A quick 45-minute drive from Indianapolis brings you to Columbus, Indiana, a small town nationally recognized for its achievements in architecture and public art. In fact, the American Institute of Architects ranked Columbus sixth in the country for innovation in architecture and design.
Photo-snapping opportunities abound in Columbus, and the Seven Wonders of Columbus Tour provides a unique look at some of the best public art, architecture, and green spaces the city has to offer, including a 900-piece chandelier by renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. Led by informative guides, the mile-and-a-half walking tours are held on Saturdays between May and October.
Prefer to focus on the city’s architecture? One- and two-hour bus tours dedicated to Columbus’ famous buildings run every Saturday. Tours explore the exteriors of more than 60 modern and historic structures, with interior tours of two.
Impressive landscape architecture is evidenced in Mill Race Park, an award-winning park design by Michael Van Valkenburgh. Climb the 84-foot observatory for a birds-eye view of the river and downtown. Sculptures and fountains are interspersed with flower, herb, and shrub gardens in Irwin Gardens, open to the public on weekends between mid-April and November.
You can learn more about the city’s art and architecture and find weekend getaway information at the Columbus’ Convention and Visitors Bureau website.
Have a recommendation for Columbus, or another great getaway in Indiana? Post your comment below!
Read more of the 50 Affordable Stateside Escapes.
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