Beyond the Bow

Holiday Gifts Ideas in Columbus, Indiana | Local Gift Guide

The holiday season brings the joy of finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list, but it’s not always easy to know where to start. This year, make it meaningful with holiday gifts or experiences in Columbus, Indiana that go beyond the ordinary.

Whether you’re shopping for a family member who seems to have everything, a friend with a favorite hobby, a practical loved one, a sentimental friend, or a coworker you’d like to surprise, there’s something special for every personality.

Shop at these local spots and discover something unexpected! Don’t forget to share your favorite moments with us using #visitcolumbusin and tag us @visitcolumbusin to be featured in our newsletter or social media pages.

The Family Member Who Has Everything

This is the hardest person to shop for because they already seem to have it all. They appreciate gifts that are thoughtful, personalized, or experiential, like custom keepsakes or unique experiences.

The Columbus Area Visitors Center Gift Shop

Don’t let the name fool you!

Our shop is far more than Columbus, Indiana, souvenirs. From locally made art and handmade jewelry to unique ornaments, cozy gifts, and design-forward pieces like Alexander Girard’s iconic Wooden Vitra Dolls, you’ll find thoughtful items with a true sense of place. It’s a curated mix of high design and homegrown creativity, perfect for holiday shopping that supports local talent.

kidscommons Membership

Give the gift of experience this holiday season with a kidscommons membership! This three-story children’s museum offers a safe, fun, and educational space where kids can learn, create, and explore, including the always-popular giant toilet slide.

Holiday memberships include unlimited visits during public hours, plus discounts on birthday parties, camps, and special programs. It’s a year of family fun and unforgettable adventures!

Credit: Tony Vasquez

Annual CERAland Park Pass

Give the gift of year-round fun with a CERAland Park Pass! Enjoy unlimited access to favorites like the aquatic center, mini golf, pedal carts, sports center, and The Landing, plus free parking, discounts on camping and rentals, early reservation dates, special sales, and select “bring a friend free” days.

Looking for a great deal? The Family Pack offers 25% off season passes for groups of four or more, with options to mix and match eligible passes. Call or stop by to take advantage of this holiday offer!

A Friend with a Favorite Hobby

This person has a passion or hobby they’re deeply into, whether it’s gardening, cooking, sports, or a particular fandom. Gifts that cater to their specific interests or expand their collection make for perfect choices.

Columbus Rocks Climbing and Fitness Gym

Looking for a holiday gift packed with adventure? Columbus Rocks Climbing and Fitness Gym offers a fun indoor climbing experience for all ages and skill levels, from bouldering and top rope climbing to classes, youth programs, camps, and birthday parties.

A day pass or membership makes a memorable gift for families, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone ready to try something new, with unlimited climbing options, class discounts, and a welcoming climbing community.

Credit: Columbus Rocks Climbing & Fitness Gym

Simply Pottery

Perfect for crafters or anyone who enjoys trying something new, Simply Pottery is a fun way to slow down, spend quality time, and create something handmade.

From mugs and bowls to decorative pieces, your loved one can design a one-of-a-kind keepsake while making lasting memories.

Credit: Simply Pottery

Membership to Propeller

Give the gift of creativity with a Columbus Propeller membership or class! Members get access to tools and spaces like the 3D printing lab, woodshop, metal shop, welding lab, and more, plus discounts on classes and camps.

Propeller also offers hands-on workshops, from stained glass and floral design to holiday gift-making, making it a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves to learn, create, and make something meaningful.

Credit: Columbus Propeller

Practical Loved One

This is the person who appreciates gifts they’ll actually use. Practical, sustainable, and self-care-focused finds make thoughtful options they can enjoy well beyond the holidays

Meli Market

For the practical loved one on your holiday list, Meli Market offers thoughtful gifts that are both useful and eco-friendly.

This Columbus refillery features bulk goods, zero-waste products, natural cleaning supplies, handmade soaps, and locally sourced items, perfect for conscious living and everyday use.

Blondies Salon & Spa

Pamper your loved ones this holiday season with a gift certificate from Blondie’s Salon & Spa. From hair treatments and facials to lashes, waxing, nails, spray tanning, and advanced skincare, Blondie’s Salon & Spa offers relaxing services designed to leave guests feeling confident and refreshed.

You can also shop their selection of salon products, Consuela handbags, and fun accessories for an extra-special gift.

The Coworker

If you’re stumped on what to buy for the hard-to-shop-for person or someone with distinctive tastes, head into downtown Columbus and explore the local merchants, many of which line Washington Street. From charming boutiques to shops featuring local artisans’ creations, you’ll find tasteful gifts, stunning styles, and unique treasures that can’t be found anywhere else.

Baker’s Fine Gifts and Accessories

Make coworker gifting easy this holiday season with a stop at Baker’s Fine Gifts & Accessories. With unique items at a variety of price points, you’ll find thoughtful options for everyone on your list, from elegant office accessories and personalized gifts to stylish home décor and whimsical glass ornaments.

Whether you need a small token of appreciation or something extra special, Baker’s Fine Gifts & Accessories offers quality, variety, and plenty of holiday charm.

Viewpoint Books & Chapter Two

A must-stop for book lovers, Viewpoint Books and Chapter Two are two downtown locations filled with great reads for every interest, from bestsellers to unique finds. It’s the perfect place to pick up a thoughtful gift, support local, and maybe treat yourself while you’re there.