1. Libraries are Fun!
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What makes our local libraries the best is they offer much more than just books. Storytime activities and family day events draw big crowds. Other big draws include special summer concerts, extensive art collections and stellar research resources for businesses, genealogy and electronics. And about those books - not only is the selection extensive, the libraries in the area have robust e-books selections and eReader programs where patrons can learn the latest in gadgets.
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2. Metro Parks Hikes & Programming
Photo by Carol Ottolenghi
The hikes are not the only programming offered by Metro Parks. Programming for kids, homeschoolers, bird lovers and more are offered weekly most with no cost involved.
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3. Free Tours
Yummy factories and the Statehouse - there are free tours all over the place in Columbus. Free guided tours are offered Monday through Friday on the hour from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., and on Saturdays and Sundays from noon until 3 p.m. Tours depart from the Map Room easily accessible from the Third Street entrance. Tours are approximately 45 minutes in length.Graeters Ice Cream Factory Tour
Anthony Thomas Candy Factory Tour
*While not completely free, the low prices - $2 for adults, $1 for kids over 3 years old - makes this a cheap treat that's worth the trip. January 4th through September 28thMonday - Friday 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Ages 21 and over
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4. Free Music
Who doesn't love music, especially when it's free! It flows year-round here in Columbus!Summer Lunch Time Performing Arts Series
Dates: June 1 - August 24, 2012Location: Ohio Statehouse
Hours: Friday noon-1 p.m.
Address: Broad & Third Streets, Columbus
14th Annual Heritage Concert Series
Dates: July 12 - August 30, 2012Location: The King Arts Complex, Mayme Moore Park
Hours: Thursday 6 p.m.
Address: 867 Mt. Vernon Ave., Columbus, 43203
Finding Time: Columbus Public Art 2012 - Chimes
Dates: January 1 - December 31, 2012 Location: Trinity Episcopal Church Address: Broad and Third Streets, Columbus, 43215 Dates: June 17 - September 16, 2012Location: German Village
Hours: Sunday 6:30-8 p.m.
Address: Frank Fetch Park on Beck St., Columbus, 43215
Dates: December 3-14, 2012
Location: Ohio Statehouse
Hours: Monday-Friday noon-1 p.m.
Address: Broad and High streets, Columbus
Check out 15 Place for Kids here.
5. Gallery Hops
Copyright tim.perdue via Discover Ohio Travel Flicker Group
5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The first Saturday of the month
4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Check out my review of the Short North Gallery Hop here. Third Saturday of the month, March 21 - November 21
2 p.m. - 7 p.m.
