CENTRAL OHIO
OUTDOOR RECREATION & NATURE | GROVE CITY OH
Scioto Grove Metro Park offers a diverse outdoor experience along the Scioto River. This 620-acre park features over 7 miles of trails, scenic river views, and a unique backpacking trail with primitive campsites. Visitors can enjoy fishing, canoeing, archery, and observing local wildlife in this natural oasis just minutes from Urbancrest.
HISTORICAL GARDENS & EDUCATION | GROVE CITY OH
Gardens at Gantz Farm is a unique horticultural attraction in Grove City. This educational garden complex features three distinct gardens: the Herb Garden, the Arboretum, and the Garden of Yesterday. Visitors can explore various plant species, learn about historical gardening practices, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this well-maintained green space.
ADVENTURE & RECREATION | GROVE CITY OH
LVL UP Sports Paintball Park offers an adrenaline-pumping experience for paintball enthusiasts. This expansive facility features multiple playing fields with various themes and obstacles, catering to both beginners and experienced players. The park provides equipment rentals, safety gear, and professional staff to ensure a thrilling and safe paintball adventure.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECREATION | GROVE CITY OH
Fryer Park is a versatile recreational area in Grove City, offering something for everyone. The park features a unique Discovery Frontier Playground, designed for inclusive play and sensory experiences. Visitors can enjoy sports fields, walking trails, a fishing pond, and picnic areas. The park also hosts community events and concerts throughout the year.
HISTORICAL SITE & MUSEUM | GROVE CITY OH
Century Village is a living history museum that showcases Grove City's past. This collection of restored 19th-century buildings includes a one-room schoolhouse, log cabin, and train depot. Visitors can step back in time and experience life in early Ohio through guided tours, educational programs, and special events that bring local history to life.
BOTANICAL WONDER & ART | COLUMBUS OH
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a horticultural masterpiece in Columbus. This 88-acre attraction features exotic plant collections, seasonal displays, and stunning glass artwork by Dale Chihuly. Visitors can explore diverse biomes, attend gardening workshops, and enjoy special exhibitions that blend nature, art, and science throughout the year.
WILDLIFE & CONSERVATION | POWELL OH
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a world-renowned wildlife haven near Urbancrest. Home to over 10,000 animals representing 600 species, the zoo offers immersive exhibits, educational programs, and conservation initiatives. Visitors can explore diverse habitats, enjoy animal encounters, and experience the adjacent Zoombezi Bay water park for a full day of family fun.
FAMILY FUN & CREATIVITY | COLUMBUS OH
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus is an indoor family entertainment center dedicated to the beloved LEGO brick. This interactive attraction features hands-on play areas, building challenges, and a 4D cinema. Visitors can explore MINILAND, a miniature LEGO city, ride two themed attractions, and unleash their creativity in various build and play zones.
MILITARY HISTORY & TRIBUTE | COLUMBUS OH
The National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus is a powerful tribute to American veterans. This architectural marvel houses exhibits that chronicle personal stories of veterans from all branches of service. Visitors can explore interactive displays, attend educational programs, and reflect in the Memorial Grove, honoring the sacrifices of service members throughout history.
HISTORIC DISTRICT & CULTURE | COLUMBUS OH
German Village is a charming historic district in Columbus, showcasing 19th-century German immigrant culture. This picturesque neighborhood features brick houses, cobblestone streets, and unique shops and restaurants. Visitors can explore Schiller Park, browse the famous Book Loft, and indulge in authentic German cuisine while experiencing the area's rich heritage and architecture.
Urbancrest, Ohio, is a small village located in Franklin County, known for its rich history and community spirit. One of the most notable aspects of Urbancrest is its significance in African American history. In 1971, Urbancrest made history by electing Ellen Walker Craig-Jones as mayor, making her the first African American woman to be elected mayor in the United States. This achievement has put Urbancrest on the map as a place of historical importance and progress.
While Urbancrest itself is a small community, its proximity to Columbus offers residents and visitors access to a wide range of attractions and activities. One of the most popular nearby attractions is the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, located just a short drive away in Columbus. This beautiful facility features exotic plant collections, seasonal displays, and educational programs that attract nature enthusiasts and families alike.
For those interested in outdoor activities, the nearby Scioto Grove Metro Park provides ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and enjoying nature. The park features over 620 acres of land along the Scioto River, offering scenic views and recreational facilities. Additionally, the Gantz Park in Grove City, which is close to Urbancrest, offers a unique herb garden, walking trails, and sports facilities, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors.
History buffs will appreciate the nearby Ohio History Center in Columbus, which showcases the state's rich heritage through various exhibits and artifacts. For a more local historical experience, visitors can explore the Urbancrest community itself, taking in the small-town charm and learning about its significant role in African American history. While Urbancrest may be small in size, its historical importance and proximity to larger attractions make it a unique and interesting place to visit in central Ohio.