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Simply Charming in Worthington
The City of Worthington, just a few miles northwest of Columbus, retains its New England style and a rich sense of history, making it a unique destination in the Heritage Circle. The town was settled in the early 1800s around a village green and many of the homes and buildings are still standing and in use. Olde Worthington, the downtown shopping district centered around High Street, is ripe with character and striking architecture, as well as an eclectic mix of attractions. Residents and visitors enjoy the quiet tree-lined streets occupied by upscale eateries and pubs as well as popular stops for holiday items, home decor, specialty clothing and gifts. Charming boutiques and jewelers are filled with one-of-a-kind items. Visitors can book a stay in one of the original homes that was built in 1831. Now The Worthington Inn, the building was restored to its former elegance in the 1980s and has been a landmark stop for guests ever since, where the accommodations are gracious, the dining is highly acclaimed and no two rooms are alike.
At the heart of town, the Village Green is an idyllic site for festivities in what was once the center of a bustling business district in early 1800s. The Olde Worthington Business Association sponsors an Art Festival on the Village Green in June and a Haggler’s Day in July. Also on Saturday mornings, from May through October, Farmers Market vendors line the sidewalks featuring homemade food, fresh-grown vegetables and fruits and other goods. Fall kicks off with one of Worthington’s most popular events: Market Day. Every year in late September, vendors and artisans come together and offer a cornucopia of arts, crafts and tasty treats. A few blocks north of Olde Worthington is High Road Gallery, featuring artists in the Central Ohio area. For a more modern shopping experience, Worthington Square boasts a variety of fashion, specialty shops and eateries for visitors and residents alike. Chico’s, Ann Taylor, Jos. A. Bank Clothiers and Oliver Kleban Shoes for Children; stores for accessories, home and body; and shops for coffee, pizza and gourmet gifts are all available in one stop at Worthington Square. Enjoy an incredible selection at three different Talbots for women, kids and petites.
When the shopping’s done and the outdoors beckon,Worthington boasts several large recreational areas perfect for a traditional family picnic or just a quiet stroll. Also in Worthington, the Olentangy River Parklands lie on 99 lush acres and feature a bike path, fishing, playgrounds, six tennis courts with lighting, four soccer fields, a fitness course and more. Two miles of the park line the beautiful Olentangy River, offering eye-catching views during every season. Sightseeing at Worthington’s many historical attractions can fill an entire weekend. One favorite tour stop is the Orange Johnson House, built in 1811. The pioneer house is the oldest in Franklin County, still sitting on its original foundations, that is open to the public. The house features period furnishings, clothing and enough 19th-century pieces to intrigue even the most ardent history buff. Within the Orange Johnson House, the Historical Society brings such enriching events to the community as antique shows, flea markets, Ice Cream Socials and educational programs. Don’t miss the Historical Society’s Old Rectory Doll Museum, featuring dolls and toys of the 19th century as well as German chinas, French fashions, rare American dolls and themed exhibitions.While visiting the Old Rectory, be sure to stop in the Gift Shop for a souvenir of your tour.
Train and railroad history lovers shouldn’t miss Worthington’s Ohio Railway Museum, one of the oldest railway museums in the country, featuring authentic stage coaches, guided tours and a fully stocked gift shop.Train aficionados will enjoy a fascinating look into the story of American railroads in the 20th century. Going even further back in time, the nearby Hopewell Indian Mound is a surviving portion of an earthwork that once covered eight acres and was constructed by prehistoric Native Americans. Stop by the Worthington Historical Society to find out more about the fascinating sites, tours and the town’s rich historical legacy. For more information on visiting Worthington, call the Convention and Visitors Bureau of Worthington at (614) 841-2545 or toll-free at 1-800-997-9935. For events listings and more, visit www.worthington.org. Hotels Radisson Columbus/Worthington The Worthington Inn AmeriSuites Columbus/Worthington Columbus Marriott North Hampton Inn North Holiday Inn Worthington Homewood Suites Worthington Knights Inn North Microtel Inn Worthington Motel 6 Worthington Red Roof Inn Columbus/Worthington Residence Inn by Marriott North Sheraton Suites Columbus |
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