Ohio itinerary: Columbus

Editor’s Note: During this period of social distancing, Group Tour magazine will continue to provide group travel inspiration. Many attractions and destinations are closed at this time; please contact them directly for updated information. 

Columbus is known for its open attitude, smart style and entrepreneurial spirit. Ohio’s capital holds unique neighborhoods, dynamic attractions and delicious culinary experiences. 

“Columbus is committed to keeping your health and safety a priority while reopening amidst the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Roger Dudley, director, tourism sales at Experience Columbus. “More than 100 businesses have signed the Live Forward Pledge and the city’s major visitor touchpoints are pursuing additional third-party validation with GBAC STAR Accreditation, the cleaning industry’s only such opportunity. I’m looking forward to welcoming you all back to Columbus soon, and am confident that you will not only feel, but will actually be safe on your next visit.”

Experience Columbus
614-222-6136
experiencecolumbus.com

STROLL

German Village, originally built by German settlers in the mid-1800s, holds restored brick houses, shops, streets and brick sidewalks. The Book Loft is a free stop in the village with 32 rooms of discounted books and Schmidt’s Sausage Haus und Restaurant is a fifth-generation German-inspired restaurant that has been welcoming groups to dine for years.

SEE

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens features the world’s largest collection of Dale Chihuly’s vibrant glass artwork in a botanical garden. The artwork has been on display since 2003, but it was completely reimagined in 2019 so there’s never been a better time to visit.

REFLECT

The National Veterans Memorial and Museum is the only place where the stories of veterans, their families and the Fallen — across all branches of service and all eras of conflict — are told together. In the exhibition galleries, learn more about the experiences of the brave men and women who serve and have served.

TASTE

Downtown Columbus’ North Market is a great stop on all tours and very reasonably priced. The 144-year-old public market is made up of Ohio’s best independent merchants, farmers and makers. Groups can grab ice cream at the city’s own Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, get a coffee at Stauf’s Coffee Roasters or have lunch at over 20 restaurant stalls from around the globe.