Bicentennial Park
Columbus's vibrant urban oasis along the Scioto River, featuring a spectacular fountain, event spaces, and scenic trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Outdoor movies & pleasant weather
Bicentennial Park
Best Time
Outdoor movies & pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Columbus's vibrant urban oasis along the Scioto River, featuring a spectacular fountain, event spaces, and scenic trails.
"A great place to visit, especially when the water fountains are working and fun for kids!"
Check Event Schedules
Don't miss out! Look up 'Bicentennial Park Columbus events' for movie nights & festivals.
Fountain Fun
Bring swim gear for kids! The Scioto Mile Fountain is a blast on warm days. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scioto Mile Fountain
Downtown Columbus
A massive 15,000-sq.-ft. fountain, perfect for cooling off on hot days and dazzling light shows.

Outdoor Movie Nights
Various locations within the park
Enjoy classic films under the stars during summer. A perfect, relaxed evening for friends and family.

Festivals and Events
Main event lawn
From jazz and rib fests to art festivals, the park is a hub for vibrant community gatherings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Know Your Bicentennial
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Event Schedules
Don't miss out! Look up 'Bicentennial Park Columbus events' for movie nights & festivals.
Fountain Fun
Bring swim gear for kids! The Scioto Mile Fountain is a blast on warm days. :water_wave:
Parking Pointers
Street parking can be tricky. Consider garages or public transport for events. :car:
Pack a Picnic
Plenty of green space for a relaxing meal. Grab snacks before you arrive. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Event Schedules
Don't miss out! Look up 'Bicentennial Park Columbus events' for movie nights & festivals.
Fountain Fun
Bring swim gear for kids! The Scioto Mile Fountain is a blast on warm days. :water_wave:
Parking Pointers
Street parking can be tricky. Consider garages or public transport for events. :car:
Pack a Picnic
Plenty of green space for a relaxing meal. Grab snacks before you arrive. :sandwich:
Winter Wonderland
The park lights up beautifully during winter holidays. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bicentennial Park for its vibrant atmosphere, especially during events like 'Red, White & Boom' and the Jazz & Rib Fest. The Scioto Mile Fountain is a major highlight for families, and the park's scenic riverfront location makes it a beautiful spot for walks and relaxation. While parking can be challenging during peak times, the overall experience is highly rated.
"We had the most amazing time here on the 4th of July!! The Red, White, and Boom fireworks and food trucks and music and everything was just fantastic !!! This is our 6th time to attend this event and each time was terrific !"
Mickey Berry
"Had a wonderful time in Columbus. The jazz and rib fest was the reason and it was such a wonderful time... Columbus, Ohio owes us nothing."
Kianna Bell
"I was visiting during the Columbus art festival. A great place to visit. When the water fountains are working, very dramatic and fun for the kids to play in. During the winter, they like this place up."
Howard J
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bicentennial Park is located in downtown Columbus, Ohio. You can reach it via car, with several parking garages nearby. Public transportation options are also available, with bus routes serving the downtown area. For specific routes and times, check COTA (Central Ohio Transit Authority).
mentions parking and bus passes for Nashville's Bicentennial Park, which can be a useful reference for understanding public transit options in urban parks.Yes, there are parking garages and street parking options near Bicentennial Park. During major events like 'Red, White & Boom' or festivals, parking can become limited and more expensive. It's advisable to check event-specific parking information or consider public transport.
and discuss parking at Bicentennial Parks in Florida, highlighting the importance of checking for free street parking or designated lots.Absolutely! Bicentennial Park is part of the Scioto Mile, a network of trails perfect for biking. You can rent bikes or bring your own to enjoy the scenic paths.
highlights bike riding at Bicentennial Park in Sydney, showcasing the appeal of parks for cycling enthusiasts.Yes, Bicentennial Park is well-served by public transport in Columbus. Several COTA bus lines stop in the downtown area, making it easy to access the park without a car. Check the COTA website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.
For major events, public transportation or ride-sharing services are often recommended to avoid parking hassles. If driving, arrive early to secure a spot or be prepared to walk a bit from further parking areas.
mentions a $2 bus ride or $4 day pass in Nashville, indicating that public transit is a viable and affordable option for park access.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bicentennial Park in Columbus, Ohio, is a public park and generally free to enter. There are no admission fees for general access. However, specific ticketed events or festivals held within the park may require separate admission.
Bicentennial Park is typically open from dawn until dusk. However, specific areas like the Scioto Mile Fountain may have their own operating hours, and the park may have extended hours during special events. Always check the official Columbus Recreation and Parks website for the most current information.
Outdoor movie screenings at Bicentennial Park, like those hosted by Night Light 615, are often free or require a nominal fee. It's best to check the specific event organizer's website or social media for ticketing details and to reserve your spot if necessary.
and mention these movie nights.Generally, you are welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages to Bicentennial Park for picnics. However, alcohol policies may vary, especially during events. It's always a good idea to check park regulations or event-specific rules.
While the park is generally open until dusk, specific areas might have different hours. For events extending into the evening, access is usually permitted. The Reddit tip regarding Sydney Olympic Park suggests pedestrian access is possible after hours, which might be similar for other Bicentennial Parks, but always verify for Columbus.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Bicentennial Park offers a variety of activities, including the impressive Scioto Mile Fountain for water play, walking and biking trails along the river, an outdoor stage for performances, and ample green space for relaxation and picnics. It's also a popular venue for festivals and events.
mentions scenic trails and picnic areas, common features in well-loved parks.Yes, Bicentennial Park is very family-friendly. The Scioto Mile Fountain is a huge hit with children during warmer months. There are also open spaces for running around and often family-oriented events.
and highlight gated playgrounds with splash pads in Southlake's Bicentennial Park, indicating a strong focus on child-friendly amenities in parks with this name.Restroom facilities are available within Bicentennial Park, particularly near the main attractions like the Scioto Mile Fountain and event areas. It's always a good idea to note their locations upon arrival, especially if you have children with you.
Dog policies can vary by park. While many urban parks allow leashed dogs in general areas, specific rules might apply. It's best to check the official Columbus Recreation and Parks Department guidelines regarding pets in Bicentennial Park.
mentions a dog park at Provo's Bicentennial Park, suggesting some locations cater specifically to pets.Bicentennial Park hosts a wide array of events, including outdoor movie nights, concerts, festivals like the Jazz & Rib Fest and Columbus Art Festival, and major celebrations such as 'Red, White & Boom'.,
, and the reviews confirm its role as an event venue.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a glass-enclosed eatery within Bicentennial Park, offering dining options with views of the Scioto Mile. Additionally, the park is a popular spot for food trucks during events and festivals.
mentions food trucks for movie nights.During festivals and events like the Jazz & Rib Fest or 'Red, White & Boom', numerous food trucks and vendors are typically present, offering a wide variety of cuisines and treats. Reviews specifically mention the Jazz and Rib Fest and food trucks.
Absolutely! Bicentennial Park provides ample green space and scenic spots perfect for picnics. It's a great way to enjoy the park's atmosphere.
and highlight picnic areas in other Bicentennial Parks.Being in downtown Columbus, Bicentennial Park is surrounded by a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and bars. You'll find diverse culinary options within walking distance, catering to all tastes and budgets.
The glass-enclosed eatery within Bicentennial Park typically offers contemporary American cuisine, often with a focus on seasonal ingredients. It provides a more upscale dining experience with park views.
📸 📸 Photography
The Scioto Mile Fountain offers dynamic water features for stunning shots, especially during the day and when illuminated at night. The riverfront paths, city skyline views, and the park's landscaping provide numerous picturesque opportunities.
mentions scenic trails, perfect for photography.Yes, Bicentennial Park is excellent for night photography. The Scioto Mile Fountain is beautifully lit, and the surrounding city skyline provides a dramatic backdrop. Outdoor movie nights also offer a unique ambiance for photos.
mentions movie nights.The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful soft light for photography. However, the fountain's illumination at night and the vibrant atmosphere during events also create fantastic photo opportunities.
The Scioto Mile Fountain is the most iconic landmark. The pedestrian bridges over the river and the city skyline views from various points in the park are also popular subjects for photographers.
Drone usage in public parks is often restricted due to privacy and safety regulations. It's crucial to check the specific drone laws and park rules for Bicentennial Park in Columbus before attempting to fly one.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Walkers & Runners
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scioto Mile: A Riverfront Gem
The Scioto Mile also boasts miles of paved trails, perfect for walking, jogging, and biking. These trails offer picturesque views of the river and the Columbus skyline. Throughout the year, the Scioto Mile hosts numerous events, from concerts and festivals to holiday celebrations, making it a dynamic hub for the city. The park's design emphasizes accessibility, with features like the Adelante! Bridge connecting the park to downtown amenities. showcases bike riding at Bicentennial Park in Sydney, emphasizing the recreational opportunities parks offer.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit