Where to Take the Best Photos in Columbus? Our 10 Must-See Spots

Columbus, the capital and largest city of Ohio, sits at the center of the state along the banks of the Scioto and Olentangy Rivers. It is known for its blend of innovation, education, culture, and Midwestern charm. From historic architecture to green trails, it has a ton of beautiful locations! Although it is difficult to pick just ten, we have compiled a list of our top ten locations for stunning photos while you're there.

We're sharing our top picks for breathtaking photo spots in Columbus in this guide. In order to avoid crowds and capture the ideal light, we also advise you on the best time and method to visit each location.

Let's take a tour of the city's most picturesque locations, ideal for making memories along the way.

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1. Scioto Mile

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The Scioto Mile is a riverfront park system that stretches along the Scioto River in downtown. Opened in 2011, it transformed the riverfront into a connected network of green spaces, bikeways, and pedestrian trails. Anchored by Bicentennial Park with its interactive fountains and performance stage, the Mile also links to the Scioto Greenways and other city parks. The redevelopment reduced the river’s width, creating new parkland while improving water quality and habitats. Today, the Scioto Mile serves as a central gathering place for festivals, concerts, and outdoor recreation in the city.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  Stunning riverfront views with fountains, bridges, and the downtown skyline.
• Best time to visit 📅
  Golden hour for perfect skyline reflections on the water.
• Photography tip 📷
  Frame the cityscape with the Main Street Bridge arches.

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2. German Village

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German Village is one of the most visited historic neighborhoods, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Located just south of downtown, it spans 233 acres and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The area is known for its 19th-century brick homes, cobblestone streets, and carefully preserved architecture. Schiller Park, originally established in the 1800s, serves as the neighborhood’s centerpiece, while shops, restaurants, and cafes line its streets. Notable attractions in German Village include The Book Loft, one of the nation’s largest independent bookstores, Schmidt’s Sausage Haus, a landmark German restaurant, and the annual Haus und Garten Tour, which showcases the area’s historic homes and gardens.

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• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  Charming brick houses, cobblestone streets, and splendid cafés.
• Best time to visit 📅
  Morning, when the streets are quiet.
• Photography tip 📷
  Capture doorways and alleys for warm, storybook vibes.

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3. Scioto River

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The Scioto River is one of the most popular natural landmarks in central Ohio, attracting thousands of visitors to downtown Columbus each year. Stretching more than 230 miles through the state, the river runs directly through the center of Columbus and serves as a central gathering place for recreation and events. Along its downtown stretch, the Scioto Mile is a scenic parkway that follows the river’s edge for miles, connecting several key attractions. The Scioto Mile Promenade, Bicentennial Park with its interactive fountains, the Scioto Greenways trail system for walkers and bikers, the Main Street and Rich Street bridges, and the nearby Audubon Metro Park are some of the notable highlights along the Scioto River.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  Scenic riverfront with parks, trails, and skyline views.
• Best time to visit 📅
  Evening at sunset for golden reflections on the water.
• Photography tip 📷
  Frame the skyline across the river for dramatic cityscape shots.

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4. Ohio Statehouse

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The Ohio Statehouse is one of the most visited landmarks, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year for both tourism and civic events. The historic building, completed in 1861, serves as the seat of government for the state of Ohio and houses the offices of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Treasurer, Auditor, and General Assembly. Located on Capitol Square in downtown Columbus, the Statehouse grounds cover ten acres and feature beautifully landscaped gardens and monuments. The Ohio Statehouse Museum, the iconic Greek Revival architecture, guided tours of the legislative chambers, the Lincoln and Grant statues, and the Statehouse Crypt are some of the notable attractions at the Ohio Statehouse.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  Classic architecture with grand columns and open green spaces.
• Best time to visit  📅
  Midday for dramatic shadows across the steps.
• Photography tip 📷
  Go low and shoot upwards to exaggerate the architecture.

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5. Franklin Park Conservatory

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The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is one of the most popular attractions for its horticultural displays, art exhibitions, and community events. A 90-acre park that surrounds the historic conservatory offers walking paths, gardens, and green spaces open to the public. The conservatory itself, first built in 1895, is located just east of downtown Columbus and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Palm House, the Chihuly glass art installations, the seasonal butterfly exhibition, the community gardens, and the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden are some of the notable attractions at the Franklin Park Conservatory.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  Lush gardens, exotic plants, and vibrant glass art by Chihuly.
• Best time to visit 📅
  Early morning, before it gets crowded.
• Photography tip 📷
  Use close-up shots of plants with sunlight streaming in.

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6. Goodale Park

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Goodale Park is a public park located in the Victorian Village neighborhood. It was one of the first parks established in the city, donated in 1851 by Dr. Lincoln Goodale, a local physician and philanthropist. Covering 32 acres, it is among the oldest public parks in the United States and remains a central green space for the community. Originally designed in the mid-19th century, the park has undergone multiple renovations while maintaining its historic character. The park has been the site of public gatherings, community festivals, and cultural events throughout the years, including the annual ComFest, one of the largest volunteer-run festivals in the country.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  Historic park with ponds, trees, and a stunning skyline view.
• Best time to visit 📅
  Autumn, when the foliage explodes in color.
• Photography tip 📷
  Frame the city through the trees for a natural touch.

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7. LeVeque Tower

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The LeVeque Tower is an Art Deco skyscraper located in downtown. Completed in 1927, it was originally known as the American Insurance Union Citadel and stood as the tallest building in the city for over four decades. Rising 555 feet with 47 stories, it was also one of the tallest reinforced concrete structures in the world at the time of its completion. The building was officially renamed the LeVeque Tower in 1946, honoring its new owner, John Lincoln LeVeque. Over the years, the tower has housed offices, broadcast stations, and residences, while also undergoing several restorations to preserve its iconic design. Today, it remains a defining feature of the Columbus skyline and a landmark of architectural history.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  Iconic Art Deco skyscraper lighting up the Columbus skyline.
• Best time to visit 📅
  At night, when the building glows.
• Photography tip 📷
  Shoot across the river for the full illuminated effect.

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8. North Market

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The North Market is a historic public market established in 1876. It has served as a central gathering place for merchants, farmers, and shoppers for nearly a century and a half. Originally one of four city markets, it is the only one that remains in continuous operation today. The market was rebuilt in 1995 after decades of decline, transforming into a hub for local food, crafts, and community events. With over 30 independent vendors, it showcases a wide variety of international cuisines, artisanal goods, and fresh produce. Throughout its history, North Market has reflected the changing character of Columbus while remaining a beloved landmark and cultural institution.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  Colorful stalls, neon signs, and food photography heaven.
• Best time to visit 📅
  Afternoons for lively vibes.
• Photography tip 📷
  Use natural light near windows to capture delicious details.

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9. Ohio State University Rotunda

The Ohio State University Rotunda is an architectural centerpiece located within the university’s historic campus. Completed in 1915 as part of the William Oxley Thompson Library, the Rotunda has long stood as a symbol of scholarship and academic tradition. With its soaring dome, marble columns, and grand open space, the Rotunda reflects the classical architectural style that defined early twentieth-century American universities. Over the decades, it has served not only as a place of study but also as a gathering spot for students, faculty, and visitors. Today, the Rotunda continues to embody the spirit of intellectual pursuit, anchoring one of the largest university libraries in the nation while offering a timeless space for reflection and inspiration.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  Iconic campus landmark with historic architecture and cultural charm.
• Best time to visit 📅
  Spring or fall, when the campus is filled with vibrant colors.
• Photography tip 📷
  Capture the dome from a low angle to highlight its grandeur.

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10. Olentangy Trail

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The Olentangy Trail is one of Columbus’s most popular multi-use pathways, stretching for over 17 miles along the scenic Olentangy River. Connecting downtown Columbus with neighborhoods, parks, and The Ohio State University campus, the trail provides both recreational and commuter access throughout the city. Bicyclists, joggers, and walkers alike use the paved route, which winds past woodlands, riverside views, and community green spaces. Originally developed to link natural areas with urban centers, the Olentangy Trail has become a defining feature of the city’s outdoor lifestyle. Its combination of accessibility, beauty, and connectivity makes it a vital corridor for both daily activity and weekend exploration.

• Why is it exotic? 🤔
  Scenic biking and walking trail with peaceful nature views.
• Best time to visit 📅
  Sunrise for misty, golden landscapes.
• Photography tip 📷
  Use leading lines of the trail to guide the eye through your shot.

Final Thoughts

These are the top photography spots you won't want to miss in Columbus. However, there is much more to see and enjoy, as the city offers endless photo opportunities. Take a walk and explore more, and make both your day and your photos amazing. Hopefully, this guide will help you capture your best moments in Columbus.

Ready to explore?
Don’t forget to bring extra storage, as you’ll be taking a lot of photos.

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