Many exciting attractions call Columbus, Ohio, home.
Flickr/jjyoung78But you might overlook some of the best places when you visit. So, here’s a look at five of the lesser-known attractions in the city and what makes Columbus worthy of a trip!
1. Explore The City’s World-Renowned Topiary Garden
The Topiary Garden in downtown Columbus is the only topiary representation of a painting in the world. Step into the famous “Sunday Afternoon in the Island of La Grande Jatte” by Georges Seurat. Completed in 1992, the park offers 54 people, eight boats, three dogs, a monkey, and a cat — all created from yew trees. The park sits on the original site of the Ohio School for the Deaf. Its sculptor, James Mason, and his wife, Elaine, wanted a spot for visual experience without sound.
2. Go Back In Time At The Anti-Saloon League
Return to the time of Prohibition with a tour of the Anti-Saloon League Museum. The political group, headquartered just outside Columbus, spent years urging the passage of the Volstead Act that led to the Eighteenth Amendment prohibiting alcohol in the United States. The museum houses a diverse collection of artifacts from that era representing the passion that league members felt about their cause. Before you go, check HotelPlanner for Columbus locations near attractions you want to see.
3. Visit The Home Of WWI Hero Eddie Rickenbacker
If history interests you, stop by the often-missed home of Eddie Rickenbacker. The World War I ace shot down more enemy planes than anyone else, bringing down 26 aircraft in six months. Rickenbacker eventually became the president and chairman of the board of Eastern Air Lines. He even survived two plane crashes later in his life, one that left Eddie and others stranded on rubber life rafts in the Pacific Ocean for 24 days.
4. Forget Stonehenge, Marvel In Awe At Cornhenge!
You’ve probably heard of England’s Stonehenge. Well, welcome to the Midwest’s own version, Cornhenge! Located on a farm in the Columbus suburb of Dublin, the 109 large white corn statues form an homage to the Corn Belt State. Each of the six-foot-tall cobs weighs 1,500 pounds. Five plaques tell the history of the land, from its Native American roots to the present day. Just ask a local for directions to the Cement Corn. The farm frequently hosts weddings and many other activities during the year. Visitors say it’s worth the trip to see this reminder of the area’s agricultural past.
5. Unique Eats
Try a fun and adventurous dining experience with one of the restaurants in Columbus that lets you cook your own meal. Located in the historic German Village section of the city, The Kitchen lets you learn a few new skills while preparing and sharing a meal with family or friends. The Seasoned Farmhouse is a French country-style farm that lets guests pick their own ingredients and then work with a team to create a wonderful gourmet meal. The best part is that the restaurant staff handles the cleanup so you can enjoy your meal.
No matter where you turn, Columbus offers many great attractions. Next time you visit, be sure to check out these lesser-known places in the city for a unique experience.
Article written by RYAN TYSON.
