Columbus Offers Ultimate Fall Experience with Foliage, Football, and Halloween Fun

Columbus, Ohio, Sept. 17, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Columbus, Ohio, is gearing up for a spectacular fall season that promises to offer visitors and locals alike a perfect blend of natural beauty, thrilling sports, and eerie Halloween fun. The city, recognized as one of the top 10 best big cities in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards, is ready to showcase its fall foliage, football, and frights.

Autumn in Columbus is celebrated for its stunning fall colors, which have been highlighted by NBC’s TODAY as one of the country’s best fall foliage road trips. The city’s leaf peeping and fall hikes offer a perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the natural beauty of the region. Visitors can also enjoy U-Pick farms and charming nearby cities like Worthington, Westerville, and Dublin, where historic German Village is listed as one of 14 small towns that feel straight out of the fictional Stars Hollow.

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are hosting Harvest Blooms from September 26 to November 1, proving that fall gardens can be just as striking as their spring counterparts. The Conservatory’s signature event, Palace Theatre’s centennial, is celebrating 100 years of unforgettable performances with special events, including free behind-the-scenes tours and a signature concert event, Palace 100: The Genius of Ray Charles, hosted by Paul Shaffer with Patti Austin, Aloe Blacc, and others. This event commemorates the legendary Ray Charles, who performed at the theatre throughout his career, including his last performance in 1992.

Football fans can look forward to seven home games by the Ohio State Buckeyes this season, including marquee matchups against Oregon and Michigan. Game day in Columbus is not just about the game; it’s about the experience. Fans can enjoy pregame photos on the 50-yard line, sideline access during warmups, and VIP seating for Skull Session. Tailgating is also a must, and the Columbus Buckeye Treat Trail offers a chance to sample Ohio’s iconic chocolate and peanut butter candy.

The city’s Halloween celebrations are not to be missed. HighBall Halloween, the nation’s most elaborate costume party, will take place on October 3, featuring more than 80 vendors, interactive art, live performances, and the signature Costume Couture Fashion Show. From October 15 to 18, the Great Westerville Pumpkin Glow will light up the night with a trail of 1,500 carved pumpkins, complete with family-friendly activities like bounce houses, a supersized corn maze, pumpkin bowling, a mechanical pumpkin ride, and LED putt-putt.

Literary enthusiasts can explore the hometown of R.L. Stine, the author of the Goosebumps series, whose childhood in Bexley inspired elements of the best-selling books. Visitors can follow Stine’s guide to his favorite Columbus-area spots, adding a unique twist to their exploration of the city.

For a more interactive experience, the Fight or Flight Show, hosted by Jeff Kinney, author of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, will take place on October 21 at 7 p.m. at Bexley High School. While the event is expected to sell out, fans can stop by the Columbus Welcome Center throughout October for a special photo op and a chance to win two tickets to the show and a themed prize package (enter by October 19). Be sure to follow Experience Columbus on social media for details on an additional chance to win two more tickets.

Columbus is not just a city; it’s a destination that offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and excitement. The city’s bold, welcoming, and forward-thinking spirit is on full display, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of fall.