10 best kid-friendly breweries in Columbus
As a kid, I loved tagging along with my dad on his weekly beer run to a bar/deli in Philly called Chubby’s for a frosty 6-pack of Miller Lite (since you couldn’t buy beer in PA grocery stores). I remember standing next to him, tip-toeing on the foot railing to try and snag a curious peek over the bar. The cashier would always offer me a slice of good ol’ American cheese. Chubby’s wasn’t exactly a kid-friendly hangout, so cheese was pretty much the only thing I could enjoy there. Oh, how the times have changed!
Nowadays, living in Columbus, I’ve noticed so many fantastic breweries that are more like fun-packed destinations. We go out with friends & their kids allllllll the time (at least once per week, maybe more, but who’s counting?) Today, I’ve put together our favorites, along with some of my clients’ picks as well! Trust me, even if you’re not into beer, there’s still so much to enjoy on this list for a family-friendly happy hour.
Note to parents: Please double-check each brewery’s policies and visit during the appropriate hours.
Somewhere in Particular
This spot is a hidden gem that transports you to a small-town feel right in the heart of Northwest Columbus. With its warm and inviting atmosphere located on 2 green acres in the backyard of the historic Henderson House, this family-friendly and dog-friendly brew spot offers a diverse selection of beers to satisfy the parents while the little ones enjoy a range of yard games. And let’s not forget the snacks and tasty pizzas that perfectly complement the rollicking good time!
Olentangy River Brewing
It doesn’t get more family-friendly than a brewery created BY families! Olentangy River Brewing Company in Lewis Center is a convenient destination for families who live in North Columbus. There are plenty of large tables in the spacious outdoor beer garden, so bring the whole crew (+ your furry friend) and meet up with other families! With rotating food trucks and even an in-house coffee shop, is there really a reason to leave?
Crooked Can Brewing Company (Hilliard)
If you don’t know what you’d like to eat, but you know you want to have a good time with the family, this is the place for you! Crooked Can is anchored to The Center Street Market, which is a locally owned and operated community market in historic Old Hilliard. The market currently features 10 different vendors offering local food, desserts, and coffee all inside of one building. Once you grab your food and drink, hang out in the courtyard together for some good times!
Combustion Brewery (Pickerington)
Located at the heart of the Pickerington Village, Combustion is the definition of a communal, baby-friendly taproom. Combustion offers a huge selection of fresh craft beer and delicious cider, which you can enjoy on the large outdoor patio or family-friendly saloon with a dedicated kids’ area. There is even a train table just begging to be played with! If you’re feeling snacky, be sure to check out the rotating food truck schedule that features some of the city’s best
Brewdog DogTap (Canal Winchester)
BrewDog’s massive taproom, DogTap, is not just a brewery but a whole experience designed with families in mind. Situated in Canal Winchester, just outside Columbus, this expansive venue boasts arcade games, an outdoor patio with shuffleboard, a designated kids' play area, and even an outdoor movie screen for family movie nights. The brewery’s impressive lineup of craft beers alongside delicious kid-friendly bites – like pretzels and mac n’ cheese – makes an ideal destination for the family to unwind together.
Land-Grant Brewing Company
Nestled in the heart of Columbus in Franklinton, Land-Grant is a must visit for families seeking a blend of fantastic beer, open spaces, live music, and kid-friendly activities. With a spacious dog-friendly beer garden and ample seating, even the largest families or multiple groups can relax and enjoy a delicious pint together while the kids have a blast in the designated play area. Land-Grant also hosts special events like food truck rallies and game nights, ensuring there’s always something for everyone to enjoy.
Nocterra Brewing Co.
Located in historic downtown Powell Ohio, the Nocterra taproom is the perfect blend of tasty brews and adventure. Bring the kids, the dog, and even outside food if you prefer to skip the taproom snacks or food truck grub! During the warmer months, the beer garden offers ample space and endless fun for the kiddos with a sandbox and the occasional train passing by.
Zaftig Taproom
Everytime we find ourselves at the Zaftig taproom in Worthington, we’re always sharing a communal table with families + furry friends hanging out after little league games! Along with some cold sodas and food truck snacks, parents can choose from a list of delicious craft beers. Zaftig doesn’t have much of an outdoor patio so it’s not as sprawling as some of the other breweries, but if you don’t mind sharing a table with some new friends, you should definitely give it a try!
Nostalgia Brewing Company (Gahanna)
Located in the Creekside District of Gahanna, Nostalgia Brewing welcomes you with their Lite-Brite “Open” sign and offers a covered four-season patio with huge farmhouse-style tables. The creatively named beers – like Marty McFly-P-A! – and nostalgic movies on large TVs will evoke cherished memories for adults while introducing their children to beloved classics. And if it wasn’t charming enough, families can stay entertained for hours with a huge selection of board games. The kids’ food menu features timeless favorites like hot dogs, PB&J, and mac n’ cheese, so even the pickiest eaters will be satisfied!
Seventh Son Brewing Co.
Located in the vibrant Italian Village neighborhood, Seventh Son Brewing Co. is a hip and family-friendly spot that caters to all ages. Especially during Sunday Funday events, where they have activities for kids upstairs! Their outdoor patio is perfect for families seeking some fresh air and sunshine - and tell your kiddos to look out for the brewery cat, Assistant Manager Old Horatio. Seventh Son offers a diverse selection of craft beer along with a tasty food menu featuring wood-fired pizzas. It’s no wonder how this brewery is regularly voted one of the city’s best!
Hi there. Thanks for stopping by! I’m Daisy, owner of Daisy Zimmer Photography, a Columbus photographer specializing in fun photo experiences that families actually look forward to each year. I hope you loved 10 best kid-friendly breweries in Columbus, and if you are interested in talking with me about a lifestyle family photo session, let’s connect. Not quite ready, but wanna keep me in your back pocket? No problem! Follow me on Instagram and let’s be friends!
