Scioto Mile
233 S Civic Center Dr, Columbus, OH
One of the most attractive urban parks in Columbus, the Scioto Mile stretches from the city’s downtown to the banks of the Scioto River via a network of parks and boulevards connected by walking and cycling routes. Enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride through the city, stopping to take in art exhibits and sculpture gardens, cool off in the “sprayground” fountains, or dine with skyline views along the route.
The Scioto Mile runs from the Arena district just north of downtown Columbus to the Whittier Peninsula, a former industrial area in southern Columbus that has undergone a massive urban renewal and is now home to a lush urban park backed by the trendy brewery district. You can walk or cycle the entire length in a few hours and it’s easy to pick up the route from any spot along the downtown riverfront.
This urban green space features cultural attractions, kid-friendly play spaces, and plenty of dining and imbibing options.
The open-air sculpture collections at the Alexander AEP and Battelle Riverfront parks are free to visit, as are exhibitions at the Patricia R. Tyson Cultural Arts Center.
Sports and fitness facilities include walking and cycling paths, a climbing wall, an obstacle course, and several play fountains.
Milestone 229 serves lunch and dinner in the indoor dining room and outside on the panoramic terrace.
The Scioto Mile route and attractions are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
The Scioto Mile route runs along the Scioto River through downtown Columbus and can be picked up anywhere along the way. The Promenade that runs from Battelle Riverfront Park and Bicentennial Park along Civic Center Drive is the closest stretch to downtown and can be reached by city bus, CoGo bike share, or car (there are several nearby parking garages).
The attractions along Scioto Mile are largely outdoors, so visit on a clear, mild day to fully enjoy a walk or bike ride. A number of summer events are held along the greenway each year, including the Jazz & Rib Fest and CBUS Soul Fest—check ahead for dates.
Though it’s just about a mile long, the Scioto Mile greenway is lined by parks, cultural landmarks, play areas, and other features that could fill an entire day of exploring. If you have limited time, focus on the middle section between Battelle Riverfront Park and Bicentennial Park, where you’ll find the Promenade, the Scioto Mile Fountain, the Milestone 229 restaurant, and the Priscilla R. Tyson Cultural Arts Center.
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