Columbus, the capital of Ohio, has a diverse economy based on steel, energy, retail, education, banking, and fashion. It is also home to Ohio State University and Fortune 500 companies such as Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, White Castle, Wendy’s, and Big Lots. With being packed and prepared for an awesome vacation to Columbus here are a few things you should plan on seeing while in Cowtown.
1. Visit the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Garden
The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Columbus is 88 acres of indoor and outdoor gardens with amazing horticultural displays. Each season the exhibits are changed so visitors are treated to wonderful new selections, especially during the summer. Keep an eye out for the orchids in January.
The Holiday Inn Columbus Downtown Capitol Square is just two miles from the Franklin Park Conservatory. It features its own restaurant and fitness center. You can also take advantage of the services of a bellhop.
2. See the Center of Science and Industry (COSI)
The COSI is 116,000 square feet of exhibit space plus extra room for the Ohio State University Labs in Life. It also features a working television station. Beyond the fascinating exhibits, visitors will discover that the building itself is worth taking a look at.
The DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Columbus Downtown is the most comfortable place to stay if you’re planning to visit the COSI, and it’s less than half a mile away. The hotel is also close to the airport and within walking distance from the LeVeque Tower and the Ohio Statehouse. While staying there be sure to enjoy the sauna.
3. Stop by the Topiary Park
You have to see this park to believe it. It’s as if art and nature ran together. This unique topiary garden is based on paintings by Georges Seurat, particularly his work called, “A Sunday on the Island of La Grande Jatte.” It portrays people lounging on the River Seine. James T. Mason first recreated the scene in early 1990 using sculpted shrubs. He used 54 topiary people, dogs, boats, a monkey, one cat, and a pond to represent the river.
Stay at the Westin Columbus, less than a mile away from the park. It’s also close to the German Village and the Greater Columbus Convention Center. It offers its guests 24-hour access to a business center and fitness center.
4. Don’t Miss the Santa Maria
The Santa Maria Museum in Columbus is a replica of the historic ship sailed by Christopher Columbus. Tours demonstrate what life was like on the boat, from the equipment they would have used to the types of activities the explorers would have engaged in. You can also learn what historical implications resulted from the expeditions on the Santa Maria.
The Drury Inn and Suites Columbus Convention Center is within walking distance to the Santa Maria and offers guests free breakfast, and free Internet access. It is also attached to the Greater Columbus Convention Center.
There’s really much more to see and do in Columbus. But take these tips to heart. You don’t want to miss these wonderful attractions while traveling to Columbus on vacation.
