Scioto Mile
One of the best things about Columbus, Ohio is that it has an abundance of green and open spaces. And a good example is the Scioto Mile. It covers more than 175 acres of lush land. It’s a good place to visit if you want to take a break from the busyness of city life. It really looks like an oasis as it provides a stark contrast to the large buildings you can see in downtown Columbus. And if you’re visiting the area and you have time to spare, it’s highly recommended that you go here. But make sure that you reserve a half-day at least because the place is huge. 
What you will like most about Scioto Mile is that it has something for everyone. Kids will surely enjoy the large open spaces and the different attractions. Adults can enjoy the different events and activities that are regularly held there. Two of the much-awaited events in the area are the Jazz & Rib Fest and the Rhythm on the River Music Festival. Regardless of your age, you’ll surely be mesmerized by the breathtaking interactive fountain. If you love nature, then you’ll definitely fall in love with Scioto Miles with its seemingly endless well-maintained trails. And if you’re a person who just wants to spend a quiet morning enjoying the views and watching people, then you’re also very much welcome in this place.
There are many different ways to explore the Mile and the areas surrounding it. You can, of course, walk. Just make sure that you have comfortable shoes on because you’ll definitely do a lot of walking. If you do choose to walk, you won’t feel lonely because there are many people who take regular walks in the area. Another option is to bike around the Mile. Don’t have a bike? No problem. You can always rent a bike from CoGo Bike Share. You can also go by the water and take a guided canoe tour. You can also rent a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard.
The Scioto Mile is all about giving people a good time. The things you can do there for fun are almost limitless. The kids will surely have a grand time playing with the fountain. If you don’t mind for your kids to get a little wet, then they can splash water together with other kids. If you’re into arts, then be sure to drop by the Cultural Arts Center. They have several galleries that you can check out. They also have interactive activities for those who want to create their own art. And if you do get hungry from all of the activities – and for sure you will – then you can just go to the popular Milestone 229 restaurant to grab a bite.
The Scioto Mile has a total of nine parks: Dorrian Green, Bicentennial Park, The Promenade, Genoa Park, Battelle Riverfront Park, North Bank Park, McFerson Commons, Scioto Adubon, and Alexander Aep Park. Each park has something unique to offer. They have public artworks for those who know how to appreciate good art. They have venues for all types of shows and performances. They have memorials. They have places for birdwatching. They even have activities for thrillseekers such as a climbing wall. It’ll really be hard for you to get bored in this place. You should also watch out for special events that are held in the different parks.
Summertime is the best time to go to the Scioto Mile. That’s the time when the place plays host to different concerts, festivals, and other special events. If you get the chance, you should attend the Jazz & Rib Fest. It is exactly as the name suggests, a festival that celebrates good music and delicious ribs. The lineup of musicians that play at this festival is also impressive. Two other summer festivals that you need to watch out for are the Rhythm on the River Music Festival and An Evening of Dance with BalletMet. There are also special events during winter like the WinterFest, which focuses on music and local food and beverages, and the Columbus Blue Jackets Winter Park ice rink. There’s also the Columbus Food Truck Festival, Columbus Pride Festival and Parade, Columbus Arts Festival, Columbus Science Festival, and the Red White & Boom.