I think we could all use a little more fresh air in our lives.
Spring is officially right around the corner and these non-freezing temperatures make it easy to get excited about all of the natural beauty out there waiting for us. Columbus has amazing parks, we all know that. But do you know about all of our beautiful gardens?
From greenhouses to acres of roses, we’ve got it pretty good here in the capital city. Before you know it, these beautiful outdoor spaces will be filled with color and the welcoming sounds of birds chirping. Here are the gardens around Columbus that have to be on your “must-visit” list this spring.
The Biological Sciences Greenhouse at OSU
About: The Biological Sciences Greenhouse at the Ohio State University is the perfect place to spend a rainy day in Columbus. Tours of the facility are available to classes and groups, but also individuals. All you have to do is call and set it up. The greenhouse is home to tropical and desert plants, with over 1,200 specimens! Please note: scheduling a tour could be subject to restrictions the university has put in place due to COVID-19 (coronavirus).
Admission: Prices are donation based, from $2.50-$5
Location Biological Sciences Building, 484 W 12th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210
Website: The Biological Sciences Greenhouse at OSU
Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens

About: Chadwick Arboretum is a 60+ acre urban reserve located in the heart of OSU’s main campus. The arboretum features exciting places to explore, including the learning garden, and a labyrinth offering a place to “relax, reflect, and rejuvenate your spirit.”
Admission: Free
Location 152 Howlett Hall 2021, Fyffe Rd, Columbus, OH 43210
Website: Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens
Columbus Park of Roses
About: One of Columbus’ most iconic parks, the Park of Roses is also one of the most beautiful. The park is 13 acres of sheer beauty, and if the season is right, you can see over 12,000 roses (Typically in May/June). If we had “Wonders of Columbus”, the Park of Roses would definitely make the list.
Admission: Free
Location 3901 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214
Website: Columbus Park of Roses
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

About: Franklin Park Conservatory is one of my favorite places in Columbus. With its beautiful Victorian-style Palm House, expansive grounds, and impressive children’s garden, FPC knows how to show garden-goers a good time. The conservatory offers fun events for visitors of all ages and both permanent and rotating exhibits.
Admission: $3-$22
Location 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203
Website: Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Inniswood Metro Gardens

About: Yearning for a visit to somewhere totally magical? Inniswood Metro Gardens is an absolute dream. The park is full of cozy nooks and crannies where you can enjoy nature in all its glory. Inniswood is 123 acres with over 2,000 species of plants.
Admission: Free
Location 940 S Hempstead Rd, Westerville, OH 43081
Website: Inniswood Metro Gardens
Topiary Park
About: The Topiary Park is truly one-of-a-kind. The park is a living sculptural interpretation of Georges Seurat’s Post-Impressionist painting A Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grand Jatte. It was created in 1992 and features small vignettes created out of hedges. Stop into the nearby Columbus Metropolitan Library for a day full of fun, both indoors and out.
Admission: Free
Location 480 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215
Website: Topiary Park
Special Mention: Dawes Arboretum

About: We can’t talk about beautiful gardens and not mention Dawes Arboretum, even if it is a mini road trip. The arboretum was founded in 1929 and has several gardens within its 2,000 acres of paradise. The best spot in the park has to be the Japanese garden, where a full afternoon of relaxation is totally achievable.
Admission: $5-$10
Location: 7770 Jacksontown Rd, Newark, OH 43056
Website: Dawes Arboretum