street Bridge, along Washington Boulevard and Main Street Bridge; Savor the Arts features local Columbus restaurants offering tastings and samples; while kids enjoy the Hands on Art Activities Area. Welcome the Columbus Arts Festival back to downtown and kick off your summer fun.

Columbus and Central Ohio Hotel Map