Indoor Family Fun for Winter

With some of the most innovative play-spaces in the Midwest, Columbus Indiana is a great destination for a family adventure.

During the winter months it can be challenging to find fun activities that keep you cozy and warm. Our list of Top 5 Family-Friendly places in Columbus, Indiana, are indoors and sure to keep you and your family busy this winter season!

kidscommons

Kidscommons offers families with toddlers to early teens a vibrant and safe environment where they can explore three floors of hands-on, interactive exhibits. Bring the kids for an afternoon of educational fun!

Children will enjoy various activities including designing their own future city, scaling the 17’ climbing wall, creating a masterpiece in the Kids-at-Art studio, learning about another culture in the Our House Japan exhibit and taking a trip down the world-famous giant toilet in ExploraHouse.

Zaharakos

This elegantly-restored, 1900’s-style ice cream parlor and museum has been named “The Number One Thing Every Hoosier Must Do” by Indianapolis Monthly Magazine. Zaharakos is a one-of-a-kind Victorian ice cream parlor, and is a treat for children of all ages.

Stop by with the entire family and indulge in any of the delicious ice-cream flavors, or ask to try a local favorite, like a Green River. Visitors delight in the historic details of this meticulously restored eatery.

Library

While you are downtown, stop by the Bartholomew County Public Library, just a short walk from Zaharakos and kidscommons.

The library offers family-friendly events almost every day of the year, and their building, designed by the legendary architect I.M. Pei, is one of Columbus’ very best!

Columbus Rock Gym

Columbus Rock Gym is a bouldering gym, where climbers of all ages and skill levels can participate. During these chilly months, bring the entire family to Columbus Rock Gym and get in a great workout indoors!

Columbus Rock Gym has all of the gear you need to get started. The rock walls are surrounded by cushioned, padded floors, and ropes and harnesses are optional. There are a variety of climbing routes to choose from, perfect for any skill level.

Escape 812

Take a trip this winter to Escape 812. Imagine you are locked in and the only way to escape is to follow the clues! Try the mind-bending escape from reality while using logic, strategy and problem solving. Escape 812 is perfect for the entire family, any time of year.

Hamilton Center Ice Skating

Pack up the family and head out for a grand time on the ice at Hamilton Center Ice Skating. What used to be an original Swiss chalet style building, with a warming house, changing rooms and outdoor ice rink, has now been renovated and includes an indoor rink, so families can skate all year long.

If you get chilly during your session, take a break and warm up by the beautiful granite fireplace.

The list does not end here. There’s still more family-friendly fun.