Worthington Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Worthington with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and local food scene in Worthington.


Introduction to Worthington

Worthington is a picturesque city located in Greater Columbus, in the state of Ohio, Midwest region of the United States of America. Founded in 1803, the city attracts visitors with its rich history, scenic parks, vibrant food scene, and many cultural attractions. In this travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get around in Worthington.

List of Places to Visit in Worthington

If you’re planning to visit Worthington, make sure to explore these must-see attractions.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Worthington Historical Society and Museum (WHS): The museum showcases the history of Worthington through exhibits, artifacts, documents, and photographs.
  • Orange Johnson House: A historic home built by one of Worthington’s founders, located in the heart of downtown.
  • McConnell Arts Center: A contemporary art center with rotating art exhibits, performances, and workshops.
  • Ohio Railway Museum: Located near Worthington, the museum features restored trains and exhibits on the history of railways in Ohio.

Natural Attractions of Worthington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Olentangy River: A river that runs through Worthington, perfect for kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
  • Sharon Woods Metro Park: A popular park for hiking, picnics, and nature trails.
  • Highbanks Metro Park: Another park with scenic views and many trails for hiking and birdwatching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Worthington

Worthington has many trails and paths for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the popular ones are:

  • Olentangy Trail: A 19-mile trail that runs from downtown Columbus to Worthington and beyond.
  • Worthington Connector Trail: A 2.7-mile trail that connects Worthington to other nearby trails and parks.
  • Sharon Woods Trail: A 3.5-mile trail with scenic views of the park and lake.

Best Things to Do in Worthington: Activities and Tours

  • Polaris Fashion Place: A large shopping mall with many stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
  • Worthington Farmers Market: A popular farmers’ market with fresh produce and goods from local vendors.
  • The Candle Lab: A unique experience where visitors can make their own candles.
  • SegAway Tours of Columbus: A fun and unique way to explore downtown Columbus and its attractions on a Segway tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Worthington

Day 1: Explore historic downtown Worthington, visit the WHS and Orange Johnson House, and have lunch at The Olde Village Tavern.

Day 2: Hike at Highbanks Metro Park, followed by a picnic lunch. Afternoon visit to the Ohio Railway Museum.

Day 3: Visit the McConnell Arts Center for exhibits and a performance. Have lunch at Simple Times Mixers and Dinner at La Chatelaine French Bakery and Bistro.

Day 4: Take a trip to Columbus to visit the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, followed by lunch at The Angry Baker and shopping at the Short North Arts District.

Day 5: Bike the Olentangy Trail and visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

Day 6: Stop at the Columbus Museum of Art, followed by lunch at Harvest Pizzeria and shopping at Easton Town Center.

Day 7: Explore the Worthington Farmers Market, followed by a Segway tour of downtown Columbus and a dinner at The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro.

Food and Drink Scene of Worthington

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ohio Buckeye Candy: A local sweet treat made of peanut butter and chocolate.
  • Buckeye Bourbon Balls: Similar to the candy but with added bourbon.
  • Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream: A Columbus-based company known for its unique flavors of ice cream.
  • Brazenhead Irish Pub: A popular Irish pub with delicious pub fare and beers.

Local Beverages

  • BrewDog Brewery: A Scottish-based brewery with a location in Columbus, known for its craft beer.
  • Brothers Drake Meadery and Bar: A local meadery that offers tastings and tours.
  • North High Brewing: A craft brewery with a taproom in Worthington.

Where to Stay in Worthington: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hilton Columbus/Polaris: A modern hotel located near Polaris Fashion Place.
  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites: A budget-friendly option with complimentary breakfast.
  • Worthington Inn: A historic inn with luxury accommodations and fine dining.

What to Buy in Worthington: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Worthington Farmers Market: Local and fresh produce, baked goods, and handcrafted gifts.
  • Artisan jewelry from High Line Car House: A unique gift featuring locally made jewelry.
  • Snowville Creamery: A small dairy that offers milk, yogurt, and cheeses made from grass-fed cows.

Local Culture and Customs of Worthington

Worthington residents take great pride in their city’s history and cultural traditions. When visiting, it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions. The city celebrates many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Old Worthington Art Festival, Fourth of July Fireworks, and the Holiday Open House Festival.

Best Time to Visit Worthington

The best time to visit Worthington is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. The city also hosts many festivals and outdoor events during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Worthington

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local food and drink scene.
  • Visit the farmers’ markets for unique and fresh local produce.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the parks and outdoor areas.
  • Ignore the historical and cultural landmarks.
  • Assume that the city is solely defined by its proximity to Columbus.

Safety and Health

Safety in Worthington

Worthington is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take proper precautions.

Health in Worthington

Worthington has many hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities. It’s always advisable to carry necessary medical documents and have travel insurance while visiting the city.

Getting to Worthington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Worthington

  • John Glenn Columbus International Airport: The nearest airport, located about 15 miles from Worthington.

Bus Stations Near Worthington

  • Columbus Greyhound Station: Located in downtown Columbus, about 20 minutes from Worthington.

Other Options

  • Car rental agencies: There are many options for car rental agencies if you prefer to have your own transportation.

How to Get Around in Worthington

Worthington is a walkable and bike-friendly city. However, if you prefer public transportation, the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) operates buses that connect Worthington to other parts of Columbus and the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Worthington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Columbus: Ohio’s capital city, located about 30 minutes from Worthington. Columbus is home to many museums, art galleries, restaurants, and shopping districts.
  • Hocking Hills State Park: A popular outdoor destination located about 90 minutes from Worthington. The park features many scenic trails, waterfalls, and rock formations.

Conclusion

Worthington is a charming city with something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in learning about the local history, exploring outdoor attractions, or indulging in the food and drink scene, Worthington has it all. By following this guide, you’ll be able to plan a memorable trip to Worthington that you’ll cherish forever.