19 Landmarks in Columbus You Can't Miss

Located just south of downtown Columbus, German Village is a neighborhood that has managed to preserve its 19th-century charm. Take a stroll through the cobblestone streets and admire the beautiful brick homes, many of which have been restored to their original state.

In addition to its picturesque setting, German Village is also home to many delicious German restaurants, shops, and galleries. Don't forget to stop by Schiller Park, a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

As you might expect, with a neighborhood with "German" in its name, German Village hosts an annual Oktoberfest celebration, complete with live music and traditional German food and drinks.

If you have kids (or even if you don't!), COSI is a must-visit landmark in Columbus. This hands-on science museum offers interactive exhibits that are both fun and educational.

Learn about space exploration at the Planetarium, conduct experiments at the Labs in Life exhibit, and discover the wonders of the human body at Adventure Gallery. With over 300 interactive experiences, including a giant outdoor science park, you can easily spend an entire day at COSI.

Located in the heart of downtown Columbus, the Greater Columbus Convention Center is a prominent landmark that hosts events and trade shows throughout the year. This sleek and modern building plays host to some of the city's biggest events, including the Arnold Sports Festival and the Origins Game Fair, which is one of the largest gaming conventions in North America.

Even if you're not attending an event, it's worth taking a walk around the convention center to admire its unique architecture and explore some of the public art installations inside.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Columbus is the Wonder Bread sign, located in the Italian Village neighborhood. This vintage neon sign was once atop a Wonder Bread factory and has become a beloved landmark for both locals and visitors.

Now the Wonder Bread Lofts, an apartment building, the sign has been preserved and restored to its former glory.

Today, the sign reminds us of the city's industrial past and is a popular spot for photos. Be sure to stop by and snap a picture with this iconic piece of Columbus history.

The Lazarus Building, now known as the City Center Columbus, is another notable landmark in downtown Columbus. This historic building was once home to the Lazarus Department Store, a beloved retail store that operated for over 150 years.

Playing a huge role in the city's retail history, the Lazarus Building is now home to various shops, restaurants, and offices. Its striking architecture and historical significance make it worth a visit.

Located along the Scioto Mile, the “Current” is a public art installation that now claims the title of the longest public artwork display in city history. Created by Janet Echelman, the display is made up of three large multi-colored net sculptures that are suspended above the Scioto River.

During the day, these sculptures create beautiful shadows and patterns on the ground, and at night they are illuminated with colorful lights. This contemporary landmark adds a unique touch to Columbus' skyline and is a must-see for art lovers.

Created by Polish artist Jerzy Kᶒdziora, the sculptures in Schiller Park are a unique addition to Columbus' landmarks. These suspended sculptures, featuring acrobats, rowers, and the famous Girl with Yo-yo, were part of the “Suspension: Balancing Art, Nature, and Culture” traveling exhibition.

However, they proved to be so popular that they were eventually purchased and permanently installed in the park. Take a walk through this beautiful park and see if you can spot all of the sculptures while enjoying the scenic views. You might even stumble upon an outdoor Shakespeare performance at the park's amphitheater.

A must-visit for literature lovers, the Thurber House is a historic landmark that was once home to famed cartoonist and author James Thurber. Today, the house operates as a museum, hosting events and exhibits dedicated to preserving and promoting literary arts.

One of the foremost American humorists of the 20th century, Thurber's legacy can be seen throughout the house, from his writing desk to original cartoons and illustrations.

Take a guided tour of the house to see where Thurber lived and worked, or attend one of the many events held here throughout the year. A visit to this iconic landmark is a great way to immerse yourself in Columbus' rich history and culture.

Another newer addition to Columbus' landmarks, the Makers Monument celebrates the city's creative spirit and entrepreneurial drive. Located at the intersection of Long and High Streets, this 35-foot-tall sculpture was inspired by the altered worlds of architects, designers, and makers.

Created by Mark Reigelman and weighing in at more than 7000 lbs, the monument resembles a huge tectonic crystal as a nod to the mineral-rich Ohio valleys. A great spot for a photo-op, this unique landmark adds a modern and artistic touch to the city's landscape.

This impressive monument is a tribute to the diverse and innovative community that makes up the heart of Columbus. A visit here is a reminder of the city's constant growth and evolution, making it an essential stop for any visitor.

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