Whether you live in Columbus or are just visiting, these are some spots worth checking out. Get ready to have fun exploring and take lots of pictures!
Downtown Columbus, Ohio
Ohio Statehouse
Columbus is the capital of Ohio and taking a look at the Ohio Statehouse is very fitting. There are free guided tours offered Monday-Friday and also after-hours tours for a fee.
Website: Ohio Statehouse
Ohio Theatre
This historic building is a beauty. Taking a look at the ceiling in the theatre and the intricate details adorning the wall will leave you in awe. Be sure to check the website for a schedule of upcoming shows.
Website: Ohio Theater
World’s Largest Gavel
Did you know the world’s largest gavel can be found in Columbus, Ohio? It’s located outside of the Supreme Court of Ohio Building.
Website: World’s Largest Gavel
Topiary Park
Read about the history behind this park here: About Topiary Park. While in the area, be sure to head into the newly renovated Main Library as it really is beautiful.
Website: Topiary Park
Columbus Museum of Art
The Art Museum was recently remodeled and it’s stunning. If visiting with children, the Wonder Room is full of hands-on activities for creative play and design. Admission is free on Sundays, so that’s a great time to visit. Cameron Mitchell Premier Events operates the onsite art cafe- Schokko Art Cafe and there are lots of tasty options.
Website: Columbus Museum of Art
Scioto Lounge Deer Sculptures
There are two sculptures of bronze deer located in the Scioto Mile area and one more on the Rich Street Bridge.
Website: Scioto Lounge Deer Sculptures
Short North Arts District
Short North is easily identified by the 17 steel arches that go across High Street. There are permanent murals along the streets as well as the annual Short North Temporary Mural Series. Find more information here: Short North Public Art
The first Saturday of every month is the Gallery Hop in Short North. It’s been a Columbus tradition for over 30 years.
If you are visiting the Short North area with kids, here are some places to go: Kid-Friendly Short North
Website: Short North
Pizzuti Collection
Outside the Pizzuti Collection, a sculpture garden can be found around the building in Short North. Inside is a gallery with contemporary artwork.
Step away from the hustle and bustle of the city and explore Goodale Park which is across the street from the Pizzuti Collection. This is the oldest park in Columbus.
Website: Pizzuti Collection
Statue of Arnold Schwarzenegger
In the courtyard of the Columbus Convention Center there sits an 8-foot-tall bronze statue of Arnold Schwarzenegger. Each year Columbus hosts the world’s largest multi-sport festival known as the Arnold Sports Festival (also referred to as the Arnold Classic) so there’s a great chance you’ll see Arnold in person the week of the event.
Website: Statue of Arnold Schwarzenegger
Ohio State Campus
Ohio Stadium
Ohio State is one of the biggest campuses in the nation and there’s a lot to see and do. A top attraction would be watching the football team play at the Ohio Stadium (often referred to as The Horseshoe). Behind the scene tours of the stadium are offered year-round and must be scheduled at least two weeks in advance. Find additional details and pricing here: Ohio Stadium Tours
Website: Ohio Stadium
Dublin
Field of Corn
When thinking of Ohio many people think of corn fields. These aren’t ordinary corn fields, instead, there are rows of white concrete corn sticking up from the ground. It sure is a sight to see!
Website: Field of Corn
Leatherlips
This 12-foot tall sculpture sits on the hill of Scioto Park and depicts the Wyandot Native American Chief Leatherlips. This park is also just a few miles from the zoo so it makes a good stopping point.
Website: Chief Leatherlips
Art in Public Places
Both the Field of Corn and Leatherlips are part of the collection known as Art in Public Places. There are lots of other unique visual artwork pieces spread throughout Dublin. Take a look here: Art in Public Places
Website: Dublin Arts Council
Dancing Hares
Sitting on top of a hill in the neighborhood of Ballantrae are three large dancing hares. Take the walk up the hill and look at the intricately crafted bronze sculpture and notice the different everyday household objects embedded into it. At the bottom of the hill is a splash pad that’s fun for the kids to run through and cool off in on hot summer days.
Website: Dancing Hares
A Bit Farther…Newark
Longaberger Basket Building
The World’s Largest Basket was once the corporate headquarters for the Longaberger Basket Company. The building is now vacant but is still standing.
Website: World’s Largest Basket
