First time in Columbus, Ohio and grateful for the chance to visit. This is a city that often flies under the radar but is brimming with hidden gems and delightful surprises. I didn’t see them all with the limited time we had but made the most out of it by just walking around for a few hours. It was a pleasure exploring this Midwestern hub.

We drove into Downtown Columbus, just aimlessly checking out the sights. The Scioto Mile is cool, a stunning riverfront promenade with breathtaking views and a sense of serenity amidst the urban hustle. Then we stumbled upon Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 8 feet tall bronze statue by accident. A little piece of Hollywood in the heart of Ohio. Nice find!

Next, I wandered over to Battelle Riverfront Park. This park isn’t just a green space; it’s a living museum. Monuments and memorials dot the landscape, each telling a story of the city’s past. From the Firefighters Memorial with its eternal flame to the Freedom sculpture.

Bicentennial Park was another highlight. And so was Genoa Park. This park offers a tranquil retreat with its amphitheater that boasts stunning views of the downtown skyline. It is used for concerts and events, or simply to sit back and watch the city light up as the sun sets.

COSI (Center of Science and Industry) was fun, too. This place is a wonderland for the curious mind, with hands-on exhibits that make science accessible and fun.

Finally, I stood before the World’s Largest Gavel, at the Ohio Judicial Center. It’s a colossal sculpture that’s as impressive as it is symbolic.

Columbus is definitely well worth a visit if you ever find yourself in the Buckeye State. A lovely place indeed.