If you’re heading to Columbus, Ohio, there’s no better way to appreciate the city’s story than by visiting its most iconic historical landmarks. These sites are more than just tourist stops—they’re windows into the heart of Columbus, showcasing how the past continues to shape the present. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about the city’s roots, these top 10 historical landmarks in Columbus offer something memorable for everyone.
1. Ohio Statehouse: Columbus’ Historic Heart
The Ohio Statehouse is a must-see, both for its impressive Greek Revival architecture and its deep political significance. Built in the mid-1800s, it remains the seat of Ohio’s government. Inside, you’ll find chambers rich in history and artifacts from the Civil War era. Guided tours bring the building to life and help you appreciate its continued relevance.
2. Thurber House: A Home for Literary History
Once home to the legendary humorist James Thurber, the Thurber House is now a literary museum dedicated to his life and work. Visitors can walk through the restored home, explore rooms where he wrote, and attend readings, workshops, and events that foster a love of literature in the community.
3. German Village: History on Every Block
German Village is one of Columbus’ best-preserved neighborhoods and a model of historic restoration. Originally settled by German immigrants in the 1800s, it’s filled with cobblestone streets, brick homes, and independent shops. Walking through the area feels like stepping into another century, with each block telling a different story of the city’s immigrant roots.
4. The Santa Maria Replica: Columbus’ Namesake
The Santa Maria replica ship on the Scioto River was created to commemorate the voyage of Columbus himself. Although currently undergoing restoration, it remains a symbolic and educational piece of local history. It reminds visitors of the city’s namesake and offers insight into early exploration and maritime history.
5. Kelton House Museum & Garden: A Stop on the Underground Railroad
Tucked away in downtown Columbus, the Kelton House Museum was once a safe haven for escaping slaves. This Victorian-era home now serves as a museum with period furnishings and detailed exhibits about the family who lived there and their involvement in the Underground Railroad. The garden adds a peaceful, reflective space to the visit.
6. Jack Nicklaus Museum: A Tribute to a Legend
The Jack Nicklaus Museum celebrates the life and career of one of the greatest golfers of all time, who just so happens to be a Columbus native. Even if you’re not a golfer, it’s fascinating to see how this hometown hero rose to global fame. The museum houses memorabilia, trophies, and stories of Nicklaus’ influence on the sport.
7. King Arts Complex: Culture, Art, and Civil Rights
The King Arts Complex honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and showcases African American culture and contributions. Located in the historic King-Lincoln District, the center features art exhibits, performances, and educational programming that highlight the civil rights movement and local Black history.
8. Columbus Park of Roses: A Blooming Historical Gem
One of the largest public rose gardens in the United States, the Columbus Park of Roses is both a natural beauty and a historical attraction. Opened in the 1950s, it now boasts over 12,000 rose bushes across dozens of varieties. It’s a peaceful, scenic stop that speaks to the city’s dedication to public green spaces.
9. Ohio History Center & Ohio Village: A Living Museum
The Ohio History Center is the state’s premier museum for everything from fossils to famous Ohioans. Adjacent to the center is Ohio Village, a recreated 19th-century town with costumed interpreters, old-school trades, and immersive exhibits that bring the past to life. Together, they offer a hands-on experience for history lovers of all ages.
10. Topiary Park: Art Transformed into Landscape
Inspired by a classic painting, the Topiary Park features trimmed shrubs and hedges that recreate Georges Seurat’s “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte.” It’s the only known topiary representation of a painting and a perfect blend of creativity and calm in downtown Columbus. A quiet walk here is like stepping into a living canvas.
Discover the Past with Columbus’ Historic Gems
These historical landmarks in Columbus are more than educational—they’re immersive experiences that make history feel alive and relevant. Whether you’re diving into politics at the Statehouse, admiring artistic greenery at Topiary Park, or retracing steps along the Underground Railroad, each destination offers a unique window into the city’s soul.
Want even more insight into the city’s rich design and structure? Check out The Architecture of Columbus for a look at how old and new buildings define the city’s visual story.
