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Bicentennial Park

Bicentennial Park Image

233 Civic Center Dr.
Columbus, OH 43215
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This 4.66-acre park at 233 Civic Center Drive is a downtown destination that features a one-of-a-kind fountain, park restaurant and an eye-catching performance pavilion. The park was originally dedicated in 1976 to honor John W. Galbreath, an Ohio philanthropist, builder, Kentucky Derby breeder and owner of the Pittsburgh Pirates from 1945-1985. Click here to learn more about upcoming events and to reserve the park.

WinterFest

The fourth annual WinterFest will take place in Bicentennial Park on Saturday, Dec. 4, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Bicentennial Stage will kick off at 11 a.m. with the soul-pop jams of Honey and Blue, followed by sousaphone-powered party music of the New Basics Brass Band, and headlining L.A.-based Absofacto, featuring a unique fusion of dream pop, art rock and inventive electronica at 3 p.m.

The food trucks on site will include Cheesy Truck; Ninja Bowl; Paddy Wagon; Pitabilities; Sweet-T's Southern Style Food Truck; Tibetan Momo; and Tortilla Street Food -- with The Columbus Coffee Company as well for high-quality coffee, craft beverages and shaved ice.

Local breweries will be on hand as well featuring their seasonal craft brews, with BrewDog’s Lost Lager; Market Garden’s Festivus; Columbus Brewing Company: Citra Noel; Seventh Son Brewing’s Rime; and from Cleveland, Great Lakes will be on hand with its renowned Christmas Ale. If you want something with a little more warmth and kick, hot bourbon chai cider will also be served.

Click here to learn more.

Promenade

The Promenade, a grand boulevard that stretches along Civic Center Drive from Broad Street to Rich Street, connects Battelle Riverfront Park with the John W. Galbreath Bicentennial Park. The Promenade features a stone colonnade with swings, gardens, water canals and table seating for a game of chess or dominoes. Lined with trees and seasonal flowers, the stone-paved pedestrian walk provides a canopy of shade during hot summer days.

The Huntington Plaza fountains, in the center of the promenade, feature unique bronze fish playfully spouting water. The Town Street Prow, located at the site of the former Town Street Bridge, provides a scenic overlook of the Scioto River. Free Wi-Fi service, provided by Spectrum, is available along the Promenade and throughout the Scioto Mile.

Scioto Mile Fountain presented by the American Electric Power Foundation

The Scioto Mile Fountain presented by the American Electric Power Foundation — a stunning 15,000-square-foot marvel — shoots more than 1,000 jets of water, enhanced by unique lighting and fog effects, and is interactive and accessible for visitors of all ages.. The fountain has interactive features with access for children of all ages, as well as a 75-foot towering jet of water. At night the fountain experience is enhanced by unique lighting and fog effects that form a backdrop for artistic light projections. Fountain shows take place daily throughout the summer. 

The Fountain with Bicentennial Park is currently closed until further notice.

Fountain Rules

  • Children under 8-years-old must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
  • Pets are not permitted in any of the fountains at any time.
  • Children not potty-trained must wear swim diapers in the fountains.
  • Please walk and do not run.
  • Fountain water is re-circulated, so please avoid getting water in your mouth.
  • Please stay out of the fountain if you are ill.
  • Diaper changing permitted only in the public restrooms.
  • Please wash hands after using the restroom or changing a diaper.

Milestone 229 Park Restaurant

Overlooking the park is a state-of-the-art, glass-enclosed restaurant with a covered outdoor dining terrace. Offering panoramic views of the fountain and riverfront, the restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner. An architectural icon along the riverfront, the building design includes roof-top solar panels to help power the fountain and restaurant. Official Website

Bicentennial Park Pavilion

Designed to enhance downtown arts and cultural experiences, Bicentennial Park is home to a brand new performance pavilion. The venue hosts free music, dance and theatrical performances presented by the Recreation and Parks Department, and offers rental opportunities for other community events.

Park Hours

7 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Features
  • 4.66  Acres
Facilities
  • Amphitheater
  • Greenway Trail Access