COSI: Cheaper

Went to COSI with the kids today. Now, I realize COSI isn't the cheapest spot in town to take the kids, but I have a couple of tricks to save you some $$$: First, park on the street. I've NEVER not gotten a meter spot across the street from the museum, so you're ahead $4 right there. We're members at COSI, which obviously saves some dough. But, we made our son the primary member (student price), and added an additional guest for only $20. Plus, you can apply that day's admission cost to your membership payment. Kids under 2 are admitted free, so we save there, as well. Pack a lunch & eat on the riverside.
COSI's a great stop in the summer, since it's temperature-controlled. The kids really liked the new Egypt exhibit, as well as all of the other exhibits. There's even enough cool stuff to keep parents entertained, and an activity area for the really wee ones.

www.cosi.org

Columbus Arts Fest: One More Day!

Tomorrow (Sunday) is the last day for the Columbus Arts Festival downtown. I was down there with the kids on Friday, and we had a lot of fun. Plenty of activities for the little ones, live music, food (we had free ice cream, you might not be so lucky!), and all-around interesting stuff. There are paintings, sculpture, woodwork, photography, and other artistic methods I can't remember right now on display. Plus, don't forget that the Columbus Museum of Art is free on Sundays, and CCAD has some student exhibits as well. Parking is $5, but you can get a meter (free on Sunday) if you work at it. I can furnish parallel parking tutorials at a small fee.

www.gcac.org/fest

Ohio Statehouse, Pearl Market

Normally, one doesn't think of downtown Columbus as a hotbed for children's activities, but the Statehouse can be lots of fun. Built in 1839 and recently restored, the statehouse offers free tours, great architecture, and a bit of history. You may have to dodge school groups on field trips (or you could join them & eavesdrop on what they're learning), but you and the kids will learn tons of Ohio history, see some art (scale model of Columbus made from Legos was recently a big hit), and maybe see a real live astronaut pass through (John Glenn?). Plus the cool, pastoral building provides a break from the oncoming summer heat.
When you're done (on Tuesdays, anyway) head across the street to the Pearl Alley Market. There's food, home-made crafts & clothing, and live music, as well. Most vendors are local to Central Ohio, so it's a great way to support the local economy, and get some delicious soft-serve ice cream.

Ohio Statehouse: http://www.ohiochannel.org/your_state/ohio_statehouse/index.cfm
Pearl Alley Market: http://www.downtowncolumbus.com/pearlmarket/