Dublin, Ohio is a great destination! We can help you experience the area with our list of the Top Things To Do in Dublin, Ohio.
Boasting cool attractions, family-friendly adventures, unique shops and delectable eats, Dublin really is a fabulous place to visit.
Our site utilizes Affiliate Links. If you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy.
Full disclosure, this is my hometown. It’s where I grew up, where I went to school and where I return to visit family and friends.
Since becoming a full-time traveler, on my trips to Dublin, OH, I get to experience my hometown as a tourist. Which is so incredibly refreshing!
My visits are balanced between long-time Dublin attractions and the latest-and-greatest places to see – of which there is always something new!
Throughout the years, I have personally witnessed the rural Ohio farm town evolve into a hip place to spend a weekend. With our tips for what to do in Dublin, Ohio, you can easily plan how to spend your time, too!
28 Best Things To Do in Dublin, Ohio
Whether you are a local looking for new things to do or a visitor planning a weekend getaway, you can use our list of the best Dublin, OH things to do!
For visitors, we also include pertinent travel tips – like how to get there, what to eat and where to stay. Plus, our helpful Dublin, OH Map of Attractions that will get you oriented.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Dublin, OH Travel Guide to plan your Ohio Trip!
#1 Discover Dublin, Ohio on Foot
One of the best ways to get acquainted with Downtown Dublin, OH is by lacing up your shoes and going for a stroll. The city’s central district sits on both banks of the Scioto River.
Historic Dublin, Ohio occupies the west side of the river, centered at the intersection of High and Bridge Streets.
Shops and restaurants housed in classic buildings line the main street, which is why it is one of the fun places to go in Dublin.
Modern Downtown Dublin is situated on the east side of the Scioto River. The contemporary live/work community boasts hip eateries, shops and entertainment venues.
Local Tip: One of the fun things to do in Downtown Dublin, OH is to learn about the old dwellings on High Street. Use the Time Trek QR code perched in front of the buildings – or get the Then and Now facts online.
#2 Eat at Jeni’s Ice Cream
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams in Dublin, Ohio is one of the absolute best places to get a sweet treat! The artisanal ice cream shop opened in Dublin in 2008 – and they continue to dish out the best ice cream in Central Ohio.
With a flair for innovative flavor combinations, Jeni’s creations both intrigue and please the palate. Seriously, everything is divine, but at least try the Queen City Cayenne.
It’s a combination of milk chocolate, cayenne pepper and cinnamon and is named for the famous chili from Ohio’s Queen City.
It is a local favorite and Jeni’s first flavor. We love Jeni’s so much that it makes our list of Top Things To Do in Columbus, Ohio!
Pro Tip: Mardi Gras Homemade Ice Cream is another ice cream shop in the area that boasts an array of flavors. These include many ingredients typically found in Indian cuisine. If you are seeking unique things to do in Dublin, we recommend giving it a try!
#3 Walk Across the Dublin Link Bridge
The Dublin Link straddles the Scioto River and connects historic Dublin, OH to the modern part of town. The unique span ranks as the first (and still only) single-tower, S-shaped suspension bridge in the world.
Visitors can traverse the Dublin Link Bridge on foot or bicycle. It is one of the free attractions in Dublin, Ohio.
Top Tip: Riverside Crossing Park sits at both ends of the bridge. The West Plaza connects to riverside trails, while the East Plaza is a place to chill and lounge. It even features an ice skating rink in the winter!
#4 Shop and Dine at Bridge Park, Dublin
This sleek, urban neighborhood on the east side of the Scioto. Boutique shops, fashionable eateries and sports bars are highlights of the modern community.
In addition to hosting many places to eat, Bridge Park also features the summertime outdoor Dublin Market on Saturday mornings.
Vendors sell produce, prepared foods and local Ohio products. It’s one of the top things to do a Bridge Park Dublin!
Local Tip: If you’re visiting Bridge Park on a Tuesday, check out Local Cantina for great deals on tacos and beer!
#5 Feast at North Market Bridge Park
Bridge Park North Market is one of the best places to go for food in Dublin, Ohio! The hip indoor space houses more than a dozen local eateries in a fun food hall setting.
Popular spots include Dos Hermanos Tacos, Hai Poke, COLO Oyster Bar, Tajine House (Moroccan) and Hoyo’s Kitchen (Somali).
We also love the Market Bar, where they pour Ohio craft beer and make great hand crafted cocktails!
Pro Tip: North Market at Bridge Park is the second location of the long-running North Market in Downtown Columbus.
#6 Play Around at Pins Mechanical Co
Looking for things to do in Dublin, Ohio inside? Pins Mechanical Co is the perfect place for indoor fun! The chic bowling alley is an excellent choice for a fun night out with friends or a fabulous date night.
A hub of entertainment, it’s not only the top place for bowling, but the best arcade, too. Add in the stellar bar and it’s no wonder why Pins is the hippest hangout in town.
Top Tip: Pins offers phenomenal happy hour pricing on weekdays and Sundays.
#7 Go Wild at the Columbus Zoo
Without a doubt, the Columbus Zoo is the top attraction in the Dublin area. The world-class zoo is home to more than 10,000 animals and has earned several awards, including Best Zoo in the USA!
In fact, the Dublin/Columbus attraction is consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in Ohio.
The zoo habitats, which are designed as natural environments, are combined into regions – Australia, the Congo, Shores, Asia, North America and Africa.
In addition to seeing the animals, visitors can hop on a ride, mix it up on the playgrounds and attend presentations. Plus, there is a petting zoo, a hands-on tide pool and the opportunity to feed giraffes.
Local Tip: The zoo is not only for the summertime! In the autumn, they hosts Boo at the Zoo and from mid-November until January, it turns into a wonderland of twinkling lights at the annual Columbus Zoo Wildlights.
#8 Get Wet at Zoombezi Bay
A top family-friendly Dublin attraction, there is something for visitors of all ages at Zoombezi Bay. Gigantic waterslides, a tidal wave pool and an adults-only lazy river are just a few of the activities at the thrilling water theme park.
Pro Tip: Zoombezi Bay is part of the Columbus Zoo! If you plan on visiting both attractions, buy combination 2-day admission tickets to save money.
#9 Stand in the Field of Concrete Corn
I will admit, when the Dublin Field of Corn Cobs was first revealed I (along with many other locals) thought it was quirky – or dare I say, corny.
That said, when visitors came to town, we always showed them the contemporary artwork honoring the area’s farming past.
While the concrete corn statues may not be growing, they have grown on many locals, myself included.
Top Tip: One of the best things about the concrete cobs is the fun photo ops! Don’t forget a camera for a Field of Corn Dublin, Ohio photo session!
#10 Play and Shop at Beyond the Board
Beyond the Board is a local board game shop – and so much more! Not only does it carry an amazing collection of games and collectables, but they have tables where you can play as well.
Spending an afternoon at Beyond the Board is one of the fun things to do with kids – but it is great for adults, too!
Local Tip: The shop sells snacks and drinks – making it easy to spend a few hours playing games in the store.
#11 Hike Down to Hayden Falls
Hayden Falls Park is an off-the-beaten-path spot tucked into the woods near the Hayden Run Road Bridge. The highlight is the 35-foot waterfall that spills into a pool at the base of the sheer cliff wall.
The Hayden Waterfall is one of the coolest things to see in Dublin, Ohio. From the parking lot, visitors walk down a steep set of stairs onto a raised wooden boardwalk that ends at the waterfall overlook.
Pro Tip: The waterfall at Hayden Falls flows best after a good rain. In drier months it can be little more than a trickle, but during winter it is magical when frozen.
#12 See Indian Run Falls
With cascading and tumbling water hidden beneath a canopy of trees, Indian Run Falls feels far from the bustling old town Dublin district…yet it’s just steps away.
The Indian Falls Trail walking path that follows the stream has two trailheads, one at each end. The main trailhead is at the Indian Run Falls parking lot off Shawan Falls Drive. The other (pictured above) is on High Street behind the Dublin Library.
Top Tip: The 1 mile trek is rated as easy, but it is best to wear good shoes as it can be muddy and slippery.
#13 Pay Respects at Indian Run Cemetery and Dublin Veterans Park
Also behind the modern library in Dublin are three interesting places to visit.
The small Indian Run Cemetery features a smattering of tombstones that date to the 1800s. It was established in 1813 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Dublin Veterans Park honors all who have served in the US military. The simple, serene space features a quiet place to reflect. Within the site is the Grounds of Remembrance, where visitors can pay tribute to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
Local Tip: Annual Memorial Day commemorations in Old Town Dublin are held here to honor fallen soldiers.
#14 Shop at The Morgan House
Housed in a historic Civil War-era cabin, the Morgan House combines shops and an eatery to make for great mid-day fun.
The boutique stores feature everything from Ohio-inspired gifts to jewelry to home furnishings. It is also an exceptional place to pick up unique souvenirs or Christmas gifts.
Pro Tip: The restaurant, which serves soup and sandwiches, is open daily for lunch only.
#15 Drink at Breweries in Dublin, Ohio
We love craft beer – and there are now two Downtown Dublin, Ohio breweries that serve up fresh suds. Both are located on High Street in Old Dublin, just a block apart.
North High Brewing, already one of the best in Columbus, expanded their operations to Dublin in 2020. The Dublin Brewpub is housed in the historic Artz House, a farmhouse that dates to 1890. For many years it was the site of the beloved Brazenhead Irish Pub.
Getaway Brewing is a great travel-themed craft brewery that is a joint project by two other Columbus brewers: Seventh Son and Antiques on High.
Top Tips: Both breweries are fun places to go for happy hour. Not interested in beer? No problem, check out Mezzo in Old Town or The Roosevelt Room at Bridge Park for amazing happy hour deals!
#16 Have Fun at Bars in Dublin, Ohio
Dublin has a long history as a pub loving city – and there are plenty of places to imbibe today. We believe the above breweries are two of the best bars in Dublin, Ohio, but we want to highlight a couple more of our favorites.
Dublin Village Tavern
One of the historic pubs, Dublin Village Tavern features Irish imports, whiskeys and a full menu of Irish food. The charming High Street tavern is housed in a beautiful brick building that dates to the year 1889.
Flannagan’s Dublin, Ohio
A classic sports bar that features a giant outdoor patio with multiple sand volleyball courts, Flannagan’s is a favorite gathering place for friends any time of day or year.
The St Patrick’s Day Festival at Flannagan’s Dublin is legendary, and it’s also the best place for live music in Dublin, Ohio.
Pro Tip: Looking for more Irish pubs in Dublin, Ohio? Check out Fado Pub at Bridge Park and McClellan’s Pub on Sawmill Road.
#17 Embark on the Celtic Cocktail Trail
There are 17 local establishments on the Celtic Cocktail Trail, each one featuring a unique Irish libation.
Participants download a mobile passport and track their visits for a change to win prizes! The Celtic Cocktail Trail can be completed over time – it’s not required to tackle it all in a single day!
Local Tip: Looking for a fun trail for the kiddos when visiting Dublin? The Irish Fairy Door Trail takes little ones on an adventurous journey. Get your Fairy Trail Guide.
#18 Eat at the Flagship Wendy’s in Dublin
The Wendy’s fast-food chain – known for their square burgers, frosty shakes and 1980s ‘Where’s the Beef?’ commercials – is headquartered in Dublin, OH.
The flagship Wendy’s restaurant sits just across the street from the corporate office and is one of the interesting Dublin, Ohio tourist attractions.
Inside the restaurant, visitors can see memorabilia and artifacts that showcase the history of Wendy’s. Plus, information about founder, Dave Thomas, and his impact on Columbus communities.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the life-size Dave Thomas statue that is outside!
#19 Honor the Legend of Leatherlips at Scioto Park
A Native American Chief of the Wyandot Tribe, Leatherlips (also known by his Indian name, Shateyahronya) was a friend to early Dublin, OH settlers.
His relationship with them, however, drove a wedge between him and Shawnee Chief Tecumseh – which ultimately led to his execution. A tombstone at Riverside Drive and Stratford Avenue marks the spot of execution and burial.
At Scioto Park, two miles south of the grave, a 12-foot stone memorial commemorates Chief Leatherlips. The artwork, a unique sculpture of Leatherlips’ profile, is comprised of limestone rock.
Through the years, Leatherlips has become somewhat of a local legend. It is said that he even cursed the local golf tournament, which is why it always rains during the competition!
Top Tip: There are other top things to do at Scioto Park. During the summer, it’s a perfect place for a picnic lunch. In the autumn, visitors can attend the free Sunday Scioto Concert Series. When it snows, however, we head to the park for sledding!
#20 Splash Around at Ballantrae Park
One of the fun summertime Dublin, Ohio things to do with kids is to head to Ballantrae Park – known locally as Bunny Park.
The space features a free splash pad of spraying water fountains – which are perfect for cooling off on hot summer days.
The park is one of the best places to go in Dublin, OH in the winter, too. When it snows, the hill is another good spot for sledding!
Year round, kids will still love going to see the 24-foot-tall rabbit statues. The Dancing Hares artwork is a public sculpture made from everyday items – so it’s fun to just stare at it as well!
Local Tip: A paved 1.5-mile loop encircles Ballantrae Park and is a great walking track for all ages.
#21 Search for the Dublin Riverboxes
Searching for the artistic Riverboxes is one of the fun Dublin, OH things to do for visitors and locals alike!
Using these clues from the Dublin Arts Council, adventurers are tasked with finding hidden gems in scenic locations along the riverside.
Participants can download a Riverbox Passport Booklet. Once you find all the boxes and stamp your passport, you can claim a prize!
Pro Tip: The program is similar to Geocaching – and there are more than 60 Geocache hidden treasures.
#22 Visit the Fletcher Coffman Homestead
This brick farmhouse was built in the 1860s – and is typical of homes of the era. The historic home is furnished with items that belonged to the Coffman family
In the nearby barn you’ll find agricultural tools from the same time period. The Coffman House is open to the public, but has limited opening hours, so check before you go.
Top Tip: The homestead is located within Coffman Park. Featuring playgrounds and picnic shelters, it is a good place for families and friends – and the site of many Dublin community events.
#23 Experience The Memorial
The Memorial is a PGA golf tournament in Dublin, Ohio – and one of the biggest annual events in Ohio!
Golf in Dublin, Ohio has been a top activity and attraction since the 1970s when Jack Nicklaus designed and opened the Muirfield Village Golf Club.
The Memorial Golf Tournament – which is hosted at Muirfield – takes place the week following Memorial Day.
Local Tip: Muirfield Village is a private golf club – but visitors can go golfing in Dublin, Ohio at the Safari Golf Club or the Golf Club of Dublin.
#24 Join the Fun at the Irish Festival in Dublin, Ohio
A jubilant cultural and musical celebration, the Dublin Irish Festival is an annual event. It takes place at Coffman Park, features 8 stages and attracts more than 100,000 visitors!
The 3-day festival is highlighted by Irish dance competitions, Celtic music, exhibits, games and activities. Additionally, there is entertainment for the Wee Folk, a 5K race (where runners dress in green), and beer and whiskey tastings.
Fun Fact: In 1997, the Dublin Irish Festival entered the Guinness Book of World Records for hosting the Largest Irish Jig.
#25 Participate in Community Events in Dublin
The Memorial Tournament and Irish Festival are the two biggest Dublin, Ohio events – but there are several more that you can participate in!
4th of July Dublin, Ohio
The Dublin Independence Day Celebration is marked by a fishing derby, parade, live music and a fireworks display. In fact, the fireworks in Dublin, Ohio are some of the best in the Columbus metropolitan area!
St. Patrick’s Day
One of the best Dublin, OH events, St. Patrick’s is celebrated with the Greenest and Grandest Parade and a block party with live music and classic Irish food. For more events in Dublin, OH, check out the community calendar.
#26 Complete the Challenge Course at Glacier Ridge
Glacier Ridge Metro Park is a super destination for outdoor adventures. The space features walking and biking trails, a playground, a disc golf course and a challenging obstacle course.
Additionally, Glacier Ridge has a picnic shelter and grills. Plus, it’s a prime location for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Pro Tip: Use our guide to the Top Hiking Spots in Columbus for more treks!
#27 Walk and Learn at Thaddeus Kosciuszko Park
Located at Hard Road and Riverside Drive, Thaddeus Kosciuszko is one of the best parks in Dublin, OH for a walk in the woods and a quick history lesson.
The land once belonged to the Polish officer who fought in the Revolutionary War. Top features are the walking trails, fishing ponds, white tail deer and many beautiful trees (especially in the fall).
Top Tip: Informational plaques detail the history of Thaddeus Kosciuszko and the land.
#28 View O’Shaughnessy Dam from Glick Park
Glick Park is a small space on the Scioto River with a deck that overlooks O’Shaughnessy Dam. After heavy rains, the water cascading down the massive structure is mesmerizing.
The man-made marvel was completed in 1925 – and the upstream O’Shaughnessy Reservoir is both a recreational area and a major water source for the City of Columbus.
Pro Tip: Glick Park is great spot for birdwatching and fishing – as well as wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for Bald Eagles, as they are a known to frequent the area!
BONUS: Things To Do Nearby
Several attractions near Dublin, Ohio are within a stone’s throw from Glick Park. If you have time, we suggest checking them out!
Village Farm Market
One of the things to do near Dublin, Ohio Glick Park is visiting the Village Farm Market in Shawnee Hills. The small farmers market sells produce and locally made Ohio products.
Lucy Depp Park
A small community with a fascinating history, the original farm at Lucy Depp was a stop on the Underground Railroad. Today, many of the original houses still stand.
During December, they put on one of the best holiday light shows in the region! Find out more about Lucy Depp.
Powell, Ohio
Established in 1813, historic Powell is a fun place to spend an afternoon. Visitors can shop for antiques and gifts along the main street, sip a locally crafted beer at Nocterra, dine at one of the many fabulous eateries or take a fun cooking class at Savoir Cooking and Wine.
Highbanks
Ohio has several fantastic parks, but Highbanks is the Best in Columbus – and it’s not far from Dublin. Visitors can hit the trails, enjoy a picnic or experience hands on learning at one of the local events.
Best Food: Dublin, Ohio
Visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to dining in Dublin, Ohio. We’re starting with breakfast spots and eating our way through the day!
La Chatelaine French Bakery and Bistro
The best breakfast in Dublin, Ohio for an indulgent and classic meal is the upscale La Chatelaine French Bakery and Bistro. Try the eggs benedict…but don’t miss the pastries!
Barry’s Bagels
Barry’s Bagels gets our top pick as the place for fresh bagels in Dublin, OH. An Everything Bagel slathered in rich cream cheese is a great way to start the day!
Matt the Miller’s Tavern
For brunch in Dublin, Ohio on the weekend, head to Matt the Miller’s Tavern for omelets, mimosas and build-your-own Bloody Marys.
Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea
Just need a fresh-brewed coffee or herbal tea? Sweetwaters at Bridge Park ranks as one of the best coffee shops in Dublin, Ohio.
Vincenzo’s
Vincenzo’s Italian Market is one of our favorite counter delis for authentic and oh-so-delicious Italian fare (that you can take-away or eat at the outdoor tables).
Katzinger’s Dublin
Another exceptional deli experience is feasting at Katzinger’s in Dublin. A second location of the iconic Katzinger’s Deli in Columbus, they serve huge sandwiches (our fav is the Ari’s Open Door) and Jewish specialties (try the latke!).
Kilwins
Kilwins is an old-fashioned chocolate shop that creates an array of hand-crafted treats – including assorted chocolates, covered pretzels, caramel corn and Buckeyes.
Duck Donuts
For great donuts in Dublin, OH, go to Duck! The boutique shop churns out everything from classic glazed donuts to exceptional seasonal flavors – like Maple Bacon.
Our CupCakery
Our CupCakery is one of the best bakeries in Dublin, Ohio. They make made-to-order cakes and cupcakes in the heart of the historic district.
Tucci’s
Tucci’s is a top pick for fine dining in Dublin, Ohio. The high-end eatery features steak and fish entrees using fresh, local ingredients – along with an impressive wine list.
The Avenue and The Pearl are also fancy, popular places to eat dinner in Dublin, OH.
Iacono’s
Eating Ohio-style pizza – with cracker-thin crust, toppings spread to the very edge and pieces cut into small squares – is a must on your visit!
The best pizza in Dublin, Ohio is long-time local favorite Iacono’s. It’s located just north of downtown Dublin, in the village of Shawnee Hills.
Map of Dublin, Ohio Things To Do
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our recommended activities in Dublin, OH Map below.
Tips For Your Trip to Dublin, Ohio
Now that you know what to see, do and eat in Dublin, OH, we have some additional advice before you set off.
As you begin to make your plans and book reservations, staying organized is key. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner to stay on top of all the details!
How To Get to Dublin, Ohio
The commercial airport closest to Dublin, Ohio is the John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH).
Find the cheapest airfare on Skyscanner – but read our advice for Booking the Best Flights first. If you need to rent a car, we have tips for getting the Best Deals on Car Rentals, too!
Where To Stay in Dublin, Ohio
There are multiple hotels in Dublin, OH to fit a range of budgets. While we typically like to stay in Airbnb’s when we travel, there are limited options for apartments in Dublin.
AC Hotel in Downtown Dublin, OH
The fashionable AC Hotel at Bridge Park is an excellent option right in the heart of the modern Downtown Dublin district. The property ranks high for cleanliness, staff and location.
Hilton Garden Inn
The Hilton in Dublin, Ohio offers a good value for money. The property is located near downtown and has spacious, clean and quiet rooms with comfortable beds. Check rates!
Home2 Suites by Hilton
For longer trips to Dublin, OH, the Home2 Suites are an excellent option and close to many of the downtown sights. Rooms come with full kitchens and the staff receives high marks.
What To Pack for your Dublin, OH Trip
Our final travel tips cover what to pack. You know, that not-so-fun part of traveling. So be sure to grab our easy to use and FREE Packing Checklist!
Durable Shoes
It’s not a myth, Ohio is very flat. That said, you will want to make sure you wear a comfortable pair of walking shoes if you plan to trek around town. Read our reviews to help pick out the Best Travel Shoes for you.
Travel Camera
Besides needing a camera for fun photos at the Dublin Corn Field – there are many beautiful places to snap photos!
We believe it’s worth upgrading to a real travel camera to truly capture destinations around the world. We shoot with a Canon Rebel with and a 18-135mm lens.
Weather Appropriate Clothing
Like all cities in Ohio, Dublin weather is very seasonal. Winters are cold and gray, spring can be a bit wet, summers are sunny and humid and autumn can be a little bit of everything! We recommend packing clothing that can be layered – and seasonal items, as necessary.
Versatile Day Bag
When sightseeing we always carry day packs for our everyday travel items. Use our tips and reviews for the Best Travel Packs to find the right one for your Dublin trip!
Start planning your trip to Ohio, USA! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More Places to Visit near Dublin, Ohio
We love exploring – near and far – and have created guides for some of the Best Places To Travel Around Ohio and beyond!
Ohio Travels
Check out our articles for What To See in Cleveland, how to get funky in Yellow Springs and all the details for taking a Trip to Chillicothe or Cincinnati.
Beyond Ohio
Use our guides for a fun Weekend in Chicago, Top Things To Do in Indy, What To Do in Pittsburgh and Great Activities in Louisville (including where to drink amazing Louisville Craft Beer). Don’t miss Newport and Covington in Kentucky while you’re right there!
How about other top US cities? Right this way! Read our tips for Visiting NYC, and a Weekend in DC , Philly or Boston. Plus how to Plan a Trip to Nashville, Austin, Denver or New Orleans.
More US Destinations
Need a weekend away? Go on then! Use our guide to the Best USA Weekend Destinations.
Want something off the radar? We hear you! Our list of top picks for Underrated USA Travel Destinations is a great place to start.
Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board.
