Book a Guided Downtown Walking Tour in Columbus, Indiana
Exploring Columbus on foot is one of the best ways to experience the city’s remarkable architecture, public art, and downtown character. Choose from two guided walking tours, each offering a distinct perspective on the stories and places that make Columbus unique.
Iconic Walking Tour
Discover the celebrated modern architecture of Columbus and see how it intermingles with Victorian storefronts and historic buildings on this guided walking tour of downtown.
Many of the city’s most iconic buildings and works of public art are located within the compact downtown area, making this an ideal way to experience Columbus on foot. Along the way, you’ll learn the stories behind significant works of architecture, encounter iconic public art, and get a feel for the downtown landscape while discovering places you may want to revisit after the tour. Although Columbus is best known for modernism, its charming storefronts and historic buildings bring warmth, character, and an unexpected richness to the streetscape.
Price: $15
Duration: 90 minutes
Guided walking tour begins and ends at The Columbus Visitors Center. Select building interiors may be included on this tour based on availability. Access to interiors is subject to change without notice.
This tour is seasonal and operates April-October. See tour times and buy tickets.
Book a tour
FAQ: Iconic Walking Tour
Do I need a reservation?
Booking at least two weeks in advance of your visit is highly recommended to ensure you will be able to get seats on a tour, which often sell out, especially in the summer and fall months.
Are there any age limits? Can we bring our children?
This guided tour is appropriate for children 6 and older. Children younger than 6 years old, including toddlers and infants, are not permitted on this tour. All guests must purchase a ticket, regardless of age.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not allowed on the tour; however, service dogs are welcome. Please call Guest Services at 812-378-2622 to let us know if you will be bringing a service animal or if you have any questions.
What is the time zone?
Columbus, Indiana is in the Eastern time zone.
The Power of Perspective Walking Tour
See Columbus architecture through a whole new lens.
Led by Ethan Crough, this guided tour invites you to experience six iconic Columbus, Indiana landmarks while exploring the stories, assumptions, and everyday realities connected to disability. Given with humor, honesty, and plenty of personality, the tour challenges common stereotypes and opens the door to a more thoughtful way of seeing both architecture and accountability.
Along the way, you’ll explore some of Columbus’ most celebrated landmarks in a way most people never do, with unexpected stories, fresh insights, and a closer look at how design shapes the way we move through the world. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local ready to see Columbus differently - this tour offers a fresh, engaging, and eye-opening perspective on the landmarks that make our city special.
Price: $20
Duration: 90 minutes
Guided walking tour begins and ends at The Columbus Visitors Center. Select building interiors may be included on this tour based on availability. Access to interiors is subject to change without notice.
This tour is seasonal and operates April-October. See tour times and buy tickets.
FAQ: The Power of Perspective Tour
Who is the tour guide, Ethan?
Ethan Crough is a humorist, educator, storyteller, and endlessly curious traveler who has been entertaining crowds in one form or another for most of his life. Some of his favorite past roles were serving as a Certified New York City tour guide and National Park guide at the Statue of Liberty National Monument in New York Harbor, where he shared stories about Lady Liberty’s crown, her torch, and answered all the odd questions visitors could dream up.
Today, Ethan teaches 7th grade social studies, helping students explore world geography, history, and culture from Cape Verde to Rapa Nui and everywhere in between. He loves seeing people connect with new ideas, especially when those ideas come with a great story.
A lifelong traveler, golfer, and fan of national parks, Ethan has visited more than half of the national parks in the United States. He also loves meeting new people, playing games and sports, eating great food, and exploring the world with his wife and two kids.
As a guide, Ethan brings humor, energy, curiosity, and a gift for turning unexpected details into memorable stories.
Highlights of “Reframing Reality: The Power of Perspective” Walking Tour
A new way to experience six iconic Columbus landmarks
Honest, approachable conversations about disability and design
Hidden architectural details and stories you may have missed
A lively, energetic guide who makes the experience fun, memorable, and meaningful
Do I need a reservation?
Booking at least two weeks in advance of your visit is highly recommended to ensure you will be able to get seats on a tour, which often sell out, especially in the summer and fall months.
Are there any age limits? Can we bring our children?
This guided tour is appropriate for children 6 and older. Children younger than 6 years old, including toddlers and infants, are not permitted on this tour. All guests must purchase a ticket, regardless of age.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not allowed on the tour; however, service dogs are welcome. Please call Guest Services at 812-378-2622 to let us know if you will be bringing a service animal or if you have any questions.
What is the time zone?
Columbus, Indiana is in the Eastern time zone.