The Short North Arts District in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the most vibrant and colorful neighborhoods in the city. Known for its artistic spirit, lively atmosphere, and unique local culture, the Short North is a place where creativity shines on every corner. But did you know that this neighborhood is also full of interesting history and fun activities, perfect for kids who love to explore and learn? Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the Short North offers a world of discovery for curious minds. In this guide, we’ll dive into some fun facts about the Short North and explore what makes it such a special place for kids.
What is the Short North?
A Creative Neighborhood Full of Art
The Short North is a neighborhood that celebrates art in every form. You’ll find art galleries showcasing paintings, sculptures, and photography, as well as public art installations that add color and creativity to the streets. The district is famous for its murals—large paintings on the sides of buildings—that tell stories, celebrate local culture, and sometimes just make you smile. Walking through the Short North is like exploring an open-air museum, where every corner offers something new to see.
- Fun Fact: Many of the murals in the Short North are created by local artists, and they change every year, so there’s always something new to discover!
How Did It Get Its Name?
The name “Short North” might sound a little funny, but it actually has a simple explanation. A long time ago, when Columbus was just starting to grow, the area now known as the Short North was just north of the city’s downtown. People started calling it the “short north” because it was a short distance from the main part of the city. Today, the name has stuck, and the Short North is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Columbus.
- Fun Fact: The Short North wasn’t always as lively as it is today. In the 1980s, it started to transform into the artsy, vibrant place we know now, thanks to the efforts of local artists and community members.
Cool Things to See in the Short North
The Amazing Murals
One of the first things you’ll notice in the Short North is the colorful murals that decorate the sides of buildings. These murals are giant works of art that often tell stories about the neighborhood, the people who live there, or just something fun and creative. Each mural is different, and they’re all part of what makes the Short North such a cool place to visit. Some murals feature animals, like birds or lions, while others show people or abstract designs. It’s like a treasure hunt to find all the murals as you walk through the neighborhood!
- Tip for Kids: See how many different animals you can spot in the murals. Some of them might be hiding in plain sight!
The Light-Up Arches on High Street
High Street is the main road that runs through the Short North, and it’s famous for something really cool—light-up arches that stretch across the street. These arches light up at night, making the whole street glow with different colors. The arches were built to look like the ones that used to be in Columbus over 100 years ago, and they’re one of the things that make the Short North so unique.
- Fun Fact: The original arches were made of wood and lit with gas lamps, but the new ones are made of steel and use energy-efficient LED lights.
Goodale Park: A Green Oasis
Just next to the Short North is Goodale Park, one of the oldest and most beautiful parks in Columbus. It’s a great place for kids to run around, play on the playgrounds, or have a picnic with their family. The park is full of big trees, open spaces, and a pond with ducks and geese. During the summer, Goodale Park is home to concerts, festivals, and other fun events, so there’s always something happening.
- Activity Idea: Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch by the pond, then see if you can spot any turtles or fish swimming in the water!
Fun Activities in the Short North
The Excitement of Gallery Hop
If you’re in the Short North on the first Saturday of the month, you’re in for a treat! That’s when the neighborhood hosts Gallery Hop, a special event where all the art galleries stay open late, and the streets come alive with music, food, and fun. During Gallery Hop, you can walk from gallery to gallery, checking out different art displays and maybe even meeting the artists who created them. There are also street performers, food vendors, and sometimes even interactive art activities for kids.
- Tip for Parents: Gallery Hop is a great way to introduce kids to different types of art in a fun and lively setting. Plus, it’s free to explore!
Shopping for Cool Stuff
The Short North is full of unique shops that sell all kinds of interesting things, from toys and clothes to books and art supplies. Some shops specialize in handmade items created by local artists, so you can find something truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re looking for a new toy, a fun book, or a special gift, the Short North has plenty of places to explore.
- Shop to Check Out: Cub Shrub is a kids' boutique in the Short North that offers a variety of cool toys, clothes, and gifts just for kids.
Tasting Delicious Food
After all that exploring, you’re bound to get hungry, and the Short North has no shortage of yummy places to eat. From pizza and burgers to sweet treats like ice cream and chocolates, there’s something for every taste. One of the most famous places in the neighborhood is Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, where you can try all kinds of creative ice cream flavors. There are also family-friendly restaurants where you can sit down for a meal and recharge before more adventures.
- Must-Try Spot: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams offers flavors like Brambleberry Crisp and Salted Peanut Butter with Chocolate Flecks. Why not try a scoop (or two)?
Why the Short North is Special
A Neighborhood Full of Art and Creativity
One of the things that make the Short North so special is its focus on art and creativity. Everywhere you go, you’ll find something artistic, whether it’s a mural, a sculpture, or a beautifully designed shop. The neighborhood supports local artists and encourages creativity in all its forms. This makes the Short North not just a place to visit, but a place to be inspired.
- Fun Activity: Bring a sketchbook and draw your favorite mural or sculpture as you explore the neighborhood.
A Welcoming Community
The people who live and work in the Short North are known for being friendly and welcoming. The neighborhood is very diverse, which means you’ll meet people from all different backgrounds and walks of life. This diversity is celebrated in the Short North, and it’s one of the things that make the neighborhood such a fun and interesting place to be. There are always community events, festivals, and gatherings where everyone is welcome.
- Fun Fact: The Short North hosts the annual HighBall Halloween, one of the most creative costume parties in the country, where people dress up in amazing and elaborate costumes.
How to Visit the Short North
Getting Around the Neighborhood
The Short North is a walkable neighborhood, which means you can explore most of it on foot. The main street, High Street, is lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries, so it’s easy to see everything just by walking around. If you get tired, there are also bike-sharing stations where you can rent a bike and explore on two wheels. Buses also run through the neighborhood, so there are plenty of ways to get around.
- Tip for Families: Wear comfortable shoes, and be sure to bring water and snacks to keep everyone energized as you explore.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
The Short North is a great place to visit any time of year, but there are some special times when the neighborhood is especially lively. Gallery Hop, which happens on the first Saturday of every month, is one of the best times to visit if you want to experience the neighborhood’s art scene. The summer months are also a great time to visit because of the outdoor festivals, concerts in Goodale Park, and warm weather that makes exploring even more fun.
- Tip: HighBall Halloween, held in October, is another exciting time to visit, especially if you love creative costumes and Halloween fun.
FAQs on Short North Facts for Kids: Exploring Columbus’s Neighborhood
What makes the Short North a fun place for kids?
The Short North is fun for kids because it’s full of colorful murals, art galleries, parks, and shops that are interesting to explore. There are also fun events like Gallery Hop and tasty treats like ice cream from Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. The neighborhood’s creative spirit makes it a place where kids can see art up close and even create their own.
Are there places to play in the Short North?
Yes, Goodale Park is a great place to play! It has playgrounds, a pond with ducks, and lots of open space to run around. The park is right next to the Short North, so it’s easy to visit after a day of exploring the neighborhood. During the summer, there are often concerts and festivals in the park, making it a lively place to be.
What is Gallery Hop?
Gallery Hop is a special event in the Short North that happens on the first Saturday of every month. During Gallery Hop, art galleries open their doors to the public, and people can walk around to see different art exhibits. There’s also music, food, and sometimes even street performers, making it a fun and festive time to visit the neighborhood.
Can I find kid-friendly food in the Short North?
Absolutely! There are lots of restaurants in the Short North that serve kid-friendly food, like pizza, burgers, and ice cream. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is a must-visit spot for delicious ice cream, and many restaurants in the area have menus that include options for kids. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a sit-down meal, there’s something for everyone.
How can I see the murals in the Short North?
You can see the murals by walking around the neighborhood, especially along High Street. The murals are painted on the sides of buildings, and some change every year, so there’s always something new to discover. Many murals are large and colorful, making them easy to spot as you explore the area.
What is HighBall Halloween?
HighBall Halloween is one of the biggest and most creative costume parties in the country, held every October in the Short North. During HighBall, people dress up in amazing and elaborate costumes, and there are contests, live music, and lots of fun activities. It’s a great event for kids and families who love Halloween and enjoy seeing incredible costumes.
For more information and personalized assistance, contact Joseph Speakman Real Estate:
- Address: 800 N High Street, Columbus, OH 43215
- Phone: 614-607-3691
- Website: JosephSpeakman.com | JosephSpeakman.realtor
- Email: [email protected]
