What to do and see in Columbus, Ohio (OH): The Best Historic Sites

A highway bridge over Interstate 70 is all that separates the German Village Historic District from downtown Columbus, but as one looks east from the interstate, the difference between old and new is glaring. A 20+ story structure sits just north of the interstate bridge, and just south, in German Village, no structure is higher than three stories. Five blocks south, the spire of St. Mary Church stands 197’ off the sidewalk and towers over everything around it. Structures and sidewalks are orange masonry, and many streets (about half) are still brick pavers. German Village does not have a recreated sense of history or kitschy Bavarian feel ~ rather, it is a neighborhood with architecture dating from the 1840s-1890s that has been preserved, and its use as a shared residential and commercial neighborhood has been maintained. People walk to their destinations, park on the street due to the overwhelming absence of driveways, and live life at a very pedestrian level. The neighborhood is extremely dense ~ very often only inches separate neighboring structures, and many structures were built for multi-family use. German Village is notably different because its appearance has changed so little.

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.

Cultural institution dedicated to exploring the African-American experience through theatrical productions, visual arts exhibitions and educational activities.

Experience urban life and the decorative arts, as they existed in the second half of the 19th century, through the collection of the Sophia and Fernando Cortez Kelton family. Learn about the Underground Railroad and the people that bring the history to life.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Thurber House is a literary center, museum, and bookstore located in the restored 19th century home of famed author, humorist, and New Yorker cartoonist James Thurber. Thurber House hosts events with bestselling authors, writing classes, literary picnics on the lawn, and education camps and classes for children in preschool through high school. Other programs include the John E. Nance Writer-in-Residence Program, the Children’s Writer-in-Residence Program, and the Thurber Prize for American Humor — one of the highest recognitions of humor writing in the United States. Thurber House is open for tours four days a week (except major holidays). Free self-guided tours are offered on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 1:00–4:00 pm. Drop-in guided tours are offered on Sundays from 1:00–4:00 pm. Be sure to visit our historical marker, dog garden, and unicorn in the garden!