GERMAN VILLAGE

Columbus’ historic neighborhood just south of downtown (germanvillage.com) was settled by German immigrants in the 1800s, giving the area plenty of Old World character. The American Planning Association named it a Top 10 Great Neighborhood in 2011 for its architecture, parks and engaged citizens. Check out these village mainstays:

The Book Loft, one of the nation’s largest independent bookstores, is located in a pre-Civil War era collection of buildings that offers 32 rooms filled with volumes for bookworms. bookloft.com

Caterina Ltd. is an upscale shop with artisanal housewares, art and gifts from all over Europe. The upstairs levels are gallery spaces for local photographers and fine artists. caterinaltd.com

Helen Winnemore Craft is devoted to American artisans and their work. Considered the oldest store of its kind in the United States, it offers wearable and usable art. It was founded in 1938 by Helen Winnemore, a Quaker who loved handcrafted items, making this store perfect for art and history lovers alike. helenwinnemores.com

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Katzinger’s Deli has a huge menu with items that will please meat lovers and vegetarians alike. The sandwiches come in two sizes: big and huge. katzingers.com

For a fine-dining experience, Lindey’s menu, wine list and atmosphere epitomize everyday elegance. It’s the perfect stop for a relaxing brunch, lunch or intimate dinner. lindeys.com

For more than a century, Schmidt’s has brought mouthwatering German food and beer to German Village. The restaurant is known for its sausage entrees and decadent desserts, including the jumbo cream puff. schmidthaus.com

 
RACE THROUGH TOWN

For active couples who want to see Columbus at a faster pace, the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon, Oct. 21, is a great way to take fitness and fun to a new level. The marathon starts in the heart of downtown Columbus and winds its way past area landmarks and great neighborhoods like the Columbus Museum of Art, Short North and Arena District. For the first time, marathon runners and walkers will race through Ohio Stadium, home of The Ohio State Buckeyes’ football team. Not ready to lace up your running shoes? The marathon invites everyone to watch the race and enjoy the more than 100 live bands and radio shows that will line the course. columbusmarathon.com

HIGH STREET MASQUERADE

Columbus’ Short North neighborhood offers a Halloween extravaganza during the HighBall, a masquerade celebration on Oct. 27 that’s a cross between Carnivale and Mardi Gras. Since its introduction three years ago, HighBall has become one of Columbus’ signature events. Take part in the costume contest, which has categories such as “Most Radiant” and “Best B-Movie ensemble.” The Costume Couture Fashion Showdown takes place on a dramatic runway under the Short North arches. Designers compete for a $1,000 prize, not to mention bragging rights. Scores of performers, artists, stage performances and an 8-foot tarantula make this night an unforgettable experience. highballhalloween.com

SHINY PUMPKINS

The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a premier horticultural landmark located in downtown Columbus. More than 80 acres house 400 species of plants from around the globe, including a Victorian Palm House. In honor of the harvest, the conservatory will showcase a Glass Pumpkin Patch Oct. 28 where couples can stroll through an exhibit of hundreds of blown glass pumpkins created by local artists. The pumpkins will be available for sale at the gift shop. Visitor can also make their own glass pumpkin and watch glassblowing demonstrations. fpconservatory.org