Exploring Columbus is not just about the city’s vibrant art scene, historic neighborhoods, or culinary delights. One of the things that really struck me on my visits is how much the city values its green spaces. From riverside promenades to meticulously curated botanical gardens, Columbus offers a diverse array of parks and gardens that cater to nature lovers, families, fitness enthusiasts, and those simply looking for a moment of peace in the city. I can confidently say that the parks in Columbus are worth planning your trip around.
I’ll share my personal experiences with three parks and gardens I’ve explored, as well as three recommended green spaces that are ideal for recreation, leisure, or simply soaking in the local ambiance. I’ll detail their locations, amenities, how to get there from the airport or train station, and my own reflections.
1. Scioto Mile: Columbus’s Riverside Gem
Location: Downtown Columbus, along the Scioto River
Access: About 20 minutes from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) by car; COTA bus routes 2, 22, and 33 stop nearby.
Entrance Fees: Free
Scioto Mile is one of my favorite spots in Columbus because it combines scenic beauty with a bustling urban atmosphere. The mile-long stretch of riverfront park features walking and biking trails, fountains, and open lawns that make it perfect for morning runs or evening strolls.
My Experience
I visited Scioto Mile on a crisp spring morning, and the city skyline reflecting on the Scioto River was breathtaking. The park is meticulously maintained; the lawns are lush, and the walking paths are smooth enough for rollerblading. My favorite spot was the Gordon Square Promenade, where the benches face the river, allowing for a peaceful moment of reflection.
Highlights
- Bicentennial Park Fountain: A massive interactive fountain where children splash around in the summer. I sat nearby with a coffee, watching families laugh—it felt like a scene from a movie.
- Biking and Walking Paths: I rented a bike through CoGo Bike Share and explored the full length of the riverfront. The paths are safe, well-marked, and scenic.
- Event Spaces: Scioto Mile hosts festivals, yoga sessions, and live music during warmer months. I happened to catch a jazz concert at the Battelle Riverfront Park Amphitheater—an unexpectedly magical experience.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Free admission, centrally located, scenic views, great for families and solo travelers, excellent connectivity via public transport.
- Cons: Can be crowded on weekends; parking downtown may require a fee of \$5–\$10/hour.
Recommendations
- Bring a reusable water bottle and snacks; there are cafés nearby, but a picnic by the river is perfect.
- Try visiting in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting if you enjoy photography.
- Recommended rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. Inniswood Metro Gardens: A Botanical Escape
Location: 940 S Hempstead Rd, Westerville, OH 43081
Access: About 25 minutes from CMH; accessible via rental car or taxi; limited public transport.
Entrance Fees: Adults \$5, Seniors \$4, Children under 5 free
Inniswood Metro Gardens is a horticultural delight, spanning 123 acres of beautifully curated gardens, woodlands, and trails. As someone who enjoys botanical diversity, this was an absolute treat.
My Experience
Visiting Inniswood felt like stepping into a peaceful sanctuary. I spent hours wandering through themed gardens, including the Herb Garden, Perennial Garden, and the Water Garden. Each section is meticulously labeled with plant species, making it educational as well as relaxing.
Highlights
- Butterfly and Pollinator Garden: Watching monarchs flutter over milkweed plants was enchanting.
- Japanese Garden: A small, serene space perfect for meditation or quiet reflection. I sat on the stone benches for nearly half an hour, taking in the perfectly raked sand and small koi pond.
- Walking Trails: The woodland paths offer shaded walks; in spring, wildflowers line the trails, creating an almost magical experience.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Tranquil, well-maintained, educational, small admission fee, excellent for photography and nature lovers.
- Cons: Not very accessible via public transport, so you’ll likely need a car. Limited food options inside the park.
Recommendations
- Wear comfortable walking shoes; some trails are uneven.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; I spotted cardinals, blue jays, and a couple of hawks.
- Recommended rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Location: 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203
Access: 15 minutes from CMH by car; COTA bus route 3 or 33 stops nearby.
Entrance Fees: Adults \$20, Seniors \$17, Children 3–12 \$13
Franklin Park Conservatory is a place where art and horticulture intersect beautifully. I’ve always been drawn to spaces that combine greenery with design, and this conservatory exceeded my expectations.
My Experience
Walking into the conservatory, I felt instantly transported to a tropical paradise. The glass domes let in natural light, highlighting vibrant orchids, towering palms, and exotic ferns. The Seasonal Flower Show was in full bloom during my visit, featuring tulips and daffodils arranged in intricate patterns.
Highlights
- Palm House: The towering palms and tropical plants create an immersive jungle experience.
- Exhibition Gallery: Rotating exhibitions include glass art from Dale Chihuly, which brilliantly complements the botanical displays.
- Outdoor Gardens: The Japanese Garden and Herb Garden are perfect for leisurely strolls.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Educational, accessible, fantastic for photography, indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Cons: Admission fee might be high for some; weekends can be crowded.
Recommendations
- Buy tickets online via FranklinParkConservatory.org for a small discount.
- Allocate 2–3 hours to fully explore both indoor and outdoor gardens.
- Recommended rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. Recommended Parks and Gardens in Columbus
4.1. Goodale Park
Location: 120 W Goodale St, Columbus, OH 43215
Highlights: One of the oldest parks in Columbus, it’s perfect for picnics, jogging, and attending community events. I’ve loved the shaded walking paths and scenic pond.
Activities: Paddle boating, outdoor concerts, farmers’ markets.
Pros/Cons: Central location and historic charm; can get busy during festivals.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
4.2. Whetstone Park of Roses
Location: 3923 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214
Highlights: Known for its stunning rose garden, I spent an afternoon photographing hundreds of rose varieties. The fragrance is intoxicating, especially in June.
Activities: Photography, walking tours, picnics.
Pros/Cons: Extremely well-maintained; less accessible by public transport.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
4.3. Schiller Park
Location: 1069 Jaeger St, Columbus, OH 43206
Highlights: A charming neighborhood park in German Village. I enjoyed the tree-lined pathways and historic monuments.
Activities: Walking tours, playground for kids, seasonal festivals.
Pros/Cons: Small but intimate; limited parking on weekends.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Personal Tips for Visiting Columbus Parks
- Transportation: Renting a car is often the easiest way to visit multiple parks in a day. Downtown and Scioto Mile are walkable, but Inniswood and Whetstone require a drive.
- Best Seasons: Spring and early summer for flowers, fall for foliage. Winter can be quiet but some parks have beautiful snow-covered landscapes.
- Packing: Bring water, sunscreen, a picnic blanket, and a camera. For gardens, consider a small field guide for birds or flowers to enhance your experience.
- Safety and Etiquette: Columbus parks are generally very safe. Respect wildlife, keep dogs leashed, and follow posted park rules.
Experiencing Columbus Through Its Parks and Gardens
Exploring Columbus through its parks and gardens has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my travels. Each green space tells a story—whether it’s the city’s history, its commitment to nature, or the vibrant culture of its residents. From the bustling energy of Scioto Mile to the quiet, contemplative beauty of Inniswood Metro Gardens, Columbus offers an unparalleled range of outdoor experiences.
Reflections on My Visits
What struck me most is how accessible and diverse these parks are. You can go from a lively urban promenade with street performers and riverside cafes to a serene woodland trail where birds chirp and leaves rustle underfoot—all within a few miles. For me, this variety made each visit feel like stepping into a different world, yet always connected by the warmth and friendliness of the city.
I especially loved watching families, joggers, and cyclists enjoying the Scioto Mile. It reminded me that parks are not just about scenery—they’re about community. In Inniswood Gardens, I found moments of quiet inspiration, pausing to admire a perfectly raked Japanese garden or the delicate wings of a butterfly in the pollinator garden. These small experiences create memories that linger long after you leave.
Practical Tips for Maximum Enjoyment
- Timing Matters: Early mornings are ideal for birdwatching or capturing serene photos without crowds. Late afternoons offer beautiful golden-hour lighting for photography and a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Seasonal Highlights: Spring and early summer showcase flowers at their peak. Fall offers a spectacular display of autumn foliage. Winter can be quieter, but snow-covered trails in places like Whetstone Park of Roses create a magical experience.
- Pack Smart: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and a camera are essential. In parks like Franklin Park Conservatory, a notebook or sketchpad can enhance your visit if you enjoy drawing or journaling.
- Engage Locally: Attend seasonal events, guided tours, or community festivals when available. These offer insight into local culture and often reveal hidden corners of the parks that you might otherwise miss.
Recommendations for Fellow Travelers
- Plan a Park-Hopping Day: Combine urban and suburban green spaces. For example, start at Scioto Mile, then drive to Whetstone Park of Roses, and finish at Inniswood Gardens for a perfect balance of activity and relaxation.
- Bring a Picnic: Several parks, including Goodale and Whetstone, have designated picnic areas. Grab local snacks or meals from nearby cafés and enjoy an outdoor lunch surrounded by nature.
- Photographers’ Tip: For photography enthusiasts, early spring and late afternoon offer the best light. Water reflections at Scioto Mile and the vibrant blooms at Whetstone and Inniswood provide incredible photo opportunities.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Many parks offer playgrounds, splash pads, and bike rentals. Franklin Park Conservatory is especially good for kids, with interactive exhibits and seasonal flower shows.
Columbus’s parks and gardens are a testament to the city’s dedication to blending urban living with green, restorative spaces. Whether you’re a nature lover, a fitness enthusiast, a photographer, or simply someone seeking a peaceful retreat, there is a park here for you. For me, exploring these spaces has been a journey of discovery—not just of flora and fauna, but of Columbus itself.
I always leave these parks feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and more connected to both nature and the local community. Every trail walked, every flower admired, every riverside bench sat upon is a memory etched in my travel experiences. Columbus proves that you don’t have to leave the city to find beauty, serenity, and adventure all at once.
So, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a longer stay, or just passing through, make sure to carve out time for these incredible green spaces. Trust me—your mind, body, and soul will thank you. Columbus isn’t just a city to see; it’s a city to feel, breathe, and explore through its parks and gardens. And once you’ve experienced it, you’ll understand why these spaces are so beloved by locals and travelers alike.
