While you're in town for our special day, we highly recommend a visit to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. This place holds a special spot in our hearts--we visit every Christmas to see the Wildlights and try to go at least once every summer to see the elephants (Caleb's favorite). Check it out!
German Village is known for its bookstores (hello, Book Loft!), traditional fudge, art galleries, German pubs, and artisan coffee shops. We love German Village so much that we chose Schmidt's Sausage Haus to cater the wedding! Make sure to stop by the restaurant yourself for some German potato salad and cream puffs the size of your head.
Inniswood Metro Gardens is a 123-acre nature preserve in Westerville. We often took walks there as a young couple since it was halfway between Caleb's house and Grace's old apartment back in 2021. It's where we each first said "I love you," and for that reason became the perfect setting for our engagement photos! Inniswood is perfect for those who love nature hikes, gardens, and free family fun.
While you're in town, don't miss the chance to explore Easton Town Center, Columbus' premier shopping destination. There's a diverse selection of shops, boutiques, and retailers, and has an open-air layout, beautiful landscaping, and a wide array of dining options, as well as a dine-in movie theatre! Caleb recommends the LEGO store (of course), while Grace recommends Jenni's Ice Cream.
If you have the time, check out the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens while you're in Columbus. Inside the stunning glass greenhouses, you'll discover a diverse array of plant collections from around the globe, alongside art installations and a butterfly sanctuary. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, art lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Conservatory provides an oasis of tranquility and beauty in the heart of the city.
Both Caleb and Grace grew up visiting and loving COSI. For an engaging and educational adventure in Columbus that's perfect for both kids and adults, we highly recommend a visit the Center of Science and Industry. Located in the heart of the city, COSI offers a world of interactive science exhibits and hands-on learning experiences. From exploring outer space and conducting exciting experiments to delving into the world of dinosaurs and technology, COSI provides a dynamic and fun-filled day of discovery. We encourage our wedding guests, especially those with kids, to make COSI a part of their Columbus itinerary.