Wintery weather can cause a bit of cabin fever! Why not go on a family adventure and cozy on up to Columbus, Ohio? We have to scoop on where to stay and what to do during a quick one tank trip that is sure to be a memory maker.
Where to Stay:The Junto
This new boutique hotel is located at 77 Belle Street in Columbus. It is home to several swanky restaurants, the Brass Eye Rooftop bar and a quaint little cafe, too. The lobby is warm and welcoming with a variety of cush seating that is perfect for folks to gather round. The feel is trendy and chic, but not snooty! Midwest charm is evident when checking in and through all interactions with staff. But The Junto takes their hospitality even one step further with the Gear Garage. Hotel guests can visit this treasure trove of goodies to make their trip a true adventure by borrowing fun enhancers like a kayak to go down the Scioto River, a scooter to zip around town, record players, board games and more.
For those looking to have an extra glamorous stay at The Junto, The Dream House is the perfect pink getaway. Barbie hues, artwork and designs can be found from the ceiling to the floor of this surreal suite. There are mounds of plush pillows to help cushion dreamers’ heads, and amazing drip coffee to help them wake up in the morning. It truly is like walking into a dream world upon entering this vivacious room! Even Ken’s will be impressed with The Dream House… just be careful not to let them take it over and make it a mojo dojo casa house!
This cozy, warm hotel is sure to be a hit with families taking to the city. Be sure to check out The Junto next time you visit Columbus, Oh.
*Been-there-done-that idea: stretch your legs (or borrow a bike from the Gear Garage) and take a brisk walk to Land Grant Brewing Company! Families can rent an igloo to stay warm, order some pizza from a local food truck and even try out ice curling. 🥌
What to Do: Make Discoveries at COSI
After waking up at The Junto, a quick look out the window will gives guests an idea of what to do with their day. Each stay at The Junto already comes with 2 tickets to COSI and that’s a great thing because the center is literally right across the street, within view of the beautiful Barbie suite and all.
If you are headed to Columbus with family, be sure to make a stop at COSI to check out classic, beloved exhibits like Ocean, Life and Space. And after staying in the Barbie Dream House, it only makes sense to check out the Barbie exhibit!
Now through January 7th, families can follow Barbie’s journey from her inception in 1959 all the way up through her modern day adventures. Interactive components encourage kids to try different careers like Chef, Pilot, Rock Climber, Bee Keeper and so many more! The inspiring exhibit instills the belief that girls can do anything and try anything they set their minds to!
Been There Done That COSI notes:
I brought my three Ken’s to the Barbie exhibit and they really enjoyed it! This trip is not just for girly girls!!! We enjoyed looking at how Barbie’s career changed over time through doll displays and they also liked trying out the different careers highlighted in the exhibit.
COSI has lots of hands-on components which makes the attraction appealing to kids of all ages.
They have some great sensory bags available to check out at the front kiosk.
If you visit during the holidays, each exhibit has a beautifully adorned themed tree! We liked the bioluminescent tree the most.
The food court has a good variety of food that was pretty tasty. My crew got pizza which was fresh and hot. There is also fruit infused water available, which I thought was great.
A one-tank-trip to Columbus, Ohio is certainly less stressful (and less expensive) than a trek across the nation, and it feels awesome to be a tourist in your own state. If you are looking to bust out of the house and fight cabin fever this winter, why not book a stay at The Junto and check out the Barbie Exhibit at COSI? Oh what fun!