Columbus

Were it not for some enthusiastic residents, Columbus might not be the capital of Ohio, In fact, the city might not even exist. When Ohio became a state in 1803, a permanent capital had not been named. It looked as though bustling Zanesville or Chillicothe might be given that honor. But in 1812, the folks of Franklinton, a small community along the Scioto River made an offer the state could not refuse. For 1,200 acres of land and a commitment to construct a capitol building and a penitentiary, the tiny town became the state seat. Shortly thereafter, Columbus was born on the opposite bank of the Scioto. Named for explorer Christopher ...

Were it not for some enthusiastic residents, Columbus might not be the capital of Ohio, In fact, the city might not even exist. When Ohio became a state in 1803, a permanent capital had not been named. It looked as though bustling Zanesville or Chillicothe might be given that honor. But in 1812, the folks of Franklinton, a small community along the Scioto River made an offer the state could not refuse. For 1,200 acres of land and a commitment to construct a capitol building and a penitentiary, the tiny town became the state seat. Shortly thereafter, Columbus was born on the opposite bank of the Scioto. Named for explorer Christopher Columbus, the city was founded in 1812 and quickly merged with Franklinton. With an economy based on education and technology, Columbus is home to one of the nation's largest universities, Ohio State University, and its Ohio Stadium, known as "The Horseshoe" and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Put on your walking shoes and discover some fascinating neighborhoods, including the artsy Short North, entertaining Brewery District, festival friendly Italian Village, Victorian mansioned North Side and Old-World German Village. Originally settled by German immigrants in the mid-1800s, German Village boasts brick sidewalks, antique shops, Queen Anne style houses and great dining.

About the Expert

Jackie Sheckler Finch has written several guidebooks, including The Unofficial Guide to Campgrounds in the Great Lakes States, and four times she was named Travel Writer of the Year by Midwest Travel Writers Association.