Things To Do
in Bexley

Bexley is a small, affluent suburb of Columbus, Ohio, characterized by tree-lined streets and stately, historic homes. This close-knit community offers walkable neighborhoods, well-kept parks, and easy access to Columbus's cultural and dining scenes. Bexley blends small-town charm with urban convenience, making it feel like a peaceful residential center within reach of the capital's amenities.

Visitors can enjoy serene strolls, local eateries, and quick trips to explore the broader Columbus area.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore the Heritage
morning
:

Begin your adventure in Bexley with a visit to the exquisite Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Wander through lush displays of plants from around the globe while soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings. Don't forget to grab a refreshing drink from the café before heading out to your next destination.

afternoon
:

After spending the morning with nature, head over to Bexley's historic Main Street for lunch at one of its charming local eateries. Post-lunch, take a leisurely stroll to admire the beautiful architecture of the nearby homes, many of which date back to the early 20th century. Optional visits to the Bexley Public Library and the local art gallery can further enhance your historical journey.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes locally sourced ingredients. After your meal, catch a live performance at the Bexley Community Theater, showcasing local talent and vibrant productions. Conclude your first day with a peaceful walk through one of Bexley’s scenic parks, reflecting on the beauty of the evening sky.

day 2
Culture and Creativity
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner famous for its homemade pancakes. Post breakfast, visit the Columbus Museum of Art, just a short drive away, to explore inspiring exhibits that celebrate both local and international artists. Immerse yourself in the works and enjoy the museum's outdoor sculpture garden.

afternoon
:

Head back to Bexley for a delicious lunch at a café known for its artisanal sandwiches. Spend the afternoon at the nearby Waggoner Park, where you'll find ample green space for relaxation, playing sports, or enjoying a picnic. Consider joining a guided tour of the local art studios to gain insights into the creative processes behind various works.

evening
:

As evening falls, treat yourself to a culinary adventure at one of Bexley’s upscale restaurants, renowned for its seasonal menus. Don't miss the chance to explore unique shops along Main Street after dinner, where you might discover local crafts and artisanal goods. End the day with a delightful dessert from a nearby ice cream shop, savoring the sweet flavors of the locale.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Cup of coffee$3-5
🏡1-bedroom apartment in city center$1,200-1,800
🚗Gasoline (per gallon)$3-4
🛒Groceries for a week$60-100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, family-friendly neighborhoods
  • Close access to Columbus cultural attractions
  • Limited nightlife within Bexley itself
  • Smaller-town feel may require travel for some activities

Places to Visit in Bexley

Visit one of these nice places.

Bexley Public Library

Classic brick architecture with well-kept grounds, ideal for architectural and portrait shots.

Tree-lined residential streets

Quaint boulevards and historic homes along streets like College Avenue provide timeless street photography opportunities.

Bexley City Hall & Memorial Park

Civic space with symmetry and seasonal charm perfect for daytime and dusk photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bexley

Bexley and the surrounding Columbus area celebrate Midwest produce and diverse culinary influences. Expect farm-to-table flavors, comforting American classics, and plenty of family-owned eateries that showcase local ingredients.

Bexley Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Buckeye Candy

Chocolate-coated peanut butter balls that celebrate Ohio’s sweet tooth; easy to find in local shops and markets.

Must-Try!

Columbus-Style Chili (with spaghetti or hot dogs)

A spiced meat sauce commonly served over spaghetti or on hot dogs; try it at local diners or markets for a hearty Midwest bite.

Farm-to-Table Seasonal Dish

Chef-driven plates featuring locally sourced produce and regional proteins at neighborhood bistros.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

North Market Columbus

Historic market offering prepared foods, fresh produce, and ethnic stands—great for tasting Columbus flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bexley experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons: hot summers, cold winters, and mild springs and falls. Snow is possible in winter, while summers can be humid and sunny.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Quiet residential norms

Respect neighborhood privacy, noise levels, and parking rules in Bexley’s residential areas.

Tipping and dining

Tipping for service staff is standard; dining together uses shared plates and courteous conversation.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bexley is a generally safe, residential community with low crime rates; standard caution applies: lock vehicles, supervise children, and be aware of surroundings, especially in less busy areas at night. In Columbus, stay aware of traffic and take typical urban safety precautions when exploring farther afield.

Tipping in Bexley

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In the United States, tip 15-20% in restaurants and for service; rounding up for small tips is common for casual service.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards, cash, and mobile payments are widely accepted; some smaller venues may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with spring rains; blooming trees make streets and parks especially photogenic.

Summer

Warm to hot days with humidity; ideal for outdoor dining, parks, and neighborhood events. Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.

Autumn

Comfortable cool days and vibrant fall foliage; perfect for walking tours and photography along tree-lined streets.

Winter

Cold with occasional snow; indoor attractions are popular and coats and layers are essential for outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Bexley at Night

Bexley itself offers limited nightlife, leaning toward quiet cafés and family-friendly eateries. For more lively options, Columbus’s Short North, Arena District, and downtown provide bars, live music venues, and clubs within a short drive.

Hiking in Bexley

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Highbanks Metro Park

Hiking trails, overlooks, and seasonal scenery about 25-30 minutes north of Bexley.

Sharon Woods Metro Park

Wooded trails and lake views with family-friendly routes.

Blendon Woods Metro Park

Diverse trails, nature centers, and relaxed hikes close to Columbus.

Airports

How to reach Bexley by plane.

John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)

Main airport serving Columbus, located about 10-15 miles from Bexley with rail and road connections.

Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK)

Secondary airport offering cargo and some passenger service, about 15-20 miles southwest of Columbus.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bexley is highly walkable within its village core and surrounding neighborhoods, with sidewalks on most streets and short distances to shops and parks. For a broader range of activities, a short drive to Columbus provides additional walkable districts and pedestrian-friendly downtown areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many households with children, good schools, and family-friendly amenities.

Young professionals

Proximity to Columbus job centers with a preference for walkable neighborhoods.

Retirees

Quiet, safe neighborhoods with local services and healthcare access.

Students and campus staff

Easy access to Ohio State University and city colleges via short commutes.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Popular NBA and college basketball culture in Ohio; many gyms and leagues exist in the region.

Football

High school and college football are widely followed during season

Soccer

Growing local clubs and pickup games in parks and schools.

Transportation

Traffic

Urban traffic patterns reflect proximity to Columbus: peak-hour congestion can occur around downtown and major routes like I-70 and I-270; COTA buses provide public transit between Bexley and central Columbus. Parking is generally easier in residential areas but can be tight near downtown events.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bexley.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most restaurants in Bexley and Columbus offer vegetarian mains and satisfy dietary restrictions with plant-based options and sides.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Residents typically rely on Columbus-area healthcare facilities, including major hospitals and clinics within a short drive. Local urgent care centers and family clinics are common in the area for routine care and emergencies.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide