Topiary Park

A Living Work of Art

Located in Columbus, Ohio's Discovery District sits a truly one-of-a-kind green space: Topiary Park. This 9.2-acre downtown space isn't your average city park - it's essentially a living painting. The main attraction? A meticulously crafted topiary recreation of Georges Seurat's famous painting "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte." Sculptor James T. Mason created what's believed to be the only topiary representation of a painting anywhere in the world.

Walk through and you'll find yourself surrounded by 54 people, 8 boats, 3 dogs, a monkey, and a cat - all sculpted from yew trees to mirror the figures in Seurat's pointillist masterpiece. Some of these green sculptures reach up to 12 feet tall! At the center lies a serene pond representing the Seine River from the painting, now home to ducks, geese, and turtles that bring an extra touch of life to this artistic landscape.

Exploring the Park

To really appreciate this green masterpiece, head to the elevated viewing area that mimics Seurat's original vantage point. From there, the whole living canvas comes together beautifully. Throughout the park, you'll find comfortable walking paths and benches where you can sit and take in the artistry, along with concrete picnic tables well-suited for an outdoor lunch.

Beyond the topiaries, the park features impressive botanical diversity with over 220 trees spanning 35 different species. If you're curious about the park's history, stop by the chateau-style visitors center for more information. They occasionally run a small gift shop, however the hours can be hit-or-miss.

The park provides a welcome breath of fresh air from downtown Columbus's urban energy. Even during hot summer days, the generous shade keeps things comfortable, while open grassy areas invite you to spread out with a book or enjoy a leisurely picnic. For the most vibrant experience, visit in late spring or summer when the topiaries are lush and full.

Things to Do

Dog owners, rejoice - your four-legged friends are welcome here, with convenient waste stations at each corner entrance. The smooth paved paths make for easy walking, while the open spaces provide room to stretch out and relax.

During warmer months, you might catch special events like outdoor concerts, yoga sessions, or cultural gatherings. The Columbus Book Festival makes its home here, and the park's location right by the Columbus Metropolitan Library creates a natural outdoor extension for readers looking to enjoy their latest find in the sunshine.

A Bit of History

This wasn't always a park of sculptured shrubbery. The land originally belonged to the Ohio School for the Deaf until the 1980s, when a fire destroyed the campus buildings. The topiary garden officially opened in 1992 and has since become a favorite spot for art enthusiasts, garden lovers, photographers, and curious visitors.

Maintained by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, the park welcomes visitors year-round from 7AM to 11PM. You'll come across street parking available around the perimeter, making it an easy stop during your Columbus adventures.