Posts from March 19th, 2021

Is it truly time to shake off the winter chill, and welcome the first signs of spring? You bet! The days are growing longer, the temperatures are rising, and the first flowers are emerging from the soil at greenspaces all around Columbus. Whether you're interested in a quiet, tranquil walk, a chance to gaze at gorgeous gardens, or the perfect place for a fun, outdoor family outing, there's certain to be a local greenspace with your name on it. Find your happy place with our guide to 9 of the best greenspaces in Columbus.

John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons

160 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

There's always something new to experience when you visit the John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons, a popular urban greenspace located in the heart of downtown Columbus. This park offers a little bit of everything, from flowery gardens and community events to a food truck court that features flavors from around the world. It's also home to the unique NEOS Electric Playground, which is certain to be a hit with younger members of the family.

Goodale Park

120 W. Goodale St., Columbus, OH 43215

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With beautiful fountains, a scenic pond, and stunning views of the Columbus skyline, Goodale Park is the perfect place to shake off the winter chill. This is the oldest public park in the city, built on land that was donated by the first physician to practice in Columbus. Along with the scenery, this park has tennis courts for enjoying some outdoor recreation, a playground that is sure to keep the kids entertained, and plenty of lovely places to plan a picnic.

Schiller Park

1069 Jaeger St., Columbus, OH 43206

Ever since the land was first converted into a park in the 1800s, Schiller Park has been a local favorite for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The park is named for German poet Friedrich Schiller, and the scenery just might be enough to inspire you to write some poetry of your own. At Schiller Park, you'll find a peaceful fishing pond, a collection of beautifully maintained gardens, and a wide variety of outdoor recreation facilities for enjoying your favorite sports. Schiller Park is also home to the Actor's Summer Theater, where you can enjoy public performances of Shakespeare during the warm weather seasons.

Columbus Park of Roses

3901 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214

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What could be a better way to celebrate the signs of spring than visiting a beautiful rose garden? And the Columbus Park of Roses isn't just any old garden. It features one of the most extensive selections of roses in the entire country, with more than 12,000 specimens when the garden is in full bloom. There are paved paths that make it easy to explore the gardens and plenty of places to snap some great pictures for social media sharing. Be sure to check out the Park of Roses website, where you can see which roses are in bloom before you visit.

Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens

152 Howlett Hall 2021, Fyffe Rd., Columbus, OH 43210

Looking for an educational setting where kids can learn while enjoying the great outdoors? The Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens offer a unique blend of outdoor fun and education. The facility is located on the Ohio State University agriculture campus and is free to visit all year long. Enjoy expansive gardens, native trees, gorgeous greenhouses, and plenty of opportunities to learn more about all of the flora on display.

Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203

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When you're in the mood for a lush, scenic outdoor setting with activities galore, it's hard to top the experience at Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. This facility features more than 100 acres of natural beauty to explore, with some of the most stunning gardens that you'll find anywhere. While you're here, be sure to check out the schedule of gardening workshops, educational classes, community events, seasonal farmer's market, and expert-guided tours.

Scioto Audubon

400 W. Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43215

For unique outdoor recreation activities in Columbus, it's hard to top all that the Scioto Audubon Metropark has to offer. Scale a massive rock-climbing wall that can accommodate climbers of all skill levels and enjoy a wide range of recreational facilities for playing your favorite sports. There's also a popular dog park on-site, perfect for celebrating the start of spring with your furry friend.

Scioto Mile

233 S. Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43215

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In the mood for a full day of visiting some of the best greenspaces in Columbus? Scioto Mile is a beautiful greenspace on its own, and its paved, well-maintained paths connect to eight other greenspaces within the city. The paths wind along the Scioto River, and offer outstanding views of the city skyline. You'll find unique public art exhibits as you explore the area, and may even encounter some free, public performances depending on when you visit. Be sure to come back again in the summer, when kids can enjoy a splash in the interactive Scioto Mile Fountain.

Topiary Garden Park

480 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215

If you're searching for something that is uniquely Columbus, then a trip to the Topiary Garden Park is definitely in order. What is a topiary garden, you might ask? It's a good question because this is the only garden of its kind in the whole world! The Topiary Garden Park is a recreation of Georges Seurat's painting, "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte." But instead of paint, the garden uses sculpted plants and landscaping features to recreate the painting. This is one Columbus attraction that art lovers won't want to miss.

Go Green(space)

Which outdoor oasis is at the top of your list for celebrating the first signs of spring? The diverse, beautiful greenspaces of Columbus are ready to be explored, with family fun waiting around every corner.