10 Stunningly Beautiful Places in Columbus, OH New Residents Need to See
Columbus, Ohio, may not be the first city that comes to mind when thinking of beautiful destinations, but it’s a hidden gem with a plethora of stunning sights. From lush green parks to vibrant neighborhoods with gorgeous architecture, Columbus is full of stunning places.
So whether you’re considering moving to the area, currently looking at Columbus apartments for rent, or just bought a house in the city, you’re in luck because Ohio’s capital is full of captivating sights. To get an idea of some of the best views the city has to offer, here are 10 beautiful places you have to visit if you live in Columbus.
1. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a stunning oasis located in the Near East Side neighborhood of Columbus. The 88-acre park is a feast for the senses, with an array of indoor and outdoor gardens featuring a diverse collection of plant species from around the world. The highlight of the park is the breathtaking Glasshouse, a 10,000-square-foot conservatory filled with exotic plants and a stunning butterfly habitat.
Locals can also explore the Tropical Rainforest, Desert Biome, and Bonsai Collection, among other attractions. The park’s outdoor gardens offer a serene escape from the city, with winding walking paths, peaceful ponds, and lush greenery.
2. Scioto Mile
One of the pros of living in Columbus is that there are plenty of parks to enjoy. The Scioto Mile is a stunning park that stretches along the banks of the Scioto River in Columbus, Ohio. With over 175 acres of green space, it offers visitors a unique outdoor experience that combines urban amenities with natural beauty. The park boasts a wide range of activities and attractions, including walking and bike paths, playgrounds, fountains, and several public art installations.
As you stroll along the river, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Columbus skyline and the waterway below. In the evening, the park is lit up with colorful lights, adding to the already magical ambiance. A walk around this beautiful park is a relaxing and scenic outdoor activity in Columbus.
3. Columbus Museum of Art
The Columbus Museum of Art is a captivating destination for art enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. The museum boasts an impressive collection of art from different cultures and time periods, showcasing everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary works. The building itself is a beautiful architectural gem, featuring sleek lines and inviting spaces. Inside, the galleries are thoughtfully curated and feature a range of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and photography.
Locals can wander through the exhibits, taking in the stunning works on display and immersing themselves in the creative energy of the space. The museum also hosts special events and exhibits throughout the year, making it a dynamic and engaging place to visit time and time again.
4. German Village
German Village is a charming historic neighborhood located just south of downtown Columbus. The area is characterized by its beautifully restored brick houses, tree-lined streets, and brick sidewalks. The architecture of the buildings is reminiscent of the 19th century, with many homes featuring intricate woodwork, stained-glass windows, and ornate facades. The neighborhood is also home to several small businesses, including cafes, boutiques, and antique shops, giving it a quaint, village-like feel.
One of the most striking features of the area is its immaculate gardens and landscaping, with many homes boasting beautiful flowers, shrubs, and trees. German Village is a beloved part of Columbus, offering visitors and residents alike a glimpse into the city’s past while providing a charming and picturesque setting for modern life.
5. Schiller Park
Schiller Park is a picturesque urban oasis nestled in the heart of German Village in Columbus, Ohio. The park’s lush greenery and well-manicured landscape provide a peaceful escape from the bustling city life. A large pond sits at the center of the park, surrounded by winding walking trails that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or jog.
The park’s centerpiece is a stunning bronze statue of German poet Friedrich Schiller, for whom the park is named after. Schiller Park is also home to an outdoor amphitheater that hosts several community events and performances throughout the year.
6. Ohio Statehouse
The Ohio Statehouse is an impressive building located in central Columbus. Completed in 1861, the Statehouse boasts a stunning Greek Revival architecture with a grand rotunda and columns made of locally sourced limestone. The interior of the building is just as awe-inspiring, featuring a sweeping staircase, intricate mosaic tiles, and detailed murals depicting Ohio’s history.
The Statehouse is home to the Ohio General Assembly, where lawmakers work to create and pass legislation for the state. The building also houses several historical exhibits, including an interactive museum that showcases Ohio’s important role in the Civil War. Locals can take guided tours of the Statehouse to learn more about its fascinating history and architecture.
7. North Market
North Market is a bustling indoor market located in the heart of Columbus. As soon as you step inside, you are greeted with a symphony of sights, smells, and sounds. The air is thick with the aroma of fresh baked bread, roasted coffee, and sizzling meat. Vendors line the aisles, proudly displaying their colorful arrays of fruits, vegetables, spices, and homemade goods. Whether you’re in the mood for authentic Italian pastries, artisanal cheeses, or farm-fresh produce, North Market has something for everyone. The lively atmosphere is infectious, and you can’t help but feel invigorated as you make your way through the crowds.With its vibrant energy and delicious offerings, North Market is a true gem of Columbus, and a great destination for foodies and adventurers alike.
8. Topiary Park
Topiary Park is a unique and enchanting destination that transports visitors to a world of living art. The park is located in the heart of the city and features a stunning display of topiary sculptures that are meticulously shaped and maintained by skilled gardeners. The main attraction of the park is a living topiary interpretation of Georges Seurat’s famous painting “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte,” which features more than 50 human and animal figures.
As you stroll through the park, you’re surrounded by an array of carefully trimmed hedges and trees that create a magical atmosphere. The park also includes a pond, walking paths, and several benches where visitors can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Topiary Park is a truly unique and breathtaking destination that should not be missed by anyone visiting Columbus, Ohio.
9. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a truly breathtaking destination that offers a remarkable experience for visitors of all ages. This world-class facility is home to over 10,000 animals from around the globe, including rare and endangered species. From the playful antics of the resident sea otters to the majestic grace of the African elephants, there is always something fascinating to see and experience here. The zoo features several immersive exhibits, including the Heart of Africa, where visitors can see lions, cheetahs, and zebras roam freely across a sprawling savannah.
Additionally, the Polar Frontier exhibit allows visitors to get up close and personal with the zoo’s playful polar bears, while the Discovery Reef exhibit offers a glimpse into the colorful and fascinating world of underwater creatures. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is not only a place to marvel at the beauty and diversity of the natural world, but it is also an educational resource that promotes conservation and preservation efforts for endangered species.
10. The Ohio State University
The Ohio State University is not only one of the largest universities in the United States, but it is also one of the most beautiful. The campus is filled with stunning buildings and green spaces and is one of the most notable landmarks in Columbus. From the impressive Wexner Center for the Arts to the iconic Thompson Library, the architecture at Ohio State is a sight to behold. The Oval, a sprawling green space in the center of campus, is a popular spot for students and visitors alike to relax and take in the beauty of the surroundings.
The campus is also home to several impressive sculptures and public art installations, adding to the visual appeal of the area. With its mix of historic and modern buildings, green spaces, and art, The Ohio State University is truly one of the most beautiful places in Columbus.
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