Columbus Commons - section of brick road in Colonial Williamsburg, VA USA
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Columbus Commons

4.6
·3k reviews·Columbus, United States

A vibrant downtown park hosting over 200 free events annually, featuring a carousel, gardens, and seasonal light displays.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Free concerts & lively atmosphere

CrowdHigh
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Columbus Commons - section of brick road in Colonial Williamsburg, VA USA

Columbus Commons

Best Time

Summer evenings

Free concerts & lively atmosphere

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant downtown park hosting over 200 free events annually, featuring a carousel, gardens, and seasonal light displays.

4.6
(3k reviews)

"This park has given me many great memories. I love that it incorporates music, lights, food trucks, fitness and even movie nights."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check the Event Calendar

Over 200 events annually! Plan ahead to catch free concerts, yoga, and more.

Free Programming Galore

Many events are free, making it a great community spot for families and budget travelers.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Summer Concert Series

Summer Concert Series

Vibrant outdoor concerts fill the air with music, creating a lively atmosphere for all ages. Free programming makes it a community favorite.

The Carousel

The Carousel

A classic carousel offering whimsical rides, perfect for families and adding a touch of nostalgic charm to the park.

Holiday Lights Display

Holiday Lights Display

During the festive season, the park transforms into a magical wonderland with dazzling light displays.

Reading Room & Gardens

Reading Room & Gardens

A peaceful oasis with comfortable seating, books, and beautiful gardens for a moment of quiet relaxation.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Columbus Commons hosts over 200 events annually, from free yoga to concerts. Check their calendar online to catch specific activities, especially during summer for outdoor concerts. Arrive early for popular events to secure good spots and avoid lines.

Parking & Access

The main parking garage is conveniently located across from the park entrance. Street parking is also available, though can be pricier. Many Redditors recommend the garage for ease of access and quicker exit after events. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Free concerts & lively atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Wednesday evenings
Why
Free yoga sessions
Crowd
Medium
When
Holiday season
Why
Magical light displays
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

From a 1927 schoolhouse to a Brooklyn-style bar, Understory in Columbus gives NYC vibes with Midwest charm. #understory #columbusohio #ohiostate #columbusbars #columbusfoodie
@ciaojudi
15.9K likes • 153.5K views

Check the Event Calendar

Over 200 events annually! Plan ahead to catch free concerts, yoga, and more. Instagram

Free Programming Galore

Many events are free, making it a great community spot for families and budget travelers. Instagram

I was invited to come check out a new hidden speakeasy here in Columbus, Ohio inside of VHS Social Club 👱🏾‍♂️😎👀🔥 This place is located at 520 S. Front St. on the corner of Front & W. Blenkner St. down in German Village. I drive past it all the time & had no idea it was this cool! 🤩✨ It is entirely 80s/90s themed upstairs, huge bar area with a stage, each table had a little mini VHS tv playing old ...
@beatspeare
5.4K likes • 72.1K views
more fun this summer at @columbuscommons @downtowncolumbus • Highlights 🥁200+ events in summer season 👫great for ALL ages 🆓lots of FREE programming throughout the season 🌆in the heart of @downtowncolumbus so you can explore more of the city before/after the events 🚘 parking is available right across the street, and the parking fees actually help fund all the programming at the Commons • we total...
heyimkate
698 likes • 27.7K views

Park Your Car Smartly

The garage across the street is recommended for easy access and exit. Reddit

Bring Your Yoga Mat

Enjoy free yoga sessions on Wednesday evenings through September. Instagram

Join @yaizmen.sheree - owner of Raw Yoga 614, every Wednesday at the Columbus Commons for FREE yoga at 5:30 & 6:30 p.m. We’ll be flowing together through the end of September — bring your mat, your energy, and your people. ✨️ Let’s make Wednesday nights our midweek reset! ✨️ Can’t make it to class? Practice with us online — anytime, anywhere — with our library of prerecorded classes. ✨️ Visit the...
rawyoga614
144 likes • 1.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check the Event Calendar

Over 200 events annually! Plan ahead to catch free concerts, yoga, and more. Instagram

Free Programming Galore

Many events are free, making it a great community spot for families and budget travelers. Instagram

Park Your Car Smartly

The garage across the street is recommended for easy access and exit. Reddit

Bring Your Yoga Mat

Enjoy free yoga sessions on Wednesday evenings through September. Instagram

Kid-Friendly Fun

Kids love the carousel and open spaces for running around. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Columbus Commons for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse free events, and family-friendly amenities like the carousel. It's celebrated as a valuable community space that offers entertainment and relaxation year-round, from summer concerts to dazzling holiday lights. Some note that the park can get crowded during popular events.

"A wonderful area to let kids RUN & to grab an early treat Jeni's & 🌮, peaceful, clean (closes by 5,6?). Met this baby 🐦 unable to fly, fed several others & enjoyed the 📚 4 kids to read, return, donate too. (BTW, set 🐦 🔙 on ground in bushes to hop around their days)"

Heather B

"As a life long Columbus resident I remember city center mall. This park has given me many great memories. I love that it incorporates music, lights, food trucks, fitness and even movie nights. I have spent many nights with my wife enjoying a activity and looking up at the night sky while the city lights brighten up the night. I always recommend visitors to go and enjoy what Columbus Commons have to offer."

Rob Parsley

"This was our first time here. Went for a FREE Dead Revival concert! The band was awesome as always!! The venue is amazing! Then I learned EVERYTHING they do there is free!! This is a wonderful area for our community. We look forward to going back. Didn't even get to check out the whole place. Really enjoyed their signature cocktail! The Commons Cocktail. I recommend it!"

Patricia Tedrick

What People Like

Free events and concerts
Family-friendly atmosphere
Beautiful holiday lights

What People Dislike

Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Columbus Commons is located in the heart of downtown Columbus, Ohio. It's easily accessible by car, public transportation, and is a pleasant walk from many downtown hotels and attractions. Instagram

The most recommended parking option is the Columbus Commons Main Parking Garage, located directly across from the park's entrance on the south side. Street parking is also available, but can be more expensive. Reddit

Yes, monthly parking options are available at the Columbus Commons parking garage, which can be a convenient choice for downtown workers or frequent visitors. Reddit

Yes, the Columbus Commons parking garage offers underground parking, providing shelter and convenience for visitors. Reddit

Besides the main garage, street parking is available on 3rd and 4th streets, though it may be more costly. Always check signage for rates and restrictions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Many events at Columbus Commons, including summer concerts and yoga sessions, are free and do not require tickets. However, always check the specific event details on their official website. Instagram+1

The park itself is generally accessible during daylight hours, but specific event times vary. Some reviews mention the park closing around 5 or 6 PM, so it's best to check the calendar for event-specific hours. Reddit

The park itself is free to enter, and many of its signature events, like the summer concert series and yoga classes, are also free. Instagram+1

You can find the most up-to-date Columbus Commons event calendar on their official website, often referred to as columbuscommons.org. Reddit

For most outdoor concerts at Columbus Commons, seating is general admission on the lawn. It's advisable to bring blankets or low-back chairs. Specific ticketed events might have reserved seating options. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Columbus Commons offers a wide range of activities including free summer concerts, yoga classes, a carousel, gardens, a reading room, and seasonal events like holiday light displays. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Families love Columbus Commons for its open spaces, carousel rides, and numerous free, kid-friendly events throughout the year. TikTokInstagram

While the park itself doesn't have extensive dining, it often hosts food trucks during events. Nearby downtown Columbus also offers numerous dining options, including the new Spaghetti Warehouse location. Instagram

Typically, public parks like Columbus Commons allow dogs on leashes, but it's always best to check specific park rules or event guidelines, as some events might have restrictions. Reddit

The reading room is a quiet area within Columbus Commons offering books for visitors to read, return, or donate, providing a peaceful escape within the park. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning photos of the carousel, the vibrant holiday lights during Christmas, and the city skyline from the park's open lawn. The gardens also offer picturesque backdrops. Instagram

Yes, personal photography is generally allowed at Columbus Commons events. However, professional photography or videography may require permits, so it's wise to check their policy. Instagram

Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos. For holiday lights, evening is obviously best. During summer concerts, the atmosphere is also very photogenic. Instagram

The park's blend of green space, urban architecture, and seasonal decorations provides unique photo opportunities. The carousel and the Christmas tree are particularly iconic. Instagram

Drone usage in public parks is often restricted due to privacy and safety concerns. It's highly recommended to check with Columbus Commons management or local aviation authorities before flying a drone. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Columbus Commons is a fantastic destination for families. The carousel is a major hit with children, offering classic fun. The open green spaces are perfect for kids to run and play freely. TikTok Many of the park's events, especially during the summer, are free and family-friendly, making it an accessible outing for everyone. Don't miss the chance to explore the reading room, which offers books for kids to enjoy. Reddit

When planning your visit, consider the parking garage for ease of access with strollers and little ones. Reddit The park's central location also means you can easily combine a visit to the Commons with other downtown family attractions. Check the event calendar for specific family-focused activities happening during your visit. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Columbus Commons is a gem. The park itself is free to enter, and a significant portion of its programming consists of free events, including summer concerts and yoga classes. Instagram+1 This means you can enjoy a full day of entertainment without spending a dime on admission. Instagram

While there are food trucks and nearby dining options, packing a picnic to enjoy on the park's lawns is a great way to save money. The parking garage offers a reasonable rate for extended stays, and street parking can sometimes be found for free or at a lower cost, especially outside of major event times. Reddit Look for community days or free movie nights for additional cost-free entertainment. Instagram

couples

Columbus Commons offers a charming setting for couples. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens, or share a romantic ride on the carousel. During the summer, attending a free concert together under the stars can be a memorable experience. Instagram

For a more relaxed evening, consider visiting during the holiday season to witness the magical light displays, creating a festive and intimate atmosphere. Instagram The park's reading room also provides a quiet spot for couples to unwind together. Nearby dining options in downtown Columbus offer plenty of choices for a pre- or post-park dinner. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Downtown: Columbus Commons

Columbus Commons is a vibrant 6-acre public park situated in the heart of downtown Columbus, Ohio. It transformed the former site of the City Center Mall into a dynamic urban oasis, offering a wide array of activities and amenities for residents and visitors alike. The park is renowned for its extensive calendar of events, hosting over 200 activities annually, ranging from free summer concerts and movie nights to fitness classes and community gatherings. Instagram

Beyond its event programming, Columbus Commons features a beautiful carousel, lush gardens, a dedicated reading room, and expansive green lawns perfect for relaxation or play. Its central location makes it an ideal spot to explore other downtown attractions before or after visiting. The park's commitment to free programming underscores its role as a vital community hub, fostering connection and enjoyment for people of all ages. Instagram

Key features include the iconic carousel, the seasonal holiday light display, and the ongoing commitment to providing free entertainment and recreational opportunities. The park's design encourages community interaction and offers a welcome respite from the urban environment. Instagram

Parking and Accessibility at the Commons

Navigating parking for events at Columbus Commons is a common traveler concern. The most convenient option is the Columbus Commons Main Parking Garage, located directly across from the park's main entrance. This garage offers ample parking and is frequently recommended by visitors for its ease of access and relatively quick exit times after events. Reddit

For those seeking more budget-friendly options, street parking is available on nearby streets like 3rd and 4th. However, these spots can be more expensive and may have time limits. Monthly parking passes are also available for the garage, catering to those who frequent the downtown area. The garage provides both above-ground and underground parking levels, offering protection from the elements. Reddit

Accessibility is a priority, with the park designed to be welcoming to all. The pathways are generally smooth, and the open lawn areas allow for easy movement. For those with mobility challenges, utilizing the parking garage and accessing the park from its main entrances is the most straightforward approach. Reddit

Seasonal Delights: From Summer Concerts to Holiday Magic

Columbus Commons truly shines throughout the year with its diverse seasonal offerings. During the summer months, the park comes alive with its popular Summer Concert Series, featuring a variety of musical acts that draw large crowds. These free events create a festive atmosphere, perfect for enjoying warm evenings outdoors. Instagram

As the seasons change, so does the park's ambiance. The Holiday Lights Display transforms Columbus Commons into a winter wonderland, with dazzling illuminations that are a must-see during the Christmas season. This festive transformation makes the park a popular destination for families and couples looking for holiday cheer. Instagram

Beyond these major seasonal attractions, the park consistently offers other engaging activities. Free yoga sessions are held on Wednesday evenings through the end of September, providing a mid-week wellness opportunity. Instagram The park's versatility ensures there's always something happening, making it a dynamic and continuously appealing destination. Instagram

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