There is plenty to do throughout the city this weekend. Here are the Editor's Top Five picks.

 

1.  Take a tour of history.

The Columbus Historical Society will embark upon its Columbus Discovery Tour Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The fun, fast-paced, non-stop tour features more than 40 prime Columbus historic and cultural sites, witnessed from an air-conditioned bus.

 

Stops include Franklinton, the Conservatory, German Village, the Short North, the Arena District, the Silk Stocking District and the Martin Luther King Center. Experience nearly 200 years of history in 2.5 hours.

 

 

The tour departs from the Columbus Historical Society offices, 51 Jefferson Ave. Visit www.columbushistory.org.

 

If you can't clear your schedule Saturday, or you're a baseball purist, check out a historical tour of Cooper Stadium Thursday, Aug. 21, hosted by Joe Santry, Clippers historian. The one-hour tour will be given at 4 p.m. and again at 5 p.m. Meet at Gate 3 at the stadium, 1155 W. Mound St.

 

For the past 75 years, fans have seen baseball greats from Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays to Cal Ripken Jr. and Derek Jeter play at "The Coop." After the tour, watch as the Clippers take on the Richmond Braves. Visit www.columbushistory.org.

 
2. You better shop around.

Christmas is *only* four months away. Get a head start on your shopping with two fantastic opportunities this week.

Short North Third Thursday is Aug. 21 throughout the district. More than 40 galleries and boutiques will stay open until at least 9 p.m. The event will also feature music, contests and co-promotions between businesses. Visit www.shortnorth.org.

That same night, downtown Dublin will host Slainte Thursday from 4-9 p.m. on Bridge and High streets, with music, arts, casual shopping and upscale dining opportunities. Visit www.irishisanattitude.com.

 

 

3. Dog Days of Summer.

Fido wants to get out and play this summer, too. Now he has the chance. On Friday, Aug. 22, Uptown Westerville will host the Dog Days of Summer from 6-9 p.m., inviting dogs and their owners to participate in events such as the Mutt March and The Best Dog on the Street Dog Show, sponsored by Captivating Canines. Log on to www.visitwesterville.org.

 

On Saturday, the Dog Jog and Reunion will be held throughout the Arena District. Take the pup with you for your morning workout. The event benefits the CHA Shelter. Visit www.CHAAnimalShelter.org.

4. Beers and Bears.

Grab a cold one and support the animals. Brew at the Zoo will be held Friday, Aug. 22 from 7-11 p.m. at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, 4850 W. Powell Rd.

 

This after-hours event offers the opportunity to support conservation efforts while enjoying a great evening at the zoo. Visit www.columbuszoo.org.

5. Giddy up, Cowboys and Cowgirls.

The American Cancer Society's fundraising event, Cattle Baron's Ball, will be held Saturday, Aug. 23 at Darby Dan Farms in Galloway.

 

"Boots and Ties Under Darby Skies" will feature entertainment, auctions and much more to support the local chapter of the ACS.

 

Visit www.ColumbusCattleBaronsBall.org.

 

BONUS: Wining & Dining.

While you're in the benevolent mood, check out the Arthritis Foundation's Wine & Dine event Thursday, Aug. 21 at the Columbus Convention Center.

This unique wine tasting will feature various fine wines, a silent auction and a selection of food from some of Columbus' best restaurants. Visit www.arthritis.org.