Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Nestled in the historic Old Beechwold neighborhood, Franklin Park Conservatory is a true oasis in the heart of the city. This glass-domed botanical garden features themed biomes with exotic plants from around the world. Stroll through the palm-filled Palm House, take in the colorful blooms of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden, and marvel at the rare corpse flower that occasionally blooms here. Outside, the grounds include whimsical art installations, from giant decorated rabbits to a field of glowing sunflowers at night. With so much natural beauty right in Columbus, the conservatory is the perfect escape for garden lovers.
1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203
(614) 715-8000
Wexner Center for the Arts
Part of The Ohio State University campus, the Wexner Center for the Arts is a one-of-a-kind cultural hub. The building itself is a contemporary masterpiece, with its striking white gridded facade. Inside, you’ll find cutting-edge art exhibitions from up-and-coming artists, as well as performances, films, and educational programs. Don’t miss the quirky public art installation “Cannons” out front – five vibrantly painted cannons that fire off a memorable boom every day at noon. For a dose of arts and culture with a side of whimsy, make a stop at the Wex.
1871 N High St, Columbus, OH 43210
(614) 292-3535
Inniswood Metro Gardens
Nature lovers will delight in this sprawling public garden located just outside the city in Westerville. Spread across nearly 1,000 acres, Inniswood Metro Gardens features picturesque lakes, meadows, and woodlands. Walk the trails to spot local wildlife, from red foxes to great blue herons. See over 2,000 plant varieties in meticulously designed gardens. Kids will enjoy playing in the Treehouse Village. Inniswood provides a peaceful natural sanctuary – and it’s one of Columbus’s best-kept secrets.
940 S Hempstead Rd, Westerville, OH 43081
(614) 895-6264
Columbus Food Adventures’ Alt Eats Food Tour
Columbus has an incredible food scene. But for a truly memorable culinary experience, take the Alt Eats food tour of the city’s funkiest eateries. This 3-hour walking tour takes you to 8 spots that offer inventive twists on comfort food, from loaded tater tots to Korean corn dog bites. You’ll sample local craft sodas, artisanal ice cream, and delicious tacos while learning about the city’s culture and history from an enthusiastic local guide. It’s the tastiest way to uncover Columbus’s hidden foodie side.
261 N 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 440-3177
Ohio History Center
History buffs will be in heaven at this expansive museum located near the Scioto River. The Ohio History Center houses a fascinating collection of over 50,000 artifacts chronicling Ohio’s past, from its earliest indigenous inhabitants to the present day. Interactive exhibits let you experience history first-hand, like walking through a recreated 1840s Ohio town or an authentic 1920s street. Costumed interpreters demonstrate heritage skills and trades. And special exhibits cover intriguing chapters of Ohio’s story, like the remarkable history of Ohio’s roads and highways. It’s the ideal place to immerse yourself in the Buckeye State’s rich history.
800 E 17th Ave, Columbus, OH 43211
(614) 297-2300
Columbus Commons
Columbus Commons in the heart of downtown hosts over 200 free community events every year. On any nice day, you’ll find Columbus residents playing games, enjoying live music, or just relaxing on the sprawling lawns. The park features an interactive fountain for cooling off in summer, an outdoor reading room, and a carousel for kids. Seasonal events range from yoga classes to movie nights to a holiday market. For a taste of Columbus life and culture, spend an afternoon mingling with locals at the Commons.
160 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215
German Village
Columbus has several charming neighborhoods, but none quite as storybook quaint as German Village. This historic district was settled by German immigrants in the 1800s, and it retains its old-world character today. Strolling the brick-lined streets, you’ll find houses adorned with gabled roofs and carved wooden details that look plucked straight from a fairytale. The neighborhood is also home to cozy cafes, independent shops selling handmade crafts, and the German Village Meeting Haus, which hosts cultural events. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll back in time.
581 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 221-8888
Columbus Museum of Art
While not exactly “hidden,” the Columbus Museum of Art is often overlooked in favor of larger museums in bigger cities. But with an impressive collection spanning 5,000 years of world art, this museum packs a lot into a relatively small space. Wander through the sculpture garden to view modern masterpieces with the downtown skyline as a backdrop. See exquisite Impressionist paintings and glasswork by famous artists like Monet and Chihuly. And don’t miss the Photo League collection, considered one of the finest of its kind. For fine art without the crowds, put the Columbus Museum of Art on your itinerary.
480 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 221-6801
Plan Your Trip With Charter Bus Company Columbus
At Charter Bus Company Columbus, our mission is to showcase the very best of Columbus. Let us provide easy, comfortable transportation for your group so you can fully experience these hidden local gems. Our charter buses and minibuses are outfitted with amenities like WiFi, TVs, power outlets, and restrooms to make your travels smooth and enjoyable. Don’t waste time and energy worrying about maps, parking, or keeping your group together. Leave the driving to us. Our experienced, professional drivers know Columbus like the back of their hand. We’ll get your group directly where you want to be, when you want to be there. Discover the real Columbus away from the typical tourist traps. Call 234-900-0344 or request a free quote online now to book your charter bus and start exploring!