10 Gardens in Ohio That You Shouldn't Miss

Completed in 1915, Stan Hywet Hall was built for the family of F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. It was named Stan Hywet, Old English for stone quarry, after the property’s most prominent natural feature. The 65-room Manor House is one of the finest examples of Tudor Revival architecture in America, and the sixth largest home open to the public. The estate includes historic gardens and grounds and is open for tours, Tuesday-Sunday from April to December. The Gate Lodge at the entrance to the estate has its own historic significance. In 1935, two admitted alcoholics met there and talked long into the night, when the principles that still serve as the cornerstone of Alcoholics Anonymous were identified.

Fellows Riverside Gardens is a free public garden located at the northern end of Mill Creek Park. This twelve-acre display garden features a landscape of remarkable beauty with diverse and colorful plant displays, roses of all classes, seasonal displays of annuals, perennials, flowering bulbs, and scenic vistas. The magnificent D.D. and Velma Davis Education & Visitor Center makes the Gardens a destination for all seasons. Fellows Riverside Gardens is one of Ohio’s finest public gardens and attracts over 400,000 visitors a year.

The Charles Herndon Sculpture Garden and Galleries is an outdoor Sculpture Garden and collection of galleries that showcases work by Ohio based sculptor Charles Herndon. You will see sculptures of many different forms and materials including steel, stone, bronze, aluminum and concrete. Charles also paints and has many paintings and prints on display. Come to check out the work and leave with a Charles Herndon original! Walk around the gardens and notice the houses, many built 1900 or before. Sculptures abound by the water and around the property. The property is a residence so please be respectful of the people who live here! The Galleries and Gardens also hosts guest artists.

This second oldest zoo in the U.S., considered one of the best in the country, is most renowned for its endangered species and birthing programs, particularly for gorillas and white tigers, and has a wonderful collection of felines and a delightful manatees exhibit.

A historic estate and garden which features 47 acres of landscaped gardens, greenhouses, hiking trails, and tours of the mansion. We hold many events, including corporate rentals, weddings and parties, Garden Club events, children's events, and community events such as Pumpkin Glow and Christmas at Kingwood.

A botanical landmark just two miles east of downtown Columbus, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens features exotic plant collections and displays, seasonal exhibitions, outdoor gardens (including community and culinary gardens) and a variety of educational programming. All set within the 88-acre Franklin Park. Inspired by horticulture, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens elevates quality of life and connects the community through educational, cultural and social experiences. All ages can partake in a variety of special events and activities throughout the year. A full menu of classes, workshops and camps are offered in gardening, cooking, fine art and wellness. With its natural surroundings, both indoors and out, the Conservatory serves as a premier venue for special events and corporate gatherings.