Franklin County Travel Guide

Introduction

Located in the scenic state of Ohio, Franklin County is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With a rich history and a vibrant culture, this county is a perfect destination for travelers of all ages and interests. In this travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a 90-acre botanical garden and conservatory in Columbus, Ohio. The conservatory is home to over 400 plant species from all over the world, and the gardens offer visitors a chance to explore a variety of different ecosystems, from the rainforest to the desert. There are also several art installations on display throughout the gardens.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a world-renowned zoo and aquarium that is home to over 7,000 animals from around the world. Visitors can see a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, and giraffes, as well as aquatic animals such as sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays. The zoo also offers several educational programs and animal encounters.

Hidden Gems

Scioto Audubon Metro Park

Scioto Audubon Metro Park is a 120-acre park located in downtown Columbus. The park offers visitors a chance to explore a variety of different habitats, including wetlands, prairies, and woodlands. There are also several hiking trails, a rock-climbing wall, and a dog park.

Thurman Avenue Bridge

The Thurman Avenue Bridge is a historic bridge that spans the Scioto River in Columbus. The bridge was built in 1898 and is a beautiful example of 19th-century engineering. Visitors can walk across the bridge and enjoy views of the city skyline and river.

Food Scene

North Market

North Market is a historic public market in downtown Columbus that has been in operation since 1876. The market offers visitors a chance to sample a variety of different foods, including locally sourced produce, meats, and cheeses, as well as international cuisine from around the world.

German Village

German Village is a historic neighborhood in Columbus that is known for its German heritage and architecture. The neighborhood is home to several restaurants that serve traditional German cuisine, including sausages, schnitzel, and beer.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Museums

Columbus is home to several free museums, including the Columbus Museum of Art and the Ohio History Center. Visitors can explore art, history, and culture without spending a dime.

Parks and Trails

Franklin County is home to several parks and trails that offer free outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can hike, bike, or kayak without spending any money.

Outdoor Adventures

Alum Creek State Park

Alum Creek State Park is a 4,630-acre park located in Delaware County. The park offers visitors a chance to hike, bike, fish, and swim, as well as camp overnight. There are also several picnic areas and playgrounds for families to enjoy.

Scioto Mile

Scioto Mile is a 175-acre park in downtown Columbus that runs along the Scioto River. The park offers visitors a chance to walk, run, or bike along the river, as well as enjoy several fountains and public art installations.

Historical Landmarks

Ohio Statehouse

The Ohio Statehouse is a historic building in downtown Columbus that was completed in 1861. The building is a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture and is home to the Ohio General Assembly and several government offices.

Wexner Center for the Arts

The Wexner Center for the Arts is a contemporary art museum located on the campus of The Ohio State University. The museum features a variety of exhibitions and performances, as well as a film and video theater.

Family-Friendly Activities

COSI

COSI is a science museum in downtown Columbus that offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for visitors of all ages. The museum is home to several permanent exhibits, as well as rotating exhibitions.

Columbus Children’s Theatre

The Columbus Children’s Theatre is a professional theater company that produces shows for children of all ages. The theater also offers educational programs and camps for children who are interested in theater.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Franklin Park South Conservatory

The Franklin Park South Conservatory is a smaller conservatory that is located in the southern part of Franklin Park. The conservatory features a variety of plant species, as well as several art installations.

Ohio Village

Ohio Village is a living history museum that is located on the grounds of the Ohio History Center. The village features several historic buildings that have been restored to their original condition, as well as costumed interpreters who demonstrate life in 19th-century Ohio.

Natural Wonders

Highbanks Metro Park

Highbanks Metro Park is a 1,200-acre park located in Delaware County. The park is home to several hiking trails, as well as a scenic overlook that offers views of the Olentangy River.

Clear Creek Metro Park

Clear Creek Metro Park is a 5,300-acre park located in Fairfield County. The park offers visitors a chance to hike, fish, and camp, as well as explore several natural features, including waterfalls and rock formations.

Vibrant Nightlife

Short North Arts District

The Short North Arts District is a vibrant neighborhood in downtown Columbus that is home to several bars, restaurants, and art galleries. The neighborhood is particularly lively on the first Saturday of every month, when the galleries stay open late for the Gallery Hop.

Easton Town Center

Easton Town Center is a shopping and entertainment district in northeast Columbus that is home to several bars and restaurants. The district also hosts several events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts and festivals.

Local Markets

Clintonville Farmers’ Market

The Clintonville Farmers’ Market is a weekly market that is held on Saturday mornings in Clintonville. The market features locally sourced produce, meats, and cheeses, as well as handmade crafts and baked goods.

Westgate Farmers’ Market

The Westgate Farmers’ Market is a weekly market that is held on Thursday evenings in Westgate. The market features locally sourced produce, meats, and cheeses, as well as live music and food trucks.

Beaches and Mountains

Indian Lake State Park

Indian Lake State Park is a 5,800-acre park located in Logan County. The park is home to several beaches, as well as opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping.

Hocking Hills State Park

Hocking Hills State Park is a 2,356-acre park located in Hocking County. The park is home to several hiking trails, as well as natural features such as waterfalls, caves, and rock formations.

Cultural Immersion

Ohio Chinese Lantern Festival

The Ohio Chinese Lantern Festival is an annual event that is held at the Ohio Expo Center. The festival features hundreds of handmade lanterns, as well as cultural performances and food.

Ohio Renaissance Festival

The Ohio Renaissance Festival is an annual event that is held in Harveysburg. The festival features costumed performers, jousting tournaments, and period food and drink.

Art and Music Scene

Ohio Theatre

The Ohio Theatre is a historic theater in downtown Columbus that was built in 1928. The theater is home to the Columbus Symphony Orchestra and hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and other performances throughout the year.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a museum in Cleveland that is dedicated to the history and culture of rock and roll. The museum features several exhibits, as well as a variety of educational programs and events.

Walking Tours

German Village Walking Tour

The German Village Walking Tour is a guided tour that explores the history and architecture of the German Village neighborhood in Columbus. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who share stories and insights about the neighborhood.