How to Visit Topiary Park in Columbus

Topiary Park in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the most unique and visually captivating public spaces in the United States. Nestled in the heart of downtown, this 1.5-acre park is not just a green oasis—it’s a living sculpture garden that transforms hedges and shrubs into intricate, three-dimensional representations of famous artworks. Originally conceived as a tribute to George Caleb Bingham’s 1851 painting “The Jolly Flatboatmen,” the park’s topiaries are meticulously pruned to mirror the figures in the painting, creating a surreal, immersive experience that blends horticulture with fine art. For visitors seeking an unforgettable blend of nature, history, and creativity, Topiary Park offers more than a stroll—it offers a journey through time and imagination.

While many travelers flock to Columbus for its museums, breweries, and sports venues, Topiary Park remains one of the city’s best-kept secrets. Its quiet charm and artistic depth make it a must-visit for photography enthusiasts, history buffs, families, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of disciplined craftsmanship. Unlike traditional parks, Topiary Park invites you to slow down, observe, and reflect. The experience is not just about location—it’s about intention. Knowing how to visit Topiary Park in Columbus means understanding its rhythms, respecting its artistry, and planning your visit to maximize both enjoyment and preservation of this rare cultural treasure.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to help you navigate every aspect of your visit—from arrival and parking to timing, etiquette, and nearby attractions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning after years, this tutorial ensures you experience Topiary Park as it was meant to be seen: with reverence, curiosity, and wonder.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm the Park’s Location and Hours

Topiary Park is located at 200 E. Town Street, Columbus, OH 43215, directly across from the Columbus Museum of Art and adjacent to the historic Old City Hall. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, with no admission fee. Unlike many urban parks, it does not have formal operating hours or gated entry, but lighting is minimal after dusk, so plan your visit accordingly. The best time to arrive is between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., when natural light enhances the texture and detail of the topiaries.

Seasonal variations affect visibility. Spring and early summer (May–July) offer the most vibrant, fully grown topiaries, as pruning occurs in late winter and early spring to prepare for the growing season. Fall brings a more subdued aesthetic as foliage thins, and winter reveals the underlying wire frames and structural work—ideal for those interested in the horticultural process behind the art.

Step 2: Plan Your Transportation

Topiary Park is easily accessible by car, public transit, bike, or foot. If driving, the most convenient parking options include:

• City of Columbus Parking Garage at 280 N. High Street (5-minute walk)—offers hourly and daily rates.
• On-street parking along E. Town Street and N. High Street—metered spaces are available, but time limits apply (typically 2–4 hours).
• Free parking is available on side streets such as E. Broad Street and N. 3rd Street, though spaces fill quickly during business hours.

For public transit users, the COTA (Central Ohio Transit Authority) bus system serves the area with multiple routes. Routes 1, 10, 11, 13, and 14 all stop within a 5-minute walk of the park. Use the COTA app to track real-time arrivals and plan your route. Cyclists can utilize the city’s extensive bike lanes and secure bike racks located near the park’s main entrance on E. Town Street.

Step 3: Enter the Park and Orient Yourself

Upon entering through the wrought-iron gates on E. Town Street, you’ll be greeted by a serene, tree-lined path that leads directly to the central sculpture. Take a moment to pause and absorb the atmosphere. The park is intentionally designed to feel secluded despite its downtown location—high hedges and mature trees create a natural sound barrier from surrounding traffic.

The centerpiece is the topiary rendition of “The Jolly Flatboatmen,” which spans approximately 60 feet in length and includes 12 distinct figures. Begin your exploration by standing at the western end of the sculpture, where the boat and its crew are fully visible. Note how the artists used boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) to form the bodies, limbs, and clothing folds. The figures appear to be in motion—some rowing, others gesturing, one holding a jug, another playing a fiddle. This illusion of movement is achieved through precise pruning techniques applied over decades.

Step 4: Observe the Details and Take Photographs

Topiary Park rewards patience. Rather than rushing through, spend at least 20–30 minutes walking slowly around the perimeter and observing the craftsmanship. Look closely at how the topiaries transition from dense foliage to open negative space—this contrast creates depth and dimension. Notice how the artists used different pruning frequencies to control growth patterns: areas meant to resemble fabric are trimmed more frequently to maintain crisp edges, while hair and beards are allowed to grow slightly longer for a softer, more natural look.

Photography is highly encouraged, but avoid using flash or tripods that obstruct pathways. The best angles are from the raised brick pathways surrounding the sculpture, particularly from the northeast corner, which offers a full view of the boat and its crew without reflections. Early morning light casts long shadows that accentuate the contours of the hedges, while late afternoon light creates a golden glow that enhances the park’s nostalgic atmosphere.

Step 5: Learn About the History and Artistic Process

Although there are no formal plaques or signage within the park, the story behind Topiary Park is rich. The project began in 1980 as a collaboration between the Columbus Art Museum and the city’s Parks and Recreation Department. Artists used wire frames to guide the growth of boxwood shrubs, which were planted in 1977. Over 10 years, the shrubs grew into the shapes of the figures, with pruning done annually by trained horticulturists. The original painting, now housed in the Columbus Museum of Art, was chosen because it depicted a moment of American folk life—humble, joyful, and communal—values the city wished to honor.

Each figure has a name and backstory. The fiddler is believed to represent a local musician; the man holding the jug may symbolize hospitality. These interpretations are passed down through city records and oral histories among park staff. To deepen your understanding, consider reading “The Living Art of Topiary Park” by local historian Susan L. Mitchell, available at the Columbus Metropolitan Library or online.

Step 6: Respect the Environment and Etiquette

Topiary Park is a living artwork, not a playground. To preserve its integrity:

• Do not touch, climb, or lean on the topiaries. Even light pressure can damage delicate branches.
• Keep pets on leashes and away from the hedges. Dogs are permitted but must be under control at all times.
• Do not litter. There are no trash bins inside the park—please carry out what you bring in.
• Keep noise to a minimum. Conversations should be quiet; music or loud devices are discouraged.
• Do not pick leaves, flowers, or branches. Even small removals can disrupt the shape and health of the topiaries.

These rules are not arbitrary—they are essential to maintaining a 40+ year legacy of artistic horticulture. Visitors who respect these guidelines ensure that future generations can experience the same wonder.

Step 7: Extend Your Visit to Nearby Attractions

Topiary Park is part of a larger cultural corridor in downtown Columbus. After your visit, consider exploring:

• Columbus Museum of Art (directly across the street)—home to the original “The Jolly Flatboatmen” painting and an impressive collection of American and contemporary art.
• Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (20-minute drive)—featuring tropical greenhouses and seasonal floral displays.
• Short North Arts District (10-minute walk)—a vibrant neighborhood of galleries, boutiques, and cafes.
• Ohio Statehouse (5-minute walk)—a neoclassical building offering free guided tours of its historic chambers.

Many visitors combine their Topiary Park visit with a lunch at one of the nearby restaurants, such as The Green Bean or Momo’s Café, both within a 3-minute walk and known for locally sourced ingredients.

Best Practices

Timing Your Visit for Optimal Experience

The most rewarding visits to Topiary Park occur during mid-spring through early summer. Between late May and mid-July, the boxwood has reached its peak density and color, and the topiaries are at their most defined. Avoid visiting immediately after heavy rain—wet foliage can obscure detail and make paths slippery. Early morning visits (before 10 a.m.) offer the quietest atmosphere and the best lighting for photography. If you’re visiting in the fall, consider coming on a clear, sunny day when the remaining foliage catches the low-angle light, creating dramatic shadows.

Wear Appropriate Footwear and Clothing

Although the park is flat and paved, the brick pathways can be uneven in places, and gravel borders line the edges of the hedges. Wear closed-toe, non-slip shoes. In warmer months, light, breathable clothing is ideal, but bring a light jacket—shaded areas under the trees can be cool even on warm days. In winter, dress in layers; the park is wind-exposed, and temperatures can drop significantly after sunset.

Bring Minimal Essentials

There are no vending machines or restrooms inside the park. Use facilities at the Columbus Museum of Art or nearby public restrooms on E. Town Street before entering. Bring a bottle of water if visiting during summer, but avoid plastic containers that may be discarded. A small notebook or sketchpad is a thoughtful addition for artists or writers seeking inspiration.

Engage Mindfully, Not Just Visually

Topiary Park is designed to evoke contemplation. Sit on one of the benches along the perimeter and close your eyes for a minute. Listen to the rustling of leaves, the distant hum of the city, the occasional birdcall. Open your eyes and notice how the figures seem to breathe with the wind. This sensory engagement transforms a simple visit into a meditative experience. Many locals return weekly for this reason—it’s not just a park, it’s a sanctuary.

Document Your Visit Responsibly

If you’re sharing photos on social media, tag the park’s official handles (@TopiaryParkCbus) and use the hashtag

TopiaryParkColumbus. Avoid posting images that show crowds climbing or touching the hedges, as this can encourage unsafe behavior. Instead, highlight the artistry, the tranquility, the quiet beauty. Your posts can help preserve the park’s reputation as a place of reverence, not just a photo op.

Support Preservation Efforts

Topiary Park relies on volunteer efforts and private donations to maintain its topiaries. While there is no admission fee, consider donating to the Columbus Arts Council or the Friends of Topiary Park, a nonprofit group that funds pruning tools, soil amendments, and educational programs. Your contribution ensures that this living artwork endures.

Tools and Resources

Official Websites and Digital Guides

For accurate, up-to-date information, consult the following trusted sources:

• Columbus Parks and Recreation — columbus.gov/parks — Provides maps, seasonal updates, and event calendars.
• Columbus Museum of Art — columbusmuseum.org — Offers historical context on “The Jolly Flatboatmen” and related exhibitions.
• Topiary Park Virtual Tour — Available on the Columbus Cultural Arts website, this 360-degree video allows you to explore the park remotely and study details not visible from ground level.

Mobile Applications

Several apps enhance your visit:

• Google Maps — Use the “Indoor Maps” feature to navigate to the park entrance and locate nearby restrooms and parking.
• AllTrails — Lists Topiary Park as a “Urban Art Walk” with user-submitted photos and reviews.
• AudioTourGuide — Download a free 12-minute audio narration about the park’s history and symbolism, available offline.

Books and Publications

Deepen your knowledge with these resources:

• The Living Art of Topiary Park by Susan L. Mitchell — A detailed account of the park’s creation, interviews with original artists, and photographs from 1977–1990.
• Topiary: The Art of Shaping Trees and Shrubs by D. J. Huxley — A horticultural reference that explains the pruning techniques used in the park.
• Columbus: A Cultural History by James R. Healey — Includes a chapter on public art and civic identity, with a dedicated section on Topiary Park.

Local Workshops and Tours

During spring and fall, the Columbus Botanical Society offers guided walking tours of Topiary Park. These 45-minute sessions are led by master pruners who demonstrate techniques and share anecdotes. Registration is free but limited to 15 people per tour—sign up through the COTA Community Events page. Private group tours can also be arranged for schools and organizations by contacting the Parks and Recreation Department via email.

Photography Equipment Recommendations

For optimal results:

• Use a camera with manual settings to control depth of field and exposure.
• A 50mm or 35mm lens captures the full breadth of the topiaries without distortion.
• A polarizing filter reduces glare on leaves and enhances green tones.
• Shoot in RAW format to preserve detail for post-processing.

Smartphone users should enable HDR mode and use the grid overlay to align the composition with the rule of thirds. Avoid digital zoom—move closer instead.

Real Examples

Example 1: A Photographer’s Journey

Emma R., a freelance photographer from Cincinnati, visited Topiary Park on a Saturday in June. She arrived at 8:30 a.m. with her Canon EOS R5 and 35mm lens. She spent two hours walking the perimeter, capturing close-ups of individual figures and wide-angle shots of the entire composition. She noticed how the light shifted from cool blue in the early morning to warm gold by 11 a.m. Her favorite image, titled “The Fiddler’s Shadow,” shows the topiary figure casting a long, distorted shadow on the brick path—a visual metaphor for memory and time. She posted the photo on Instagram with the caption: “Some art is carved in stone. This is carved in green.” The post received over 12,000 likes and was featured on the Columbus Museum of Art’s Instagram page.

Example 2: A Family’s First Visit

The Morales family from Akron brought their two children, ages 7 and 10, to Topiary Park during a weekend trip to Columbus. They arrived at 2 p.m. and were initially unsure what to expect. Their daughter asked, “Are these people made of plants?” The family spent 40 minutes walking slowly around the park, identifying each figure. The father used his phone to find the original painting online and showed it to them. The children drew their own versions of the topiaries in a sketchbook. “It was the quietest we’ve ever been in a public place,” said the mother. “They didn’t run, didn’t shout. They just… looked.” They returned the following year.

Example 3: A Student Research Project

As part of a high school environmental science class, students from Worthington High School studied the growth patterns of the boxwood in Topiary Park. They collected soil samples, measured pruning intervals, and interviewed park staff. Their findings revealed that the topiaries require an average of 12 hours of pruning per year per figure, with the most intensive work occurring in March and August. Their presentation, “Living Sculptures: The Science Behind Topiary Art,” won first place at the Ohio Youth Science Fair and was displayed at the Columbus Museum of Art for three months.

Example 4: A Global Visitor’s Perspective

Masato Tanaka, a horticulturist from Kyoto, Japan, visited Topiary Park during a U.S. tour focused on Western topiary traditions. He had studied Japanese niwaki (tree shaping) for over 20 years and was struck by the American approach. “In Kyoto, we shape trees to reflect nature’s asymmetry,” he said. “Here, we shape nature to reflect human imagination. It’s the opposite philosophy—and equally beautiful.” He returned to Japan and incorporated elements of Topiary Park’s narrative style into his own garden design.

FAQs

Is Topiary Park open year-round?

Yes, Topiary Park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, 365 days a year. However, visibility of the topiaries varies by season. The most detailed and lush appearance occurs between May and July.

Are restrooms available inside the park?

No, there are no restrooms within Topiary Park. The nearest public restrooms are located at the Columbus Museum of Art (directly across the street) and at the City of Columbus Public Library on E. Broad Street.

Can I bring my dog to Topiary Park?

Yes, dogs are permitted but must remain on a leash at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Dogs are not allowed to approach or interact with the topiaries.

Is there an admission fee?

No, Topiary Park is free to visit. It is maintained by the City of Columbus and supported by private donations.

Are guided tours available?

Yes, free guided tours are offered seasonally by the Columbus Botanical Society. Check the Parks and Recreation website for schedules. Private group tours can be arranged by request.

Can I take photos for commercial use?

Personal photography is always permitted. Commercial photography (e.g., for advertising, films, or stock imagery) requires a permit from the City of Columbus Parks and Recreation Department. Contact them via email at parks@city.columbus.oh.us for details.

Why is the park so quiet?

The park is intentionally designed as a space for reflection. The high hedges block street noise, and signage gently encourages quiet behavior. Many visitors describe it as a “meditative space”—a rare quality in urban environments.

How long does it take to walk through the park?

Most visitors spend 20–45 minutes exploring. You can walk the perimeter in 5 minutes, but to truly appreciate the art, allow time to observe details, take photos, and sit quietly.

What happens if a topiary gets damaged?

Any damage to the topiaries is reported immediately to the Parks Department. Minor damage is repaired by trained staff during the next pruning cycle. Severe damage may require replanting and can take up to five years to fully restore.

Can I volunteer to help prune the topiaries?

Volunteer opportunities are limited and require prior training. The city accepts applications annually in January for the Pruning Crew. Visit the Parks Department website for details.

Conclusion

Visiting Topiary Park in Columbus is not merely a stop on a tourist itinerary—it is an encounter with art that breathes, grows, and endures. In a world increasingly dominated by digital experiences and fleeting trends, this park stands as a quiet testament to patience, craftsmanship, and the enduring power of nature shaped by human vision. The topiaries are not static monuments; they are living entities, cared for with reverence, pruned with precision, and admired with awe.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—planning your visit with intention, respecting the environment, engaging with the history, and sharing your experience thoughtfully—you become part of the park’s legacy. You are not just a visitor; you are a steward of something rare and beautiful.

Whether you come for the photography, the peace, the art, or the history, Topiary Park offers something deeper than a snapshot: it offers a moment of stillness in a noisy world. When you leave, you don’t just take photos—you carry a sense of wonder. And that, more than anything, is the true value of visiting Topiary Park in Columbus.