Bicentennial Park - A random bottlebrush along Bicentennial Park's waterfront on a morning during autumn 2023.
1 / 10

Bicentennial Park

4.7
·5k reviews·Columbus, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Outdoor movies & pleasant weather

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Bicentennial Park - A random bottlebrush along Bicentennial Park's waterfront on a morning during autumn 2023.

Bicentennial Park

Best Time

Summer evenings

Outdoor movies & pleasant weather

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(5k reviews)

"A great place to visit, especially when the water fountains are working and fun for kids!"

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scioto Mile Fountain

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

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

Festivals and Events

Main event lawn

From jazz and rib fests to art festivals, the park is a hub for vibrant community gatherings.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Bicentennial Park hosts numerous events, from summer movie nights to festivals. Check the local calendar before you go to avoid crowds or to catch a special occasion. Weekends can be busy, especially during events.

Know Your Bicentennial

There are multiple Bicentennial Parks! This guide focuses on the one in Columbus, Ohio. If you're looking for Bicentennial Park in Sydney, Provo, or Southlake, TX, search specifically for those locations.

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Outdoor movies & pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends during festivals
Why
Lively atmosphere & food
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful strolls & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Text your friends, grab the popcorn, and settle in! Outdoor movie season is BACK in Music City! 🍿 🎬 Night Light 615 is bringing all the classic movies to Bicentennial Mall State Park this summer, and trust us, you don't want to miss it! ✨ #nashville #musiccity #fyp #movies #Summer #summerfun #movienight #Outdoors
@visitmusiccity
28.1K likes • 308.9K views

Check Event Schedules

Don't miss out! Look up 'Bicentennial Park Columbus events' for movie nights & festivals. TikTokInstagram

Fountain Fun

Bring swim gear for kids! The Scioto Mile Fountain is a blast on warm days. :water_wave:

Bicentennial park NOT Centennial park!! The gov lots are free to park on weekends the bus is $2 per ride or $4 for a day pass Bcycle has a dock by the farmers market! You have every reason to come and make connections in your city and be heard! #protest #nashville #nokings #fdt #bicentennialpark #fyp
@beckorbekah
4.7K likes • 37.3K views
💜 Bicentennial Park is a wonderful place for a walk. It offers scenic trails, wetlands and picnic areas🥾🚲⛲️ 🩵 📍 Bicentennial Park, SYDNEY 🇦🇺 📸 🍃🚲🥾🌳🌦️ 💜 #walk #escapefromthecity #bicentennialpark #sydneylife #weekend #alltrails #réel #shorts #viral #purplish_sunshine 🍃🍁🧣
purplish_sunshine
132 likes • 50.7K views

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:

Playground find: Bicentennial Park in Chelsea – a hidden gem for toddlers! Shady, fenced, and perfect for a slow morning out with your little one. Follow me for more kid-friendly spots, mama life, and real moments with my toddler #BicentennialPark #ChelseaPlayground #MelbourneMums #ToddlerLife #PlaygroundFinds #MorningtonPeninsulaMums #KidFriendlyMelbourne #MumLifeAustralia #OutAndAboutWithKids ...
darina_newson
5 likes • 385 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Event Schedules

Don't miss out! Look up 'Bicentennial Park Columbus events' for movie nights & festivals. TikTokInstagram

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

4.7
(5k reviews)

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

Lively event atmosphere
Scioto Mile Fountain fun
Beautiful riverfront views

What People Dislike

Event parking challenges

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). TikTok 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. TikTok and TikTok 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. TikTok 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. TikTok 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. TikTok and Instagram 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. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. Instagram 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. Instagram and Instagram 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. TikTok 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'.,TikTok,Instagram 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. TikTok 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. TikTok

Absolutely! Bicentennial Park provides ample green space and scenic spots perfect for picnics. It's a great way to enjoy the park's atmosphere. Instagram and TikTok 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. Instagram 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. TikTok 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

Bicentennial Park is a fantastic destination for families. The Scioto Mile Fountain is the main attraction for kids during warmer months, offering a safe and fun place to splash and play. The open lawns are perfect for running around, and the park often hosts family-friendly events. While the Columbus location doesn't explicitly mention a gated playground like some other Bicentennial Parks,Instagram,Instagram the overall environment is very welcoming for children. Consider packing a picnic and spending a full day exploring the park's amenities. TikTok highlights the playground and dog park at Provo's Bicentennial Park, showing how different locations cater to families.

🚶‍♀️ Walkers & Runners

For those who enjoy an active outing, Bicentennial Park and the broader Scioto Mile offer an excellent network of paved trails. These paths are well-maintained and provide scenic views of the river and the city skyline, making them ideal for jogging, walking, or cycling. The relatively flat terrain is suitable for all fitness levels. Instagram specifically mentions scenic trails and walking as a key activity at Sydney's Bicentennial Park, reinforcing its appeal for active visitors.

📸 Photographers

Bicentennial Park is a photographer's delight, offering diverse subjects. The Scioto Mile Fountain is a must-capture, especially when lit up at night. The downtown Columbus skyline provides a stunning backdrop, particularly from the riverfront paths. During events, the vibrant atmosphere and crowds offer unique storytelling opportunities. The park's landscaping and bridges also present excellent compositions. For those interested in urban nature, the riverfront flora and fauna can be captivating.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Scioto Mile: A Riverfront Gem

Bicentennial Park is a key component of the larger Scioto Mile, a vibrant urban greenspace stretching along the Scioto River in downtown Columbus. This expansive park system is designed for recreation, relaxation, and community events. The Scioto Mile Fountain is a centerpiece, featuring 1,000 jets that can spray water up to 75 feet in the air, creating a dazzling spectacle, especially when illuminated at night. It's a popular spot for families to cool off during hot summer days. Instagram highlights scenic trails and wetlands, common features in well-maintained urban parks like the Scioto Mile.

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. TikTok showcases bike riding at Bicentennial Park in Sydney, emphasizing the recreational opportunities parks offer.

Events and Entertainment Hub

Bicentennial Park is renowned for its role as a premier venue for public events and entertainment in Columbus. Throughout the summer, it hosts popular series like 'Night Light 615' outdoor movie nights, where attendees can enjoy classic films under the stars. TikTok and Instagram specifically mention these movie screenings, highlighting their appeal. The park also serves as the backdrop for major annual festivals, including the Jazz & Rib Fest and the Columbus Art Festival, drawing large crowds and showcasing local talent and culinary delights. Reviews consistently praise the lively atmosphere during these events. Reddit mentions pedestrian access after hours for Sydney Olympic Park, suggesting that event venues often have extended access policies.

A Place for All Seasons

While Bicentennial Park is a summer favorite, especially with its interactive fountain, it offers charm year-round. During the winter months, the park is often adorned with festive lights, creating a magical ambiance for holiday strolls. The open green spaces are perfect for winter walks, and the riverfront views remain captivating regardless of the season. Even when the fountain is off, the park's infrastructure, including walking paths and seating areas, provides a pleasant escape. TikTok mentions the year-round appeal of Provo's Bicentennial Park, noting its green space and pond.

You may also like

1 of 2