Columbus Commons
Ocean City, MD
With its sweeping expanse of lawns, a permanent outdoor stage that hosts live music and performances, food trucks and open-air dining spaces, and a whimsical carousel for kids, Columbus Commons (formally John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons) is one of the top parks in downtown Columbus. Stop here to relax, catch a concert, and enjoy a snack alfresco to break up your day of sightseeing.
The basics
Set in the heart of downtown Columbus, the park is easy to visit along with other city attractions like the Columbus Art Museum, Center of Science and Industry (COSI), and Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The Scioto Mile riverside park is just a few blocks west, so you can pop over to the Columbus Commons if you’re walking or cycling along the river. It’s an ideal spot to relax, especially for families, with plenty of space for kids to play and a carousel for the smallest visitors.
Things to know before you go
The park has a permanent ice cream shop and Mexican street-food stand, as well as rotating food trucks serving snacks and meals. There are open-air dining spaces near the food outlets. Outdoor performances and movie screenings are held at the park’s stage in the summer months. The carousel runs from May to October, and a token must be purchased to ride. There are paved paths through the Columbus Commons that are easy to navigate by wheelchair or stroller.
How to get there
The park stretches from High Street to Third Street in the heart of downtown Columbus, and you can walk there from a number of city landmarks. It’s on the site of a former shopping mall, and the underground parking lot is still open for hassle-free parking right beneath the park.
When to get there
The park is open from morning to night daily, except for some holidays and during private events. Check the calendar on the Columbus Commons website to see upcoming performances in the summer. The carousel only operates from May to October—check the schedule for exact dates.
Live entertainment at Columbus Commons
Each summer, the outdoor stage at Columbus Commons hosts a roster of free concerts and performances for adults and kids. For some events, you’ll need to reserve a free ticket in advance, but many are open to the public without prebooking. Food vendors stay open later for evening shows, though there are also concerts that allow attendees to bring their own picnics, and you’re encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs to watch from the green.
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