Columbus is a city that rewards those who explore on foot. Its diverse neighborhoods, lively markets, and artistic streets make it ideal for walking tours. Among the options we love, the Short North Walking Food Tour stands out for its combination of culinary delights and cultural insights. This tour showcases the vibrant arts scene, with stops at the historic North Market and the colorful murals of the arts district. We especially appreciate how it blends food tasting with local stories, giving a well-rounded taste of Columbus. For those interested in discovering hidden corners and creative spaces, this tour offers a lively, authentic experience. Check out the Short North Walking Food Tour for details.
If you’re after a more interactive adventure, the Columbus Ohio Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game offers a fun, self-paced way to see downtown Columbus. Perfect for families or groups seeking a flexible, engaging activity, this scavenger hunt takes you past landmarks like the Ohio Statehouse and Columbus City Hall. You can explore at your own speed, which makes it ideal for those who prefer a customizable experience. Learn more about this game at the Columbus Ohio Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game.
And for those who enjoy art and discovery, the Columbus Ohio Art Walk Franklinton Funtastic Foraging Fiesta provides an app-led exploration of Columbus’s Franklinton neighborhood. While it’s a newer experience with no reviews yet, it promises to engage visitors with local murals, galleries, and creative spaces. This tour is best suited for art lovers looking for a guided, interactive walk with a twist. It can be found at this link.
1. Short North Walking Food Tour
Starting with the Short North Walking Food Tour, this experience is a standout for food lovers and cultural explorers alike. For around $89 per person, you get approximately 3.5 hours of walking and tasting through Columbus’s most eclectic neighborhood. The tour kicks off at North Market Downtown, where you sample bites from several vendors while learning about the 150-year-old market’s history. From there, you head into the Short North Arts District, a hub of galleries, murals, and local boutiques. Here, you visit multiple restaurants, discovering their stories and sampling regional favorites.
The tour also includes a walk through Goodale Park, adding a touch of nature and history, and a visit to the sculpture garden at the Pizzuti Collection. Notably, the North Market provides an authentic taste of Columbus’s culinary diversity, from artisanal cheeses to international snacks. The guide is praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the cultural and foodie elements engaging. The small group size and variety of stops make it a good choice for first-time visitors or those wanting a relaxed, in-depth look at the city’s food scene.
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value for those wanting to combine food, art, and local history in a manageable, fun setting. It’s perfect for foodies who enjoy a leisurely pace and authentic bites.
2. Columbus Ohio Art Walk Franklinton Funtastic Foraging Fiesta
Next up is the Columbus Ohio Art Walk Franklinton Funtastic Foraging Fiesta, an app-led adventure that turns exploring into a game. At just $14.99 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to discover Franklin County’s vibrant art scene and hidden spots. This approximately 1.5-hour activity challenges you with trivia and puzzles, making it engaging for families, friends, or solo explorers who like a mental challenge with their walk.
While this particular tour doesn’t have reviews yet, its focus on local murals, galleries, and creative spaces sets it apart. The use of a mobile app means you can go at your own pace, stopping for photos, snacks, or spontaneous discoveries. It’s especially suited for those interested in urban art and interactive sightseeing who prefer a flexible timeframe. Since it’s a short, inexpensive activity, it complements visits to other attractions or can be a quick intro to Franklinton’s art scene.
Bottom Line: Ideal for art lovers and puzzle solvers, this self-guided adventure makes exploring Columbus’s street art both fun and educational without breaking the bank.
$14.99 per person
3. Columbus Ohio Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game
Finally, the Columbus Ohio Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game offers an active way to discover downtown Columbus. At $24.50 per person for roughly two hours, this scavenger hunt guides you past key sights like the Ohio Statehouse, Columbus Firefighters Memorial, and the Scioto River Greenway. It’s a great choice for those who like to explore with a bit of friendly competition or want to see the city’s highlights in a dynamic way.
The tour encourages a leisurely pace, allowing you to take photos and explore shops along the route. The inclusion of local landmarks and unique shops makes it suitable for travelers who want an interactive experience without a strict schedule. While it’s a newer offering with no reviews available, its focus on self-guided discovery makes it flexible for different fitness levels and interests.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active explorers and families, this scavenger hunt offers an engaging way to see downtown Columbus at your own speed.
$24.50 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Columbus Walking Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re into food and local culture, the Short North Walking Food Tour delivers a relaxed, tasty experience in a lively neighborhood. For a budget-friendly, interactive exploration, the Scavenger Hunt provides a fun way to see the city’s landmarks. And art lovers should consider the Franklinton Art Walk, especially if they enjoy puzzles and vibrant murals.
Think about how much time you want to spend — from a quick 90-minute app adventure to a full afternoon of food and art exploration. Budget is also a factor; the scavenger hunt is the most affordable, while the food tour offers a more comprehensive experience for a bit more. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure spots.
Columbus offers a range of engaging walking experiences that suit various interests and schedules. Whether you’re a foodie, an art enthusiast, or a puzzle solver, there’s a tour that will enrich your visit. For a relaxed day filled with flavors and stories, the Short North Walking Food Tour is a top recommendation. For a more active, playful exploration, the Scavenger Hunt adds excitement. And for art lovers who enjoy uncovering murals and galleries, the Franklinton Art Walk offers a fresh perspective.
No matter which you choose, booking early will ensure you get the most out of your trip. Columbus’s streets are waiting—lace up your shoes and enjoy exploring this dynamic city on foot.