Whetstone Park

A Rose Lover's Paradise

Positioned in Columbus's Clintonville neighborhood, the Park of Roses (or Columbus Park of Roses, if we're being formal) is a 13-acre floral haven within Whetstone Park. Since 1953, this botanical location has been captivating visitors, earning its spot as one of America's largest municipal rose gardens.

Stroll through the grounds and you can find yourself surrounded by an impressive 12,000 rose specimens spanning more than 400 varieties. The roses aren't just randomly scattered - they're thoughtfully arranged in themed sections. There's the formal rose garden with its meticulous layouts, the heritage rose garden where you can admire varieties that have been around since before 1867, and the Earth-Kind rose garden showing how these beautiful blooms can be grown with minimal environmental impact.

Beyond the Roses

While roses might steal the spotlight, they're not the only stars here. The park includes an herb garden filled with fragrant plants, a perennial garden offering year-round interest, and a practical backyard garden that might inspire your own home landscaping projects. The entire space doubles as an arboretum, featuring 138+ varieties of trees and shrubs that create a diverse backdrop for the floral displays.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the local wildlife that calls this place home. Even when the roses take their winter nap, the park maintains a quiet beauty that changes with each season.

When to Visit

The park welcomes visitors year-round from dawn until dusk, and the best part? It won't cost you a penny to enter. While the roses put on their most spectacular show from mid-June through September, there's something worth seeing in every season thanks to the thoughtful variety of plantings.

A one-mile walking path circles the rose gardens, ideal for a leisurely stroll or a mindful morning walk. Feel free to bring your four-legged friend along - just remember that leash rules apply to keep everyone's visit pleasant.

Amenities & Spaces

The Whetstone Park Shelter House sits within the grounds - a climate-controlled space available for rent that can host up to 175 people. It's a popular spot for weddings, receptions, and community events, complete with tables, chairs, and kitchen facilities.

Scattered within the park, you can find picnic areas with tables where you can enjoy an outdoor meal or small gathering. There's plenty of parking available, however it's worth noting that handicap accessibility can be somewhat limited in certain areas beyond the parking lots.

Far From Just Gardens

Whetstone Park extends beyond the rose displays, offering plenty of space for recreation. The open areas provide room for casual sports and games, while the network of paths invites walking, jogging, or simply meandering to appreciate the natural surroundings.

Whether you're seeking an active afternoon or a quiet moment of reflection, this is a green space where Columbus residents and visitors can enjoy nature.