Attractions and Places To See around Upper Arlington - Top 20

Upper Arlington offers several natural attractions. The Olentangy River is a significant feature, known for its interesting shale formations and role as a drinking water source. You can also visit Griggs Reservoir Park, which overlooks the Scioto River and provides walking trails, boating, and picnic areas. Cardiff Woods Park and Smith Nature Preserve offer natural wooded lots and maintained loop trails, showcasing native Ohio plants and trees.

Yes, Upper Arlington has a rich history. The Upper Arlington Historic District (Old Arlington) is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, featuring early 20th-century suburban architecture. You can also find the Miller Park Library, which was originally the field office for the Upper Arlington Company. The Upper Arlington History Trail provides physical markers throughout the community detailing its past. For sports history, Ohio Stadium, home to the Buckeyes, is a major landmark nearby.

Upper Arlington boasts 21 parks. Northam Park is popular for its playground and tennis courts. Thompson Park offers athletic fields, a playground, and a 1.15-mile paved path, and is pet-friendly. Griggs Reservoir Park is ideal for walking, boating, and disc golf. Many parks also feature naturalized areas, woodlands, and wetlands, enhancing ecological diversity.

Absolutely. Many parks like Northam Park and Thompson Park have playgrounds suitable for children. The Olentangy River Trail and Alum Creek Trail are family-friendly for walking or cycling. The Upper Arlington Public Library (Tremont Branch) has a significant children's section, and Storyline Bookshop features a rocket reading nook in its children's area.

The Olentangy River Trail is a prominent 22-mile cycle way connecting neighborhoods and Ohio State University to various attractions. The Alum Creek Trail also offers a scenic river corridor for cycling and is part of the Ohio to Erie Trails. For more cycling options, you can explore routes like the 'Olentangy River Trail – Antrim Lake Deck loop' or the 'Scioto Trail – Olentangy River loop' by visiting the Cycling around Upper Arlington guide.

Upper Arlington offers several walking and hiking opportunities. Thompson Park has a paved 1.15-mile path, and Smith Nature Preserve features a half-mile loop trail. The Olentangy River Trail is also excellent for walking. For specific hiking routes, consider trails like the 'Thompson Park Loop' or the 'Scioto and Olentangy Trail Loop'. More details can be found in the Hiking around Upper Arlington guide.

Yes, Upper Arlington has distinctive local establishments. The Mallway at Old Arlington offers quaint shopping and dining with locally-owned boutiques and cafes. Littleton's Market is a gourmet grocery with prepared foods, a coffee shop, and an in-house restaurant. Don't miss The Original Goodie Shop, an Upper Arlington institution famous for its donuts and pastries. For larger stores, The Shops on Lane Avenue and Kingsdale Shopping Center are available.

Beyond its historical sites, Upper Arlington has cultural hubs like the Upper Arlington Public Library (Tremont Branch), which hosts author events. Storyline Bookshop is known for its themed rooms and unique decor. The Upper Arlington Historical Society actively collects archival materials and promotes historic preservation, offering insights into the community's past.

Yes, Upper Arlington is generally dog-friendly. Thompson Park, for instance, is pet-friendly and even features a dog drinking fountain. Many of the city's parks and trails, including sections of the Olentangy River Trail, are suitable for walks with leashed dogs.

The best time to visit Upper Arlington's outdoor attractions largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for walking, cycling, and enjoying the parks. Summer is ideal for visiting the outdoor community swimming pools (Tremont Pool, Devon Pool, and Reed Road Water Park) and enjoying boating at Griggs Reservoir Park. The naturalized areas and woodlands provide beauty across all seasons.

Yes, the area offers scenic views, particularly along its rivers. Griggs Reservoir Park provides excellent views overlooking the Scioto River. The Olentangy River itself, with its shale formations, offers picturesque spots, especially along the paths that run parallel to it. The Scioto River Bridge also provides easy access and views over the river.