Exploring
Hocking Hills
Nestled in the Appalachian counties of Southeast Ohio, Hocking Hills offers beautiful caves, historic towns, and hikes for all skill levels. Most Hocking Hills destinations are within 90 minutes of Columbus.
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a premier botanical landmark and cultural attraction featuring exceptional plant collections and gardens, seasonal art- and nature-based exhibitions, and a dynamic array of educational opportunities and special events for visitors of all ages.
Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks
Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks features 19 outstanding natural area parks with more than 200 miles of trails and over 27,500 acres of land in seven Central Ohio counties. The mission of Metro Parks is to conserve open spaces, while providing places and opportunities that encourage people to discover and experience nature.
German Village
German Village is a historic neighborhood in Columbus that reflects a typical German village in Europe. Established and settled by German immigrants between 1840 and 1914, German Village is a fully functioning German community just south of downtown that aims to “preserve, protect and promote life among the bricks.” Today, the historic neighborhood is an internationally recognized historic district and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
COSI (Center of Science and Industry)
The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) is a dynamic place that focuses on inspiring, educating, and engaging young learners and curious minds to gain a better understanding of science, industry, health, and history.