Having spent most of my life in Ohio, I’m always delighted to find new adventures in the Buckeye State. Today, I’m excited to share a hidden gem in Columbus: Whetstone Park. This 149-acre oasis in the Clintonville community is perfect for outdoor activities and features a beautiful rose garden.
Whetstone Park is a haven for hiking, walking, and leisurely exploration. It serves as a trailhead for the Olentangy Trail and is next to the Webster Nature Preserve.
A standout feature is Whetstone Prairie, a 5.1-acre area planted in May 2004, showcasing native Ohio prairie with vernal pools and a woodland buffer. This prairie is a vibrant ecosystem teeming with native plants and wildlife, attracting many pollinators.
Another highlight of the park is the Columbus Park of Roses. This stunning 13-acre rose garden boasts over 350 rose varieties and 11,000 roses in total.
Established in 1953, this award-winning garden includes the Main Rose Garden, the Heritage Garden, the Earth-Kind Rose Garden, the Herb Garden, and the Perennial Garden. It’s a year-round attraction, with summer being the ideal time to stop and smell the roses.
Visitors are encouraged to take photos and enjoy the roses, but please don’t pick them. The Columbus Park of Roses is a true treasure in Ohio, offering a serene escape and a spectacular display of nature’s beauty. For more information about Whetstone Park and the Columbus Park of Roses, visit the City of Columbus Recreation and Parks.