Powell

Powell is both historical and charming with its family-oriented feel and minimal commercialism. The whole of Powell reaches an entire 4.8 square miles of space; however, the downtown area gives the illusion of a small town with its side-by-side house-turned shops and quaint front porch openness. Outside of downtown Powell, there are a remarkable seven parks to explore.

Alum Creek State Park is something to note because it boasts Ohio’s largest inland beach. Along the Olentangy River, the Highbanks Metro Park is steeped in Native American history with its two Adena Indian burial mounds. It’s also home to nesting bald eagles.

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, along with 22.7 acres of Zoombezi Bay Waterpark, finds its home here; the 90 acres Zoo contains a remarkable 700 species of wildlife. There is plenty to keep the kids busy learning, parents walking, and friends having a good time, including riding a camel or feeding a giraffe. Zoombezi Bay right next door provides an excellent alternative to the Zoo on a hot day with its wave pool, lazy river, and waterslides.

Powell also offers an excellent mix of dining options at area favorites Local Roots, Thai Orchid, and Vittoria.

Every Saturday from mid-May to mid-October, Powell hosts its own Farmers Market. Powell Festival is hosted in late June at Village Green Park as a two-day event with music and community activities. And all through the month of December, don’t miss Wildlights at the Zoo which provides a holiday treat on brisk evenings.