10 Incredible Places In Columbus That Never Ever Change
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Sonya Afanasyeva
Author
In our day and age it seems like things are always changing; new buildings replace old ones, new roads are built, stories are added to small houses… and yet, within all this change and hustle and bustle – a few places in town never change. These spots link us to our past, provide continuity, and give us a sense of belonging in the city. Check out these 10 places in Columbus when you just want to feel at home.
The Ohio Stadium, or "the Shoe," was first opened on October 7, 1922, and it's been pretty much the same ever since. It is a fantastic grand structure that seats 104,944 and has the third largest stadium by capacity in the country. The stadium is not just a symbol of the Buckeyes, it is also a symbol of Ohio State's history.
Another symbol of Ohio State's campus is of course The Oval - the central open space. The Oval has been part of the campus since its very early beginnings, even though it wasn't always as defined as it is now and didn't always carry the name. As buildings started to outline The Oval's borders, it naturally became a place for students and professors to lounge during breaks.
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Although Columbus's skyline changes constantly, its main member has always been there and will continue to be the most recognized feature in our sky. The Leveque Tower has been a beautiful and unchangeable icon of Columbus since 1927.
Built in 1839 in a Greek Revival style with intricate details both inside and out, the Ohio Statehouse houses the daily business of the Ohio government. We can always count on the historic and central presence of our Statehouse.
You might not know that the Mangels-Illions Carousel, currently located at the Columbus Zoo, is over 100 years old. It used to be part of the Olentangy Park. At one point the largest amusement park in the country, Olentangy Park was located at the southern end of what is now Clintonville. After the park's closure, the carousel was moved several times until it ended up in the zoo where it was restored to functioning condition.
Since it's opening in 1942, Thurman's Cafe has become one of the best known joints in the city. In addition to serving the Thurmanator, a burger with worldwide fame, Thurman's is a place you can always count on for a comfy atmosphere and great food.
The Blue Danube, located on High Street in Old North Columbus, has been around since 1940 and still has the same funky vibe with which it started. A favorite among students and Clintonville residents, this is a fun place for food and drinks with a timeless atmosphere.
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German Village is a beautiful historic neighborhood of Columbus. The entire neighborhood was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. Its wonderful brick houses and cobblestone roads remain perfectly charming no matter how much time has passed. You could easily fill entire days with things to explore in German Village.
One particular German Village location deserves its own mention: The Book Loft. Though the store only opened in 1977, it occupies pre-Civil war buildings. Its extraordinary 32 rooms of books have become one of the city's best tourist attractions, and yet the Book Loft stays true to its never-changing mission and style.
Columbus's oldest tavern is an incredible place that goes way back in time and, aside from little cosmetic changes, remains true to its character for century after century. The Blind Lady Tavern has a wonderful history, and we are lucky to be able to grab a drink there time and time again..
Can you think of some other places in Columbus that never change? Let us know in the comments!
While some things never change, others do… and if you grew up in Columbus, you’ll probably remember (and miss) these stores from the good ol’ days. If you enjoy history, you’ll love these incredible vintage photos!
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