With more than 140 acres of luscious greenspace and miles of multi-use paths, there are plenty of parks to explore in Downtown Columbus. Whether you want to lounge with a book, sit and swing a while, get your steps in, cycle around, there’s a park to do whatever you want to in Downtown Columbus.
1. Columbus Commons
160 S High Street
An urban oasis packed with programming, this park does double duty as a respite for office workers and residents who need a break during the day. With two cafes – Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams and Tortilla Street Food – grab a bite to eat and get your steps in at this premier urban park. Be sure to check out their event calendar for the latest happenings.
Try: Setting up your mobile office outdoors thanks to free WIFI from the Columbus Metropolitan Library
2. Dorrian Green
50 S Belle Street
Packed full of features this park has something for the young and young at heart alike. Explore the pollinator garden, architectural playground, musical garden, colorful chaise chairs and more. Stop by on your way to COSI or before a stroll on the Scioto Mile. Plus, parking is a breeze with 600+ spots directly underneath the park.
Try: Swinging the stress away
3. McFerson Commons
218 West Street
Right across from Nationwide Arena, this park is at the nexus of Columbus’ sports. Stop by before a game or enjoy lunch outdoors on one of the low walls around the park. Lined with beautiful trees and surrounded by office and residential buildings, you’ll feel like you’ve escaped to the big city without leaving your hometown.
Try: Posing for a photo under the iconic arch
4. Sensenbrenner Park
300 N. High St.
A small pocket park clocking in at less than an acre, but with beautiful flora and a scenic water feature, it’s a mini oasis in the city. Perfect for a quick jaunt when you need to break up the day or are just searching for a change of scenery.
Try: Bringing lunch and enjoying a bite on a bench
5. Scioto Mile
233 S Civic Center Drive
With lush green banks, miles of multiuse paths, swings situated along a picturesque promenade, and of course a one-of-a-kind fountain and splash pad, there are endless ways to spend some time on the Scioto Mile, whether you have a half-hour or a whole day.
Try: SUP-ing on the Scioto River with Windrose Outdoor. Not feeling quite that adventurous? Upgrade your afternoon walk by renting a COGO to bike for a bit.
6. Topiary Park
480 E Town Street
Take a walk through Topiary Park to be transported back to old-world Europe. A green recreation of Georges Seurat’s famous painting A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte, immerse yourself in a treasured piece of Columbus’ history.
Try: Grabbing a book from the Main Library next door and enjoy reading in the open air.
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