Nestled just east of the Columbus Metropolitan Library in downtown Columbus is the one of a kind, unique interpretation of Georges Seurat’s post-impressionist painting, A Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grand Jatte, located in the Topiary Park in Old Deaf School Park.
This unique park boasts the only known topiary garden that is based on a work of art. As you stroll through the park, you will find yourself stepping directly into a beautiful landscape that is comprised of meticulously cared for living sculptures that consist of 54 people, eight boats, three dogs, a cat and even a monkey.
The quaint gift shop/visitors center offers special items for the garden lover as well as the usual brochures and postcards. The visitors center also offers a short introductory movie that you can watch that gives background information about Georges Seurat, the creator of the painting while explaining the creation of the park.
In the midst of the metropolitan city, this is a great getaway to stop for a picnic and enjoy the squirrels scampering up the trees. You should find plenty of on-street, metered parking- save your quarters! The park also has nice, clean restrooms and drinking fountains.
The Topiary Park is located in Columbus at the corner of East Town St. and Washington Avenue. The park is open free of charge year-round, although the best time to view it is April thru November. The museum gift shop is open Apr. 1 through the end of December. For more information, you can call 614-645-0197 or check out their website.
The Columbus Museum of Art, The Ohio Statehouse, COSI, the German Village, and The Franklin Park Conservatory are located within minutes of The Topiary Garden. If you love books, you’ll find the German Village boasts a unique 32-room bookstore called The Book Loft. I certainly wouldn’t allow my small children to run loose here for fear they may get lost, but you won’t want to miss the opportunity to find some great bargains, much of the selection is discounted! Finally, if you enjoy unique sculptures, you won’t want to miss the giant gavel in downtown Columbus. My kids thought it was hilarious!
Need a place to stay while you’re visiting Columbus? Check out the Residence Inn Downtown and find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say at TripAdvisor. The Residence Inn is housed in a former bank, offers all-suite rooms, and you can eat breakfast in the bank vault.
You’ll find more hotels & Airbnb’s listed below in our map. Check it out for the best deals and plan your getaway today!
Have you spent time in Columbus? What do you like to do in Ohio’s Capital City?
More posts you may enjoy:
The Field of Corn: a Roadside Attraction in Dublin
The Giant Dancing Hares of Dublin Roadside Attraction
Tour a Lustron Home in Columbus
10 Things to do with the Family in Columbus
3 Days in New York City using CityPASS
Things to do in Fayetteville, North Carolina
This post was originally published in February 2010 but I’ve returned many times over the years.
Jeanette
Tuesday 16th of February 2010
I just came across your blog and I have a feeling I might be spending all my computer time tonight pursing some of your old posts.I never knew this garden was in Columbus and I've lived less than 2 hours from Columbus for most of my life! We will have to plan a stop there sometime this summer.
These Three Kings
Friday 12th of February 2010
Wow..sounds cool! So glad you all were able to take such a wonderful trip. We are getting snow today so we are just out in our back yard. lolWe hardly ever see snow here in sweet home Alabama :) Happy Friday!