How to Find Best Parade Viewing Spots in Columbus

Columbus, Ohio, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, dynamic community events, and enthusiastic celebration of tradition. Among the most anticipated annual gatherings are its parades—colorful, lively, and deeply rooted in local identity. Whether it’s the historic Columbus St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the festive Holiday Parade of Lights, or the energetic Pride Parade, securing the best viewing spot can transform a good experience into an unforgettable one. Finding the ideal location isn’t just about being close to the action; it’s about balancing visibility, comfort, safety, accessibility, and atmosphere. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step needed to identify and secure the best parade viewing spots in Columbus, ensuring you make the most of every moment—from planning weeks in advance to settling in just before the first float rolls by.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Identify the Parade You Want to Attend

Before you can find the best viewing spot, you must know which parade you’re targeting. Columbus hosts several major parades throughout the year, each with unique routes, themes, and crowd dynamics. The most popular include:

• Columbus St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Held in March, this is one of the largest in the Midwest, featuring marching bands, Irish dance troupes, and over 100 floats.
• Holiday Parade of Lights – A beloved December tradition with giant balloons, Santa Claus, and festive music.
• Columbus Pride Parade – A vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ culture held in June, drawing tens of thousands.
• Ohio State Fair Parade – Occurring during the annual State Fair, this features local organizations, agricultural displays, and celebrity appearances.

Visit the official event website or the City of Columbus Parks and Recreation page to confirm dates, times, and route maps. Each parade has a designated path, often running along High Street, Nationwide Boulevard, or Downtown Columbus corridors. Knowing the exact route is the first critical step in narrowing down your viewing options.

2. Study the Parade Route Map

Parade organizers publish detailed route maps weeks before the event. These maps show the starting point, turning points, and final destination. For example, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade typically begins at the intersection of High and Broad Streets, proceeds south on High Street, and ends near the Ohio Theatre. The Holiday Parade of Lights often starts near the Greater Columbus Convention Center and travels east along Nationwide Boulevard.

Use the map to identify:

• Where the parade slows down (e.g., intersections with large crowds or turns)
• Areas with wide sidewalks or open plazas (ideal for unobstructed views)
• Points where performers interact with the crowd (e.g., float stops or dance routines)

Mark 2–3 potential viewing zones on the map. Avoid areas directly before sharp turns or narrow alleys—these create bottlenecks and reduce visibility. Opt for straight stretches where floats have time to pass slowly and performers have room to engage.

3. Evaluate Viewing Zones by Accessibility and Amenities

Not all spots along the route are created equal. Consider the following factors when choosing your location:

• Accessibility: Is the area wheelchair-friendly? Are there ramps, elevators, or nearby public transit stops? Look for ADA-compliant viewing areas if needed.
• Safety: Avoid areas near construction zones, heavy traffic lanes, or poorly lit alleys. Stick to well-maintained public sidewalks with clear emergency exits.
• Restrooms: Public restrooms near parade routes are often limited. Choose a spot near a public building like a library, museum, or mall that may allow public access.
• Shade and Shelter: If the parade is in spring or fall, sun exposure can be intense. Look for locations under trees or near covered awnings. For winter parades, wind exposure matters—seek spots shielded by buildings.
• Proximity to Food and Water: While vendors may line the route, lines can be long. Bring your own snacks and water, but choose a spot near a convenience store or café in case you need to refill.

For families with young children, prioritize areas with wide sidewalks and minimal crowding. For photographers, look for elevated vantage points like benches, stairs, or building ledges that offer a clear line of sight without obstruction.

4. Scout the Location in Advance

One of the most overlooked yet powerful steps is visiting your chosen viewing spot before parade day. Arrive during a weekday afternoon when the area is quiet. Walk the route, note the width of sidewalks, observe where people naturally gather, and check for any temporary barriers or signage.

Take photos and videos from your potential spot to simulate the view. Use your phone’s camera to frame the route—this helps you visualize whether the floats will be visible over crowds or if trees, lampposts, or parked cars might block your view. Note the direction the sun will be setting or rising on parade day. A low-angle sun behind you improves photo quality; one shining directly into your eyes can ruin the experience.

Ask local residents or business owners near the route for tips. Many shopkeepers have hosted parade viewers for years and know exactly where the best spots are—often places not listed on official maps.

5. Arrive Early to Secure Your Spot

Popular viewing areas fill up fast—even for early morning parades. For major events like the St. Patrick’s Day or Holiday Parade, spectators begin staking out spots as early as 6 a.m. for a 10 a.m. parade.

Plan to arrive at least 90 minutes before the parade starts. Bring a small blanket, folding chair (if allowed), and a marker (like a scarf or hat) to claim your space. Some neighborhoods have unofficial “rules”—don’t leave your spot unattended for more than 15 minutes, or you risk losing it.

Arriving early also gives you time to:

• Find the nearest restroom
• Check for last-minute route changes
• Connect with other attendees who may have insider tips
• Set up your camera or phone for optimal angles

Pro tip: If you’re with a group, assign one person to claim the spot while others go for food or supplies. This prevents losing your position.

6. Use Public Transportation or Rideshare

Driving to a parade in downtown Columbus is not recommended. Streets close hours in advance, and parking is extremely limited and expensive. Instead, use the COTA (Central Ohio Transit Authority) bus system, which often adds extra routes on parade days. Key stops include the Downtown Transit Center, the Ohio State University campus, and the Short North area.

Apps like Google Maps, Transit, or Moovit can show real-time bus schedules and alerts. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are viable, but drop-off and pick-up zones are restricted near parade routes. Designate a meeting point at least two blocks away from the main corridor.

If you’re staying overnight, choose a hotel within walking distance of your viewing spot. Many downtown hotels offer “parade packages” with early check-in and breakfast—ideal for early morning events.

7. Prepare for Weather and Comfort

Columbus weather can be unpredictable. Even in spring, temperatures can dip into the 40s. In December, wind chill can make it feel much colder. Always check the forecast the night before and dress in layers.

Essential items to bring:

• Waterproof jacket or poncho (for rain)
• Hand warmers (for winter parades)
• Sunscreen and hat (for spring/summer parades)
• Comfortable, closed-toe shoes (you’ll be standing for hours)
• Portable phone charger
• Small backpack to carry essentials

Leave large bags, coolers, and drones at home—they’re often prohibited in crowded parade zones for safety reasons.

Best Practices

Respect Local Rules and Etiquette

Columbus parade organizers and local authorities have clear guidelines for spectators. Violating these can lead to removal or fines. Key rules include:

• No blocking sidewalks or crosswalks—stay behind designated viewing lines.
• No climbing on lampposts, fences, or trees for better views—this is dangerous and often illegal.
• No littering. Bring a small trash bag and take your waste with you.
• Keep pets leashed and under control. Some parades prohibit animals for safety reasons.
• Be mindful of noise—loud music or shouting can disrupt performers and other viewers.

Remember: you’re part of a shared public experience. Politeness and patience make the day better for everyone.

Plan for Crowds and Emergencies

Parades draw tens of thousands of people. Even the best spots can become packed. Stay alert to your surroundings:

• Know the location of emergency exits and medical tents (usually marked on official maps).
• Establish a meeting point with your group in case you get separated.
• Keep identification and emergency contacts on your person.
• Teach children what to do if they get lost—identify a uniformed officer or volunteer.

Many parades have volunteer “safety ambassadors” in bright vests. Don’t hesitate to ask them for help.

Maximize Your Experience with Technology

Use your smartphone wisely:

• Download the official parade app (if available) for live updates, route changes, and performer schedules.
• Enable location services so you can use Google Maps offline with your saved viewing spot.
• Use a noise-canceling app or headphones to filter out loud crowds if you’re sensitive to sound.
• Take photos in burst mode to capture fast-moving floats and dancers.

Don’t spend the entire parade staring at your screen. Put your phone away and soak in the atmosphere—the music, the costumes, the cheers of the crowd.

Support Local Businesses

Many of the best parade viewing spots are near local restaurants, cafes, and shops. Consider grabbing coffee or breakfast from a nearby business before the parade. Afterward, return to thank them for their hospitality. Many businesses offer discounts to parade-goers who show their event wristband or ticket.

Supporting local commerce enhances the community spirit that makes Columbus parades so special.

Document and Share Responsibly

Sharing your experience on social media is a great way to celebrate the event. But be respectful:

• Don’t post real-time updates that could attract more crowds to your location—this can create unsafe conditions.
• Blur faces of children or strangers in photos unless you have permission.
• Use official event hashtags like

  ColumbusStPatricks or #CbusHolidayParade to join the community conversation.

Tools and Resources

Official Event Websites

Always start with the primary source:

• Columbus St. Patrick’s Day Parade: columbusstpatricksday.org
• Holiday Parade of Lights: columbus.gov/holidayparade
• Columbus Pride: columbuspride.org
• City of Columbus Parks & Recreation: columbus.gov/parks

These sites provide route maps, performer lists, parking advisories, and volunteer opportunities. They’re updated regularly and are the most reliable source for accurate information.

Interactive Maps and Apps

• Google Maps: Search “Columbus parade route [year]” to find user-uploaded route overlays. Save the location offline.
• MapMyWalk: Use this app to trace the parade route on foot and estimate walking time from your home or hotel.
• Waze: Great for avoiding road closures on parade day. Set your destination to a nearby parking area, not the parade route.
• Eventbrite: Sometimes lists free viewing events or VIP experiences tied to parades.

Local News and Community Boards

Local media outlets often publish expert guides:

• The Columbus Dispatch: Features annual “Best Seats in the House” articles with photos and tips.
• 90.9 FM WOSU: Broadcasts live updates and interviews with parade organizers.
• Reddit r/Columbus: A community of locals who share real-time advice, photos, and warnings.
• Nextdoor: Neighborhood-specific tips—e.g., “Best spot on High St. near the old library.”

Photography and Viewing Aids

For those who want to capture the parade in detail:

• Zoom lens (300mm+): Ideal for capturing performers on distant floats.
• Smartphone tripod: Keeps your phone steady for video or long-exposure shots.
• Binoculars: Lightweight, compact, and perfect for spotting details on floats.
• Portable speaker (quiet volume): Play parade music softly to enhance the atmosphere—only if permitted.

Weather and Air Quality Tools

Use these to plan your outfit and comfort:

• AccuWeather: Hourly forecasts up to 10 days out.
• AirNow.gov: Check air quality index if you have respiratory sensitivities.
• Weather Underground: Hyperlocal data based on neighborhood sensors.

Real Examples

Example 1: St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Best Spot Near the Ohio Theatre

For the 2023 St. Patrick’s Day Parade, a family from Dublin, Ohio, chose to watch near the Ohio Theatre at 14 W. Broad Street. This location offered several advantages:

• Wide sidewalk with ample room for strollers and wheelchairs.
• Overhead canopy from the theatre’s marquee provided shade.
• Restrooms were available inside the theatre lobby (open to the public for parade-goers).
• The parade slowed here as it turned onto High Street, giving a 30-second window to see all floats clearly.
• Multiple food trucks lined the block, offering Irish-themed snacks.

The family arrived at 7:30 a.m. for a 10 a.m. parade. They brought blankets, warm drinks, and a small Bluetooth speaker playing Celtic music. They captured photos of the marching bands, received a lucky shamrock from a performer, and later dined at a nearby pub that gave them a 15% discount for showing their parade wristband.

Example 2: Holiday Parade of Lights – Rooftop View at the Greater Columbus Convention Center

A group of photographers planned ahead for the 2023 Holiday Parade of Lights. Instead of standing on the street, they reserved a table at the rooftop bar at the Hyatt Regency Columbus, which overlooks Nationwide Boulevard. The bar offered a “Parade Viewing Package” that included hot cocoa, cookies, and reserved seating.

Advantages:

• Unobstructed 360-degree view of the entire route.
• No standing for hours—comfortable seating with heaters.
• Professional-grade lighting made for perfect night-time photos.
• Easy access to restrooms and food.

While this option cost more, it was ideal for those seeking comfort, safety, and premium viewing. The photos they took became the featured images in the local newspaper’s parade recap.

Example 3: Columbus Pride Parade – Family-Friendly Spot at Goodale Park

For the 2023 Pride Parade, a multi-generational family chose Goodale Park as their viewing location. The parade route passed along High Street, just one block from the park entrance.

They arrived early and claimed a grassy hill with a clear view. Benefits included:

• Green space allowed children to move around safely.
• Free public restrooms and water fountains nearby.
• Local vendors sold rainbow-themed snacks and merchandise.
• The park hosted a pre-parade family festival with face painting and live music.

By choosing a location slightly removed from the densest crowds, they avoided fatigue and created a joyful, relaxed atmosphere for their young children and elderly relatives.

FAQs

What is the best time to arrive for a Columbus parade?

For major parades like St. Patrick’s Day or the Holiday Parade of Lights, arrive at least 90 minutes before the start time. For smaller events, 60 minutes is usually sufficient. Popular spots fill up within the first 30 minutes of opening.

Are there any paid VIP viewing areas?

Yes. Some parades offer VIP packages that include reserved seating, exclusive restrooms, and complimentary refreshments. These are typically sold through the official event website or partner organizations. They’re ideal for families, seniors, or those with mobility concerns.

Can I bring a chair to the parade?

Small, portable folding chairs are usually allowed on sidewalks, but check the official rules. Avoid large, bulky chairs that block the view of others. Some areas prohibit chairs entirely for safety reasons.

Are dogs allowed at Columbus parades?

Most parades allow leashed dogs, but some—especially those with loud music or large crowds—recommend leaving pets at home. Always check the event’s pet policy. Service animals are always permitted.

What should I do if it rains?

Bring a lightweight rain poncho or waterproof jacket. Umbrellas are often discouraged because they block the view of others. Many parades continue in light rain—don’t cancel unless the event is officially postponed.

How do I know if the parade route has changed?

Check the official event website and social media channels the morning of the parade. Local news stations (WCMH, WBNS, WSYX) also broadcast last-minute updates. Sign up for text alerts if the event offers them.

Is there a way to watch the parade if I can’t go in person?

Yes. Many parades are livestreamed on YouTube or the city’s official website. The Columbus Pride Parade and Holiday Parade of Lights are often broadcast live on local TV stations. Check the event’s website for streaming links.

What if I lose my child during the parade?

Immediately locate a volunteer in a bright vest or a uniformed officer. Most parades have designated “safe zones” or information tents near major intersections. Teach your child to find a uniformed person if they get separated.

Can I bring food and drinks?

Yes. Most parades allow sealed bottled water and snacks. Avoid glass containers, large coolers, or alcohol. Many vendors sell food along the route, but prices are higher than usual.

Do I need a ticket to view the parade?

No. Columbus parades are free public events. No ticket is required to watch from public sidewalks. VIP areas may require purchase, but general viewing is always open to the public.

Conclusion

Finding the best parade viewing spot in Columbus isn’t just about picking the most crowded corner—it’s about strategic planning, local knowledge, and thoughtful preparation. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned parade-goer, the tips in this guide will help you choose a location that maximizes comfort, safety, and enjoyment. From studying official route maps to arriving early with the right gear, every detail matters. Use the tools, learn from real examples, and embrace the community spirit that makes Columbus parades so uniquely special.

Remember: the goal isn’t just to see the parade—it’s to experience it. So dress for the weather, respect the crowd, and take time to enjoy the music, the colors, the laughter, and the pride of a city that comes together to celebrate. With the right approach, your next parade day in Columbus will be one you’ll remember for years to come.