Portraits by Lisa

Located in the heart of Downtown Columbus and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Central Ohio Fire Museum and Learning Center offers engaging activities for all ages. Your adventure begins by going back in time. As the adult visitors learn about the fire trucks of the past and the way fires used to be fought, the kids get to visit with Him the Fire Horse and hear the bells that would sound as the trucks raced through the streets. Be on the lookout for a fireman sliding down the pole! Your adventure continues to the Fire Safety Education area that is also for all ages. A Fire Safety Educator will share ideas and tips on preventing a home fire and will guide you through the steps to take in the event of a fire, be it a kitchen fire or a fire that breaks out during the night while you sleep. First you will see a smoke-filled bedroom with a firefighter searching for a victim, then you will see how the same room looks after the fire. Both experiences provide a humbling reality of home fires. Kids can end their visit in the Jr. Firefighter Academy where they can put on fire gear, slide down a pole, and drive a firetruck to the fire. Adults are welcome to slide down the pole or do a little shopping at the gift shop.  The Fire Museum is available to host birthday parties, business meetings, or other gatherings.

Walk through history at the Ohio Statehouse. Take some time to tour the world of political intrigue at the capital city's most prominent landmark. Visitors enjoy touring the iconic building's majestic architecture and interior furnishings, learning about the state's political movers and shakers, and how the legislative process is enacted.

Hang out at Park Street Cantina. The nightlife here is casual with three entertainment areas and one of the best outdoor patios in downtown Columbus. The bar hosts sports action and great food. The dance club lets you step into the night, and the tequila bar makes it a cantina!

Find out why the Annual Asian Festival attracts over 100,000 people a year. The event brings together fifteen Asian communities to showcase their cultural heritage through Asian music, games, and cuisine. The festival also hosts martial arts workshops and the spectacle of the world-renowned Dragon Boat Races.