guides

Winter Break Boredom Busters around Columbus Ohio

November 27, 2025

Are you already hearing the dreaded "I'm booooored" from the kids, and winter break hasn’t even started yet? Fret not, Columbus parents! The Macaroni KID Columbus Boredom Buster Guide is here to rescue your sanity and keep your little ones entertained all season long. This isn’t just another list of “things to do” — it’s a finely curated toolkit packed with the most kid-approved, fun-filled, energy-burning activities in town. From snow-filled outdoor adventures (yes, bundle them up!) to indoor activities where everyone stays toasty, this guide will help you ditch the boredom blues and make winter break a blast. So go on, grab your coat and some snacks (because…kids) and get ready to reclaim winter break with the ultimate parent survival guide!

November 14, 2025 - January 4, 2026

5:30 P.M. - 10:00 P.M.

OPEN NIGHTLY -INCLUDING HOLIDAYS!!


INDOOR FUN


So much is happening at the Columbus Children's Theatre this winter!

Performances:


Get ready to jingle, giggle, and spread a little holiday cheer with The Happy Elf, a joyful 30-minute live theatre experience inspired by the book and song by Harry Connick Jr. Created especially for our youngest audience members. The Happy Elf is the perfect holiday introduction to the world of theatre for ages 0–5!
In this lively, fun-filled adaptation of A Christmas Carol, grumpy old Ebenezer Scrooge learns the true meaning of Christmas through magical visits from three spirited ghosts. With catchy songs, colorful characters, and plenty of holiday cheer, this fast-paced, 60-minute musical is the perfect treat for families with kids ages 4-12.


Frozen Jr. (Mondays: 12/22, 12/29) Embark on a frosty theatrical journey as you sing, dance, and act your way through Arendelle’s icy wonders. Reimagine favorite moments and songs, spark your imagination, and enjoy a day of unforgettable winter magic! Ages 5 - 12.
K-Pop Demon Hunters (Tuesdays: 12/23, 12/30)  Dive into a world where KPop beats and supernatural adventures collide. Train as a demon hunter through energetic dance, music, and theatre. Unlock your creativity, make new friends, and experience the excitement of this one-of-a-kind winter camp!




Unlock your inner detective and have an exciting escape room quest at Magic Escape Rooms in Downtown Columbus! Our top-rated immersive experience, the Magician's Secret, will test your problem-solving skills and transport you to the Golden Age of Magic. Ideal for families and friends. Book your thrilling escape room adventure today!

THE LITTLE GYM OF POLARIS



HOLIDAY CAMPS and EVENTS at The LITTLE GYM Polaris


11/28 Black Friday camp 10:30 -1:30 pm 

$45 for non-members; $40 for members for 3-12 year olds.

12/5 Skill Thrill Clinic
6-9 PM
Ages 6-12-year-olds 
$50
Skill Thrill Clinics are a great way to perfect that handstands, cartwheels, Back and Front Handsprings, or any basic skills. 3 hours, hands-on skill building clinic & PIZZA! This camp combines skill building, friendship and Serious Fun.






Winter Solstice Open Gym
12/21: 3:00-4:30

Winter Camps 
$45
3-8 years old
Offered am and pm sessions 12/22; 12/23;
12/24 Morning only

12/30 Winter Blast Parent Survival Night

12/31  Noon Year's Party! 11:00 am-12:15 pm 

Open to all

**Must be potty trained for any drop-off events**

Trampoline Parks
Big Air Trampoline Park
Rockin' Jump The Ultimate Trampoline Park
Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
The Bounce Club
Funcity
Get Air Columbus

Ninja Gyms
USA Ninja Challenge Dublin
Movement Lab Ohio
Ninja Citi Adventure Park

Arcades
Game Arena
Level 1 
Old North Arcade
Scene 75
Kako Claw
16-Bit Bar and Arcade
Activate Columbus
Pins Bar
Chuck E. Cheese



Animals
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Captive Born Reptiles
Kitty Bubble Cafe
Aquarium Adventures
Colony Cats

Ohio Wildlife Center
Ohio Falconry





Skating
United Skates of America
Skate Zone 71
Chiller locations
Riverside Park Ice Skating
Indoor Play Areas
Play Place at Polaris Mall
Place Place at Tuttle Mall
Bethel Road Graeter's
Recreation Outlet
Momiland
Foam Warriorz
Little Diggers
We Rock the Spectrum



MUSEUMS


Macaroni KID Inspiration