Even though Columbus is the largest and fastest-growing city in Ohio, downtown still boasts an impressive 253 acres of green space woven between its bustling streets and skyline. Featuring sunny lawns and shady urban escapes, these parks offer the perfect backdrop for a picnic while soaking up the city's energy.
Read on to find downtown Columbus' most scenic picnic spots.
Goodale Park. Courtesy of Experience Columbus.
Goodale Park
Goodale Park is the oldest in the city and is surrounded by the charming architecture of Victorian Village homes. A scenic pond, tennis courts, ball diamonds and playground are a bonus to the beautiful skyline views found in this serene 33-acre space.
Recommended carryout options close by:
Genoa Park. Courtesy of Experience Columbus.
Genoa Park (Scioto Mile)
Located behind COSI, on the west bank of the Scioto River, Genoa Park offers the ultimate view of the city’s skyline. Named after the Italian city of Genoa, one of Columbus’ 10 international sister cities, Genoa Park is home to two whimsical bronze sculptures of “humanized” deer enjoying a day in the park and taking in the views. Grab a seat next to the deer on the steps for a perfect, picturesque picnic.
Recommended carryout options close by:
- Maudine's at The Junto for breakfast & coffee
- Yellowbrick Pizza, for a good slice.
- SŌW To Go Franklinton, for tasty and healthy lunch options.
McFerson Commons. Courtesy of Experience Columbus.
McFerson Commons
McFerson Commons is a true urban oasis in the heart of downtown’s Arena District. With 2.2 acres of open green space surrounded by a wall of trees, there’s plenty of sun, shade and space for your picnic. Home to the iconic Union Station Arch, which has affectionately earned it the moniker “Arch Park,” McFerson Commons is also a community favorite spot to take photos with friends and family.
Recommended carryout options close by:
- Wario's, for indulgent, crave-worthy sandwiches
- Si Señor, for Peruvian-style grub
- Creole 2 Geaux, for New Orleans-inspired bites
Schiller Park. Courtesy of Experience Columbus, photo by Levi Ely.
Schiller Park
The city’s second-oldest park, Schiller Park, is a 23.5-acre space in the middle of German Village, just south of downtown, offering beautiful gardens, a fishing pond, walking trails, fountains, a community center and an amphitheater that traditionally hosts Shakespeare in the Park performances on summer weekends.
Recommended carryout options close by:
- The Brow Bag Delicatessen, for creative takes on your favorite sandwiches and sides.
- Gresso's, for top-notch pub food.
- Fox in the Snow, for elevated coffee, breakfast and lunch.
Topiary Park. Courtesy of Experience Columbus.
Topiary Park
Topiary Park is a quiet, relaxing spot next to the Columbus Metropolitan Library's main branch that features landscape plants artistically trimmed to recreate a topiary depiction of Georges Seurat’s “A Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grande Jatte.” It is the only topiary interpretation of a painting in existence. You’ll completely forget that you’re downtown in this true hidden gem.
Recommended carryout options close by:
- Olde Towne Tavern, for classic bar fare.
- Upper Cup Coffee, for single-origin brews and locally-sourced bites.
- Hangover Easy, for breakfast, brunch and lunch.
There you have it! Check out these Columbus parks for your next picnic and share your memories with us using #yesColumbus.
