Bicentennial Park
4.7(5,123)4.7 out of 5 stars, 5123 reviews Columbus, OH
About Bicentennial Park
A beautifully remodeled downtown park along the Scioto River offering scenic cityscape views, interactive fountains, kayak rentals, and a vibrant venue for seasonal family-friendly festivals.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Family picnics and casual outdoor walksWater recreation like kayakingAttending lively outdoor community festivalsToddlers and young children who enjoy playing in the remodeled fountainsTeens and older kids interested in river kayaking
Why families love it
- Newly remodeled interactive fountains and upgraded seating areas
- Direct access to the Scioto River with kayak rentals available
- Excellent walking paths with unique statues, scenic photo spots, and picnic areas
- Great host venue for family-friendly events like the Jazz & Rib Festival
- Remodeled fountains
- Direct Scioto River access with kayak rentals
Insider tips
- Visit during the fall season to enjoy the vibrant autumn foliage along the walking paths
- Keep an eye out for seasonal events like the Jazz & Rib Festival for great food vendors and live entertainment
- Bring a camera to take photos with the unique statues and scenic cityscape backdrop
- Pack a picnic to enjoy under the new large pergola or in the designated picnic areas
Good to know before you go
- Peak festival times if your family prefers a quiet, low-crowd experience
- Can get very crowded, especially during major festivals and events
- Some visitors note that the large crowds can feel a bit socially reserved or distant
- Crowds
- Can be highly crowded during major weekend festivals and peak summer days
- Value
- Excellent free public resource with high-quality remodeled amenities, though external activities like kayak rentals and festival food vendors require payment.
- Food
- Picnics are welcome with dedicated areas to eat
- Accessibility
- Paved walking paths suitable for strollers
- Safety
- Ground lighting installed throughout the park for better visibility during evening walks
What parents say
"Nice place alot of things to do and a whole bunch of people, of course they may be friendly but you wouldn't know it cause much like the rest of the places I've been with few exceptions people don't even say hello unless promted?"
6 months ago
"07/21/2024 - Attended the Jazz & Rib Festival with my family. We remained near Bicentennial Park and purchased food from the visiting merchant Texas Outlaw BBQ. I ordered their Brisket, Chicken, Pork, & Ribs Outlaw Combo Plate with coleslaw and baked beans. Everything was delicious. Great crowd, entertainment, food, and weather."
8 months ago
"I love walking around downtown in all seasons, but fall is my favorite! The vibrant colors all around are beautiful and there are so many places to walk to grab a bite to eat or drink. Lots of unique statues and areas to picnic or take pictures. If you’re looking for a place to walk around, this is it!"
a year ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
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