Columbus Visitors Center — Attraction in Columbus

Driving home from Illinois to DC, I realized Columbus IN was going to be the ideal way-stop, 40 years after first learning of this modern architectural mecca while still in school.

Checked into Inn at Irwin Gardens, a total contrast to the legacy modern we came to see, but a wonderfully preserved old mansion and garden nonetheless.

Dinner at Henry Social; I gave it 5 stars too based on context. Very nice.

Did two tours the next day - shuttle bus survey of classic modern buildings in the morning, and the Miller house in the pm. Other than the fact that it was an unseasonably hot day, and we’re generally averse to tour groups, these tours were fantastic way to shoehorn a LOT of great architecture in a single day! The shuttle bus with AC blasting saved the day. The tour guides were knowledgeable and informative and friendly. The Visitors Center staff were welcoming. Reserve early! These tours tend to sell out quick.

Between the two tours we squeezed in a great authentic ramen lunch (ramen in Indiana? Unexpected but delicious) at Ramen Alley (also 5 stars) and yummy ice cream dessert afterwards at famous Zaharko’s.

All in all a short but amazing stay in historic Columbus. Packed a lot into 24-hours for two old folks. The best part was that everything (except the air conditioned shuttle bus tours of course) was within easy walking distance in spite of the hot humid weather, including many of the classic...

Columbus is a Gem! If you are interested in Architecture, Cities, Planning, Landscape or American Culture, you should take a weekend to visit Columbus. If you do visit, sign up for the Tours at the visitor center. We just took the Shuttle tour of the city and the tour of the Miller house. Both tours were great! Volunteer led, they are filled with information and passion for the city and it's sites. There is plenty of time to visit a few buildings in particular and the Miller house is a masterpiece, a must see for all. After the tours, take a deeper dive on your own and pop by the many churches, schools, parks, golf shelters, fire houses, businesses, public art, Etc.....You will meet people happy to show you more of their...

Chihuly alert! There is a gorgeous yellow Chihuly in the stairwell. What a treat! This visitor center is a mandatory stop in this town that surprisingly has a great deal of architecture offerings. Grab a little map, and take a self-tour of the town, but before you leave the center, don’t forget the gift shop. This is the sweetest little gift shop. It was almost like a museum gift shop and boasted not only items from local artists, but other well-known national artists as well. I collect tiles from Motawi Tileworks, and they had some for sale, as well as some wonderful Motawi tileworks cards. The folks who work here are also so very pleasant and helpful. What an unexpected treat this...