Best Parks in Columbus

 Columbus, Ohio, is home to numerous beautiful parks and green spaces where residents and visitors alike can enjoy outdoor activities, picnics, and nature. Here are some of the best parks in Columbus:

1. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: While primarily known for its botanical collections and indoor exhibits, it also features outdoor gardens and a large green space perfect for relaxation.

2. Goodale Park: Located in the heart of the Short North Arts District, Goodale Park is one of the oldest parks in the city and offers walking paths, ponds, and a gazebo, as well as frequent community events.

3. Battelle Riverfront Park: Situated along the Scioto Mile downtown, this park offers stunning views of the city skyline, walking paths, fountains, and outdoor art installations.

4. Scioto Audubon Metro Park: A large urban park with a variety of amenities including hiking trails, a climbing wall, an obstacle course, and views of the downtown skyline and the Scioto River.

5. Whetstone Park of Roses: Known for its extensive rose garden featuring over 13,000 roses, this park also includes walking paths, tennis courts, and the Park of Roses Amphitheatre.

6. Inniswood Metro Gardens: Although technically in nearby Westerville, this park is worth the short drive for its beautifully landscaped gardens, nature trails, and educational programs.

7. Sharon Woods Metro Park: Located north of the city, Sharon Woods offers hiking trails, a lake for boating and fishing, picnic areas, and a nature center with educational exhibits.

8. Blendon Woods Metro Park: Known for its natural beauty and wildlife, Blendon Woods features wooded trails, a nature center, and a scenic boardwalk through a wetland area.

9. Highbanks Metro Park: Offers scenic overlooks of the Olentangy River, hiking trails through wooded areas, and a nature center with exhibits about local wildlife and ecosystems.

10. Columbus Commons: A downtown park that hosts concerts, food truck events, and other community activities, with open green spaces and a carousel for children.

These parks offer a variety of experiences, from serene gardens to active recreation areas, making them some of the best places to enjoy nature and outdoor activities in Columbus.