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11 School Field Trips You Probably Went On If You Grew Up In Columbus

Remember those golden days of school field trips? When the bell rang, and you eagerly grabbed your packed lunch and boarded the bus for a day of adventure and learning?

Whether you were exploring caves, getting up close with exotic animals, or indulging your sweet tooth at a candy factory, these trips were the highlights of our school years. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the best field trips that made growing up in Columbus so unforgettable!

COSI

cosi lunar capsule exhibit
Visiting COSI is a cannon event for most kids living in or around Columbus. Whether you were visiting the Old COSI or the new one, you knew you were in for an incredible day. From rat basketball to conquering your fears on the suspended bicycle, COSI has earned a top field trip destination over the years.

MORE LIKE THIS: Relive Your Childhood with These Vintage Photos of COSI

Santa Maria

santa maria replica columbus
Photo by Nick Taggart

For many years, a replica of the Christopher Columbus ship the Santa Maria sat snuggly against the banks of the Scioto River. It’s been gone for years now, but it served as a field trip stop for many kids over the years. The ship had tour guides and for a lot of us, it was probably the only boat we’d ever seen on the river.

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Columbus Zoo & Aquarium

columbus zoo african elephant 1992
An African elephant bathes in a pool. Photo by David E. Lucas, circa 1992.

The Columbus Zoo & Aquarium has been a beloved field trip destination for generations. Remember the excitement of piling onto the school bus, knowing you were about to spend a day exploring the wonders of the animal kingdom? From the heart-pounding thrill of seeing a tiger up close to the joy of feeding a giraffe, the zoo visits were packed with unforgettable moments. For many of us, it was where our love for animals and nature truly began.

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Ohio History Center and Ohio Village

mastodon skeleton at Ohio history center
If you didn’t see the two-headed cow on a school field trip did you really even grow up in Ohio? There’s so much to explore at the Ohio History Center and the Ohio Village so it makes sense that it’s a top field trip spot for kids from across the state.

MORE LIKE THIS: Everything You Need To Know About Visiting The Ohio History Center

Anthony Thomas Candy Factory

anthony thomas factory
via Facebook

A trip to the Anthony Thomas Candy Factory was the sweetest field trip ever. Watching chocolates and candies being made right before our eyes was pure magic. And the best part? Sampling those freshly made treats at the end of the tour. It was a deliciously memorable experience that combined fun with a behind-the-scenes look at candy production.

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Camp Joy or Camp Willson

camp willson
via Facebook

Trips to Camp Joy or Camp Willson were the highlight of our school years. These outdoor adventures were all about canoeing on the lake, hiking through the woods, and tackling team-building exercises. It was a chance to escape the classroom, connect with nature, and bond with classmates around the campfire. Those camp experiences built confidence, fostered friendships, and left us with cherished memories of exploring the great outdoors.

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Ohio Statehouse

ohio statehouse field trip
via Facebook

Visiting the Ohio Statehouse was a journey into the heart of our state’s history and government. Walking through the grand halls, sitting in on legislative sessions, and learning about the political process made us feel so grown-up. It was a field trip that brought our civics lessons to life, instilling a sense of pride in our state and its rich history. Those trips to the Statehouse helped us understand the importance of civic engagement and democracy.

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Olentangy Caverns

olentangy caverns kids tour
via Facebook

Exploring the Olentangy Caverns was like stepping into a real-life adventure story. Descending into the cool, dark caves and marveling at the underground formations sparked our imaginations. We learned about the history of the caverns, including the Native American tribes that once used them.

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Ameriflora

ameriflora columbus ohio dino dig

A view of the Dino Discovery Dig at Camp AmeriFlora. Photo by David E. Lucas.

Though Ameriflora was a one-time event in 1992, it left a lasting impact on those who visited. This international horticultural exhibition at Franklin Park Conservatory was a feast for the senses, with stunning gardens and floral displays from around the world. It was a field trip that broadened our horizons and sparked an interest in botany and global cultures. The real highlight of any 5-10 year old’s visit to Ameriflora was definitely the Dino Discovery Dig area, where we could all fall in love with dinosaurs before Jurassic Park came out the next year. Such hipsters!

MORE LIKE THIS: Take A Look Back At AmeriFlora, The Iconic Horticultural Event Of The 1990s

Kings Island or Cedar Point

sky slide cedar point
The Sky Slide at Cedar Point.

For sheer fun and excitement, field trips to Kings Island or Cedar Point were unbeatable. The thrill of the roller coasters, the spinning exhilaration of the carousel, and the joy of spending a day at the amusement park were unforgettable. These trips weren’t just about the rides—they were about the shared laughter, the screams of delight, and the bonding with friends.

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A Metro Park

field trip columbus metro parks
Field trips to Central Ohio’s Metro Parks were all about exploring the great outdoors. Hiking the trails, observing wildlife, and participating in nature programs made these trips both fun and educational. It was a chance to learn about local ecosystems and the importance of conservation while enjoying the beauty of our natural surroundings.

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