More Outdoor Fitness

Columbus Parks and Recreation offers 400 free parks with 230 miles of regional trails, including the Scioto Mile.  https://www.columbus.gov/recreationandparks/Park-Listing/ .  The Columbus Recreation and Parks Department uses a photo ID card system, known as “Leisure Cards,” to safely identify participants during admission to our swimming pools and community recreation centers. In order to take advantage of the great programs and facilities we offer around Columbus you must obtain a Leisure Card. We require Leisure Cards for any individual over the age of six. (Children five and under are free with the company of a parent or guardian.) Leisure Cards only cost $1 (new or renewed), and are good for three years from the date of purchase.  https://columbusrecparks.com/connect/about/leisure-cards/

 The Scioto Mile is an urban oasis comprised of more than 175 acres of lush parkland. Stretching along the waterfront from the vibrant Arena District to the natural beauty of the Whittier Peninsula, our riverfront parks connect downtown to the Scioto River through an integrated system of parks, boulevards, bikeways, and pedestrian paths. https://www.sciotomile.com/  .  The Scioto Mile also features events and festivals:

 WinterFest

The 4th WinterFest in 2021 celebrated the season with local and national musical acts, seasonal craft beer and cocktails along with favorite dishes from Columbus food trucks. Nationally recognized Los Angeles-based musician Absofacto headlined the Bicentennial Park stage. Local artists Honey and Blue and New Basics Brass Band rounded out the day’s performances.  https://www.sciotomile.com/winterfest/

 Jazz and Rib Fest

In 1979, Music in the Air launched Jazz in July, a series presenting jazz through music, film and visual arts at various City of Columbus parks and facilities. Several activities were hosted at the Cultural Arts Center including a Jazz Film Festival and an art exhibit entitled, “Jazz Totems… An Affirmation of Life.” Weekly lunchtime performances were held in the Cultural Arts Center courtyard and featured the newly formed Jazz Arts Group. This was the foundation for what is now the Jazz & Rib Fest – Columbus’ largest free outdoor music festival and one of the nation’s largest rib cook-offs.  https://www.hotribscooljazz.org/

 While COVID-19 has disrupted the activities that take place at the Scioto Mile, past events have included An Evening of Dance with BalletMet, Rhythm on the River, Food Truck Festivals, Free Summer Fitness and more.  Additionally, Columbus Parks and Recreation provides the CoGo Bike Share system which boasts 41 stations and 365 bikes to help you get from point A to point B whenever you need them in downtown Columbus. Intended to provide Columbus residents and visitors with an additional transportation option for getting around town, CoGo is fun, easy, and affordable.  https://www.columbus.gov/recreationandparks/programs/CoGo-Bike-Share-Program/