Only in Columbus: Scenes from the Scioto Peninsula

Columbus, the 15th-largest city in the country (right behind San Francisco), is a smart and open community with dynamic and engaging offerings guaranteed to fit the needs of every group. Unforgettable experiences, distinct neighborhoods, and one-of-a-kind tours are guaranteed to surprise and delight guests of all ages.

New things are always happening in Columbus, the fastest-growing city in the Midwest. In 2015, the city completed a multiyear renovation of the Scioto Mile—the land along the Scioto River that flows through downtown Columbus—which created 33 new acres of parkland and miles of multiuse trails. The project better connected the east and west banks of the river, spurring development of the Scioto Peninsula, sitting just across the river from downtown Columbus.

Now, groups have a few fantastic new Scioto Peninsula experiences to add to their itineraries in 2018.

The Center of Science and Industry (COSI), a hands-on science center, recently opened a brand-new Dinosaur Gallery through a unique and groundbreaking partnership with the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH). The AMNH Dinosaur Gallery, which features a life-sized Tyrannosaurus rex cast, will be a permanent fixture; a new traveling exhibition gallery featuring prehistoric artifacts will open in 2018. This only-in-Columbus experience is perfect for first-time visitors, as well as those who have already explored COSI's six other permanent exhibits.

By mid-2018, Columbus will be home to the National Veterans Memorial & Museum (NVMM). Currently under construction, NVMM will be the only place in the country where the stories of our veterans, their families and the fallen—across all branches of service and all eras of conflict—will be told together. With more than 50,000 square feet, the facility offers space for gatherings, ceremonies, celebrations and public events; opportunities for reflection in the Memorial Grove and Memorial Room; and exhibition galleries, both rotating and permanent, to learn more about the experiences of the brave men and women who serve and have served.

For anyone looking to make everlasting memories, Columbus is the place to be in 2018 and beyond.

Written by Roger Dudley, CTA, Senior Tourism Sales Manager, Experience Columbus.

Photo Courtesy of Randall L. Schieber.