by Christina
Awe, Columbus. If you've never been here you're thinking, ehh, it's the mid-west, big deal. Yeah, me too. But I was so wrong. I grew up in Washington State (Tacoma) and then lived in North Carolina (Chapel Hill) so when we decided to come here, I was a little worried. Land locked and all that. Well, after being here for six years I absolutely love it. So much in fact, it's hard for me to choose just one area to feature because there are so many surprise pockets in this city. Incredible thrift and antique shops, great boutiques and a ridiculous book store. But in the end, I've chosen the Short North.
This area is known as the art district. It is funky and fun and has a ton of unique shops, restaurants and art galleries. The first Saturday of every month is Gallery Hop, where everything stays open late, there are bands outdoors and it's a really fun vibe. You have a great meal and then window shop in the dark, and browse the galleries and you can drink on the street and everyone is friendly and it's a great time. It's a feeling of community, not just a night out, which is awesome.
Most of the shops I frequent don't have on-line stores with in a way is really cool. It means you're getting something that's not as mass produced or it is made locally. But then it's unfortunate that I can't share them with you. I love The Emperors Newest Clothes, a little shop with really affordable trendy clothes and shoes. My favorite place for lunch is Tasi, one block off the main street (North High) and after I love to hit up Jenis (named best ice cream in america by Time magazine), which I've talked about here before. The best ice cream you can get in Ohio and with the most unique flavors. Then I go to Loot, a shop with gifts, jewelry and vintage and new home items. Then its up a little farther to On Paper, TigerTree, and finally the Mercantile, a large building that's half consignment furniture and half vintage treasures.
This is just one of the incredible spots in Columbus. There are so many more. German Village, Italian Village, Grandview, Dublin, Clintonville. Each offering their own taste of the area. I am so glad to live here, it's the perfect mix of life for mid 30's professionals and young families. It's perfect for me and I think well worth a visit.
(images via short north dot org)
I've spent lots of time in Columbus (my boss was headquartered in Dublin for several years) and I love the Short North! So fun. Everyone I know from Columbus loves it there.
Posted by: Rebecca (Bearca) | July 13, 2012 at 02:05 PM
Think we can get a Blathering gathering in Columbus?
The Book Loft is one of all time favorite places. And now this post makes me want to leave work and go directly to the Short North. Sadly, I haven't been to a gallery hop (haven't lived in Columbus for 8 years). I must make this happen soon.
Posted by: Michelle | July 13, 2012 at 05:26 PM