Columbus
Buckeyes, shopping and beautiful gardens compete for your attention
At first glance, Columbus seems like any other big city humming with hustle and bustle. But upon closer examination, you’ll discover a welcoming city that will make you want to return again and again. Destinations like the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Topiary Park, the North Market and the Columbus Ale Trail keep this town buzzing with possibility.
Ohio State University
When most people think of Columbus, the first thing that comes to mind is Ohio State University. This Big Ten university is known for its football and its marching band (these are the musicians who make all the cool pictures on the field — you won’t want to miss the half-time shows). If you’re going to a game, be sure to get there early so you can get a good parking spot for your RV, because you’ll want to make the most of the tailgating experience. Get into the old college spirit.
Columbus Ale Trail
After the game, take your RV to one of the many RV parks that dot the map in and around Columbus. Set up your base camp and then start to explore. If you’re a connoisseur of beer, then you’re going to want to spend some time visiting the nearly 40 craft breweries that make up the Columbus Ale Trail. Explore some of the most creative brews in North America, with tastes that cover the beer spectrum. Drawing from a variety of influences, Columbus beer makers know their stuff.
Derek Jensen
Shopping
Feel the need for retail therapy? Columbus has something for everyone. Start your shopping spree at the Short North Arts District, where you’ll find one-of-a-kind masterpieces that will be perfect for your home or your home away from home. Plan a stop at The Candle Lab, where staff members hand-pour some of your favorite fragrances. No shopping experience is complete without a trip to the North Market, where more than 30 stores compete for your attention with fresh and prepared food. You’ll also find Ohio’s oldest operating farmers market here, held on Saturdays during the growing season.
Inner City Oasis
Scioto Mile is the crowned jewel of downtown Columbus. This urban oasis features 175 acres of lush green space next to the Scioto River. There are miles and miles of multiuse trails that will get you back to nature without losing views of the city. A highlight for hikers is Hayden Falls, which can be found on the west bank of the Scioto in Hayden Falls Park.
You’ll also want to make Bicentennial Park a part of your trail adventure. This park features the 15, 000-square-foot Scioto Mile Fountain, which sprays water from 1,000 jets that glow with atmospheric lighting. It’s accessible to visitors and is totally interactive.
Birding and Paddling
When you take the trail leading south out of Bicentennial Park, you’ll find yourself in one of the most beautiful places in Columbus: the Scioto Audubon. This once-industrial field has been transformed into a green space that’s habitat for wildlife and birds. This park is jammed full of activities for everyone to enjoy, including biking, boating, kayaking, fishing and rock climbing on a 35-foot climbing wall. There’s even a 2.5-acre dog park that four-legged family members can enjoy.
The Topiary Park
The Topiary Park is a unique park that features sculpted topiaries, lovely flower beds and a pond that attracts beautiful birds and visitors alike. Started as a community project, the beautiful garden has taken on a life of its own, inspiring creative green thumbs to cultivate captivating works of art.
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Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Lions, tigers and bears — yep, you’ll see those at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium as well as leopards, bald eagles, bison, a rhinoceros, bobcats, elephants and even a fox or two. In the water, you’ll see sharks, stingrays and manatees. You’re also going to want to check out the reptile area, complete with snakes, alligators and turtles.
Must Sees
There are still a few more places you’re going to have to visit before your trip is complete. If you like books, then you must check out The Book Loft, a 32-room storybook experience offering tomes at bargain prices. Are you a fan of science? Then be sure to check out COSI, the Center of Science and Industry. COSI is a hands-on museum for kids and adults alike with over 300 interactive exhibits. It’s fun for the whole family.
For More Information
Columbus Convention and Visitors Bureau
800-920-3533
www.visitcolumbusga.com
Ohio Tourism Division
800-282-5393
www.discoverohio.com
