Parks
The green spaces around the Short North Arts District are part of the area’s charm and are important fixtures in the neighborhood.
From a sprawling picturesque park complete with a fountain and gazebo to pockets of urban greenery that add a touch of tranquility to the urban setting, stopping to smell the roses, enjoy a summer day at a festival, or listen to live music during Gallery Hop is possible in the District.
Goodale Park
Surrounded by Victorian Village, an historic cluster of homes neighboring the Short North Arts District, Goodale Park is the oldest park in Columbus and among the oldest in the United States. Dr. Lincoln Goodale, the community’s first physician, was a prominent and charitable pioneer of the area who donated the 40-acre space to the city in 1851 to forever be kept as a public park or resort. Now home to one of the most locally-loved summer festivals, Goodale Park is an expansive stretch of green space that contains a playground, tennis courts, park shelter, pond-side gazebo. The park offers a serene space slightly removed from the urban bustle of High Street and has a beautiful view of downtown Columbus. Visit the City of Columbus Recreation and Parks webpage for more information on Goodale Park.
Italian Village Park
Less than an acre in size, Italian Village park is a mere block from High Street. The park is dedicated to the memory of Carl Proto, an Italian-American Columbus native. With a playground, picnic area, and a landscaped garden maintained by the Italian Village Park Committee, this small space in the historic neighborhood east of the District is a treasure in a lively city. Visit the City of Columbus Recreation and Parks webpage for more information on Italian Village Park.
Poplar Park
Believe it or not, this charming bricked courtyard is an official City of Columbus Park! Prior to 2003, this space served as remnants of East Poplar Avenue, which was demolished to make way for the award winning Short North Cap to the South. Enjoy performers who set up during Gallery Hop or watch evening light shows on the Short North Arches all from this cozy urban oasis.