When you think of taking a vacation, Columbus, Indiana may not be on the top of your list! But in the fifth annual “Historic Places Rated” survey published by National Geographic (Nov/Dec 2008 National Geographic Traveler issue) surprising little Columbus, Indiana was rated top in the nation and 11th in the world!
So what kind of things can you do for free in Columbus? Well you definitely want to take in the amazing wealth of modern architecture this city lays claim to. It’s rated 6th in the nation for it’s architecture, just behind Chicago, New York City, Boston, San Francisco and Washington D.C.
Internationally known architects include I.M. Pei, Eliel Saarinen, Eero Saarinen, Richard Meier, Harry Weese,
Dale Chihuly and Henry Moore and are represented by over 70 buildings and public art pieces throughout Columbus. A trip to the Visitor’s Center offers a free theater giving you the scoop on Columbus and its world-reknowned architecture. There you’ll also get to see first-hand one of the city’s prized pieces — a 900-piece, illuminated chandelier by famed glass artist Chihuly.
Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of over 19 miles of “People Trails” winding throughout the city. Walking or biking these trails will take you over the White River, through wildflower gardens and woods, and tunnel you underneath the interstate. You’ll be able to see several of the famous architectural pieces along these trails as well as visit the award-winning Mill Race Park, designed by landscape architect Michael VanValkenburgh. Mill Race Park offers a 42 foot observatory where you can see a panoramic view of White River and the downtown or just take a break in the park enjoy a picnic along the river.
Car enthusiasts will want to be sure to visit the world headquarters of Cummins Engine Company, a leading manufacturer of diesel engines. The headquarters’ lobby is a mini-museum displaying vintage Indy 500 race cars and a unique centerpiece known as “The Exploded Engine” by artist Rudolph DeHarak. It displays a deconstructed engine with nearly every nut and bolt hanging in midair, suspended by floor to ceiling wires, giving it the appearance of floating
There’s something for history buffs at the Bakalar Museum. You can see World War II memorabilia, learn all about the gliders that went into Normandy, all for free. You can also visit the Bartholomew County Memorial for veterans that displays letters written home by soldiers from all the 20th century wars.
Summertime visitors can take in the favorite American pastime at the USSSA Boy’s baseball tournaments and world series, the USSSA Men’s Slow Pitch tournaments and the USSSA Girl’s Fast Pitch tournaments and world series, all showcasing teams from across the US and Canada.
The fall season offers several entertainment options. The “Scottish Festival” takes place in September where you can take in sheepdog demonstrations, highland athletics, musical performances and more. In October there’s the “Ethnic Expo” which offers free, live performances from Celtic, African, Caribbean, Scottish, Japanese and many other styles of music and dance as well as booths featuring food and products from a wide variety of ethnic cultures.
And, of course, no fall trip would be complete without taking in the breathtakingly beautiful colors of the turning leaves. Just a short, 15 minute drive to the west gives you some of the most scenic views Mother Nature has to offer.
And, no matter what time of year you visit you’ll want to be sure to stop in the downtown landmark, Zaharako’s, a Victorian-era soda fountain completely restored in 2009 by local businessman, Tony Moravec. Originally opened in 1900, it has been restored to its original turn-of-the-century glory complete with an ice cream parlor museum and a completely restored 1908 self-playing Welte Orchestrion.
Also throughout the year you can enjoy family-fun, free performances during “First Fridays for Families.”
So you can see there’s lots to do here in Columbus for free. Oh yes, one more thing that’s free in Columbus is a big ‘ol helping of “Hoosier Hospitality!”
