A guide to autumn in Columbus
By: Jordan Zimmerman
Samantha Madar/Columbus Dispatch
As the leaves begin to change and the air becomes crisp, Columbus will be alive with an abundance of events to fit whatever vibe you’re into. The city is set to host a plethora of sporting events, festivals, concerts and more to get you in the spirit for the season. I have compiled a complete guide on how to navigate autumn in the city and make the most out of your time.
Buckeye Football
24 News
One thing that you absolutely cannot miss in Columbus during the fall season is Ohio State Football. Coming off a 2024 National Championship, the Buckeyes are set to play seven home games at Ohio Stadium this year. The atmosphere during game days at the ‘Shoe is an essential part of Columbus culture and nothing screams fall quite like an Ohio State win.
Columbus Coffee Festival
Derek Ward/Columbus Coffee Festival
A Columbus tradition for 10 years, the Coffee Festival is the perfect event for coffee lovers in the city. The event includes music performances, poetry readings, coffee samples from local roasters and more. This is the perfect event that allows you to try a large variety of local businesses. I personally love nothing more in autumn than a nice cup of coffee, hot or iced. This festival provides a great family-friendly event.
Scioto Park
Experience Columbus
If you want to take in the fall foliage and enjoy the cool autumn breeze without leaving the city, Scioto Park is the perfect activity for a fall afternoon. The outdoor site includes a nature trail along the river, picnic areas, an amphitheater that hosts Sunday concerts, a playground and more. The park produces great views of the city and is an excellent way to enjoy the fall nature, whether you are looking for an outdoor workout or just a way to relax after a long week.
Gateway Film Center
Michael Napolitano/The Lantern
For those who are in the mood to experience something spooky as the Halloween season is upon us, I recommend visiting Gateway Film Center this fall for their annual Hitchcocktober event. As a tribute to the filmmaker known for suspense, Gateway will be presenting Hitchcock's films on the big screen for the entire month of October. In addition to this event, there is a large variety of horror movies playing at the theatre this fall. The chilly season is the perfect time to grab some popcorn and cozy up with a movie, and you won’t want to miss what Gateway has to offer.
German Village
Ohio.org
While I would recommend checking out German Village any time of the year, it is especially stunning in the fall. The historic neighborhood features a large park with views of the fall foliage, German restaurants, coffee shops and lots of historic sights. Also, you cannot visit German Village without visiting the iconic Book Loft bookstore, located in the heart of the neighborhood. If you are still wanting to experience more German culture after exploring German Village, Columbus also hosts an annual Oktoberfest event at the Ohio State Fair Grounds each year with live entertainment, food, games, drinks and more.
There will be no shortage of events in Columbus, Ohio this fall season and I recommend getting out and experiencing what the city has to offer as much as possible. Whether you’re excited for spooky season, want to enjoy the outdoors before winter cold sets in or are looking for a fun afternoon with family or friends, there’s always something to do in Columbus in autumn.
