Olympic FOMO? How to experience Paris without leaving Ohio
Columbus, Ohio offers several local spots where Francophiles can experience the unique atmosphere of Paris, including the Scioto Mile, Ohio Statehouse, McFerson Commons Park, Topiary Park, and Kings Island.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Images of the 2024 Summer Olympics might have viewers pining to experience the unique atmosphere of Paris.
However, if traveling to the City of Lights is not an option, there are some local spots where Francophiles can get their fix without leaving the state. With some imagination, it might be possible to feel those special Parisian vibes by visiting the places on this list.
Scioto Mile and the Scioto River Promenade: Columbus' riverfront area offers picturesque views and walkways, similar to strolling along France's Seine, which will be the site of Olympic swim events.
Located at 233 Civic Center Drive, the Promenade offers many scenic views. Hours are 7 a.m.–11 p.m. daily.
Ohio Statehouse: With its grand, neoclassical architecture, the statehouse might remind visitors of some of the monumental buildings in Paris, such as the Panthéon.
The Statehouse is located at 1 Capitol Square in Downtown Columbus. Guided tours are available daily, except on state holidays. On weekdays, walk-in tours start from the Map Room on the hour, every hour, starting at 10 a.m., and the last tour starts at 3 p.m. On weekends, walk-in tours begin at noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m., according to the Ohio Statehouse website.
McFerson Commons (Arch Park): The arch at McFerson Commons Park is the last remaining piece of the old Columbus Union Station, which was demolished in 1979. The arch's classical architecture, with its elegant and imposing structure, is reminiscent of Parisian monuments such as the Arc de Triomphe or the various decorative arches scattered throughout Paris.
McFerson Commons is located at 218 West St., the city lists the hours from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: The glass structures and beautifully landscaped gardens here can evoke a sense of the greenhouses of the Jardin des Serres d’auteuil in Paris.
Franklin Park Conservatory is open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Topiary Park: This unique park features topiary recreations of Georges Seurat’s famous painting "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island La Grande Jatte," bringing a touch of French art to life in Columbus. La Grande Jatte, an island in the Seine River, is located just outside the Paris city border.
The Topiary Park is located at 480 E Town Street, behind the Columbus Metropolitan Library. The park's hours are 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Kings Island: While the King's Island Eiffel Tower is a smaller, simplified version of the original, it captures the essence of the Parisian landmark and gives visitors a taste of Paris in Ohio. This replica can provide a fun and visually similar experience to those familiar with the Eiffel Tower in Paris, although on a smaller scale and within the gates of an amusement park. The structure is a prominent feature of the park and is popular with park-goers for its scenic views and photo opportunities.
Go to visitkingsisland.com for more details.
