Experience Dining, Shopping, and Culture in this Historic Part of Columbus
Just south of downtown Columbus, Ohio, you will discover German Village, a historic neighborhood that blends old-world charm with modern vibrancy. Known for its picturesque brick streets, meticulously restored 19th-century homes and lush gardens, this area is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a piece of Ohio’s rich history and culture.
I recently returned to the area and had to stop by Stauf’s Coffee Roaster for an espresso and scone on my way to the Book Loft next door. Both are favorites when visiting German Village. While there, I found myself reflecting on the beauty and significance of this enchanting area.
A Walk Through History
The red brick sidewalks create an enchanting path, adding to the historic feel. Everywhere I look, the architecture is stunning. Beautifully restored 19th-century buildings featuring quaint cottages, grand homes, and picturesque gardens mix seamlessly. Wrought iron fences and mature trees frame these, enhancing the area’s charm.
Flowers and greenery line the brick-paved roads, complementing the beautiful facades of the homes. The ornate woodwork highlights large front porches and shutters. Each step takes you back to the romanticism of yesteryear captured on these historic streets.
German Village was established in the mid-1800s by a wave of German immigrants seeking new opportunities in America. By 1865, it had grown into a thriving community, becoming integral to Columbus’ cultural and economic landscape. Despite facing economic decline in the early 1900s, the neighborhood experienced a significant revival in the 1960s, thanks to the efforts of dedicated preservationists. Today, it is one of the largest privately funded historic districts in the United States.
Exploring the Village
Schiller Park: This 23-acre park, named after the famous German poet Friedrich Schiller, is the heart of German Village. It has been hosting community events since the early 1800s. The park is perfect for strolls, picnics, and events. It also features a beautiful pond, a recreation center, and an outdoor stage that hosts the popular Actors’ Theatre of Columbus performances.
The Umbrella Girl in Schiller Park is a cherished symbol with a history full of intrigue. Originally a statue of Hebe, the goddess of youth, she transformed over the decades and mysteriously disappeared in the 1950s. Thanks to sculptor Joan Wobst, a new statue depicting a young German girl reflects the Village’s heritage. Dedicated in 1996, this statue is a testament to community spirit.
Visit the German Village Society’s website to learn more about the fascinating story of the Umbrella Girl in the German Village.
Exploring The Book Loft: A RReader’sParadise in German Village
In the heart of German Village lies a book store known to book lovers far and wide: The Book Loft. Its unique charm and extensive inventory make it an instant favorite for book lovers. Consequently, it has become a regular stop for my kids and me whenever we are in the area. This independent bookstore offers an unforgettable experience.
A Labyrinth of Literature
The Book Loft is one of the largest independent bookstores in the United States, boasting 32 rooms filled with books. The store is housed in a pre-Civil War era building that was once a general store and a saloon. Its sprawling layout, with winding hallways and narrow passages, gives it a maze-like quality that invites exploration. Each room has a theme or genre, from fiction and non-fiction to poetry, history, and children’s literature.
The atmosphere at The Book Loft is nothing short of beguiling. As you wander through the rooms, you’ll encounter reading nooks, antique furnishings, and whimsical decorations. Adding to its appeal is its location in a historic German Village. With the brick streets and beautifully restored buildings, you can’t help but be captivated by your surroundings.
Music softly playing in the background adds to the ambiance, making it a perfect spot to lose yourself in a good book. The Book Loft also offers a variety of events, including author signings, readings, and book clubs, fostering a sense of community among book enthusiasts.
Special Finds and Discounts
Visitors can often find discounted books, rare editions, and hard-to-find titles. The store’s knowledgeable staff is always available to offer recommendations and assist with any queries.
In addition to books, the shop features an array of book-related merchandise, including bookmarks, journals, and literary-themed gifts. It’s the perfect place to find a special present for a book lover.
A Local Landmark
This cultural landmark in German Village, Columbus, embodies the neighborhood’s spirit of preservation and community. It attracts visitors who come to experience its captivating appeal and exceptional selection. For more information, visit The Book Loft’s website and plan your visit to this literary treasure in the heart of German Village.
Community and Culture
The German Village Society was established in 1960. As a nonprofit, the society is dedicated to preserving and promoting the historic German Village neighborhood in Columbus, Ohio. It focuses on maintaining architectural integrity, advocating for historic preservation, and fostering community engagement through events like the Haus und Garten Tour and Oktoberfest.
The society also offers educational programs and walking tours and operates the Meeting Haus, a community resource center. Their efforts have transformed German Village into a nationally recognized historic district, preserving its character and heritage.
Dining and Shopping
German Village boasts many dining options catering to diverse tastes, from the iconic Schmidt’s Sausage Haus Restaurant, known for its authentic German cuisine and mouthwatering cream puffs, to the trendy Lindy’s Restaurant.
Schmidt’s can trace its humble beginnings back to 1886 when German immigrant J. Fred Schmidt opened a meat packing house by the same name in a German Village. Today, the fourth and fifth generations of J. Fred Schmidt have continued his legacy with the opening of Schmidt’s Sausage Hause in 1967. It quickly became and remains a landmark eatery in Central Ohio.
For over 40 years, Lindy’s has been a top-ten Columbus restaurant where old-fashioned hospitality meets deliciousness to create a top-notch dining experience. At Lindy’s, you will discover upscale American dishes that will leave you anxious to return.
But that is not all. Other intriguing cafes, boutiques, and specialty shops line the streets, just waiting for you to explore. You will find everything from handmade jewelry to gourmet foods.
Why Visit German Village?
Visiting this historic area in Columbus is like stepping back in time while enjoying the conveniences of modern life. Its well-preserved architecture, welcoming community, and rich cultural heritage make it an enriching and exciting destination in Columbus. Whatever your interest, history, shopping, architecture, or a good book, German Village is where you will want to be.
For more information on visiting German Village, check out the German Village Society’s website. And plan your visit today to this historic gem in the heart of Ohio.
For more great ideas on what to do and see in Central Ohio, check out this blog to start planning your visit.
Images: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/
