Introduction

As one of the largest cities in Ohio, as well as the capital, Columbus has an active nightlife, booming businesses, and quaint neighborhoods. In Columbus proper, there are over 700,000 residents, but combine the surrounding suburbs, and the population exceeds 1 million. Notable towns surrounding Columbus, and all less than an hour's drive, are Delaware to the north, Newark to the east, and Lancaster and Circleville to the south.

Columbus has an art museum, a symphony, a conservatory and botanical gardens, a popular zoo, and one of the largest universities, Ohio State; which always draws large crowds for sports and other university related events. For the outdoor enthusiast, there are several state parks on the outskirts of the city, including Madison Lake State Park, Alum Creek State Park and Delaware Lake State Park. Golfing at one of the many courses around Columbus and its neighboring towns is a popular pastime as well as cycling on the Olentangy-Scioto Bikeway or along the 52-mile Dublin Bicycle Loop.

The Ohio Capital Square Complex is located in the heart of downtown Columbus, and just down the street is the Franklin Park Conservatory with 28 acres of English gardens and rare flora. One of a kind restaurants and bars abound in the downtown area, especially in charming German Village, an old-world neighborhood with book and coffee shops, restaurants and bars. Columbus is host to craft shows, antique markets and arts festivals with events lasting from March through November.

You can access Columbus from other Ohio metro locations, Cleveland and Cincinnati on I-71, and U.S. 23 runs north/south through the city.