As the temperature rises and the summer sun beats down, there’s no better way to beat the heat than by diving into refreshing water activities. In Columbus, Ohio, a city known for its vibrant outdoor scene, there are plenty of options to keep you cool and entertained.
Gearing up your gang for water activities is one of the best things to do in Columbus Ohio, this summer. This blog will explore ten invigorating water activities to help you stay cool in scorching summer.
Table of Contents
1. Kayaking on the Scioto River
Grab a kayak and hit the calm waters of the Scioto River for an exhilarating adventure. Enjoy the scenic views as you paddle along the river, surrounded by lush greenery and the city’s skyline in the distance. Kayaking on the Scioto River is a fantastic way to explore Columbus from a unique perspective while staying cool on the water.
2. Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Alum Creek State Park
Try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) at Alum Creek State Park for a fun and challenging water activity. SUP offers a full-body workout while allowing you to glide across the water and soak up the sun. Alum Creek Lake provides the perfect setting for this activity, with its calm waters and picturesque surroundings.
3. Swimming at the Columbus Aquatics Center
If you’re looking for a classic water activity, head to the Columbus Aquatics Center for a refreshing swim. This state-of-the-art facility offers multiple pools, including a leisure pool with water slides, a lazy river, and a lap pool for those seeking a more intense workout.
4. Water Park Fun at Zoombezi Bay
For a day of non-stop water excitement, visit Zoombezi Bay, a premier water park next to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. With thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and interactive water play areas, Zoombezi Bay offers many attractions to suit every age and thrill level. Zoombezi Bay guarantees a day filled with splashes, laughter, and unforgettable summer memories.
5. Canoeing at Hocking Hills
Escape the city and venture to Hocking Hills, just an hour’s drive from Columbus, for a serene canoeing experience. The Hocking River offers a peaceful and scenic setting for a leisurely paddle. Canoeing at Hocking Hills allows you to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the tranquility of the water, making it one of the most exciting things to do in Columbus Ohio this summer.
6. Fishing at Hoover Reservoir
Fishing at Hoover Reservoir is a fantastic option for those who enjoy a more relaxed water activity. Grab your fishing gear and head to this 3,000-acre reservoir northeast of Columbus. Known for its abundant fish population, Hoover Reservoir offers excellent opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, spend a peaceful day on the water, casting your line and trying to catch bass, catfish, or crappie.
7. Jet Skiing on Buckeye Lake
For thrill-seekers, jet skiing on Buckeye Lake will surely get your adrenaline pumping. This 3,100-acre lake provides ample space for jet skiing and other water sports. Rent a jet ski and experience the thrill of speeding across the water, feeling the wind in your hair and the splash of water beneath you. Buckeye Lake offers the perfect playground for water enthusiasts, combining exhilaration with the refreshing coolness of the lake.
8. Paddling at Griggs Reservoir
Discover the beauty of Griggs Reservoir as you paddle along its tranquil waters. This 373-acre reservoir offers a serene escape from the city with its calm currents and picturesque surroundings. Enjoy the soothing rhythm of paddling while relishing the refreshing breeze and natural beauty of Griggs Reservoir.
9. Water Skiing at Delaware State Park
Delaware State Park, located just north of Columbus, is a haven for water skiing enthusiasts. With its vast reservoir, this park provides the perfect setting for high-speed water sports. Delaware State Park offers a thrilling water-skiing experience that keeps you cool and entertained all summer.
10. Tubing at Mad River Mountain Avalanche Tubing Park
Located just outside Columbus, this tubing park features multiple lanes to slide down on inflatable tubes. Mad River Mountain offers an exciting tubing experience even during the summer months by utilizing artificial surfaces that simulate the feel of snow. It’s a perfect activity for thrill-seekers of all ages.
Expert Tip: Water activities make you tired and famished. Counter the water hangover by hiring a personal chef in Columbus to have mouthwatering dishes ready on your table when you need them the most.
Conclusion
When the summer heat becomes unbearable, Columbus offers many refreshing water activities to keep you cool and entertained. So, dive in, splash, and create unforgettable memories with these invigorating water activities in Columbus.
