Mobility-friendly things to do with Seniors in Columbus

It’s a well-known fact that keeping mentally sharp and physically active is a very important part of staying healthy. Maintaining strong social relationships and interacting with the world around us provides enjoyment and a sense of belonging.

We all have family members, friends, or neighbors who have reached their “seasoned” years. Regardless of how active they once were, the affects of aging often present a variety of physical challenges that make it difficult to remain active.

As a family member or caregiver, it can be a challenge to find enjoyable and engaging activities suited for our loved ones abilities. Our family is on this journey and have found a lot of fun mobility-friendly options in Central Ohio (& beyond). 

Senior Programs

There are several organizations and agencies in Central Ohio that focus on seniors in the community. When searching for activities and ways to engage, this is the best place to start.

Senior Centers

Every county and many individual communities have dedicated senior centers, available exclusively to those 55 and over. The Central Ohio Area on Aging (COAA) is a great resource for seniors, including a list of local centers.

These centers provide a holistic approach to help seniors thrive. In addition to supporting everyday life challenges, senior centers are a great place to find social groups, activities, entertainment, and group travel that caters specifically to the interests and abilities of their members.

Libraries

Local libraries are a good resource to connect seniors with local book and literary clubs, puzzle and board gaming, connecting with the past through genealogy, and special programming throughout the year. Check here for a list of Central Ohio libraries. 

YMCAs and Parks & Recreation

Regardless of where you live in Central Ohio, there’s no shortage of programs dedicated to keeping seniors mentally active and physically fit through local gyms, fitness centers, and parks & recreation departments. Enjoy games, crafts, sports, aquatics, fitness and more. Check out these resources for more details. Columbus Parks & Recreation; YMCA

Connect with Nature

Getting outside to enjoy some fresh air is an excellent way for senior citizens to stay active and engaged.  Accessible trails can be found in neighborhoods and parks all over Central Ohio.

Columbus Metroparks

We have a wonderful metroparks system with plenty of beautiful spaces to explore. With twenty-three parks and greeways, there’s no shortage of opportunities, including special programs for senior citiziens (50+).

Full details are available on the Metroparks website, but I’ve highligted a few below. Check here to search for ADA trails at a Metropark near you.

Pick a Park

Take a stroll to admire the flowers at Inniswoods Metro Gardens . There are paved paths and plenty of benches to sit and relax. Join one of the many programs related to plants and gardening. Complimentary wheelchairs are available at the entrance, on a first come-first served basis. 

Watch the bison graze at Battelle Darby Creek. The herd can be seen from the ADA rated Darby Creek Greenway or the overlook deck at the nature center. Explore the nature center and enjoy watching birds at the outdoor feeders.

Explore a replica train station and wander under the covered bridge at Homestead. Enjoy several accessible trails throughout. This is a small park with a big personality.

Check out the newest metropark, Quarry Trails. Park in the lakes area to enjoy an accessible floating boarwalk over the water. Perhaps the best feature is the mesmorizing 25-foot Millikin waterfall. Head to the Millikin Falls parking lot and follow a very short accessible path to the observation platform above the falls.

 

Ride the Tram

During the summer months, the Columbus Metroparks offer free tram tours at select parks. Join a naturalist for a guided tour, learn more about the park, and enjoy the ride. See the 2024 tram schedule here.

Glacier Ridge offers electric tram rides all summer long starting in June. Public rides are offered on select days and will be announced here. Private groups (up to 20) may request a group tour on the tram by contacting 614-971-5211. All rides are free.

Birdwatching

No need for binoculars here. Enjoy the excitement of bird watching from the indoor comfort of nature centers found at four parks: Battelle Darby Creek, Blacklick Woods, Blendon Woods, and Highbanks.

Scioto Audubon or Pickerington Ponds are two premier birdwatching metroparks. Each offers a variety of focused habitats for birds of all kinds. Walk the paths and boardwalks or join a ranger program.

Educational Programs

Join an educational program designed specifically for seniors 50+. Select from a variety of topics and activity levels. There’s no cost to join. The program offerings are updated often. Learn more about current program offerings here to register.

Summer Camp

Go to Senior Camp! Head to Blacklick Woods in September for a “senior only” day camp. Enjoy activities like crafts, nature bingo, meeting animal ambassadors, fishing, taking a tram ride, and so much more! Learn more here.

Ohio State Parks

There are seventy-five state parks in Ohio, most of which offer a variety of accessible activities and facilities to ensure everyone can get outside to enjoy nature.

There are several options, including nature walks, boardwalks, fishing piers, beaches, and more. A complete list of accessible nature and facilities can be found here.

Dawes Arboretum

Only 30 minutes east of Columbus, Dawes Arboretum promises an adventure for seniors. Explore more than 2,000 acres of trees collections, lakes, bridges, scenic landscapes, and beautiful flowers.

The 4-mile Auto Tour is a great alternative for those who can’t hike the 11+ miles of available trails. Auto Tour visitors have access to the best parts of the arboretum by following the North and South driving loops. Enjoy the view from the comfort of your car, or park at each location and explore a bit on foot. Before starting, download the audio tour narration here.

Don’t forget to stop by the visitor center to enjoy the bird watching from the basement viewing area. Exterior access is available in the rear of the building, near the restrooms, requiring 2 steps to enter. Or plan ahead and sign up for a scheduled nature presentation. Check for upcoming programs here.

Take a Sweet Tour

 

Al’s Delicious Popcorn

Pop! Pop! Al’s Delicious Popcorn has been a local favorite since 1985. They pop, flavor, and hand pack all popcorn in-house. With more than 65 unique flavors to choose from, this might just be the best tasting tour around!

Al’s occupies a small space requiring very little walking. Each tour begins with a short video, followed by a visit to the kitchen and packaging area. The best part is the complementary tasting at the end. 

Tours are scheduled Monday and Thursday at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Advanced reservations are required. The tour is suitable for all ages and abilities. The cost is free. Al’s Delicious Popcorn is located at 1500 Bethel Rd, Columbus, OH 43220.

     

 

Anthony-Thomas Candy Company

Take a sweet tour along a glass-enclosed suspended skywalk to see the chocolate making process from start to finish. All guests receive a free sample too!

The 60-min tour is fully accessible, although does require being able to stand in place. It’s a good idea to bring collapsible seating or other support if needed.

Currently offering open house walk-in tours Monday through Thursday between 10:00am and 2:00pm. Tours begin on the hour.

Admission Fee: 18 years and older – $4.00 per person., 2-17 years old – $2.00 per person. Tours days/hours subject to change; check website before you visit.

Anthony-Thomas Candy Company is located at 1777 Arlingate Ln, Columbus, OH 43228.

Check out more factory tours in Columbus and throughout Ohio. 

Fun, Factory Tours in Columbus, and other fun public tours in Ohio

Catch a Movie

Taking in a movie on the big screen is a favorite activity for everyone, no matter the age. Here are some fun options with seniors in mind.

Young at Heart

Marcus Crosswoods offers a special Friday matinee program exclusively for seniors 60+. Young at Heart provides $7 movie tickets before 5:30pm. Enjoy special pricing ($3.50 each) for a hot dog, 44 oz. popcorn, and  14 oz. soda.

Relive the Classics

Head downtown to the historic Ohio Theatre during June and July for the CAPA Summer Movie Series. Choosing from a full lineup of silent and classic films is sure to bring back memories for many.

Senior tickets are $5 each. Special assistive listening services are available at all screenings.

Watch classic films with CAPA Summer Movie Series at Ohio Theatre

Movies Under the Stars

There’s nothing like the nostalgia of a drive-in movie. The South Drive-in, is a large two-screen venue located on South High Street. It’s a great way to enjoy a night out without leaving the car. Tickets are $12 per person, although they sometimes offer special discounts.

Flea market and drive-in movies at the South Drive In Theatre

One Stop Eat & Shop

Central Ohio is full of cute walkable downtowns with plenty of local shops and restaurants to explore. Westerville, Delaware, and Granville quickly come to mind. For some seniors, uneven sidewalks, busy crosswalks, and multiple doorways prove too difficult to navigate.

A good alternative is a visit to an all-in-one restaurant and gift shop. Here are a few fun options within an hour or so of Columbus: Morgan House (Dublin), Pickwick Place (Bucyrus), Miss Molly’s Tea Room (Medina), Blueberry Patch (Mansfield), Pine Tree Barn (Wooster), and of course, Cracker Barrel.

Take a Scenic Drive

As a child, I remember spending lazy Sunday afternoons taking family drives through the countryside, presumably to nowhere. Although I didn’t always appreciate it then, taking an afternoon drive is now a favorite activity to do with our aging parents.

Hit the back roads and explore the countryside, take a nostalgic trip to old neighborhoods and favorite hangouts, or pick a nearby town and follow the scenic route. Take advantage of Ohio’s seasons and beautiful changes in nature. Find a scenic spot to watch the sunset or take a holiday light tour in your area.

For those who no longer drive or don’t get out often, even a simple drive is a welcomed opportunity. I recently invited my mom to ride along with me while running afternoon errands. She never left the car and people-watched the entire trip. When we were finished, she thanked me for “such an enjoyable and interesting drive”. 

Visit a Museum

We’re fortunate to have a lot of great museums all around Ohio! Visiting a museum is a fun day out for the entire family. Fortunately most modern-day facilities offer ADA accessibility. The museums listed below are a few local senior friendly museums to consider.

• Ohio Historical Society – Special entrance, complimentary wheelchairs, BOGO ticket for a senior visiting with a medical caregiver or aide.
• National Veterans Memorial and Museum – Special entrance, closed captioning, large print guides, and complimentary wheelchairs.
• Franklin Park Conservatory – Accessible grounds, complimentary wheelchairs, and scooters (based on availability)
• Central Ohio Fire Museum – Single floor, small size, guided tour. This is a popular museum for school tours, so call beforehand to ensure there is not a group tour scheduled.
• Museum of Catholic Art & History – Single floor, small size. Guided tours available at 10:30a, 12:30p, and 2:30p.
• Motts Military Museum – Single floor, small size.
• Doll & Toy Museum – Single floor, small size.

Discounted and Free Museum Days in Columbus

When most of our parents were young, travel by bus or train was a popular mode of transportation. Rail museums and train rides are still available in all corners of Ohio, including The Ohio Railway Museum in Worthington.

Train enthusiasts will love the amazing collection of more than 30 trains, including streetcars, interurbans, passenger cars, and electric and steam locomotives. The highlight for many will be a two-mile round-trip demonstration ride on one of the museum’s streetcars or interurbans!

The Central Ohio Model Railroad Club is a club for local model railroad hobbyists. They work with all scales from G to Z and showcase several creatively themed, operational layouts from realistic to fantasy. First time visitors are welcome to stop by on Tuesdays from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

The museum is located at 990 Proprietors Rd, Worthington. It is open every Sunday, May – December from Noon -4 p.m. Admission is $9 (adults), $7 (seniors 65+) and military (with ID), $6 (youth 4-12), and Free (3 & under). Admission includes unlimited train rides.

Go to College

You read that correctly! Lifelong learning is an exciting opportunity to learn new skills, explore new topics, or enhance current areas of interest. All state colleges and universities offer seniors 60+ the opportunity to attend classes for free.

In the Columbus area, Lifelong Learning is available at The Ohio State University, Central Ohio Technical College, Columbus State Community College, and Marion Technical College.

Program 60 at OSU: Free college courses for seniors

Explore Ohio

My husband and I have aging parents in both Central and Eastern Ohio. Their physical abilities range from full mobility to minimal walking with a cane. We try to keep them active by planning monthly day trips to interesting places.

Below is a list of our favorite mobility-friendly adventures so far. Before visiting, be sure to contact each location to confirm the accessible offerings fit your specific needs.

BibleWalk (Mansfield)

BibleWalk is a life-size wax museum that features more than 100, fully narrated Biblical scenes. There are 7 walk-thru journeys to choose from, each lasting between 30 min to 1 hour. We chose the Life of Christ, which included approximately twenty scenes (1 hr).  The facility is ADA accessible an offers ample seating throughout each journey. Days and times vary based on the season.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Ride the rails on the Cuyahoga Valley Train. There are tons of options from scenic rides to themed events. Tours start in May. All day passes begin at $18 (adults) and $13 (3-12). An ADA car with hydraulic lift is available for select tours. Note that the “Dome Car” seating requires navigating an additional set of 4-5 narrow steps after entering the main train car.

After your tour, keep it simple (like we did) with a scenic car ride through the park and stop at Szalay’s Market for some yummy treats. If you have more time, check out other accessible locations in the park, including visitor centers, Brandywine Falls, Beaver Marsh, Ohio-Erie Towpath. Learn more details here.

Dog Fountain (Mt. Vernon)

This adorable water fountain can be found in downtown Mt. Vernon is a must for dog lovers. A parking lot is available within steps of the fountain and benches are available.

The South Main Plaza Fountain is located at 201 S. Main St. Afterwards, grab lunch and drive around town to view several beautiful murals.

Farm at Walnut Creek (Sugarcreek)

Take a wagon ride or drive your own vehicle through the farm to visit over 500 animals. The wagon ride requires climbing a few steps to get in, but accommodations can be made for a special drop off near the loading area.

Open April – October. Costs vary: $15-$21 Adults, $12-$16 Seniors & Children (3-12)

Kelleys Island (Lake Erie)

Spend the day on “island time”. Take the Kelley’s Island Ferry from Marblehead. You can ferry to the island as a walk on guest ($12/$10/$8) or stay in your car and drive on ($20).

Golf carts are available for rent at the ferry landing (Seaway Marina) and downtown (General Store, Caddy Shack Square . Rent a golf cart to tour the island and stop for lunch or dinner along the way. This is such a fun and unique adventure with a minimal requirement for mobility.

Find some ideas and things to do here!

Ohio Travel: Exploring Kelleys Island

Living Word Outdoor Drama (Cambridge)

Ohio’s only passion play, this outdoor drama will be a hit with those of faith. The drama depicts the ministry of Christ through his death and ressurection.

Paved pathways with handrails lead downward into the main theater, although it is a rather long walk. There is accessible seating located near the ticket office and at several places along the pathway. Open June – September. Ticket specials available for as low as $5.

Malabar Farm (Lucas)

Take a historical farm tour via farm wagon(steps required) or golf cart (call to arrange). Enjoy a guided tour of the Big House, where Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Becall were married.

First floor is accessible. Open May – October. Costs vary: $3-$6 Adults/Children, $2.70-$5.40 Seniors, 5 & under – Free.

A great place to catch a view of the entire farm is from the top of Mt. Jeez. Follow the gravel road to the top of the hillside where there is ample parking. Park benches welcome visitors to sit and stay for awhile. Visiting at sunset is a perfect way to end the day.

Read more about visiting Malabar Farm and Mansfield.

Ohio Travel: Mansfield – Where History Meets Hollywood

Tecumseh Outdoor Drama (Chillicothe)

Spend an evening watching Ohio’s most beloved outdoor drama about the legendary Shawnee leader. Wheelchair and accessible seating are available, plus ASL support. Call (866) 775-0700 for assistance with seat selection.

Open June – Sept. Cost starting at $31 per person.

Covered Bridge Tour (Union County)

Head to nearby rural Union County for a covered bridge tour. Spend an afternoon auto-touring between seven gorgeous covered bridges. There’s parking available at each bridge where you can get a closer look and take some fun photos.

Stop at the Pottersburg Bridge and stretch your legs with an accessible walk along a paved trail. Hungry? Pick from a plenty of local eateries, wineries, and more. Learn more here.

Covered Bridge Trail in Marysville and Union County, Ohio

US Air Force Museum (Dayton)

Visit the world’s largest military aviation museum. Spend a few hours or stay for the entire day. The museum complex is fully accessible, but it’s huge. Get there early to take advantage of free motorized carts and wheelchairs (first come-first served).

The museum is FREE to all!

Valley Gem Sternwheeler (Marietta)

Cruise the Ohio River on a 90-minure riverboat tour. There’s plenty of fully accessible indoor/outdoor seating including tables w/chairs. $16 Adults, $15 Seniors, $8 Children 3-12.

Add lunch and a Marietta Historical Trolley tour to complete a fun and accessible day of exploration.

Marietta Awaits: Ohio’s First Riverboat Town

The Wilds (Cumberland)

Go on safari at The Wilds. Open air safari tours offer an ADA accessible option for wheelchairs. For those who can walk, but need assistance, special pick-up/drop-off is available at the handicap parking area near the gift shop. Be sure to let them know when you check-in for your tour. Wheelchairs & restrooms are available at Carnivore Center, a midway stop on the tour route.

Check here for complete accessibility options. Open May – October. Costs starting at $40 per person (1/2 price for Columbus Zoo members)

Other recommendations

We’ll be adding other mobility-friendly and senior friendly options as we find them. Feel free to drop recommendations in the comments for other readers to enjoy!