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Discover the Best of Columbus
Columbus, Ohio, is a vibrant city with a rich history, diverse cultural scene, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, art lover, or adventure seeker, there’s something for everyone in Columbus. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the city’s top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Top Attractions
If you’re visiting Columbus for the first time, be sure to check out the city’s top attractions, including the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and the Columbus Museum of Art. For sports fans, catch a game at Ohio Stadium, home of the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Hidden Gems
For a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the Book Loft in the historic German Village. This bookstore features 32 rooms filled with books, antiques, and other treasures. Another hidden gem is the Topiary Park, which features life-sized topiary sculptures of the characters from Georges Seurat’s painting “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte.”
Food Scene
Columbus has a thriving food scene, with everything from farm-to-table restaurants to food trucks and street vendors. Be sure to try some local favorites, such as the Thurman Burger at Thurman Cafe or the spicy chicken at Hot Chicken Takeover. For a sweet treat, head to Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams for some of the best ice cream in the country.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Columbus is a great destination for travelers on a budget. Many of the city’s museums and attractions offer free admission, and there are plenty of parks and outdoor spaces to explore for free. For a budget-friendly meal, head to one of the city’s many food trucks or grab a slice of pizza at Mikey’s Late Night Slice.
Outdoor Adventures
Columbus is home to over 200 parks, including the scenic Scioto Mile, a 175-acre park along the Scioto River. For a more adventurous outdoor experience, head to the Hocking Hills State Park, just a short drive from the city, where you can hike, rock climb, and even zipline through the forest.
Historical Landmarks
Columbus has a rich history, and there are plenty of historical landmarks to explore. Be sure to check out the Ohio Statehouse, the Ohio Village, and the Kelton House Museum and Garden, a historic home that has been restored to its 19th-century grandeur.
Family-Friendly Activities
Columbus is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities for kids of all ages. Check out the Center of Science and Industry (COSI), a hands-on science museum, or the Columbus Children’s Theatre, which offers performances and workshops for kids. For a fun day outdoors, head to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, which features over 10,000 animals from around the world.
Natural Wonders
Just a short drive from Columbus, you’ll find some of Ohio’s most stunning natural wonders. Head to the Hocking Hills State Park to explore caves, waterfalls, and rock formations, or check out the Mohican State Park, which features miles of hiking and biking trails through beautiful forests and along the scenic Mohican River.
Vibrant Nightlife
Columbus has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and live music venues to explore. Check out the Short North Arts District, which is home to some of the city’s best bars and restaurants, or head to the Arena District for live music and entertainment.
Local Markets
Columbus has a thriving local market scene, with everything from farmers’ markets to craft fairs and artisanal food markets. Be sure to check out the North Market, which features over 30 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade pasta and artisanal cheeses.
Beaches and Mountains
While Columbus is not located directly on a beach or mountain, there are plenty of options within a short drive. Head to Lake Erie for a day at the beach, or drive to the Appalachian Mountains for some of the best hiking and scenic drives in the region.
Cultural Immersion
Columbus is a melting pot of cultures, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in different cultural experiences. Be sure to check out the Columbus Museum of Art, which features a diverse collection of art from around the world, or head to the Cultural Arts Center for classes and workshops on everything from painting to dance.
Art and Music Scene
Columbus has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and live music venues to explore. Check out the Wexner Center for the Arts, which features contemporary art exhibits and film screenings, or head to the Newport Music Hall, one of the city’s oldest and most iconic music venues.
Walking Tours
Columbus is a great city to explore on foot, and there are plenty of walking tours to choose from. Take a historic tour of the German Village, explore the art and architecture of the Short North, or discover the city’s hidden gems on a Secret Columbus tour.
Architectural Marvels
Columbus is home to some of the most unique and innovative architecture in the country. Be sure to check out the Ohio Statehouse, a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture, or the Columbus Metropolitan Library, which features a modern and sustainable design.
Historical Sites
Columbus has a rich history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. Be sure to check out the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, which honors the sacrifices and contributions of our nation’s veterans, or the Ohio History Center, which features exhibits on Ohio’s history and culture.
Biking Routes
Columbus is a bike-friendly city, with plenty of biking routes to explore. Check out the Olentangy Trail, a 13-mile trail that follows the Olentangy River, or the Scioto Trail, which runs along the Scioto River and offers stunning views of the city skyline.
Wellness Retreats
Columbus is a great destination for wellness retreats, with plenty of yoga studios, spas, and wellness centers to choose from. Check out the Yoga on High studio, which offers a variety of yoga classes and workshops, or the Woodhouse Day Spa, which features a range of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments.
Adventure Sports
Columbus is a great destination for adventure sports, with plenty of opportunities for rock climbing, kayaking, and more. Check out Vertical Adventures, the city’s premier rock climbing gym, or the Olentangy Paddle, which offers kayak and canoe rentals along the Olentangy River.
With so much to see and do in Columbus, this travel guide is just the beginning of your adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Columbus explorer, there’s always something new to discover in this vibrant and dynamic city.