10 Great Reasons to Visit Pickerington, Ohio

The city of Pickerington, Ohio is something of a hidden gem. While small enough to hang on to those coveted small town vibes, Pickerington’s community has actively nurtured its image, championed its charm, and invested in its progress.

The area packs quite the punch these days with phenomenal food, outdoor activities, business, and a bunch of unique and exciting annual events. From movies and bowling in Pickerington to festivals, museums, and even a trampoline park, you’re sure to find whatever you’re looking for and more! Here are 10 reasons to plan your next staycation in Pickerington, Ohio.

Adventure Games

Rule 3 has it all. In addition to its arcade games, escape rooms, bowling, and volleyball, the space has its own restaurant and full bar. Honestly, you could spend an entire weekend here if you wanted to.
But before you get too comfortable throwing back shots and knocking down pins, you might want to try your hand at… saving the world?!

It sounds like Professor Arlo needs some help…

A Killer Cup O’ Joe

Your brain may need a little boost to make it out of Arlo’s Lab. If so, Porter’s Coffee serves top-tier caffeine in a quaint little converted house. Located on the Fairfield County Java Trail, it’s the perfect stop before you plunge into the activities of the day.

Picktown Palooza

One of the most widely anticipated things to do in Pickerington, Ohio each July is to let loose a little at Picktown Palooza. With a musical lineup that has ranged from Aaron Carter to David Lee Murphy, this “3-day celebration of the community” definitely draws a crowd. On top of all the big-name acts, Picktown Palooza includes carnival rides, games, a car show, and more!

Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum

Did you know that the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum is located right here in Pickerington, Ohio? Explore themed exhibits and historic bikes as you learn about hall of famers and other big names in the world of motorcycling, all courtesy of the American Motorcyclist Association.

Food Scene

If you hear a rumble coming from your tummy, it’s time to hop off that Harley and find yourself a snack! Pickerington, Ohio is home to Fairfield County’s most eclectic food scene. For some traditional stir fry (to go with the best bubble tea in the area), Mr. O Kitchen is the place to be. If you’re in the mood for great service, a full bar, and some traditional Laotian or Thai food, stop by the family-owned Jasmine’s Thai & Sushi. On top of these, you have the dozens of food trucks that regularly post up outside of Combustion Brewery, a wide variety of locations along the Sweet Tooth Trail (including the inimitable… Fat Baby’s Popcorn!), and a bunch of other excellent spots we couldn’t possibly list all of here. All we can say at the end of the day is enter Pickerington, Ohio hungry.All we can say at the end of the day is enter Pickerington, Ohio hungry.

Pro Tip: Fat Baby’s Popcorn has nearly 100 gourmet popcorn flavors to choose from, but don’t let that take up ALL your attention; the shop’s mouthwatering fudge selection is made with real butter and cream!

City Parks

The parks around Picktown are full of fun day hikes and fishing spots, but that’s not all they have to offer. After a summer day tromping around the woods, be sure to make it out in time to catch the Summer Concert Series or Friday Night Flicks at Sycamore Creek!

Birding

Speaking of parks (but more specifically), Pickerington Ponds Metro Park is a must for any bird enthusiasts. Designated by Audubon Ohio as one of “Ohio’s Important Birding Areas,” Pickerington Ponds is an excellent spot to take the nature lover in your life. Keep an eye out for all sorts of waterfowl, shorebirds and landbirds!

Breweries

In addition to being a prime food truck location, Combustion Brewery & Taproom is one of our favorite breweries in central Ohio. Make this beloved watering hole your primary destination or simply a fun stop on your tour of the Route 33 Brew Trail. Also of note, Pickerington has a not-to-be-trifled-with Oktoberfest each year. Come thirsty for local brews!

Bounce Back

Rough morning after a night out on the (Pick)town? Okay, so… bouncing back with a cup of coffee may sound more appealing than taking the kids to hop around a giant trampoline park. Still, if you’ve been gunning for that “Parent of the Year” trophy, Get Air is your chance to secure it.

This all-ages, inclusive, indoor park not only houses an arsenal of trampolines, foam pits, ninja courses, and dodgeball courts; it has massage chairs too. So, if you left the pep in your step out on the dance floor last night, you can feel free to kick back while the kids have fun.

Olde Pickerington Village

In addition to a self-guided walking tour that introduces visitors to the local history of Pickerington, Ohio across 19 stops, Olde Pickerington Village holds some exciting annual events of its own. From the Haunted Village to the Chocolate Hop (think bar hopping but for Ghirardelli), this historic area is the heart and soul of Pickerington, Ohio.

Planning a Visit to Pickerington, Ohio?

Save yourself the last-second rush by reserving a place to stay ahead of time. On top of the hotels and motels at the link, there are also plenty of fun Airbnbs in the area. Let us know if you have any questions, and safe travels!