Things To Do
PARKS & ATTRACTIONS
Columbus Park of Roses
If you’re lucky, the thousands of rose bushes will be in bloom!
Schiller Park
Located in the heart of German Village, this park features walking paths, mature trees, and statues in the midst of the area’s beautiful architecture. Marielle & Kyle's engagement photos were here!
Topiary Park
A unique, living interpretation of a famous painting (A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte) located downtown.
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
An expansive indoor-outdoor garden space featuring the largest private collection of Dale Chihuly glass art in a botanical garden.
COSI
A well-regarded science museum with hands-on exhibits and interactive experiences for kids and adults alike. A favorite of Marielle’s growing up!
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Consistently ranked among the best in the U.S., this zoo features a wide variety of animals (including Marielle’s favorite, the red panda)
The Ohio State University
Wander through the Oval or pause by Mirror Lake to take in the heart of one of the largest universities in the country (even if you’re not a Buckeye fan!)
Jack Nicklaus Museum
Explore the life and legacy of the golf legend — a stop especially interesting to sports fans, located on the OSU campus.
National Veterans Memorial and Museum
Thoughtfully designed and deeply moving, this national museum offers personal stories and historical context in a striking modern building.
Breakfast & Morning Options
Fox in the Snow Cafe
Bright and relaxed café with excellent coffee, standout pastries, and a killer breakfast sandwich. There are multiple locations, but this is Marielle's favorite!
Pistacia Vera
Offers Columbus’ best macarons, other French-style pastries and light breakfast fare in a cozy corner of German Village.
Cambridge Tea House
A small, traditional tea house with homemade scones and proper tea service. Reservations required.
Emmett's Cafe
Polished, modern café known for its strong coffee, all-day breakfast, and welcoming space. Highly recommend their Mint cream cold brew and breakfast burrito!
Katalina's in Harrison West
Eclectic and casual with a Latin-inspired twist — best known for its pancake balls and house-made sauces.
lunch spots
North Market Downtown
A lively food hall with a range of international cuisines, local vendors, and quick bites all in one place (Fun fact: Jeni’s first ice cream stand was located here!)
Northstar Cafe in the Short North
Bright, spacious, and focused on organic, locally-sourced ingredients. One of Marielle’s favorite lunch spots (Note: Weekends have a special brunch menu)
Chouette
A design-forward space offering modern French fare with seasonal ingredients — suitable for lunch or a light early dinner.
Brassica / Piada / Chop5 (Upper Arlington)
Fast-casual options in the Upper Arlington area with Mediterranean, Italian, and salad-focused menus, respectively.
Junk food Trail
North Market Downtown
Beyond its lunch appeal, it’s also a solid stop for indulgent snacks — try the donuts, pretzels, or ice cream.
Hot Chicken Takeover
A spicy fried chicken favorite with a cult following, located in North Market. Choose your heat level wisely.
The Thurman Cafe
Great old-school burgers and large portions in a no-frills restaurant space.
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus Restaurant
Classic German-American eatery serving bratwurst, schnitzel, and massive cream puffs since 1886.
Katzinger's Delicatessen
Well-loved deli with towering sandwiches and an excellent pickle bar.
Dirty Frank's Hot Dog Palace
A casual downtown spot known for its creative hot dogs and offbeat energy.
Patio Dining
Lindey's
An established Columbus favorite– go grab lunch in its gorgeous outdoor courtyard!
Barcelona Restaurant and Bar
Spanish-inspired cuisine that’s great for shared plates and a cozy, but lively, atmosphere.
Forno Kitchen + Bar
Trendy Short North location offering pizza, pastas, and cocktails that’s known for its brunch and happy hour.
High Bank Distillery Co
A local distillery with a casual, modern menu and plenty of space for outdoor dining.
Dinner options
Chapman's Eat Market
Intimate and creative, Chapman's features trendy decor, a seasonal menu, and thoughtful wine pairings. Reservations recommended.
Chouette
Also a great dinner pick, especially if you're looking for a quieter downtown dining experience.
Giuseppe's Ritrovo
Neighborhood Italian spot with house-made pastas. Convenient to the Conservatory.
Third & Hollywood
Upscale neighborhood bistro in Grandview with craft cocktails, quality comfort food, and a great patio.
Evening Drinks & Entertainment
DENMARK
Stylish bar with a curated drink list and a second-story view of the city.
Lincoln Social Rooftop
Rooftop bar with skyline views and a chic atmosphere.
Cobra
Tucked away and low-lit, offering well-executed cocktails in a relaxed setting.
Stories on High
One of the tallest rooftop bars in the city with upscale drinks and panoramic vistas; near Cobra.
Wolf's Ridge Brewing - Taproom
Known for creative beers and an inviting, industrial-style taproom.
Pins Mechanical Co.
Duck pin bowling lanes, arcade games, and a full bar. Low-key and fun.
Jackie O's On Fourth
A spacious spot featuring 25+ house beers, a two-story patio, and local eats; next to Pins.
High Bank Distillery Co
A versatile choice, also great in the evening for cocktails and conversation.
BrewDog Franklinton
Scottish-rooted brewery with bold branding, creative beers, and a rooftop bar. (Note: This is where our welcome drinks will be; Land Grant and Rehab are directly next door as well!)
Land-Grant Brewing Company
Spacious brewery with food trucks, outdoor seating, and a community feel.
Rehab Tavern
A great dive bar option with a cozy patio and great craft beers.