8 Unique Indoor Activities for Kids in Columbus, OH (That Go Beyond the Usual)
- Taylor Breen
- Sep 12
- 4 min read
When the weather turns cold, wet, or just wildly unpredictable (hello, Ohio), it helps to have a go-to list of indoor activities that keeps kids active, engaged, and genuinely happy. But here’s the thing, not every indoor activity is created equal.
If you’re a parent looking for something beyond the usual arcade, trampoline park, or overstimulating play place, this list is for you.
These indoor activities for kids in Columbus, OH are handpicked for families who want meaningful, memorable experiences that help their kids grow, not just burn energy.
Whether you’ve got a toddler who’s just learning to leap or a school-aged kid who’s ready to explore something new, here are eight creative ways to make the most of your time indoors.
If your child has never taken a dance class before, or had a tough time in a previous studio, Mini Movers at Movement Haven is the perfect fresh start.
Designed for kids ages 3 to 5, Mini Movers is a joyful introduction to movement through music, play, and gentle structure. With small class sizes and a warm, inclusive environment, this Dublin-based studio makes even the shyest beginners feel comfortable and confident.
Movement Haven is known for its heart-first approach, where technique is taught with care, and progress is measured in smiles as much as steps. Bonus: they offer free trial classes so families can explore without pressure.
Mini Movers is more than a dance class. It’s a safe space to land and a great way to build coordination, confidence, and connection all year round.
Little KidSpace at COSI is a favorite for Columbus families, and for good reason. It’s a secure, interactive area designed just for young children, with imaginative structures, water play zones, and rotating activities that encourage hands-on learning.
It’s not just about fun (though there’s plenty of that). COSI gives kids the chance to explore early science concepts through movement, sensory play, and storytelling. For ages 0–7, it’s a go-to spot when you want them to learn and play at the same time.
For the artsy kid (or the one who just loves to make a mess in the best way), Clay Café in Grandview offers walk-in pottery painting that’s as therapeutic as it is fun.
Kids choose their own ceramic piece - from figurines to mugs to keepsakes - and then paint it however they’d like. It’s a screen-free, slow-paced activity that invites creativity and offers a tangible reward they can take home and proudly display.
Perfect for rainy days, creative bonding time, or even birthday parties.
At Momi Land, kids step into a world designed just for them - a safe, vibrant, and imaginative space where play has no limits. Located in Hilliard, Polaris & Gahanna, Momi Land has interactive play zones and every corner is built to spark curiosity, laughter, and learning. Parents love that Momi Land combines fun for kids with peace of mind, making it a truly unique destination for families.
Little Diggers in Central Ohio is a one-of-a-kind indoor play space where kids can explore, learn, and have endless fun in a safe and engaging environment. Designed for curious young minds, Little Diggers offers interactive play zones, hands-on activities, and creative learning experiences that make every visit exciting. Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, this family-friendly destination encourages imagination, social skills, and active play. Whether you’re planning a day out with your little ones or looking for a unique birthday party venue, Little Diggers is the ultimate spot for fun and discovery in Central Ohio.
This inclusive gym in Polaris is designed to support kids of all abilities with a mix of sensory-safe equipment, open play areas, and creative movement zones.
Ideal for toddlers through age 10, it’s a space where kids can jump, swing, climb, and express themselves without overstimulation. The environment is low-pressure, welcoming, and flexible - making it a great option for neurodivergent kids or those who just prefer a calmer vibe.
TBCM offers mindfulness-centered yoga classes for kids that focus on breath work, movement, and emotional awareness. It’s a unique way to help children build body awareness and self-regulation in a calm and nurturing space.
From themed yoga sessions to parent-child partner classes, TBCM prioritizes mental wellness and movement above all else, something families can truly appreciate.
Even in the dead of winter, the indoor gardens at Franklin Park Conservatory feel like a tropical getaway. Kids love the indoor butterfly garden, where hundreds of butterflies flutter freely among lush plants and flowers. Pair that with hands-on nature activities and weekend workshops, and you’ve got a family outing that’s equal parts calming and educational.
Looking for Something More Meaningful?
Every child deserves a space where they feel safe, supported, and excited to explore - and that’s what Movement Haven is all about. Our Mini Movers program isn’t just an activity. It’s a doorway to confidence, joy, and connection that extends far beyond the classroom.
Whether your child is shy, expressive, or somewhere in between, we meet them exactly where they are and help them grow at their own pace.
Come see what makes our studio feel like home.
A message from Movement Haven's Artistic Director:
Having lived in Columbus for years and taken my own little one to these amazing spots, I can’t stress enough how important it is for kids to have a safe space to be creative and curious. These local gems make that possible every day!
-Libby
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