Goodale Park

Historic Origins

Positioned in the Victorian Village area of Columbus, Goodale Park spans a generous 32.56 acres of green space with quite the backstory. Established in 1851, it's not just Columbus's oldest park - it ranks among the oldest in the entire country.

Behind this urban oasis was Dr. Lincoln Goodale, Franklin County's first physician and a man ahead of his time. When the area was battling nasty diseases like malaria, cholera, and typhoid fever, Dr. Goodale gifted this land to the city with a clear vision: create a space where people could breathe fresh air and find some relief from the urban health challenges of the era.

Natural Beauty

Wandering through Goodale Park today, you'll find yourself surrounded by towering mature trees, meticulously kept gardens, and a charming pond featuring the now-iconic elephant fountain that's become a favorite photo spot for visitors. Tree enthusiasts will appreciate knowing the park houses more than 650 trees spanning 169 different species - basically a living botanical collection right in urban Columbus.

The pond itself has become a little ecosystem, home to fish, ducks, and geese that seem completely unbothered by their city surroundings. There's something calming about sitting by the water, watching the ducks paddle along while the Columbus skyline rises in the background - a nice contrast between nature and city.

Rich History

This park has worn many hats throughout the years. Back in the 1870s, it briefly hosted a menagerie (an old-school mini-zoo), and the park once featured two lakes where visitors could go boating until 1920.

During the Civil War, the grounds served a completely different purpose as Camp Jackson, housing Union soldiers preparing for battle. History buffs will appreciate the gazebo and shelter house that have stood since 1912. The shelter house, which can be reserved for gatherings like family reunions, connects visitors to the park's long community tradition.

Recreation Facilities

You'll find plenty to do here beyond just admiring the scenery. Tennis courts fill up quickly during nice weather, while the basketball courts host everything from casual shootarounds to intense pickup games. Open grassy areas provide perfect spots for tossing a frisbee, playing catch, or just sprawling out with a good book.

Families with kids of different ages appreciate the two distinct playgrounds - one designed with younger children in mind, the other better suited for older kids with more adventurous climbing abilities. Smooth, paved paths weave around the grounds, making the park accessible for strollers, joggers, and anyone who prefers a more structured walking route.

Community Hub

Goodale Park functions as a popular gathering place. Each year, the park hosts ComFest, a free, multi-day celebration of music and arts that brings together an incredible cross-section of Columbus's diverse community. Beyond this flagship event, you'll discover food festivals, Pride celebrations, and casual concerts throughout the warmer months.

On any given weekend, the park transforms into an unofficial picnic headquarters. While there are some tables available, most people bring blankets and set up under the magnificent tree canopy that provides perfect shade even on the hottest summer days.

Dog owners have particularly claimed this space as their own. The park is extremely dog-friendly, with the north section functioning as an informal gathering spot for four-legged friends and their humans, but technically leashes are required.

With the charming Victorian Village as its backdrop, Goodale Park offers an excellent blend of historical charm and modern recreational space. Its central location makes it accessible from nearly anywhere in the city, with many locals comparing it to a smaller, Midwestern version of Central Park.