Nature in itself is a work or art, but what happens when nature mimics a work of art?
Few people know about the quaint, seven-acre park in Columbus that features one of Ohio’s most unique gardens, where art and plant life blend. The Topiary Garden is a true hidden gem to those looking for something new to explore. Here's why you'll want to visit this one-of-a-kind park:
Topiary Garden is a "landscape of a painting of a landscape," according to the park’s website.
Address: 480 East Town Street, Columbus, OH, 43215
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Specifically, the topiary garden depicts Georges Seurat’s famous painting A Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grand Jatte—and it is the only known topiary representation of a painting.
The garden features 54 human figures, eight boats, three dogs, a monkey and a cat. The tallest figure is 12 feet high, and all of them are made of yew.
Topiary Garden continues to flourish via Friends of Topiary Park and individual donations.
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Visitors can learn about the history of the grounds throughout the park and at the gatehouse near the pond, which is home to the Visitor’s Center, a gift shop and restrooms.
The Buckeye State is full of natural wonders, from the islands of Lake Erie to the Appalachian foothills. While much beauty meets the eye in our state, one of the most stunning natural wonders exists mostly underground, only revealing itself to the initiated who know where it surfaces. While it may sound like we're talking about some sort of exotic beast, I'm talking about natural springs. Ohio is home to a number of natural springs, but one area in Jeromesville is especially rich in this resource... they built a whole park around spring-fed ponds and streams! This lovely slice of paradise is Cool Springs Wildlife Conservation Park, and it spans a whopping 192 acres. Grab your hiking boots and prepare for adventure, because this pretty spot is calling your name.
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Hills, forests, and a five-foot waterfall are the features that often draw hikers to Cool Springs Wildlife Conservation Park, but as the name implies, its natural springs are secretly the main attraction in the park. This natural feature has kept the park verdant and lush since the days of Johnny Appleseed, and that's not just a random historical marker to prove how long locals have taken advantage of the resources near Jeromesville. No, John "Johnny Appleseed" Chapman actually planted apple trees here back in the day. This legacy of using spring water to fuel farming continues today, as the park trails wind past actively farmed fields.
While 50 acres of the park are farmland, the rest of this landscape encompasses grassland, forest, and marsh, with three distinct spring-fed ponds on the property. They're great for fishing, and the clarity of the water will absolutely dazzle you. If fishing isn't your vibe, you might enjoy treating the ponds as a backdrop for a casual picnic.
Lucinda Arnold/AllTrails
This landscape is wet, thanks not just to the natural springs but also to the button bush swamps and Black Fork River that divide the property. You'll want to wear waterproof boots for your hike, as the landscape can get rather moist after a heavy rain raises the local water table. Don't be surprised if you see water-loving species like beaver hanging out down here, and remember not to approach any indigenous wildlife you encounter. (That is especially true for beavers. These cute critters are rather territorial, and their bite force is roughly twice as powerful as ours. You don't want to make them mad!)
Cool Springs Wildlife Conservation Park is split down the middle by County Road 37, and both sides of the property have something to offer. Mature woodlands thrive in both areas, but the stand of white oaks on the east side of the property will take you back to a creek fed by the area's many natural springs. While it's best observed after a natural rainfall, I love stopping and admiring the spread of ferns even when the creek bed is muddy rather than wet.
Kim Steiner/AllTrails
And, of course, I can't send you out to an Ohio park without mentioning its waterfall! At only five feet in height, the trickle here is petite but beautiful. You'll likely hear the sound of its babbling waters before you spot it, but getting there is easy. Look for the park's spring-fed ponds... once you pass them, the trail will fork, and you'll want to take the left path.
Lindsay Parnaby/AllTrails
This property is beautiful, but it's also intimate. Even locals in the Jeromesville area are often unaware of this park's existence, and it's pretty quiet during most visits. You might even find that you have the landscape all to yourself! And truth be told, even if you are one of several visitors, you might be able to traverse its 192 acres without encountering another hiker.
All in all, Cool Springs Wildlife Conservation Park is a worthy addition to any Ohio hiking bucket list. Its natural springs keep its water features clear and sparkling, and a hilly terrain makes it an adventurous workout for casual and practiced hikers alike.
If you decide to extend your trip in this area, you'll find plenty of natural attractions to fill your itinerary. With the Mohican River keeping the landscape lush, hiking is a treat in the region! Check out our favorite Mohican-area bed and breakfasts for some iconic and cozy accommodations.
August in Ohio is a real treat, with our hot and humid days making fun in the sun irresistible, but admittedly sweaty. One of the best ways to beat the summer heat in the Buckeye State is the simplest: a good, old-fashioned day in the water. A longtime local favorite, Kim Tam Park at Melanie Springs is a natural water park in Uniontown, Ohio, that's a summer dream come true.
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There are two kinds of people in this world: water people and land people, and whether you fall into the former or the latter, you'll find something to love at Kim Tam Park at Melanie Springs.
Kim Tam Park at Melanie Springs is located in Uniontown, Ohio, just outside of Akron. This natural swimming pool is a favorite for locals, but a bit of a hidden gem outside the area.
Kim Tam Park is a beautiful, 15-acre oasis with a two-acre man-made artesian spring water lake. Folks can purchase a day or season pass; both provide beach and swimming access, as well as the other amenities offered at the park.
Amenities include shaded picnic areas with ample seating and onsite concessions; Bob's Hamburg On Wheels is a popular food truck that some call the best burgers in Ohio!
Other perks for the land-loving crowd include a gorgeous walking path and lots of shaded green spaces, pickleball and basketball courts, cornhole, and even an entire campground!
Back to the water, because that's the main attraction. Chlorine free and spring-fed, the water at this manmade lake is known as being some of the clearest and cleanest in Ohio.
Fun fact: Kim Tam Park boasts the only high dive left in Ohio, boasting three diving boards and slides.
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In terms of safety, lifeguards are on duty and floats are available for rental. However, it's advised that kids always swim with a buddy and stick to designated swimming areas supervised by lifeguards
Most exciting: in an effort to provide an inclusive and welcoming environment, Kim Tam Park offers special “Inclusion Hours” for guests with disabilities. During these designated hours, individuals with disabilities and their families can enjoy exclusive access to the facilities, ensuring a comfortable and accommodating experience.
Did you know about this natural water park in Ohio? Kim Tam Park is the perfect summer day trip in Ohio. It's fun, family friendly, accessible, and affordable... spray on the sunscreen, pack up the car, and let's go!
