As a documentary Columbus Ohio Family Photographer, 9 times out of 10 you’ll find me capturing the beautifully honest moments that unfold around my clients’ homes. That said, I still know all about the best places to take pictures in Columbus Ohio!
Realistically there may be times when it’s not feasible to have a photo session in your home. Or maybe you have older kids who love adventures, or you’re a graduating senior looking for a different vibe. Maybe you just want to pick up your own camera, get outside, and get creative. Whatever the case, central Ohio is bursting with great photo spots. Here’s my rundown (with GPS pins so you know where to go!):
best places to take pictures in columbus ohio
City/Community parks & gardens
Bicentennial Park – also has a splashpad for kids in the summer!
Chadwick Arboretum at The Ohio State University
Goodale Park – see also Italian Village / Short North
Schiller Park – see also German Village
Frank Fetch Park – see also German Village
Urban
934 Gallery – outdoor art gallery that changes every couple years
Cosi – great spot to take photos of the skyline
Historic Old Worthington – Farmers market on Saturdays from 8-12
Italian Village & Short North Arts District
Main Street Bridge – also great views of the skyline, and cool architecture
North Market (downtown)
Ohio State University – Mirror Lake, the Oval, Thompson Library, and the rotunda outside the stadium.
Museums & indoor locations
Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens (not free, but the outdoor Community Garden is)
Ohio Statehouse – there is a permitting process. More info here.
Metro/state Parks
Most metro parks are most ideal in summer and fall, but some have early Spring blooms (Inniswood + Scioto Grove + Three Creeks).
Alum Creek Beach in Lewis Center
Blendon Woods – watch out for the turkeys!
Highbanks in Lewis Center – a good combination of wooded areas, airy fields, and a walkable creek
Hoover Reservoir Park/Hoover Dam Nature Trail
Homestead in Hilliard
Inniswood Metro Gardens in Westerville – this is the busiest location on this list, especially in the Spring and Fall. However, if you go early in the morning or on a weekday, it’s usually not too crowded.
Prairie Oaks in West Jefferson
Sharon Woods in Westerville
Scioto Grove in Grove City – bluebells bloom in early Spring
Three Creeks in Groveport – bluebells bloom in early Spring
Walnut Woods in Groveport – Tall Pines is a quiet area, with a wandering path weaving its way through towering trees
Other/unique/offbeat
Lynd Fruit Farm in Pataskala – no specific rules on photography but every car must purchase a bag of apples
Kid-friendly breweries in Columbus
Oakland Nursery – Dublin
Groovy Plants Ranch in Marengo – not technically Columbus, but worth the drive! This place is good all year long.
This “Best Places to Take Pictures in Columbus Ohio” list is updated twice per year. If you’d like to submit modifications or additions to be included, feel free to email daisy@daisyzimmerphoto.com.
Hi there!
I’m Daisy, and you’re very welcome here.
I’m a documentary Columbus Ohio family photographer offering stress-free and fun portrait experiences. I hope you enjoyed Where to take photos in Columbus Ohio, and if you’d like to chat about your own family photos, smash that button below. Can’t wait to hear what wild and wonderful things you’re dreaming up!
