Photo: Lawrence Ko
Photo: SoniA
Photo: SoniA
German Village Society
★4.4(71 reviews)$Activity
🕑 2-3 hours for the full tour experience👶 Best for ages 6 and up. Older elementary and middle school kids who can appreciate architecture, history, and gardens will enjoy the tour most, though well-behaved younger children who like walking tours can also participate. The self-paced nature allows families to move at their own speed.
About
The German Village Society's annual June home and garden tour offers families a unique opportunity to explore one of Columbus's most charming historic neighborhoods. Kids can admire stunning brick streets, beautiful period architecture, and lush gardens while learning about 19th-century German heritage in a walkable, stroller-friendly setting that feels like stepping back in time.
Highlights
- ✓Exploring beautifully preserved 19th-century German brick homes with unique architectural details
- ✓Discovering hidden courtyards and award-winning private gardens bursting with flowers
- ✓Walking charming brick-paved streets lined with historic lampposts
- ✓Learning about German immigrant history through docent-led stories and displays
- ✓Spotting decorative architectural features like gingerbread trim and stained glass windows
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early in the morning when the weather is cooler and crowds are lighter, making it easier to navigate with kids
- 2.Turn it into a scavenger hunt by having kids look for specific architectural features like ornate doorways, unique ironwork, or colorful gardens
- 3.Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be strolling on historic brick streets and sidewalks for extended periods
- 4.Pack water bottles and snacks, though you'll find plenty of cafes and shops along Third Street to take breaks
- 5.Visit the German Village Society office beforehand to pick up informational materials that can help kids understand the neighborhood's history
Best Time to Visit
Visit during the annual June tour (typically one weekend in late June) for the full home and garden experience. Weekend mornings between 10 AM-12 PM offer the best balance of good weather and manageable crowds. The Society office can be visited year-round on weekday mornings.
What to Know
Tour tickets are required for the annual June event (check website for current pricing; children are often discounted or free). Street parking is available throughout German Village, and the brick-paved neighborhood is generally stroller-accessible, though uneven surfaces may require extra care.
Seasonal Notes
The main home and garden tour is held annually in June only (typically the last Sunday). German Village is beautiful year-round for walking, and the area hosts other family-friendly events like Oktoberfest in September and holiday lights in December that showcase the historic neighborhood.
Nearby Eats
Schmidt's Sausage Haus (a German Village institution with kid-friendly schnitzel, bratwurst, and famous cream puffs) and Pistacia Vera (a charming bakery with pastries, sandwiches, and treats perfect for a post-tour snack) are both within easy walking distance.
More Activities Near German Village
Park
Schiller Park
★4.7Free❤️83
This beloved 23-acre historic park in the heart of German Village offers families a perfect blend of natural beauty and active recreation. Kids can feed the ducks at the scenic pond, burn energy on the playground, run across open green spaces, and enjoy free summer concerts,all within a beautifully maintained setting that feels like stepping back in time.
Cafe
Pistacia Vera
★4.6$$❤️26
Pistacia Vera is a charming French bakery in German Village where kids can press their noses against the glass case to choose colorful macarons and flaky pastries while parents savor quality coffee and light lunch fare. The bright, welcoming atmosphere and visually stunning treats make this a delightful stop during a neighborhood stroll or as a special treat destination that feels magical for little ones.
Activity
Book Loft of German Village
★4.6$$❤️17
The Book Loft of German Village is a literary wonderland where kids can embark on a treasure hunt through 32 interconnected rooms spanning multiple historic pre-Civil War buildings. With its labyrinth layout, creaky wooden floors, and cozy nooks around every corner, this massive independent bookstore transforms book shopping into an adventure, featuring an extensive children's section that keeps young readers engaged and excited about discovering their next favorite story.
Playground
Schiller Park Playground
★4.6Free❤️13
Tucked in the charming brick-paved streets of German Village, Schiller Park Playground offers families a delightful neighborhood play space with modern equipment that keeps kids engaged for hours. The playground's climbing structures and swings attract a friendly community of local families, creating a welcoming atmosphere where children can make new friends while parents enjoy the historic neighborhood's beautiful surroundings.