Military History in Columbus

The various military museums and collections located throughout the city make Columbus the perfect place to have a military-themed adventure.

Day One

Morning | Travel through downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods with the Ohio Statehouse as the historical centerpiece and listen to stories of national significance, international intrigue, local history and lore.

Lunch | Established in 1876, the North Market is Columbus’ only remaining true public market. More than 30 merchants vend a wide variety of fresh, local, authentic food, along with several stands offering everything from cookware to flowers. 

Afternoon | Visit the National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM), the only place where the stories of our veterans, their families and the Fallen will be told together. The museum features dynamic exhibits, an outdoor memorial grove and a spiral processional that ascends to a rooftop sanctuary.

Evening | Enjoy dinner at The Boat House at Confluence Park, the only waterfront restaurant with a view of the downtown Columbus skyline.

Day Two

Morning | Visit the Motts Military Museum, dedicated to preserving the memory of all individuals who served in the United States military.

Lunch | Head out to lunch at Hofbräuhaus Columbus, a themed restaurant full of military memorabilia and aviation relics depicting the times of the WWI and WWII eras. Enjoy a dramatic view of the arriving and departing traffic at John Glenn Columbus International Airport.

Afternoon | Experience the “Great War” in a new way, through a special display commemorating the centennial of the United States entering World War I at the Ohio History Center.

Spend the rest of the day in Old Worthington, a historic neighborhood founded in 1803 by New England settlers. Stroll the sidewalks of Worthington, then enjoy dinner at restaurants such as The Whitney House or Le Chatelaine.

Day Three

Morning | Herlich Willkommen! A hearty welcome to German Village, Columbus’ premier downtown neighborhood and one of the preeminent historic districts in the United States. After touring the district, take a little time to stretch your legs and explore the retail shops. The Book Loft, one of the largest independent bookstores in the country, offers 32 rooms of bargain-priced books. Or visit Helen Winnemore’s, the oldest store of its kind in the United States, which features usable, wearable art handcrafted in America.

Lunch | Located in a historic brick livery stable, Schmidt’s Restaurant und Sausage Haus has offered award-winning, hand-crafted food by five generations of the Schmidt family since 1886. Save room for dessert! The cream puffs are worth the trip itself!

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