Dorrian Green

A Modern Urban Oasis

Found in the heart of downtown Columbus, Dorrian Green provides 6.32 acres of green space amid the city bustle. Located next to the Center of Science and Industry (COSI), this park has been popular with both locals and tourists since opening in 2017.

The park has an interesting origin story - it was built on top of a 630-car underground parking garage, transforming a former parking lot into a green space. Named after Hugh J. Dorrian, a city treasurer and auditor who served Columbus for decades, the park is part of the city's initiative to create more urban green spaces.

Natural Features and Gardens

Wandering through Dorrian Green, you'll discover various themed gardens showcasing plants native to central Ohio. There's a sensory garden that engages all your senses, a peaceful reading garden for those quiet moments, a butterfly and pollinator garden buzzing with life, and a prairie garden that gives you a glimpse of Ohio's natural landscape.

The park cleverly incorporates educational elements that complement COSI next door - science in action, if you will. Tree-lined paths and seasonal blooms contrast with the surrounding urban environment.

Key Attractions

At the heart of Dorrian Green sits the Fountain Plaza, featuring an interactive fountain surrounded by open-air pavilions and groves of flowering cherry trees that bloom beautifully in spring.

During summer months, the splash pad becomes kid central, with water jets providing relief from the heat until about 7:30 PM. If you're visiting with children, this is definitely a highlight.

History buffs might appreciate the limestone structures at the northwest and southwest park entrances - they're actually salvaged pieces from the historic Central High School Stadium that once stood on this site, a thoughtful nod to the area's past.

Recreation and Play Areas

The park features several well-designed play spaces. Kids gravitate toward the climbing structure that challenges their adventurous spirits, while the large swings offer not just fun but also nice views of the playground area.

For adults, there are ping pong tables and plenty of open grassy areas good for tossing a frisbee or relaxing. The paths throughout are flat and accessible, making for easy walks no matter your mobility level.

One of our favorite artistic touches is "The Spectrum Tree" - a relocated kinetic sculpture celebrating Isaac Newton's discovery of the light spectrum. There are also interactive musical elements where you can grab mallets and create your own sounds, adding a playful learning dimension to your visit.

Picnic and Relaxation

If you get hungry, Dorrian Green has tables with umbrellas throughout the open areas, offering shade on sunny days. The expansive lawns invite you to spread out a blanket for an impromptu picnic.

The park is clean and well-maintained, making it a nice spot to rest after visiting COSI or to take a lunch break from work. On hot days, you'll appreciate the shaded areas that offer a cooler place to relax.

Facilities

You should note that while restrooms are available, they typically only open during COSI's operating hours. Drinking fountains are scattered within the park when you need to hydrate.

Dog owners will be happy to know the park is pet-friendly, with areas around the perimeter that work well for walking your four-legged friends. Throughout our visits, we've always found the space impressively clean and well-maintained.

Community Purpose

Dorrian Green fulfills multiple roles in Columbus's urban landscape. It's a neighborhood park for the East Franklinton area, a green space for visitors to nearby cultural institutions, and occasionally hosts community gatherings and festivals.

The park welcomes visitors daily from 6:30 AM to 10 PM, meant for morning joggers and evening stargazers alike.