Made in the Shade of North Columbus

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a world renown zoological park. The capital city zoo has a worldwide reputation due to its world-famous director Jack Hanna. The zoo houses over 5,000 animals representing over 700 species and welcomes over two million visitors each year to its famous animal kingdom. Exploring this zoo is a great way to get in touch with nature.

Entertainment junkies hang out at the Nationwide Arena in Columbus. The state-of-the-art, $150 million arena is the home to the National Hockey League's Columbus Blue Jackets, the

Make plans to be on tap for the Annual Columbus Beerfest. The Greater Columbus Convention Center plays host to 5,000 beer connoisseurs, overflowing with excitement to belly up to 210 craft beers on the Festival's Main Floor and another 15 rare beers in the Connoisseurs Tasting Reception each night. Bring your designated driver!

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.