
Founded in 1812 with the intention of making it the capital of Ohio, Columbus was always destined for greatness. Over the last two centuries, as Columbus has grown to become the most populous city in the state, it has developed a rich tradition of historical and cultural significance.
Heritage Treasures Day on Monday, January 11 is a perfect occasion to cherish the legacy of Columbus with a visit to these local historic sites.
1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203
View this post on Instagram
The glory of nature is on full display at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Visitors can explore 13 acres of gardens, seasonal displays, and art exhibits, including a collection of glass works by noted artist Dale Chihuly. Kids and adults alike are fascinated by the Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus, which features an apiary, rose pavilion, and berry house. The John F. Wolfe Palm House, located on the grounds, dates back to 1895. Admission is $19 for adults and $12 for kids ages 3-12. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily.
480 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
Founded in 1878 under the name Columbus Gallery of Fine Arts, the Columbus Museum of Art has a long tradition of making great art accessible to the local community. Their extensive collection of American and European works focuses on contemporary art, folk art, glass, and photography. Families love "Think Outside the Brick," CMA's annual spring exhibit of LEGO® creations, including a giant model of Columbus. Entrance fee is $18 for adults and $9 for students and kids ages 4-17. Tickets must be purchased in advance. CMA is open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, with extended hours until 9 p.m. on Thursday.
588 S. 3rd St., Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
A simple trip across a highway bridge transports you to old-world Europe in a matter of minutes. German Village is no commercially-created tourist attraction. This historic district was settled in the mid-1800s by German immigrants, who at one time made up one-third of the city's population. The lack of high-rise buildings and driveways are features from the days of quaint, close-knit neighborhoods where people walked everywhere and homes were often occupied by multiple families. Many of the streets still bear the original brick pavers. The sights and sounds of German Village are well worth multiple visits.
1 Capitol Sq., Columbus, OH 43215
A trip to the Ohio Statehouse serves a two-fold purpose. In addition to serving as the central location for the business of governing Ohio, the building is a stunning example of the Greek Revival style of architecture that was so predominant during the 18th century. Between stretches of bitter winter weather and struggles for funding, construction took 22 years. The Statehouse finally opened for legislative activity in 1857 and the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. Visitors may take self-guided tours weekdays from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and weekends from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
260 N. Fourth St., Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
Housed in an authentically restored 1908 engine house, the Central Ohio Fire Museum & Learning Center uses interactive programs to offer entertaining and educational lessons on fire safety. Displays of firefighting apparatus throughout the years trace the development of equipment as it has become safer and more effective. Boots the Fire Mouse is on hand to greet kids as they enjoy the play area. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for children. The Museum is open 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
800 Alum Creek Dr., Columbus, OH 43205
Hanford Village was incorporated in 1909, but its true prominence came in 1946 with the development of the George Washington Carver Addition. This suburb of Cape Cod houses was marketed to African-American veterans of World War II. As a result, these men and women and their families had the opportunity to settle in a thriving, supportive middle-class neighborhood. Some members of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen made their home in Hanford Village while stationed at nearby Lockbourne Army Air Force Base.
886 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
View this post on Instagram
Short North Arts District, nestled between downtown Columbus and the OSU campus, is a hip neighborhood of colorful murals, trendy boutiques and hot restaurants. The district is also home to a slice of Columbus history in Victorian Village, the neighborhood's residential area. One of the more notable examples of Victorian architecture is Sells House, built by one of the owners of the Sells Circus, leading to the nickname "Circus House." Nearby is Cocoa Manor, another whimsically-named house that was home to the owners of Anthony Thomas Candy.
3141 McKinley Ave., Columbus, OH 43204
In pre-Columbian times, the Adena culture was a group of Native American societies living in Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky and Indiana that shared a number of ceremonial rituals. Shrum Mound in Campbell Park is one of the last cone-shaped Adena burial mounds remaining in Columbus. The mound itself is 20 feet high and 100 feet around, named for the family that donated the land, while the park is named for James E. Campbell, governor of Ohio from 1890 to 1892.
1234 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43205
View this post on Instagram
See how "the other half" used to live with a trip to view the homes in the East Broad Street Historic District. Most prominent among these elegant houses is the Old Governor's Mansion, also known as the Lindenberg Mansion after the man who originally built the residence. Another landmark is the High Victorian-style Kappa Gamma National Headquarters, constructed in 1852.
586 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215
While Kelton House Museum & Garden is a striking example of art and architecture from the 19th century, the site has a much greater historical importance. The home of Fernando Cortez and Sophia Stone Kelton served as a stop on the iconic Underground Railroad. Fugitive slaves found a haven in these waystations on their journey toward freedom. Grace Kelton, granddaughter of Fernando and Sophia, bequeathed the home to the city of Columbus for educational use. Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for college students and $3 for K-12 students. The museum is closed in January, but make plans to visit when they reopen on Thursday, February 4.
What modern Columbus site do you think will become part of the city's history for future generations?

Did you know the Center of the World is in Ohio? Yes, there actually is an unincorporated community by that name near Youngstown, not far from the Pennsylvania state line.
But there are a number of truly compelling reasons why one of the state's slogans is, "Center of the Universe." If you're looking for a new home in 2021, here are a dozen fascinating features that make a great case for finding it in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, or Cincinnati.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Chili is a dish that lends itself to a wide range of ingredients and preparations. But Cincinnati still managed to put itself on the culinary map with a unique version that keeps people coming back for more. More of a sauce than a stew or soup, Cincinnati chili is almost always served on top of hot dogs or spaghetti noodles. Unexpected seasonings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and chocolate give the chili a Mediterranean flavor. Order it 3-way topped with cheddar cheese, add onions or beans to make it 4-way, or go for the works with 5-way.View this post on Instagram
Cleveland, Columbus, or Cincinnati: which one is the perfect fit for you?

Who's ready to explore a world of art? November 9th is National Go to an Art Museum Day, and art museums all around Ohio are calling your name! Whether you're close to Columbus, nearby Northeast Ohio, or living in Cincinnati, we encourage you to head to these fascinating art museums in Ohio.
11400 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106
The ever-changing Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland has a history of developing the city's cultural landscape. It was one of the first museums in the area to display works from artists like Andy Warhol, and they continue to feature innovative works from emerging artists. MoCa Cleveland reopened in October and invites visitors to gaze at their current exhibits from artists Nina Katchadourian, Paul Ramirez Jonas, Martin Creed, and Margaret Kilgallen.
11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44106
View this post on Instagram
The Cleveland Museum of Art was founded over a century ago for the "benefit of all the people forever." Since then, it's been renovated and expanded to enhance and engage the Northeast Ohio art community. Today, you can view their current exhibitions dedicated to Korean, Chinese, and Latin American artists. Music lovers will enjoy the special Behind the Beat series, which celebrates the legacy of music at the museum, which can be viewed and heard online.
1305 W. 80th St. Suite 016, Cleveland, OH 44102
Those who love art but wish to appreciate regional work rather than globally curated collections should head to ARTneo, the Museum of Northeast Ohio Art. Located in Gordon Square, this unique museum showcases artists from past and present who called Northeast Ohio home. Plan your visit ahead of time, as they're currently open by appointment only. If you can't find an appointment that works for you, consider heading to their free open house event at 78th Street Studios on Friday, November 20th. These Third Friday events have been voted the Best Arts Event in Cleveland.
480 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
The Columbus Museum of Art is open and ready to welcome art lovers back. Among their many wonderful pieces, they host the world's largest collection of artworks from local artists, including George Bellows and Aminah Brenda Lynn Robinson. Spend hours browsing their permanent collection and latest exhibitions or take part in one of their creative events in-person or online. Although the Columbus Museum of Art is closed on Mondays, which is National Go to An Art Museum Day, you can browse their collections online from home to help plan your visit.
1871 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43210
The Ohio State University is home to acclaimed athletics and academics, but many don't know that they also house a fantastic art center. The Wexner Center for the Arts is an on-campus laboratory for advancing contemporary art. As one of the most dynamic contemporary art programs in the country, it showcases its students' works throughout exhibition space. These exhibits feature art in every medium, with many showcased indoors and outdoors. There are five interesting exhibits on display during National Go to an Art Museum Day to provide you with a memorable visit to OSU that requires no tailgating.
5819 Chantry Dr., Columbus, OH 43232
View this post on Instagram
If you're looking for one of the most unique art experiences in Columbus, head to Otherworld. This 32,000 square-foot immersive art experience in Chantry Square takes you through dozens of rooms. Some display large-scale artworks while others offer mixed-reality playgrounds or secret passageways. Over 40 artists have contributed to this tech-infused space, creating a truly other-worldly experience for art lovers and anyone who loves an immersive experience. Note that tickets can only be purchased online in advance.
953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45202
There are few better ways to spend the day in Cincinnati than in Eden Park. It's home to some of the city's best attractions, including the Cincinnati Art Museum, which boasts nearly 70,000 pieces from across 6,000 years. Their collection includes stunning African, Islamic, Asian, and Native American artwork. One of November's featured exhibits is Women Breaking Boundaries, which showcases works from the museum's permanent collection completed by female artists. Another interesting exhibit is Do It (Home), an interactive exhibit that you can also download and create at home.
316 Pike St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
View this post on Instagram
Fine art has lived at the Taft Museum of Art in downtown Cincinnati for the last 200 years. Art and history come alive in ways unlike any other museum in the state. Though one of the finest small art museums in the country, there are countless hidden gems throughout the historic building. Eleven different period-inspired rooms display masterpieces from the 17th to 19th centuries. Current exhibits available for viewing during Go to an Art Museum Day include galleries celebrating local Cincinnati art over the history of the Taft Museum.
44 E. 6th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Enjoy free admission to the Cincinnati Contemporary Arts Center and view their current exhibits, including works from Marjolijn Dijkman, Vhils, Kader Attia, and Tania Candiani. One of the reasons why we love the Contemporary Arts Center is because it also hosts the UnMuseum. This innovative area allows adults and children alike to get hands-on with art and unleash their creativity. If you're unable to go to CAC on Go to an Art Museum Day, you can view their collection virtually online for free.
Let us know which destinations we should head to on National Go to an Art Museum Day in the comments!

It doesn't matter if you're an occasional sipper or an experienced aficionado, wine tasting is a great way to unwind with friends after a busy week. While Central Ohio is a long way from Napa Valley, there's no shortage of fantastic wine tasting options in the area. With so many choices, you are sure to discover several new types of wine you absolutely love.
Whether you're planning an upcoming date night or just hanging out with the girls, below are some recommendations for great wineries and vineyards in and around the Columbus area.
2050 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43207
View this post on Instagram
Via Vecchia calls itself an industrial-chic event center and urban winery. This 6,000-square-foot venue in downtown Columbus allows you to escape the busy city without actually leaving, as the property is equipped with a beautiful mezzanine, covered veranda, large patio, and private courtyard. While it's often used as a wedding venue, the winery itself is open by appointment. Vecchia's fine wines are made from traditional Tuscan techniques using certified organic grapes imported from California. All wines are vegan, keto, and paleo diet-friendly as well as gluten-free.
4640 Wyandotte Dr., Columbus, OH 43230
Wyandotte Winery calls itself the first and oldest winery in Columbus. Here, you can try new wines in a casual "no snob" environment. Located on a neighborhood street near Blendon Woods Park, this winery has a bar, a tasting room, and a wine shop, and all wine is made onsite. The property has a beautiful outdoor patio that is open when the weather cooperates. While they don't have a food menu, the owners will occasionally host a multi-course dinner with wine pairings. The winery is open Thursday - Saturday. Also, if you're traveling toward the Lancaster Ohio area, be sure to check out Rockside Winery and Vineyards, which is Wyandotte's sister winery.
901 Oak St., Columbus, OH 43205
View this post on Instagram
A Columbus staple since 2005, Camelot Cellars is a boutique winery offering more than 60 unique, high-quality wines that appeal to first-time consumers, experienced palates, and everyone in-between. Camelot's award-winning wines are made on-premise and are recognized nationally and internationally. In addition to wine, they offer a southern, Creole-influenced menu full of tasty modern comfort foods. If some members of your party prefer other beverages, beer and cocktails are also available. With happy hour specials during the week and winery tours on the weekend, make sure a visit to Camelot Cellars is on your list.
4230 The Strand, Columbus, OH 43219
What started as a winery in Orland Park, IL in 2005 has now expanded to several dozen locations across 10 states including this spot north of Columbus. Cooper's Hawk's wines have won hundreds of awards and are made with grapes from Chile, France, California, and Washington. Each wine is handcrafted and nurtured "according to its individual needs." With an onsite tasting room and a full dinner menu, Cooper's Hawk is the perfect place for a relaxing night out. Dining is described as modern casual, and they also offer a retail store so you can grab a bottle to take home. The restaurant and tasting rooms are open Monday - Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
2 S. State St., Westerville, OH 43081
View this post on Instagram
Located north of Columbus in Westerville, Good Vibes Winery brands itself as an urban winery that brings the traditional "wine region" experience to central Ohio. Each of the 20+ wines is named after classic hits and is made in Westerville using grapes from award-winning vineyards from all around the world. With a beautiful tasting room, Good Vibes Winery is a great place to relax. They also have special events throughout the year, so be sure to keep an eye on their calendar. While they don't offer a full menu, they do have a handful of small plates and snacks. Wines are also available for carryout. Hours may vary, but they're generally open Wednesdays through Saturdays.
1900 Winchester Southern Rd., Canal Winchester, OH 43110
If you're south of Columbus, head over to Slate Run Vineyard. Named for a nearby creek, Slate Run has over sample 17 proprietary wines available to sample, each one made with grapes from their beautiful vineyard. Using 100% Ohio Fruit, Slate Run makes wines that go beyond simple fruit character. Since they're located about 19 miles southeast of Columbus, they're actually 200 feet higher in elevation which creates a unique mixture of soils and microclimate. In addition to a beautiful vineyard, Slate Run also has a 2,400-square-foot Winehaus that is perfect for private parties or special events. Don't feel like making the drive? Slate Run also ships wine anywhere in Ohio. Slate Run is open Mondays - Saturdays from 1 p.m to 7 p.m.
3510 Clark-Shaw Rd., Powell, OH 43065
View this post on Instagram
This beautiful winery vineyard sits on about 6 acres of land about 4 miles north of Columbus. Ten cultivars of grapes are grown within the vineyard and are used to produce a variety of locally-produced red, white, and blush wines. In case you're hungry, they offer a small menu of appetizers and pizza. They often have live music and special events on the weekends, so if you're looking to a quick way to escape the busy city, head to Soine Vineyard where you can sip wine while relaxing on their beautiful property. The winery is opened Fridays from 4 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 2 to 8 p.m.
1400 Stratford Rd., Delaware, OH 43015
This cozy winery located north of Columbus features a tasting room, event space, and outdoor seating. They also host live music, chili cook-offs, and other special events throughout the year. Each of their unique wines is crafted on-site using grapes from all around the world, and the owners are often available to provide food pairing tips and recommendations. If you get hungry, a small menu of appetizers, pizza, and sandwiches is available. Wines are available by tasting, glass, bottle, or carryout bottle. The winery is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
When it comes to wine tasting, the Columbus area is definitely coming of age. With so many options around the city, where will you be sipping wine this weekend?

Dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, street food has been a staple of many global cultures. Today, the growing popularity of food trucks has brought the convenience and variety of street food to Columbus and other cities around the United States.
Find out firsthand how food trucks are changing the Columbus dining scene by visiting these upcoming events.
Seventh Son Brewing - 1101 N. 4th St., Columbus, OH 43201
View this post on Instagram
The Hawaiian cuisine of Aloha Aina is so authentic that you'll feel the tropical sun and breezes while you eat. Customers line up for their signature steamed buns with pork, chicken, tofu, or Spam filling. Their Maui Fresh rice bowl has been described as "deconstructed sushi" and the Loco No Moco bowl is a lighter take on the traditional Hawaiian dish. Find Aloha Aina outside Seventh Son Brewing on Wednesdays and Fridays from 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Care Point East - 543 Taylor Ave., Columbus, OH 43203
View this post on Instagram
Who knew lobsters and sharks made such a great team? Backing from Barbara Corcoran of Shark Tank turned Cousins Maine Lobster into a national sensation. Now owners Jimmy and Sabin (yes, they're cousins) have brought their New England seafood favorites to Columbus. Try an iconic lobster roll or shrimp tacos with a side of Cape Cod chips. Grab a tasty lunch from Cousins outside Care Point East on Tuesday, May 26 between 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Ohio Theatre - 39 E. State St., Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
No, Two Fatt Indians doesn't describe owners Amit Kumar and Raj Sabherwal. They just thought it was a funny, catchy name for their truck, which serves genuine North Indian cuisine. The chicken tikka masala earns unanimous raves, while the yogurt-based strawberry lassi drink is a treat rarely found in the Columbus area. Several vegetarian options are available, and the owners are happy to accommodate your preferred level of heat. Two Fatt Indians can be frequently found outside the Ohio Theatre from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Harrison Pond - 4720 Shull Rd., Columbus, OH 43230
View this post on Instagram
The all-American ice cream sundae gets a Latin twist at Glazed Churro Bar. Vanilla soft-serve is spiked with two churro sticks and dressed up with a range of sauces and toppings, such as the best-selling Cinna-Crunch featuring Cinnamon Toast Crunch and salted caramel glaze. If you can't live by dessert alone, the truck also serves tacos, burritos, and other savory street food. Stop by Harrison Pond on Monday, May 25 between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. for dinner, dessert, or both.
W. Broad St. & N. Front St., Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
Remember what Mom said about the most important meal of the day? Heath, owner of Always Eat Breakfast, does. Start the day off right with one of their breakfast burritos or bowls made to order with your choice of ingredients. Heartier appetites may choose biscuits or tots topped with sausage or bacon gravy. Pick up one of Heath's extra-large muffins, baked on the truck, for a great midday snack. In a hurry? Visit the website the night before to order ahead. Always Eat Breakfast will be brightening the morning around the intersection of W. Broad St. and N. Front St. from 7 a.m. - 10 a.m. on Tuesday, May 26.
St. Vincent Family Center - 1490 E. Main St., Columbus, OH 43205
View this post on Instagram
Pita sandwiches are portable and filling, two qualities essential in street food. The fresh and flavorful sandwiches from Pitabilities have earned them a frequent #1 rating by Columbus residents. In addition to the traditional Greek gyro pita, the menu includes variations such as New Delhi with tikka masala sauce and Philly Steak with grilled onions and mushrooms. Possibilities Fries, topped with lettuce, tomato, onions, and your choice of protein, are a meal by themselves. On Friday, May 22 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., they'll be Quantum Health 2 at 5260 Blazer Pkwy.
Fifth Third Bank - 1669 Fishinger Rd., Columbus, OH 43221
View this post on Instagram
For nearly 150 years, Schmidt has been a legendary name in the Columbus food industry. Schmidt's Sausage Truck is the most recent venture for a family business that includes a meat-packing company, concession stands, and a German-themed restaurant. The Bahama Mama, Schmidt's signature pork and beef sandwich, was voted the official food of Columbus. Other offerings include bratwurst, knockwurst, and bologna, as well as classic sides of red cabbage, sauerkraut, and potato salad. Save room for one of the award-winning jumbo cream puffs. Catch Schmidt's outside the UA Five Points branch of Fifth Third Bank on Thursdays from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and Fridays from 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
DSW - 810 DSW Dr., Columbus, OH 43219
View this post on Instagram
If America had a national food, it would probably be fried chicken. Since 2012, people around Columbus have been flocking to Mya's Fried Chicken and their Korean-inspired, sweet-and-spicy take on the comfort food classic. The meat is brined in buttermilk for 24 hours and pan-fried to a crispy brown before the final touch: a drizzle of honey and vinegar infused with herbs and chilies. Choose from sandwiches, tenders, and wings with a selection of scratch-made sides. Stop by Mya's on Wednesday, May 27 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. outside the DSW home office and truck lot.
Ace of Cups - 2619 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43202
View this post on Instagram
No roundup of top food trucks in Columbus would be complete without Ray Ray's Hog Pit. Pork, beef, and chicken are coated with dry rub and cooked low-and-slow for that trademark pink smoke ring. Sauces are served on the side so you can apply to suit your individual taste. Can't decide? Go for the Meatsweats box filled with smoked brisket, pulled pork, jerk chicken, dry-rubbed ribs, and a hot link. Ray Ray's flagship location, adjacent to Ace of Cups, is open Thursday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.
If you opened a food truck, what would be your specialty?