I remember moving back to Columbus from New York City and HATING having a car. I had to drive. I had to pay insurance. I had to remember to keep the tank filled. It was terrible.
That is part of the reason why I love that COTA is doing such a great job getting more buses on the streets. They are offering more routes and Park and Rides from the suburbs to the downtown area, which for me makes getting to festivals and parades less stressful. Riding the bus may take a little more time getting there, but it is totally worth it. We save ourselves frustration over trying to find decent parking, paying for over-priced parking, and dealing with traffic jams. If you are hitting Red, White & BOOM! this year, think about taking the Zoom to the Boom. We are.
Zoom to the Boom is an express ride to Huntington Park where there will be lots of fun for families before the main event. Buses pick up between 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and COTA has several Park and Ride locations in the various suburbs. Drop off is near Huntington Park where bands will be playing, kids can get their faces painted, and there will be lots of inflatables for crazy bouncing. Pricing and more information can be found here: Zoom to the Boom.
If you are new to Columbus and aren’t privy to how incredible Red, White & Boom! fireworks are, you just need to see for yourself. Seriously, they are terrific and worth coming out on July 3. Best part is, most community fireworks are on the 4th, so you could get double the firework fun next week!
Nervous about riding the bus? Don’t be. Here are some easy tips to make your trip go smoothly: “How to Ride Guide”
My advice:
- Have fare ready. Let you kids put in their fare – teach them how to do it and not be strangers to public transportation.
- If you have lots of stuff, go to the back and exit from the back doors. This is especially helpful if you have strollers.
- If you need the back open for a big stroller or wheelchair, just ask the driver.
- There will be strangers on the bus and some could be unsavory. Ignore them. (I’ve not had this problem in Cbus, but just be mindful)
- Keep your belongings under your seat or on your lap.
- I know many of your are bleeding hearts, but don’t give homeless people money (food, fine!). If you want to support the homeless, give to a shelter or a food pantry.
*Disclosure: COTA gave my family passes to ride the bus to BOOM! and VIP tickets to watch the fireworks at Huntington Park. A $40 gift card for food, swag bag and other goodies.
