The best places to get fresh air in Columbus

At times it can be intimidating moving from a small town to a big city like Columbus, Ohio. The capital of the state of Ohio has the 15th largest population of any city in the United States, bigger than cities such as Boston, Denver, and Seattle.

City life can be claustrophobic at times and sometimes a temporary break from big city life is needed. Here are some of the best places in Columbus and The Ohio State University area to take a deep breath and relax outside.

Hayden Falls Park

Although you will need to drive in order to get here, Hayden Falls Park is one of the coolest places in Columbus. The park is located on the west side of the Scioto River, and consists of a decent sized boardwalk that ultimately leads to a waterfall.

Distance from campus: 10 miles

Iuka Park

A nice little off-campus spot to get air or walk your dog. Just be on the lookup for homeless people sleeping under the bridge and avoid this place at night and you’ll be fine.

Distance from campus: 1 mile

Olentangy Trail

My favorite spot in all of Columbus to relax and take a deep breath. The Olentangy Trail is a world of it’s own even though it is located in the heart of Columbus. This trail is great for exploring the river banks of the Olentangy River as well as great for jogging or biking.

Distance from campus: A street or so

The Oval

This choice is a no-brainer, during the warm months this place is known as “Oval Beach” because of all people that come and tan. Although it is located in the heart of the Ohio State campus it is still a great place to relax. If you are lucky enough you may even run into a dog!

Distance from campus: Literally the center of campus

Tuttle Park

Located just a bit north of the Ohio State campus, Tuttle Park is an excellent place to relax and take your mind off things. My favorite part about this spot is the mural near the tennis courts that has some interesting graffiti art on it. Once again just be wary of homeless people if you are here at night.

Distance from campus: Half a mile

Mirror Lake

A fan favorite spot among Ohio State students. Mirror Lake is a tranquil spot where students can relax and keep their minds off of school. Word on the street is this is a solid spot to catch Pokemon too.

Distance from campus: Also located in the heart of campus

The Secret Park by East 15th Ave and North 4th Street

Essentially this is the poor man’s oval. Located off campus this small strip of land is good for relaxing and tossing a football. Only the residents of East 15th Ave know about this secret spot, but it is worth visiting if you live in the area.

Distance from campus: 1.4 miles

Lincoln Tower Fields

For those who are more the athletic type this spot is awesome for finding pickup games of soccer, basketball, flag football, ect. Furthermore this spot is right next to the RPAC and Ohio Stadium which makes it the perfect spot for athletes.

Distance from campus: Right next to Ohio Stadium

Downtown by the Scioto River

There are many small parks and trails downtown by the Scioto River. Although you are still in the heart of Columbus these spots are convenient to take a quick break if you work downtown.

Distance from campus: 4 miles

Fred Beekman Park

An awesome spot to get fresh air because you’ll need air after playing in an intense flag football game here. The only downside to this park is you either have to take the bus or drive in order to get here. If you drive your own car then you have to deal with CampusParc (the worst).

Distance from campus:  Technically on west campus but it is still about 1.3 miles

Overall there are many great spots in Columbus to relax and get in touch with nature. Well at least until Winter arrives.