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Explore Columbus, Ohio: Historical Sites and Famous Landmarks

Are you planning a trip to Columbus, Ohio, and interested in exploring the city’s rich history? Columbus is home to many historical sites and famous landmarks, making it a perfect destination for history buffs. From museums and districts to parks and attractions, Columbus has something for everyone.

One of the best ways to explore Columbus’s history is by visiting its numerous historic landmarks. The city is home to many buildings and structures that date back to the 19th and early 20th centuries, such as the Ohio Statehouse, the LeVeque Tower, and the Huntington Bank Building. These landmarks are not only beautiful to look at but also offer a glimpse into the city’s rich past.

In addition to historic landmarks, Columbus is also home to famous museums and districts, such as the Short North Arts District and the German Village. These areas are filled with unique shops, restaurants, and galleries, making them a great place to spend an afternoon. Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, or history, Columbus has something to offer.

Historic Landmarks in Columbus

Columbus, Ohio has a rich history and is home to a number of historic landmarks that are worth visiting. Here are some of the most noteworthy landmarks that you should add to your itinerary:

Ohio Statehouse

The Ohio Statehouse is a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture and is the seat of government for the state of Ohio. Completed in 1861, the Statehouse is home to the offices of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor, as well as the chambers of the Ohio House of Representatives and Ohio Senate. Be sure to take a guided tour of the building to learn more about its history and significance.

Cincinnati Music Hall

While technically located in Cincinnati, the Cincinnati Music Hall is a popular destination for those visiting Columbus. The Music Hall is a stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture and is home to the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Opera, and Cincinnati Ballet. The building also features a number of beautiful murals and stained glass windows.

National Veterans Memorial and Museum

The National Veterans Memorial and Museum is a relatively new addition to Columbus, having opened in 2018. The museum is dedicated to honoring the experiences of veterans from all branches of the U.S. military. The building itself is a work of art, with an exterior made of glass and concrete that reflects the surrounding landscape.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The conservatory features a number of indoor and outdoor gardens, including a tropical rainforest and a butterfly habitat. The building itself is a work of art, with a stunning glass roof that allows natural light to flood the interior.

Thurber House

The Thurber House is a historic home that was once owned by the famous writer and cartoonist James Thurber. The house has been preserved as a museum and features exhibits on Thurber’s life and work. The building itself is a beautiful example of Victorian architecture and is located in the heart of Columbus’s historic district.

Municipal Light Plant

The Municipal Light Plant is a historic building that once provided electricity to the city of Columbus. Today, the building has been repurposed as an event space and is a popular destination for weddings and other special events. The building features beautiful Art Deco architecture and is a great example of how historic buildings can be repurposed for modern use.

These are just a few of the many historic landmarks that you can visit in Columbus, Ohio. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, be sure to add these destinations to your itinerary.

Famous Museums and Districts

If you are a history buff, Columbus, Ohio, is a must-visit destination. The city boasts of several museums and districts that showcase the rich history of the area. Here are some of the famous museums and districts that you should not miss:

Ohio Statehouse Museum

The Ohio Statehouse Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of Ohio. The museum is located in the Ohio Statehouse, which is a National Historic Landmark. The museum features exhibits that showcase the history of the state, including its political history. You can learn about the state’s governors, the Ohio Constitution, and the state’s role in the Civil War. The museum is open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, and admission is free.

Thomas A Edison Birthplace Museum

The Thomas A Edison Birthplace Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the life and work of the famous inventor. The museum is located in Milan, Ohio, which is about an hour’s drive from Columbus. The museum features exhibits that showcase Edison’s life and inventions, including the phonograph and the light bulb. You can also see the house where Edison was born and grew up. The museum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, and admission is $10 for adults.

Pro Football Hall of Fame

If you are a football fan, the Pro Football Hall of Fame is a must-visit destination. The museum is located in Canton, Ohio, which is about two hours’ drive from Columbus. The museum features exhibits that showcase the history of football, including the Hall of Fame gallery, where you can see the busts of all the Hall of Fame inductees. You can also see artifacts from famous games and players, including jerseys, helmets, and footballs. The museum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, and admission is $28 for adults.

Saxton McKinley House

The Saxton McKinley House is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of the United States. The house is located in Canton, Ohio, which is about two hours’ drive from Columbus. The house was the childhood home of Ida Saxton McKinley, who later became the First Lady of the United States when her husband, William McKinley, became President. The house features exhibits that showcase the life and times of the McKinley family, including their role in the Civil War. The museum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, and admission is $10 for adults.

Columbus, Ohio, is rich in history, and there are many museums and districts that showcase this history. Whether you are interested in politics, inventions, football, or the history of the United States, there is something for everyone in Columbus.

National Historic Landmarks

Columbus, Ohio is home to several National Historic Landmarks that are definitely worth visiting. These landmarks are sites of great historical significance and are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the city. Here are some of the most notable National Historic Landmarks in Columbus:

Fallen Timbers Battlefield

The Fallen Timbers Battlefield is a historic site that marks the location of the Battle of Fallen Timbers. This battle was fought between the United States and a Native American confederation led by the Shawnee chief Blue Jacket in 1794. The United States won the battle, which ended the Northwest Indian War and opened up the Northwest Territory for settlement.

Paul Laurence Dunbar House

The Paul Laurence Dunbar House is the former home of the famous African American poet and writer Paul Laurence Dunbar. Dunbar lived in this house from 1904 until his death in 1906. The house has been restored to its original condition and is now a museum dedicated to Dunbar’s life and work.

Fort Ancient

Fort Ancient is a prehistoric Native American earthwork located in Warren County, Ohio, about 25 miles northeast of Cincinnati. The site consists of a series of earthen embankments and mounds that were built by the Hopewell culture between 100 BC and AD 500. The site is now a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public for tours.

Fort Meigs

Fort Meigs was a fortification built by the United States Army in 1813 during the War of 1812. The fort played a pivotal role in the defense of the Northwest Territory against British and Native American forces. Today, the fort is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public for tours and reenactments.

Warren G. Harding Home

The Warren G. Harding Home was the residence of the 29th President of the United States, Warren G. Harding, from 1921 until his death in 1923. The house is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public for tours.

Huffman Prairie Flying Field

The Huffman Prairie Flying Field is the site of the Wright brothers’ experimental flights in 1904 and 1905. The site is now a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public for tours.

Adena Mansion and Gardens

The Adena Mansion and Gardens is the former home of Thomas Worthington, the sixth governor of Ohio. The mansion was built in 1807 and is now a National Historic Landmark. The site includes a museum, gardens, and a visitor center.

Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial

Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial is a monument located on South Bass Island in Lake Erie. The monument commemorates the Battle of Lake Erie, which was fought during the War of 1812, and celebrates the lasting peace between the United States, Canada, and Great Britain. The monument is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public for tours.

Hopewell Culture National Historical Park

The Hopewell Culture National Historical Park is a collection of Native American earthworks located in Ross County, Ohio. The site consists of several mounds and enclosures that were built by the Hopewell culture between 100 BC and AD 500. The site is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public for tours.

Tomb of William Henry Harrison

The Tomb of William Henry Harrison is the final resting place of the ninth President of the United States, William Henry Harrison. The tomb is located in North Bend, Ohio, and is a National Historic Landmark.

Shrum Mound

The Shrum Mound is a Native American burial mound located in Butler County, Ohio. The mound was built by the Adena culture between 800 BC and AD 100. The site is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public for tours.

These National Historic Landmarks are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Columbus, Ohio. By visiting these sites, you can learn more about the history of the city and the people who helped shape it.

Historic Sites Related to Presidents

If you’re a history buff, you’ll be glad to know that Columbus, Ohio has several historic sites related to former U.S. Presidents. Here are some of the must-visit sites that you should add to your itinerary:

Rutherford B Hayes Home

The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center in Fremont, Ohio, is the former home of the 19th U.S. President, Rutherford B. Hayes. The center is located on 25 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds and features the Hayes family home, museum, library, and tomb. You can take a guided tour of the home to learn more about the life and legacy of President Hayes.

U.S. Grant Boyhood Home

Located in Georgetown, Ohio, the U.S. Grant Boyhood Home is a must-visit site for history enthusiasts. The home was once the residence of the 18th U.S. President, Ulysses S. Grant, and his family. The home has been restored to its original condition and is furnished with period pieces. You can take a guided tour of the home to learn more about the early life of President Grant.

Point Pleasant

Point Pleasant, Ohio, is the birthplace of the 23rd U.S. President, Benjamin Harrison. The town is home to a museum dedicated to President Harrison, which features exhibits and artifacts related to his life and presidency. You can also visit his birthplace, which is a National Historic Landmark.

Mentor

Mentor, Ohio, is the site of the James A. Garfield National Historic Site, which was the home of the 20th U.S. President, James A. Garfield. The site includes Garfield’s home, a visitor center, and several other historic buildings. You can take a guided tour of the home to learn more about the life and legacy of President Garfield.

Overall, these historic sites related to former U.S. Presidents are a must-visit if you’re in Columbus, Ohio. You’ll get a chance to learn more about the lives and legacies of some of the most influential leaders in American history.

Historic Parks and Attractions

If you’re looking for historic parks and attractions in Columbus, Ohio, you’re in luck! The city is home to several incredible sites that are rich in history and natural beauty. Here are some of the must-visit historic parks and attractions in Columbus that you don’t want to miss:

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a stunning place to visit. Located just outside of Columbus, this park is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the area. The park is filled with hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning vistas that will take your breath away. It’s a great place to spend a day exploring nature and learning about the history of the area.

Hocking Hills State Park

Hocking Hills State Park is another incredible natural wonder that you won’t want to miss. The park is home to several hiking trails that wind through stunning rock formations and waterfalls. It’s a great place to spend a day hiking, exploring, and taking in the beauty of the area.

Buffington Island Battlefield Memorial Park

If you’re interested in history, Buffington Island Battlefield Memorial Park is a must-visit site. This park is home to a Civil War battlefield where Union and Confederate forces clashed in 1863. Today, the park is a peaceful place to reflect on the history of the area and learn about the sacrifices that were made during the Civil War.

Ohio and Erie Canal

The Ohio and Erie Canal is a historic waterway that played an important role in the development of Columbus and the surrounding area. Today, you can visit the canal and learn about its history at several different sites throughout the city. It’s a great way to connect with the past and learn about the people who helped shape the area.

Lockington Locks

Lockington Locks is another historic site that is worth a visit. These locks were used to transport goods and people along the Miami and Erie Canal in the 1800s. Today, you can visit the locks and learn about their history at the Lockington Locks Historical Society Museum. It’s a great way to learn about the history of the area and the people who helped shape it.

Overall, Columbus, Ohio is home to some incredible historic parks and attractions that are well worth a visit. Whether you’re interested in nature, history, or both, there’s something for everyone in this incredible city.

Historic Sites Related to Aviation History

If you’re interested in aviation history, Columbus, Ohio has several sites that you won’t want to miss. Here are three must-see destinations related to aviation history in the area.

Wright Brothers

The Wright Brothers National Museum at Carillon Historical Park is a great place to start your aviation history tour. The museum is located in Dayton, just a short drive from Columbus. The museum features exhibits on the Wright brothers’ lives, their work, and their impact on aviation. You can see replicas of their planes, including the Wright Flyer III, which was the first practical airplane.

Miami and Erie Canal

The Miami and Erie Canal played an important role in aviation history. The canal was used to transport materials for the Wright brothers’ experiments and inventions. The canal is now a state park, and you can take a boat ride along the canal to learn more about its history and its impact on aviation.

Newark Earthworks

The Newark Earthworks are a series of ancient earthworks that were built by the Hopewell culture over 2,000 years ago. The earthworks are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are considered one of the most important archaeological sites in North America. While the earthworks themselves are not related to aviation history, they are located near the Newark-Heath Airport, which played an important role in aviation history. The airport was used by the Wright brothers for their early experiments, and it was also the site of a number of aviation firsts, including the first parachute jump from an airplane.

If you’re interested in aviation history, these three sites are a must-see. Each one offers a unique perspective on the history of flight and the people who made it possible. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun day trip, you won’t be disappointed.

Historic Sites in Other Ohio Cities

If you’re interested in exploring more of Ohio’s rich history, there are plenty of historic sites to visit in other cities besides Columbus. Here are some notable locations in a few Ohio cities that you won’t want to miss!

Chillicothe

Chillicothe is home to the Adena Mansion and Gardens, a historic home built in 1807 that belonged to Thomas Worthington, Ohio’s sixth governor. The mansion is furnished with period pieces and offers tours of the home and gardens.

Milan

Milan is the birthplace of Thomas Edison, and you can visit the Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum to learn about his life and inventions. The museum has exhibits on Edison’s early life, his inventions, and his later years.

Dayton

Dayton is where the Wright Brothers invented and built their first airplane, and you can visit the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park to learn about their achievements. The park includes the Wright Brothers National Museum, the Huffman Prairie Flying Field, and the Paul Laurence Dunbar State Memorial.

Perrysburg

Perrysburg is home to Fort Meigs, a historic site that played a significant role in the War of 1812. The fort was built in 1813 and was the site of two major battles during the war. Today, it is a museum that offers tours and reenactments.

Fremont

Fremont is home to the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Museums, which includes the home of the 19th U.S. President. The museum has exhibits on Hayes’ life and presidency, as well as a library and research center.

Maumee

Maumee is home to the Wolcott House Museum Complex, which includes the Wolcott House, a historic home built in 1836. The museum offers tours of the home and exhibits on life in the 19th century.

North Bend

North Bend is the birthplace of Ulysses S. Grant, and you can visit the Ulysses S. Grant Birthplace to learn about his life and presidency. The museum has exhibits on Grant’s early life, his military career, and his presidency.

These are just a few of the many historic sites to visit in Ohio. Whether you’re interested in early American history, aviation, or presidential history, there’s something for everyone to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the oldest buildings in Columbus, Ohio?

Columbus, Ohio has a rich history that dates back more than 200 years. Some of the oldest buildings in Columbus include the Ohio Statehouse, which was completed in 1861, and the Thurber House, which was built in 1873. Both buildings have been preserved and are open to the public for tours.

What are some local historical sites to visit in Columbus?

If you’re interested in local history, there are plenty of historical sites to visit in Columbus. Some of the most popular include the German Village Historic District, the Jefferson Avenue Historic District, and the Short North Arts District. Each of these areas has its own unique history and architecture.

What are the top National Historic Landmarks in Ohio?

Ohio is home to a number of National Historic Landmarks, including the Wright Brothers National Museum, the William Howard Taft National Historic Site, and the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park. These sites are recognized for their historical significance and are well worth a visit.

What are some must-see landmarks in downtown Columbus?

Downtown Columbus is home to many landmarks, including the Ohio Statehouse, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. These landmarks offer a glimpse into the history and culture of Columbus and are popular destinations for visitors and locals alike.

What is Columbus, Ohio known for historically?

Columbus, Ohio is known for its rich history, which includes the Ohio Statehouse, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Additionally, Columbus played an important role in the Underground Railroad and was a center for the abolitionist movement.

What is the most famous landmark in Ohio?

The most famous landmark in Ohio is the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which is located in Cleveland. The museum celebrates the history of rock and roll and features exhibits on some of the genre’s most iconic artists.

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