Kent Duane Stuckey

Take the family to see a play at The Phoenix Theatre for Children. Watch fairy tales and children's stories come to life on stage. Productions have included The Story of Babar, the little elephant, Mrs. Piggle Wiggle, Madeline's Christmas, Hansel and Gretel, The Miracle Worker, and the Paper Bag Princess.

Travel back in time to 1908 to tour an authentically-restored engine house where you will see a collection of hand-pulled, horse-drawn, and motorized fire apparatus. Find out what it was like being a firefighter and living in the engine house during those years and how the fire service evolved to what it is today. Ring the 500-lb station bell in the bell tower and learn about early communcations with the interactive 9-1-1 simulator. Check out their rotating displays, along with the static displays of vintage fire helmets, antique fire toys and more. There's even a play area for younger kids featuring the cab and tiller seat from a real fire truck, and a fire pole for kids to slide down. Make sure to participate in the age-appropriate fire safety education programs ranging from pre-K age to senior citizen. You'll learn how to make your home fire safe, and practice what to do if there is a fire in your home. After you learn about the “Home Escape Plan” you can practice how to safely get out of a house fire, and even take some materials home to develop a plan for your own home and family. Before you leave, visit the gift shop to pick up some souvenirs like the Columbus Fire t-shirt, sweatshirts, patches, and more for your favorite firefighter.  

Pick up your tickets to the BalletMet. The capital city's most innovative and artistic ballet company is poised to perform classical ballets such as Carmen, The Nutcracker, and Sleeping Beauty. From opening night to closing night, you'll want to hold season tickets to enjoy an enchanting night of entertainment at the ballet.

Blooming enthusiasts visit the Franklin Park Conservatory. Visitors of all ages grow happy with the sights, scents, and attractions in bloom across the 88-acre botanical garden in downtown Columbus. Fertilize your botanical interest when you wander through exotic plant collections, special horticultural exhibits, and attend educational work shops.