- 160 South High Street Columbus, OH 43215
A thriving downtown needs a place where events are plentiful, the vibe is lively, and everything is within reach — without breaking the bank.
More than a park, Columbus Commons is that place in the heart of Downtown Columbus. It’s a place where laughter, music, and good times come together. It’s where locals and visitors alike gather for fun, from kickball games to movie nights, concerts to special events––all in a welcoming atmosphere.
With more than 200 free events and 200,000 visitors annually, Columbus Commons is where community comes alive.
Come and experience something special:
1. Find an event or swing by anytime.
2. Arrive with ease.
3. Enjoy the heart of Downtown Columbus.
At the Commons, you can come as you are and enjoy activities for every mood and moment.
Columbus Commons stands on the spot that once housed the City Center, a historic shopping destination in Columbus that opened in 1989. In the early 2000s, the mall was not immune to a national trend of changing shopping habits, and the mall began to decline.
Recognizing the opportunity to transform the site into a vibrant public space, Downtown Columbus, Inc. in 2009 announced plans to create the mixed-use Columbus Commons, a green space surrounded by residential, retail and commercial space. The park’s construction began in 2010, and Columbus Commons made its debut in May 2011.
Since its opening, the Commons has been cited as a successful example of revitalizing downtown spaces to better serve community needs. It’s known as a place where people can gather, and its sense of community has only been enhanced by residential, workplace and retail additions.
Partners in the project included developer Downtown Columbus, Inc., site development manager the Georgetown Company, and a design-and-build team made up of construction manager Corna Kokosing, architects Moody Nolan, and landscape architects EDGE Group.
Play Games
Grab a Snack
Explore Vibrant Events
Take a Stroll
Here are some frequently asked questions about Columbus Commons.
The Columbus Commons Main Garage (with entrances at 55 E Rich St and 56 E Main Street) and Columbus Commons Underground Garage (191 S Third St) are available for paid parking. See the parking page for more details.
We love new partners and vendors! Get involved or host your event at the park. Visit our Contact Us page.
There are permanent restrooms located in the south end of the park behind Jeni’s that operate seasonally. The men’s and women’s restrooms have changing tables for children.
Columbus Commons is managed by Downtown Columbus, Inc. staff that plans events and manages on-site operations. Meet our team here.
The Columbus Commons security team handles all lost and found items and inquiries. You can ask a security officer for assistance when in the park, or call our Security Dispatch at (614) 227-3788.
Yes! You can fill out a Carousel Reservation Request Form. This does not mean the carousel is only operational to your party, but it allows our staff to accommodate your group more efficiently. We do ask for 72 hours notice for a group notification so we can best accommodate you. For more questions, contact us here.
If you are interested in formally reserving the carousel for your group only, please submit a request here. A team member will contact you to discuss availability on your requested date. The carousel can be rented for $50 for each 30 minute increment. ($100/hr).
Columbus Commons is funded through parking garage revenue from the Columbus Commons Main Garage and Underground Garage. Every time someone parks at one of our garages, it helps fund the free programming we offer at the park.
We’re thankful for our supportive sponsors that make free experiences at Columbus Commons possible.
If you are looking for accessible parking, there are several ADA parking spots in the corners of the Columbus Commons Main Garage near the elevators.
ADA reserved seating is available during ticketed shows at Columbus Commons by the Front of House tent.
If you have a hearing disability, we offer assisted listening devices upon request during concerts. The devices can be requested at the Front of House tent.
Disposable ear plugs can also be requested from the Front of House tent during a concert.
For most of our events you do not need a ticket. Just show up to the park!
For our Common Ground Concert series, you will need a ticket to enter Columbus Commons. For the events others organizations program at Columbus Commons, you may need a ticket. Check the event host’s page for details.
Columbus Commons presently stands on the spot that once housed the City Center, a historic shopping destination in Columbus. The park’s construction began in 2010, and Columbus Commons made its debut in May 2011. Learn more about the history of Columbus Commons here.
Columbus Commons park is a green roof that sits on top of the Underground Parking Garage. Therefore, it is not possible to grow trees and plants on the soil of the lawn over the garage since it is not deep enough.
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55 E Rich Street
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