Top 16 Tours In Columbus

Columbus stands out as a lively city with a surprising variety of tour options that go beyond the usual sightseeing. Whether you’re into interactive puzzles, tasting local cuisine, or exploring on a pedal-powered trolley, this city offers experiences that are both fun and memorable. For instance, the Escape Game at Easton Town Center delivers a thrilling challenge perfect for friends or family, while the Trolley Pub combines sightseeing with a lively party vibe. If you prefer exploring on foot, Columbus’s Short North Food Tour showcases the city’s best bites and local art. With so many options, you’re sure to find something that fits your pace and interests.

Columbus is a city that appreciates both its history and its playful side. From high-energy escape rooms to relaxing brewery tours, there’s a little bit of everything. The city’s diverse attractions make it a perfect destination for families, couples, and groups of friends looking to experience something different. Booking in advance is a smart move, especially for popular activities like the Holiday Lights Tour during the festive season or the LEGOLAND Discovery Center for a family-friendly day out.

1. The Escape Game at Easton Town Center in Columbus

At number 1 on our list, the Escape Game at Easton Town Center shines as an immersive activity perfect for groups of friends, families, or coworkers. This escape room offers six different scenarios, including puzzles set in a submarine or a prison, giving you plenty of variety. The game lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes and includes assistance from a guide to help keep you on track. With a perfect 5.0/5 rating from nearly 400 reviews, players love how easy booking is and praise the instructor for making the experience enjoyable. The puzzles are clever, and the themes keep you engaged from start to finish.

What makes this activity stand out is its team-building focus and variety—perfect for those who want a challenge that’s both fun and social. Costing around $40 per person, it offers good value considering the creative scenarios and the time commitment. The only potential downside is needing to book ahead, especially on weekends. This is ideal for puzzle lovers or anyone wanting to escape the ordinary for a while.

Bottom line: A fully engaging, well-reviewed escape room that’s great for groups seeking a challenge.

2. Explore Columbus on The Trolley Pub

Number 2 on our list, the Trolley Pub offers a lively way to see the city with a party twist. For about $35 per person, you get a two-hour pedal-powered pub crawl with electric assist, so no one has to work too hard. Its rating of 5.0/5 from 112 reviews reflects how much fun people have riding through Columbus’s neighborhoods, stopping at local watering holes with discounts. You can even bring your own wine or beer, making it a flexible and relaxed experience.

This tour shines especially for its social atmosphere—it’s perfect for friends celebrating, or newcomers wanting a lighthearted introduction to the city. The guide ensures safety and fun, and the stops at local pubs like Sweeney’s make it more than just a ride. The only consideration? You’ll want to book early, especially if you’re a larger group.

Bottom line: A lively, social way to tour Columbus that combines sightseeing with a party vibe.

3. Outdoor Escape Room in Downtown Columbus

At number 3, the Outdoor Escape Room in Downtown Columbus offers a twist on traditional puzzles. This two-hour activity turns Columbus into your game board, with clues hidden among murals, statues, and landmarks. You’ll search for real-world clues and solve puzzles as you follow an engaging storyline. Up to six players can participate for around $75, making it a great group activity.

The experience combines elements of a scavenger hunt, escape room, and urban walk, which keeps things dynamic. What makes it unique is the urban setting, where you’ll discover parts of downtown you may never have noticed before. Guests often praise how it’s both challenging and fun, with the freedom to reschedule if needed.

Bottom line: An interactive outdoor adventure that’s ideal for explorers looking for a puzzle with a city twist.

4. Columbus: 1-Hour Themed Escape Room Adventure & Narrative

Number 4 is the Columbus: 1-Hour Themed Escape Room, offering six different themed rooms like a heist, deep-sea adventure, or gold rush. For $42 per person, you get an intense 1-hour race against the clock with unlimited hints, which makes it accessible for all skill levels. Guests love that the game combines puzzles with storytelling, making it more than just a brain teaser.

The tours are praised for their immersion and variety, and many reviews highlight how well the host explains the rules while keeping the pace lively. This experience suits groups wanting a quick but engaging challenge, whether on a date or with friends. The price is reasonable considering the multiple rooms and fast-paced fun it offers.

Bottom line: A fast, fun escape room with different themes, perfect for a quick adventure in Columbus.

5. Short North Walking Food Tour

At number 5, the Short North Food Tour covers about 3.5 hours of walking and tasting in Columbus’s artsy Short North district. For $89, you’ll visit the North Market, explore some of the neighborhood’s best restaurants, and walk through Goodale Park. The tour includes sampling from several vendors and learning about the area’s art, murals, and history.

This tour is highly rated for its relaxed pace and local insights—it’s perfect if you enjoy good food and a touch of culture. Tour guide Abby has received praise for her engaging storytelling and friendly vibe. The main draw is the variety of food and the opportunity to see Columbus’s vibrant arts scene while sampling the city’s best bites.

Bottom line: An excellent choice for foodies and art lovers wanting a laid-back, flavorful exploration.

6. Shared Yoga and Coffee Experience On The Trolley Pub

Number 6 offers a unique blend with the Shared Yoga and Coffee Experience. For $39 per person, this two-hour activity combines outdoor yoga led by a licensed instructor at Goodale Park with a ride to a local coffee shop or bar. It’s perfect for travelers wanting wellness with a social twist. The experience is suitable for all skill levels and emphasizes relaxation and fun.

Guests love the casual vibe and the chance to connect while enjoying Columbus’s outdoor spaces. The tour’s flexible timing and the combination of wellness and indulgence make it a memorable morning activity. Keep in mind, this is more laid-back than high-energy, so it’s best suited for those looking to unwind.

Bottom line: A relaxing, social way to start your day with a mix of yoga and coffee.

7. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus Ticket

Number 7, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus, is a hit for families. For around $26.24 per person, you’ll gain access to all the interactive attractions, including the virtual LEGO Factory, Miniland with Columbus landmarks, and the DUPLO® Farm. Kids can enjoy building, racing, and exploring within this indoor attraction.

This experience is valued for its all-day entertainment and its ability to keep children engaged with LEGO-themed activities. Many reviews mention how smooth the purchase process is, with skip-the-line tickets saving time. It’s an excellent choice for a rainy day or a break from sightseeing.

Bottom line: A fun, educational, and creative activity ideal for families with young children.

8. Columbus Crusade Scavenger Hunt

Number 8, the Columbus Crusade Scavenger Hunt, offers a unique interactive adventure with a remote, live host guiding you via your phone. The two-hour hunt sends you through Columbus’s streets, solving clues and completing challenges. It’s perfect for groups wanting a story-driven experience that combines detective work with sightseeing.

Rated 5.0/5 from two reviews, players appreciate the blend of challenge and social fun. The flexible scheduling and the personalized guidance make it popular for groups celebrating special occasions or just looking for something different. The challenge is that it requires a smartphone and some patience, but the engaging app makes it worthwhile.

Bottom line: An innovative, story-based scavenger hunt that’s a fresh way to explore downtown Columbus.

9. Holiday Lights Tour with Trolley Pub Columbus

Number 9 is the Holiday Lights Tour, a festive ride through Columbus’s illuminated neighborhoods. For about $45 per person, the 2.5-hour tour takes you through The Short North Pole, Arena District, and Downtown, with stops at Bicentennial Park and Columbus Commons. The fully enclosed trolley keeps everyone warm, and the onboard stereo makes singing carols easy.

This tour is perfect if you want a relaxed, holiday-themed experience. Many rave about how fun it is to see the city lit up with holiday cheer while enjoying drinks and good company. It’s ideal for families or groups celebrating the season, especially when booking early during peak times.

Bottom line: A cozy, festive way to enjoy Columbus’s holiday lights with friends and family.

10. Columbus Scavenger Hunt Adventure

Number 10, the Columbus Scavenger Hunt Adventure, combines walking, challenges, and learning. For $20.52, you’ll explore landmarks like the Capitol grounds and war memorials in a two-hour hunt. Using your phone, you solve clues and uncover hidden stories, making it suitable for families, friends, or even corporate outings.

The reviews highlight how this activity helps you see the city in a new way and enjoy some friendly competition. The mix of educational content and active fun makes it a good value, especially for those on a budget.

Bottom line: A practical, engaging way to discover Columbus’s highlights with some added adventure.

11. Columbus to Columbus John Glen Airport (CMH) – Departure Private Transfer

Number 11 offers a no-hassle Private Airport Transfer. For about $102.96, this door-to-door service provides a comfortable, stress-free ride to Columbus John Glen Airport. The driver tracks your flight to ensure punctuality, and the vehicle is clean and professional.

This is ideal for travelers who want to skip long taxi lines and arrive at the airport relaxed. It’s a practical choice for those with early morning flights or late arrivals. The main benefit is convenience combined with reliability.

Bottom line: A straightforward, dependable way to end your stay in Columbus smoothly.

12. Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Columbus by Operation City Quest

Number 12, the Fun City Scavenger Hunt offers a fun, self-guided exploration. For just $10 per person, you get an app that guides you through Columbus’s streets with puzzles and challenges. An optional remote guide can assist via chat if needed, making it flexible for solo explorers or groups.

People appreciate how it allows them to see the city at their own pace and how it’s perfect for on-the-fly plans. It’s especially good for travelers on a budget who want a memorable experience without big crowds or expensive tickets.

Bottom line: An affordable, flexible scavenger hunt for discovering Columbus on your terms.

13. Columbus: Multiple Attractions Pass

Number 13 is the Multiple Attractions Pass. For $55, it grants access to major sites like the Columbus Museum of Art, Zoo and Aquarium, and the Franklin Park Conservatory. This ticket is ideal for those who want to see several highlights over 1 to 3 days, providing great flexibility.

The pass offers discounted entry and helps you plan a multi-site visit without fussing over individual tickets. Visitors often comment on the value of experiencing diverse attractions—from the animal exhibits to the art collections—without paying full price at each one.

Bottom line: A flexible way to maximize your time and budget in Columbus.

14. Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Discovering Columbus

Number 14, Discovering Columbus turns sightseeing into a fun, interactive game. For $12.31, you explore at your own pace with an app providing trivia and challenges. It’s a perfect activity for families or groups wanting a low-pressure way to learn about the city.

Reviews mention how it’s a great way to see landmarks and learn trivia, making it both fun and educational. The flexibility and affordability make it popular for those wanting a relaxed, personalized experience.

Bottom line: An easy, inexpensive way to explore Columbus while playing a game.

15. Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Columbus Sails East

Number 15, Columbus Sails East is similar, focusing on landmarks like Topiary Park and the Lincoln Theatre. The $12.31 activity encourages you to solve puzzles and discover hidden stories about the city’s sights and lesser-known spots.

Ideal for groups wanting a self-paced, interactive experience, many appreciate how it reveals interesting facts while being easy to fit into a flexible schedule. It’s a good fit for casual explorers.

Bottom line: A light, educational scavenger hunt perfect for discovering Columbus’s charming corners.

16. Columbus, OH: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Entry Ticket

Finally, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a popular family choice. With a $38 ticket, you gain access to nearly 600 species, with highlights like the polar bears, arctic foxes, and the zoo’s conservation efforts.

It’s especially valued for its extensive animal exhibits and the chance to learn about wildlife conservation. The day can easily fill with kid-friendly activities, making it a great way to spend a full day exploring.

Bottom line: An engaging, animal-filled day suitable for visitors of all ages.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Columbus

When deciding which tour fits your interest and schedule, consider your priorities—budget, activity type, and time available. If you want a quick but challenging adventure, the escape rooms are hard to beat. For a more relaxed, social experience, the Trolley Pub or the Food Tour offer memorable local flavors and fun vibes.

For families, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center and the zoo provide child-friendly attractions. If you want to explore Columbus independently, the self-guided scavenger hunts come at a budget-friendly price. Planning ahead and booking early ensures you won’t miss out on popular activities, especially during peak seasons or holidays.

Columbus’s diverse tour options mean you can tailor your trip to match your interests, whether it’s solving puzzles, tasting local cuisine, or discovering hidden city corners. Two or three well-chosen activities can turn your visit into a true adventure. Remember to book in advance when possible and enjoy everything this vibrant city has to offer.

Happy exploring!