Dearest Gentle Readers,
It is with the utmost pleasure that I reveal to you a guide on how to have the most delightful Bridgerton-inspired day in our fair city of Columbus. Whether you are a lady, a gentleman, or simply a devotee of society’s finest pleasures, I assure you, this itinerary will leave you feeling as if you’ve stepped straight into the screen. So, without further ado, let us embark on a journey through a day of elegance and charm.
Begin Your Day with a Stately Promenade
One must always start the day with a promenade, and Columbus offers several exquisite parks perfect for such a morning ritual. The Scioto Mile, with its scenic river views and lush green pathways, is sure to make you feel as though you are walking through a scene from a novel. Alternatively, Inniswood Metro Gardens provides a more intimate setting, with its secret nooks and flourishing flora. The Park of Roses, in full bloom, is a sight to behold and perfect for a leisurely stroll. Lastly, the Topiary Park offers a unique experience, with its living sculptures providing a whimsical backdrop.
READ MORE: These Beautiful Parks Are Perfect For A Summer Stroll In Columbus
Off to the Modiste
No day inspired by Bridgerton would be complete without a visit to the modiste. Columbus boasts a variety of boutique shops and vintage stores where one can find garments that would make even the Featherington sisters envious. Peruse the racks at our finest vintage stores, such as the treasure-filled Flower Child or the chic offerings at Smartypants Vintage. For those with a taste for the eclectic yet sustainable, a visit to Columbus’ thrift stores will surely satisfy your quest for unique finds.
READ MORE: The Best Thrift Stores In Columbus
A Literary Indulgence
As the astute Eloise Bridgerton once proclaimed, “Nothing a book loves more than to be collected.” Heed the (sarcastic) wisdom of our beloved heroine and visit one of Columbus’ many charming independent bookshops. Whether your heart desires a classic tome like “Emma” or a modern treatise on radical feminism, you will find your literary cravings met at places such as The Book Loft or Prologue Bookshop. Immerse yourself in the world of literature and perhaps even pen a letter or two in the style of Lady Whistledown herself.
READ MORE: 7 Wonderful Independent Book Stores In Columbus
Afternoon Tea Service
After a morning of exertion, a genteel afternoon tea is most necessary. While we may not have the Bridgerton drawing room at our disposal, Asterisk Supper Club in Westerville offers an afternoon tea service that is nothing short of divine. Sip on exquisite teas and nibble on dainty sandwiches and pastries, all while basking in the refined atmosphere that transports you to a bygone era.
READ MORE: Get Fancy: It’s Time For Afternoon Tea At Asterisk Supper Club
Prepare for the Evening
As the day progresses, it is time to return home and call upon the services of a talented stylist, for every lady and gentleman must look their best for the evening’s entertainment. Columbus is replete with salons and spas where you can be pampered and preened. From the skilled hands at The Blowout Bar to the luxurious treatments at Penzone Salons + Spas, you are sure to leave feeling like the belle or beau of the ball.
An Evening at the Theatre
The evening’s entertainment awaits, and while Lady Danbury’s opera box may be out of reach, Columbus offers a plethora of theatrical and musical delights. Indulge in a night of drama at The Ohio Theatre, The Palace Theatre, or the Short North Stage, where productions of every kind take center stage. For those with a penchant for music, the Columbus Symphony provides a symphonic experience that is not to be missed.
A Scandalous Nightcap
As the night draws to a close, why not indulge in a bit of modern-day scandal with a visit to one of Columbus’ rooftop bars? While Lady Whistledown might raise an eyebrow, rest assured that in 2024, a cheeky nightcap without a chaperone is perfectly acceptable. Enjoy breathtaking views and delightful cocktails at hotspots like Lincoln Social Rooftop, Stories on High, or Brass Eye, where you can toast to a day well spent.
READ MORE: The Best Rooftop Bars In Columbus
And so, dear readers, I trust you will find this guide both useful and enchanting. May your Bridgerton-inspired day in Columbus be filled with the elegance, charm, and a touch of scandal that our favorite series is known for.
Yours truly,
Lady Wileydown (I’m sorry for the pun, I had to do it.)
