
Is it truly time to shake off the winter chill, and welcome the first signs of spring? You bet! The days are growing longer, the temperatures are rising, and the first flowers are emerging from the soil at greenspaces all around Columbus. Whether you're interested in a quiet, tranquil walk, a chance to gaze at gorgeous gardens, or the perfect place for a fun, outdoor family outing, there's certain to be a local greenspace with your name on it. Find your happy place with our guide to 9 of the best greenspaces in Columbus.
160 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
There's always something new to experience when you visit the John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons, a popular urban greenspace located in the heart of downtown Columbus. This park offers a little bit of everything, from flowery gardens and community events to a food truck court that features flavors from around the world. It's also home to the unique NEOS Electric Playground, which is certain to be a hit with younger members of the family.
120 W. Goodale St., Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
With beautiful fountains, a scenic pond, and stunning views of the Columbus skyline, Goodale Park is the perfect place to shake off the winter chill. This is the oldest public park in the city, built on land that was donated by the first physician to practice in Columbus. Along with the scenery, this park has tennis courts for enjoying some outdoor recreation, a playground that is sure to keep the kids entertained, and plenty of lovely places to plan a picnic.
1069 Jaeger St., Columbus, OH 43206
Ever since the land was first converted into a park in the 1800s, Schiller Park has been a local favorite for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The park is named for German poet Friedrich Schiller, and the scenery just might be enough to inspire you to write some poetry of your own. At Schiller Park, you'll find a peaceful fishing pond, a collection of beautifully maintained gardens, and a wide variety of outdoor recreation facilities for enjoying your favorite sports. Schiller Park is also home to the Actor's Summer Theater, where you can enjoy public performances of Shakespeare during the warm weather seasons.
3901 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
View this post on Instagram
What could be a better way to celebrate the signs of spring than visiting a beautiful rose garden? And the Columbus Park of Roses isn't just any old garden. It features one of the most extensive selections of roses in the entire country, with more than 12,000 specimens when the garden is in full bloom. There are paved paths that make it easy to explore the gardens and plenty of places to snap some great pictures for social media sharing. Be sure to check out the Park of Roses website, where you can see which roses are in bloom before you visit.
152 Howlett Hall 2021, Fyffe Rd., Columbus, OH 43210
Looking for an educational setting where kids can learn while enjoying the great outdoors? The Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens offer a unique blend of outdoor fun and education. The facility is located on the Ohio State University agriculture campus and is free to visit all year long. Enjoy expansive gardens, native trees, gorgeous greenhouses, and plenty of opportunities to learn more about all of the flora on display.
1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203
View this post on Instagram
When you're in the mood for a lush, scenic outdoor setting with activities galore, it's hard to top the experience at Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. This facility features more than 100 acres of natural beauty to explore, with some of the most stunning gardens that you'll find anywhere. While you're here, be sure to check out the schedule of gardening workshops, educational classes, community events, seasonal farmer's market, and expert-guided tours.
400 W. Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43215
For unique outdoor recreation activities in Columbus, it's hard to top all that the Scioto Audubon Metropark has to offer. Scale a massive rock-climbing wall that can accommodate climbers of all skill levels and enjoy a wide range of recreational facilities for playing your favorite sports. There's also a popular dog park on-site, perfect for celebrating the start of spring with your furry friend.
233 S. Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
In the mood for a full day of visiting some of the best greenspaces in Columbus? Scioto Mile is a beautiful greenspace on its own, and its paved, well-maintained paths connect to eight other greenspaces within the city. The paths wind along the Scioto River, and offer outstanding views of the city skyline. You'll find unique public art exhibits as you explore the area, and may even encounter some free, public performances depending on when you visit. Be sure to come back again in the summer, when kids can enjoy a splash in the interactive Scioto Mile Fountain.
480 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215
If you're searching for something that is uniquely Columbus, then a trip to the Topiary Garden Park is definitely in order. What is a topiary garden, you might ask? It's a good question because this is the only garden of its kind in the whole world! The Topiary Garden Park is a recreation of Georges Seurat's painting, "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte." But instead of paint, the garden uses sculpted plants and landscaping features to recreate the painting. This is one Columbus attraction that art lovers won't want to miss.
Which outdoor oasis is at the top of your list for celebrating the first signs of spring? The diverse, beautiful greenspaces of Columbus are ready to be explored, with family fun waiting around every corner.

From improving your mood to strengthening your immune system, there are many benefits of going outside and taking a walk. The Cincinnati area is full of parks and outdoor areas perfect for everyone, from hardcore hikers to casual dog walkers.
Next time you want to get some exercise and enjoy the great outdoors, consider visiting one of these eight beautiful parks.
1558 Stanford Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45223
Located in Cincinnati's Northside neighborhood, Buttercup Valley Preserve is a great option for avid nature hikers. The trails are very wooded, with steep inclines that will offer you a bit of a challenge. This trail is nestled in the middle of some of the city's best neighborhoods and is an excellent getaway that will make you forget that you're still in the city.
You'll find lots of flora and fauna in the preserve, including some trees that are over 200 years old. There are multiple walking and hiking trails here, including one that will provide a memorable view of Spring Grove Cemetery.
5090 Observatory Circle, Cincinnati, OH 45208
View this post on Instagram
As the highest point in Hyde Park, Ault park offers stunning views of the city. It's home to a 1.4-mile walking, hiking, and mountain biking trail that is one of the city's best-kept secrets.
This trail is hilly and will offer a bit of a challenge. However, once you get through it, you'll find that the beautiful views, scenery, and wildlife are well worth the effort. Many residents and visitors agree that this is one of the most beautiful parks in the Cincinnati area.
Riverside Dr. & Corbin St., Cincinnati, OH 45226
You can't beat the views on the Ohio River Trail. Once it's complete, this 23-mile trail will span along the north bank of the river. It runs from Coney Island through downtown to Sayler Park. While areas are still under construction, you can still enjoy 10 miles of it now. When it's completed, it will connect downtown to the Little Miami Scenic Trail and eventually extend all the way to Lake Erie.
There are many fun things to do here, including swinging on the 2-3 person swings, splashing in the interactive fountain, and riding the carousel. This family-friendly series of trails are ideal for running, walking, and biking. It's perfect for people of all ages and fitness levels.
6168 Given Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243
View this post on Instagram
An easy urban trail with a lot of foot traffic, Red Bird Hollow Trail offers a nice walk near the river with plenty to see. It's a 3-mile in-and-out trail that's popular for running, hiking, and nature walks. We recommend starting at the top of the trail where you'll find plenty of parking spots.
This trail is also dog-friendly, although you must keep your furry friend on a leash while your walk. Generally, it's safest and most pleasant to use this trail between April and October.
3012 Section Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45237
One of the area's most underrated parks, French Park offers several looping trails that are good for walkers of all skill levels. Some areas offer a moderate challenge and a few inclines that might even qualify as strenuous.
This is an excellent kid-friendly trail. Little ones especially love heading down by the creek to explore. When you finish your walk, plan to drive to the top of the park to enjoy a beautiful view and a picnic lunch.
5083 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223
View this post on Instagram
The 1,459-acre Mt. Airy Forest is Cincinnati's largest park. It offers miles of hiking trails, a multi-use mountain biking trail, and bridle trails for horseback riders. It also has an enclosed dog park, disc golf, and Ohio's only wheelchair-accessible public treehouse. There are also picnic tables, charcoal grills, and swing sets, so you and the family can relax and spend an entire day exploring the park and taking in the beautiful scenery.
Mill Creek Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45233
The multi-use Mill Creek Greenway Trail currently spans just three and a half miles along the historic Mill Creek. However, plans are in the works to someday extend it to run over 50 miles and link to the Ohio River Trail.
There's a lot of cool stuff to see, including the Freedom Tree Edible Garden, where you're free to pick an apple or a pear and enjoy a tasty snack. You'll also want to visit the trail after dark so you can check out the 3/4-mile Space Walk, a 3.5-billion-to-one scale model of the solar system. Whether you prefer to walk, run, or bike, you'll want to add this trail to your list of "must-visit" sites.
5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230
View this post on Instagram
The 113-acre California Woods Nature Preserve features more than 200 species of plants and 53 species of trees. Lick Run Creek also runs through the preserve. Here you'll find small fish, kingfishers, snapping turtles, beavers, ducks, and more.
There's also a hummingbird and butterfly garden in front of the nature center. If you keep your eyes peeled, you might see some woodpeckers and great horned owls as well. When you hike these trails, there's a good chance you'll get so caught up in the scenery that you'll forget you're also exercising.
Which walk-worthy park will you visit first?

When you're looking for special items for your home or a unique gift that didn't come from a big-box store, an antique shop makes the perfect destination. You'll find treasures that have withstood the test of time and add special character to your décor, and besides that, it's just fun to browse in these shops!
Find out why everything old is new again at these nine Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati antique shops:
1489 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
If you're looking for antiques, you're sure to find something at Grandview Mercantile, the largest store of its kind in the Midwest. It comprises 22,000 square feet of antiques and home items from 20 dealers and over 500 consignors. You can buy everything from fine art to vintage and estate jewelry at the store, and its inventory is constantly changing. Whether you're looking to decorate your new home or are searching for a one-of-a-kind gift, you're likely to find it at Grandview Mercantile. Hours are noon-5 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday.
1580 Clara St., Columbus, OH 43211
View this post on Instagram
Located near the State Fairgrounds, Columbus Architectural Salvage Antiques & Artifacts is a unique 10,000-square-foot store that specializes in fixtures and other items that were salvaged from historic homes and properties. The shop's doors, windows, bathtubs, lighting fixtures, doorknobs, and other items can help make your décor interesting while giving it an authentic touch of the past. In addition to architectural items, the shop also carries vintage signs, artwork, home décor, and more. Hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday by appointment only.
1128-1130 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
Mary Catherine's Antiques encompasses two large storerooms in Columbus' Short North Arts District and has sold special antique and retro pieces since the late 1970s. They're stocked with antique and vintage furniture, artwork, jewelry, advertising signs, jewelry, and much more. Rounding out the inventory are unusual items from the mid to late 20th century, such as a recently sold vintage canoe. Hours are 1-5 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and by appointment.
1410 Central Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45202
View this post on Instagram
The best-selling items at Wooden Nickel Antiques may come as a slight surprise since they're so unique. The shop specializes in antique saloon back bars – most of which are from the late 1800s to the early 1900s – that they restore, so if you're planning to upgrade your home entertainment area, you might check them out. You'll also be able to find plenty of fireplace mantles, architectural salvage items, stained glass, furniture, and much more as you browse through their ever-changing items. Hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
339 Ludlow Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220
Nestled in the heart of Clifton's Gaslight Business District, Lentz and Company prides itself in making its shop a fun treasure hunt where you're sure to find something you want to take home. If you're looking for furniture, kitchenware, bar accessories, art, or jewelry that's special, you'll be able to find it at this antique shop. Hours are 2-7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 2-8 p.m. Friday, noon-7 p.m. Saturday, and 1-5 p.m., but when the weather's nice and people are out and about in the area, the shop stays open later.
3742 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226
View this post on Instagram
Riverside Centre Antique Mall has been described as "a fun, funky 30,000-square-foot treasure trove" by Cincinnati Magazine, which contrasts it with musty old antique malls of the past. The shop sells furniture, salvaged architectural items, jewelry, and more and is a frequent destination for set designers for television shows and movies. The shop has earned a reputation for a family-like atmosphere and serves coffee and cookies to its customers on the weekends. Hours are noon-6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
7501 Lorain Rd., Cleveland, OH 44102
Sweet Lorain is celebrating its 29th year of helping Northeast Ohio residents find one-of-a-kind treasures. With over 8,000 square feet of merchandise to choose from, the shop truly has something for everyone. Find a vintage toy and relive your childhood, buy some travel-related mementos from Ohio, or spruce up your kitchen with some vintage canisters. Although the shop is packed with goodies, it's well organized into logical sections so you can find the areas you're most interested in. Hours are noon-5 p.m. Sunday and Monday and noon-6 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday.
11917 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
View this post on Instagram
Located in the historic Little Italy neighborhood of Cleveland, Moonstruck CLE Vintage has a cozy, friendly atmosphere. The shop has a wide variety of vintage wares, including accessories, home décor, clothing, kitchen items, books, jewelry, and more. The search is half of the fun, but chances are good that you'll find something you love enough to buy and give a cherished spot in your home. Hours are 3-8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 1-5 p.m. Sunday by appointment.
11508 Clifton Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44102
Stepping into Flower Child is like stepping into the past since items are displayed as they would have been when they were originally sold. You'll be able to browse in a living room that looks like it's been transported from the '50s and walk over to a plush bedroom from the '60s. The shop has an excellent mid-century collection of items, and the staff is happy to help you find some treasures. Hours are noon-7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday; noon-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and noon-5 p.m. Sunday.
What are some special treasures you've found at antique shops in Cincinnati, Columbus, and Northeast Ohio?

Have you had a craving for something sweet lately? Nothing can satisfy a sweet tooth quite like a delicious piece of cheesecake. With a crumbly base, sweet creamy filling, and an endless variety of flavors, cheesecake is truly one of the tastiest treats. Whether you prefer chocolate, caramel, or fruit topping, cheesecake is a dessert everyone can enjoy.
For those of us fortunate enough to live in and around Columbus, we have an endless amount of options for great cheesecake in our area. Below are some recommendations for our favorite places to grab dessert:
737 Parkwood Ave., Columbus, OH 43219
For some of the best cheesecake in Columbus, head on over to Dave's Artisanal Cheesecakes. Chef proprietor David Brooks has been practicing the art of cheesecake for more than 30 years. With a robust selection of flavors, this spot in Northeast Columbus is an absolute classic. Dave's offers online ordering, and they even have a cheesecake of the month club. Even if you don't live in our area, they have nationwide shipping available.
5354 Center St., Hilliard, OH 43026
View this post on Instagram
For a great selection of over 20 varieties of cheesecake, stop by The Cheesecake Girl in Hilliard. This shop sells both full-size cheesecakes, mini cheesecakes, boozy mini cheesecakes, and cheesecake shooters. All items are made with local ingredients and baked from scratch. You have to try the White Chocolate Raspberry or the Red Velvet Cinnamon Roll. All orders must be placed online.
475 S. 3rd St., Columbus, OH 43215
This New York-style joint is known for their deli sandwiches, but they are also famous for having some of the best cheesecake in town. It's a half-pound slice of cheese and sweetness, and you can choose any fruit topping you like. If you enjoy it, you can even order an entire 10-inch cake to take home. The original Katzinger's is in German Village, but they also have a location in Dublin. Either way, you have to stop by this Columbus staple when you have a chance.
1168 Kenny Centre Mall, Columbus, OH 43220
View this post on Instagram
Belle's Bread is actually a French-inspired Japanese bakery that specializes in all cakes and bread, but it's their baked cheesecake that has quite the reputation around town. All cakes are available by the slice, in round form, or by the sheet. The business actually has a team of 20 bakers that make all products on-site every morning. Online ordering is available. The shop is open every day from 10 am to 7 pm.
1550 W. Lane Ave., Columbus, OH 43221
This gourmet family-owned French bakery has three locations across Columbus, and its menu features a wide range of breakfast foods, pastries, and desserts. The cheesecake is absolutely delicious — order it by the slice or take a whole 9-inch cake to enjoy at home. The store is open daily from 8 am to 3 pm.
1360 Cherry Bottom Rd., Columbus, OH 43230
View this post on Instagram
If you're looking for the perfect cheesecake for a wedding, shower, or birthday, or any special celebration, look no further than Fate Cakes. This specialty cake shop is offering curbside pickup, takeout, and no-contact delivery. Orders can be placed online, and the store is open Tuesday through Saturday.
4428 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH 43214
This vegan cafe just north of Columbus is famous for its amazing "Cheezecake" that's made with raw nut-and-date crusts and delicious blends of fruit toppings. Available flavors include Berry Berry Mango, Lemon, Chocolate, Coffee, Coconut, Pineapple, Mocha, Chai, and Mint Chocolate Chip. The cafe is open Monday through Saturday 8 am to 9 pm, and Sundays from 8 am to 3 pm.
8760 Sancus Blvd., Columbus, OH 43240
View this post on Instagram
Firebirds is a great date night spot for many reasons, but our favorite is their delicious selection of desserts. In fact, their Creme Brulee Cheesecake is actually the talk of the town. This sweet, savory dish is topped with fresh fruit and raspberry coulis and is the perfect way to top off a fine meal.
67 E. Gay St., Columbus, OH 43215
Some of the best New York-style cheesecake can be found at Due Amici, an Italian restaurant classic in downtown Columbus. Their dessert menu features a huge piece of cheesecake topped with berry coulis and fresh fruit. If you'd prefer to eat at home, takeout can be ordered online!
Where will you get your sweet treat around Columbus?

When New Year's comes around, most people recommit to living a healthier lifestyle. However, as the months go by, it gets a bit harder to stick to these resolutions.
If you want to keep focusing on your nutrition, finding some healthy restaurants can really help! Luckily, there are many excellent choices in Northeast Ohio. Here are a few of our favorites.
1909 W. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
If you believe that being healthy is all about balance, you'll love the vibe at Town Hall. They're committed to offering a menu that's fully non-GMO and mostly organic. Even better, the menu is created by an in-house nutritionist.
There's no shortage of healthy options on the menu, from vegan chili and bone broth to poke bowls and salads. You'll also find tasty items like Curry Chicken Noodle bowls, Food Truck Tacos, Keto Fried Chicken, Korean BBQ Flat Breads, and more!
When you want something super healthy, you can grab an organic cold-pressed juice or organic smoothie. Need some balance in your life? Complement your healthy meal with a Cold-Brewed Nutella Milkshake, Skillet Cookie, or a cold beer.
101 W. Superior Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
View this post on Instagram
Named one of the healthiest fast-casual restaurants in the country, REBOL Urban Cafe offers a menu full of non-GMO, organic, vegan, gluten-free, keto, and paleo-friendly items. They also serve both dine-in and carry-out meals so you can "eat like you give a damn" while social distancing.
When you dine here, you can expect to find meals made of pasture-raised chicken, grass-fed meats, low-mercury seafood, and more. You'll also enjoy their breakfast sandwiches, pastries, bowls, broths, and non-toxic coffee. We love the "Build Your Own Bol" options since we can create so many different healthy and delicious combinations.
1350 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44115
For delicious, healthy American cuisine, you can't go wrong with dining in or ordering takeout from pHuel Cafe. They insist on only using high-quality ingredients and serve delicious meals like a Portabella Sandwich, Ahi-Tuna Bowl with Quinoa, or a Kimchi Stir Fry. You'll also love their healthy drink options like Kale-Ade, Ginger Get Well, and Green Smoothies.
3120 Bridge Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
View this post on Instagram
When you're ready for a bit of excitement in your life, head over to Johnny Mango to try some of their healthy dishes made with a Mexican, Caribbean, and Asian flare. They offer a selection of meatless meals, most of which are gluten-free. This includes a delicious Fried Tofu, Miso Soup with Asian Greens and Soba Noodles, and killer Vegan Nachos. The menu also includes burritos, quesadillas, Pad Thai, a selection of salads, and more! You'll also love their brunch menu and juice bar.
15118 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107
When you're looking for a substantial meal, we recommend visiting The Root Cafe. They're known for their large, filling entrees made with the freshest and highest-quality ingredients available. They make incredible hummus, an excellent Roasted Root Salad, and a Tempeh Reuben Sandwich that even carnivores will love!
If you're not into vegan fare, don't worry! They also have healthy stone oven pizzas, calzones, sandwiches, and breakfast foods.
28500 Miles Rd. Suite J, Solon, OH 44139
View this post on Instagram
One of the area's favorite vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants, Munch offers an incredible selection of healthy foods. They don't just serve veggie items, though. Take a look through their menu, and you'll see sandwiches made with off-the-bone turkey, salads with oven-roasted chicken breast, pastrami sandwiches, and more.
While everything on the menu is good, we really love the falafel, tabbouleh, and the Israeli salad. For take-out, we suggest trying the Family Falafel Kit. They're just $15 per person, and you can order for 2 to 15 people. It's so much fun to take and make at home!
7646 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44102
Another delicious choice for vegetarian, vegan, and fresh organic meals, Water Garden Cafe offers a huge variety of healthy choices. Some of their most popular items include the Agave Soy Marinated Portobello, Spicy Cauliflower, and Impossible Burgers. They also offer non-vegan dishes, including salmon, club sandwiches, Chicken Paprikash, and a variety of breakfast items.
If you choose to dine in, you'll love the cafe's cozy atmosphere. They also offer take-out, so you can enjoy their tasty meals from the comfort of your home.
11100 Clifton Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44102
View this post on Instagram
Earth Bistro Cafe is known for its contemporary American cuisine with a Cuban flair. Their menu is packed with delicious vegan and vegetarian dishes and traditional cuisine -- all made with the freshest possible local ingredients. Some of our favorite dishes include the Pickle Fries, Marinated Tofu Wrap, and the Tequila-Lime Grilled Chicken Club.
You also won't want to miss their amazing breakfast every Sunday from 11 am until 3 pm. If you're craving a "cheat meal," this is the perfect place to get one! We recommend the Hot Chicken Fried Steak, Cheese and Sausage Sammy or the Ham, Egg, and Cheese Crepes.
Which good-for-you restaurant will you try first?