Upper Arlington

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Upper Arlington's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the beautiful streets of the Upper Arlington Historic District, taking in the charming architecture and verdant parks. Visit the Upper Arlington Historical Society to learn about the city's rich history and heritage. Stop by a local café for a delicious breakfast, enjoying fresh pastries and local coffee.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the Upper Arlington Public Library for a quiet read or to participate in one of their engaging community programs. Afterward, take a relaxing walk in Northam Park, where you can enjoy the serene landscaping and perhaps catch a glimpse of local wildlife. As the afternoon winds down, consider visiting a boutique or art gallery in the area for some unique shopping.

evening
:

For dinner, indulge in a meal at one of Upper Arlington's popular family-owned restaurants, where you can savor local flavors. Afterward, catch a live performance at the Upper Arlington Community Center, showcasing local talent in music or theater. End your evening with a leisurely walk through the neighborhood, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of this charming community.

day 2
Nature and Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before heading to the scenic Wyman Woods. Enjoy a morning hike along the wooded trails, where you’ll encounter beautiful flora and fauna native to the region. Take your time to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you and perhaps spot some local birds.

afternoon
:

After your hike, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the nearby Sunny 95 Park, which features wonderful playgrounds and sports fields. Spend your afternoon engaging in some outdoor sports, such as tennis or basketball, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the park. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a bike to explore the nearby trails.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local brewery or pub for a casual dinner, savoring craft beers and hearty dishes. Afterward, enjoy a cozy evening at home or visit a local coffee shop for dessert and an evening chat with friends. Wrap up your day by watching the stars in the clear night sky, reflecting on your day of adventure.

day 3
Art and Culture Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a quaint café, known for its artistic ambiance and mouthwatering dishes. Next, visit the nearby Columbus Museum of Art to immerse yourself in a world of creativity and inspiration, exploring various exhibits and installations. Don’t forget to take a moment to enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local eatery, head to the Studio 614, where you can participate in a painting or pottery class, allowing your inner artist to shine. Spend the afternoon creating your own masterpiece, guided by experienced instructors. You’ll leave with a tangible memory of your artistic endeavor.

evening
:

For dinner, try a fusion restaurant that offers a unique blend of international cuisines, perfect for adventurous eaters. Attend a local theater performance or art show in the area, where you can witness the talent of local artists and performers. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the vibrant streets, appreciating the local art installations on display.

day 4
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Start the day with a family-friendly breakfast at a local pancake house, where the kids can enjoy their favorite breakfast foods. After breakfast, head to the Upper Arlington Recreation Center, where you can take part in various activities such as swimming or rock climbing. Kids will love the interactive play areas designed just for them.

afternoon
:

Post-lunch, visit the nearby Columbus Zoo and Aquarium for an exciting afternoon filled with animal encounters and educational exhibits. Participate in interactive experiences, such as feeding the giraffes or watching the sea lion show, making it a memorable day for the whole family. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos to capture the fun moments.

evening
:

After a fun-filled day, enjoy a casual dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, where children can choose from an array of options. Wind down with a movie night at a local theater, choosing a family film to enjoy together. End the day with ice cream from a local shop, creating sweet memories to cherish.

day 5
Culinary Journey through Upper Arlington
morning
:

Begin your culinary adventure with breakfast at a local brunch spot known for its innovative dishes and fresh ingredients. Take your time to savor the flavors, while planning the rest of your food exploration for the day. Afterward, embark on a food tour that takes you to various local eateries offering samples of their specialties.

afternoon
:

Continue your gastronomic journey with a visit to a local farmers' market, where you can taste fresh produce and artisanal goods from local vendors. Engage with the farmers and artisans, learning about their crafts and the history behind their products. Afterward, consider taking a cooking class that focuses on local cuisine, allowing you to recreate what you've learned at home.

evening
:

As evening approaches, treat yourself to a dining experience at a highly-rated restaurant that emphasizes farm-to-table dining. Enjoy a beautifully plated meal that showcases the best of local ingredients, paired with exquisite wines. Conclude your culinary day with a dessert tasting at a local bakery, sampling a variety of sweet treats.

day 6
Sports and Recreation Day
morning
:

Kick off your day with a healthy breakfast at a local café before heading to the Upper Arlington High School for a morning of organized sports. Join locals in a game of basketball or soccer, embracing the community spirit and getting some exercise. The friendly competition will set a lively tone for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Upper Arlington Community Center, where you can try your hand at various recreational activities such as swimming or racquetball. Engage in a friendly match with friends or family, enjoying the facilities that the community center has to offer. Don’t forget to take a break in between games to relax and hydrate.

evening
:

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a local sports-themed restaurant, where you can catch up on your favorite games while eating delicious pub fare. Afterward, if you're up for it, attend a local sporting event, cheering on the high school teams as they compete. Wind down your day with a leisurely walk through one of the local parks, reflecting on the day’s activities.

day 7
Shopping and Local Markets
morning
:

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local bakery, enjoying freshly baked goods and aromatic coffee. Afterward, head to the Upper Arlington Farmers’ Market, held weekly, to explore vibrant stalls filled with local produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal food products. Engage with the vendors to learn more about their offerings and the stories behind them.

afternoon
:

Post-market, spend your afternoon exploring the various boutique shops along Lane Avenue, where you can find unique clothing, home decor, and gifts. Take your time browsing through the eclectic stores, perhaps finding a special souvenir to take home. Make sure to stop for a light lunch at one of the trendy cafés in the area.

evening
:

As evening falls, treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant that features seasonal dishes made with ingredients sourced from local markets. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the vibrant streets, enjoying the atmosphere and stopping for a nightcap at a cozy bar. Wrap up your shopping day by attending a local event or festival, connecting with the community.

day 8
Relaxation and Wellness Retreat
morning
:

Start your day with a peaceful morning yoga session at a local studio, focusing on mindfulness and relaxation. Enjoy a refreshing smoothie at a nearby health café afterward, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day. Take some time to reflect on your intentions for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon indulging in a spa treatment at a local wellness center, choosing from massages, facials, or other relaxing therapies. Allow yourself to unwind and de-stress, taking advantage of the serene environment. After your spa session, enjoy a nutritious lunch at a health-focused restaurant, savoring dishes that nourish your body.

evening
:

As the day winds down, attend a meditation workshop or wellness seminar that interests you, allowing you to deepen your understanding of personal wellness. For dinner, opt for a light meal at a restaurant that focuses on fresh, organic ingredients. Conclude your day with a calming evening walk in a nearby park, reflecting on the rejuvenating experiences of the day.

Discover Upper Arlington

Read more in our Upper Arlington 2025 Travel Guide.

Upper Arlington Travel Guide