Things To Do
in Powell

Powell is a family-friendly suburb of Columbus, Ohio, set along tree-lined streets and generous park spaces. It combines a quiet, small-town feel with easy access to the attractions and services of a larger city. Outdoor spaces, schools, and a tight-knit community character define daily life here.

As a gateway to central Ohio nature and culture, Powell offers a relaxed pace while staying within reach of Columbus adventures.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your morning with a visit to the historic downtown Powell, where charming shops and cafes line the streets. Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee at a local café while admiring the unique architecture of the buildings. Take a leisurely stroll to the Powell Museum to learn about the town's rich history and culture.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a quaint bistro, delve into the art scene by visiting local galleries showcasing works by regional artists. Spend some time at the nearby City Park, where you can relax on the grass or enjoy a game of frisbee. As the afternoon sun begins to set, consider renting a bike to explore the scenic pathways around town.

evening
:

For dinner, indulge in a delicious meal at one of Powell's popular eateries known for their farm-to-table offerings. After dinner, take a walk to the local theater to catch a live performance or movie. End your night by relaxing at a cozy pub, sipping on local craft beers as you reflect on your day.

day 2
Nature Walks at the City Park
morning
:

Begin your day with a refreshing walk in City Park, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature in the heart of Powell. The park's walking trails offer scenic views and opportunities to spot local wildlife. Bring a picnic breakfast to enjoy by the pond while watching ducks and geese glide over the water.

afternoon
:

After your leisurely morning, head to the Powell Community Garden to learn about local gardening initiatives and perhaps pick up a few fresh veggies. Spend the afternoon exploring the trails around the park, stopping to take photos of the stunning landscapes and vibrant flowers. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at disc golf on the park's course.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a perfect spot in the park for an evening picnic, complete with your favorite snacks and a bottle of wine. Take a moment to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere as fireflies begin to dance around you. Wrap up your day by attending a local outdoor concert if one is scheduled, enjoying the lively music with fellow community members.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🏡Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city area)$1,100-1,700
🧺Grocery bill per person per week$40-70
🚗Gasoline price per gallon$3.00-4.00
🔌Utilities (monthly for apartment)$100-200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Safe, family-friendly atmosphere
  • Easy access to nature and parks
  • Strong local dining scene with diverse options
  • Proximity to Columbus with cultural and nightlife options
  • Limited nightlife within Powell itself
  • Car-dependent layout in suburbs
  • Weather can be hot and humid in summer
  • Seasonal traffic around events in Columbus

Places to Visit in Powell

Visit one of these nice places.

Highbanks Metro Park overlook

A dramatic overlook with views of the Olentangy River valley and forested trails.

Scioto Mile (Columbus) at sunset

Golden-hour skyline and water reflections along Columbus's riverfront.

Historic downtown Powell streets

Charming brick storefronts, tree-lined sidewalks, and seasonal decorations.

Olentangy River Greenway

A picturesque riverside route ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Powell

Powell sits within the Columbus metro, offering a mix of Midwest comfort foods and diverse international options. Expect approachable American fare, Italian and pub-style menus, and plenty of farm-to-table and casual café options nearby.

Powell Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ohio-style chili over spaghetti

A hearty chili served over spaghetti with grated cheese, a Midwestern comfort classic found at many local diners.

Must-Try!

Pierogi plates

Pierogi with sour cream and onions—reflecting Central European influences common in Columbus-area eateries.

Farm-to-table seasonal dishes

Menus highlighting Ohio-grown produce at neighborhood bistros and casual eateries.

Classic Midwest burgers and fried chicken

Comfort-food staples widely offered at casual Powell and Columbus restaurants.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

North Market Columbus

Historic public market offering local produce, artisanal foods, and international bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Powell experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons: hot summers, colorful autumns, cold winters, and mild springs. Summer highs typically reach the 80s–90s°F (26–34°C), while winter lows hover around the 20s°F (-6 to -4°C). Precipitation occurs year-round, with more frequent thunderstorms in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and politeness

Friendly attitudes and a smile go a long way; handshakes are common in initial meetings.

Respect for personal space

Midwestern norms favor a calm demeanor and respecting personal space.

Safety Guide

Safety

Powell is generally safe with typical urban-suburban precautions. Stay aware of your surroundings, lock vehicles, supervise valuables, and follow local advisories. In case of emergency, dial 911.

Tipping in Powell

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping etiquette

In the US, tipping 15-20% in restaurants is standard; tip more for excellent service. At cafes or counter-service, modest tips or rounding up is common.

Payment methods

Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; mobile wallets are increasingly common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm to hot days with humidity; afternoon thunderstorms are possible. Ideal for trails, river recreation, and sunset photography.

Fall

Vivid foliage and mild temperatures; perfect for hikes and outdoor photography along forested trails.

Winter

Cold with potential snowfall; daylight hours are shorter. Indoor venues and cozy eateries are good alternatives, with occasional scenic snowy landscapes.

Spring

Mild weather with blooming trees and frequent showers; great for park visits and outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Powell at Night

Powell itself has a quiet, family-friendly scene. For broader nightlife, explore Columbus neighborhoods such as Short North, Arena District, and Grandview Heights, where bars, live music, and evening events abound.

Hiking in Powell

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Highbanks Metro Park

Overlooks and forest trails along the Olentangy River valley.

Glacier Ridge Metro Park

Prairie and woodland trails with expansive vistas.

Delaware State Park

Rolling terrain with oak forests and river views nearby; great for longer hikes.

Airports

How to reach Powell by plane.

John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)

Main international airport serving Columbus; about 15-20 miles east of Powell; accessible by car or rideshare.

Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK)

Adjacent to Columbus; smaller facility offering cargo and some passenger services; useful for regional connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Powell offers walkable corridors in the historic downtown and along some neighborhoods, but overall it remains a car-oriented suburb with many destinations best reached by car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families with children

Strong family-oriented communities with good schools and parks.

Commuters to Columbus

Residents who work in downtown or other suburbs and commute daily.

Retirees

Quiet neighborhoods and local services appeal to retirees.

Students and young professionals

A mix of students and early-career professionals in the wider Columbus area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

American football

A central Ohio staple with high school and college teams; Ohio State Buckeyes draw large crowds.

Basketball and soccer

Popular local leagues and clubs; multiple facilities across the metro.

Golf and cycling

Well-regarded courses and bike-friendly routes, including trails near Powell.

Transportation

Traffic

Powell is largely car-dependent with straightforward access via I-270 and surrounding state routes. The Columbus metro offers a robust bus system (COTA) and growing bike networks, but traffic can spike near events and during peak commute times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Powell.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most menus offer vegetarian options; look for veggie bowls, salads, and side dishes; many markets sell fresh produce to assemble meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare needs are primarily served in Columbus, with major hospitals such as OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, Grant Medical Center, and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Local clinics provide routine care and quick access for residents.

Discover United States

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