Last week, we covered the new life recently breathed into two Columbus cultural landmarks. But there's also plenty to explore in Franklinton, an eclectic community with a revitalized arts district and busy social calendar.
Sitting to the west of the Scioto River, this historic downtown neighborhood (it was the first settled land in Franklin County) is home to several flourishing studios and artist collectives, including 400 West Rich Street – or "400", as it's known to the artists-in-residence. For a listing of 400's open-house events, check out their Facebook page.
Give your weekend a hip start with Franklinton Fridays, an "art crawl" held on the second Friday of every month. These community gatherings bring out the best of Franklinton by inviting you in to explore the neighborhood's stores, studios, and restaurants.
The fun gets going at around 6 p.m. and usually lasts through 10 p.m. Check out the Franklinton Fridays Facebook feed for a list of participating venues.
For both kids and kids at heart, a visit to COSI (the Center of Science and Industry) is a must. Whether blasting off into outer space, diving deep beneath the ocean waves, or taking in a live science show, there's something for everyone at this Columbus institution.
COSI is located at 333 West Broad Street. On-site parking is available, and you can save time by purchasing tickets in advance.
Eating out
Cap off your day with a meal at Spaghetti Warehouse, a west-side staple located at 397 West Broad Street that's perfect for the whole family. Or visit Tommy's Diner, a fixture of Franklinton that's now open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Prefer something a little more avant-garde? Experience Columbus highlights Strongwater Food and Spirits, "a bar and eatery ... featuring rotating drafts, craft cocktails, and house made infusions housed in a 100 year old warehouse," or Land-Grant Brewing Company, where you can "taste locally made craft beer" and select from a "[rotation of] food trucks [that] provide eats during business hours."
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