Architecture & Lunch The German Village is primarily a residential area of Columbus. The cobblestone streets and red brick homes are charming. Some homes have been converted into gift shops or restaurants. However, there isn't a central shopping/dining district. Rather these businesses are sporadically placed throughout the neighborhood. The Book Loft has every book imaginable! The German Village is a fun place to go for lunch and a walk. Don't plan on spending more than a couple of hours there. read more

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I love German village , you can spend a lot of time in this area. Book store, coffee, scenery, nice restaurants. I know....I should probably add pictures. Next time I will. Definitely check it out when you have time read more

Although my recent visit to Columbus was brief, there are just some things that are too precious to pass up. And that is German Village. Located south of downtown, the area is easy to locate. Quaint, charming, wonderfully restored, so many buildings to admire. Established in the early 1800's, the area was settled by German immigrants. Today, the old neighborhood was been beautifully restored and the area revitalized with many unique businesses. The Village is a mix of red brick homes and trees line the brick paved streets. The architecture is a delight for your eyes, the area is walkable, a great place to take a leisurely stroll. There is even an amazing park named Schiller Park to visit. And don't forget Frank Fetch Park. It's hard to imagine, but there was a time when the area was in decline. The people here became demonized and their language was even banned from their schools. More bad news, the south end was zoned for manufacturing, destroying the areas residential feel. Even worse, during World War II, the wrought iron fences and streetcar tracks were seized for the war effort. The once flourishing area had become a slum by the 1950s. Eventually, the city demolished about 1/3 of this area to make way for the new interstate highway. Then came Frank Fetch. He purchased a house on Wall Street in 1949. And he was determined that this neighborhood could be rebuilt. In 1960, he created the German Village Society to promote his vision for the preservation and rehabilitation. Eventually, the area was rezoned and more than 1,600 buildings have been restored. This area is a treasure to be savored and cherised. read more

I lived a couple blocks from Schiller Park for half a year, and really liked the walkability of the neighborhood. It was a dangerously short walk to Pistacia Vera and the Book Loft (both places where money just disappeared from my bank account). I also walked to Scioto Audubon often, which is a lovely newish park just across High St. Be careful for signs about parking as some streets are permit restricted while the next street over isn't. The younger demographic leans more towards yuppies and less towards hipsters, if that makes any sense, but you'll see some of everything when strolling around Schiller, including lots of puppies. read more

There is a lot to see and do in this part of town. From parks and bookstores to Mom and Pop delis and sandwich shops. The book loft is a must and do grab a cup of coffee at Stauf's. Be sure to hit a restaurant. Bistrolino on S. 4th St. and the lounge called Ferdinand next door feel like places you would find in NYC. You will thank me. read more

GERMAN VILLAGE The German Village is a historic community located just south of downtown Columbus. It was settled in the 1880's but was not added to the historic registry until 1974. It is has been beautifully preserved and is the pride of Columbus. Please do not just limit your visit to the restaurants and businesses here because the residential areas are so cool and really worth seeing. Things to know: The French are not perfect. That cute little French bakery located in the village, actually burned my favorite pastry. Parking is challenging and you need to be very careful because you don't want to get ticketed or towed. The streets and sidewalks are cobbled and very old so you must be careful when driving and especially when walking. We noticed that several of the sidewalks were buckled and simply unsafe, so be careful. Be prepared to walk a lot if you expect to see it all. Have a plan as to where you want to go and what you want to see. We visited on a Friday morning and had to drive around a while in order to find a parking space. We ended up parking on a residential side street a few blocks down from the French bakery as this was our first stop. The bakery is very small and limited. Choose wisely. The homes here are very well maintained , some of them have shared courtyards while some of them have private spaces that are nicely landscaped. The one thing that is apparent is that things are tight, (most homes are small and crowded together, sidewalks and streets tend to be on the narrow side). I would love to be transported back to the 1800's when the street s were bustling with children and neighbors openly visiting one another in their shared spaces and local park. I would love to experience a day in the life of someone who lived here in those times. As you are exploring these homes, notice that unique details such as the coal chutes on the front foundation of the homes. These were used to deliver coal for the furnaces. My impression of this area presently, is that it is void of children and that is unfortunate because children just add so much life and joy to a community. It was dead. On the other hand, this is not an ideal area for raising kids due to the lack of space and a desire to preserve the buildings and grounds. I really wish I could have seen more of the area and especially the park. However, having to think about moving our car and looking for parking was a big deterrent. If I could do it all over again, I would probably consider public or private transportation so that I don't have to worry about parking. I would start with a walk through the park, visit the local shops and end with lunch at one of the German restaurants in the area. This would allow for a more complete experience as opposed to the limited experience I had recently. community. When we return, we will be better prepared and ready to conquer German Town! read more

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I wouldn't say that the German Village saved my life--my infirmity was not that dramatic--but I do give it credit for helping me stand upright without feeling like I was on a boat in storm turbulent seas. This review will look at the GV as both a tourist attraction and a livable neighborhood--two aspects that justifies the top rating--though the five star have more to do with what it means to me, to my health, germane as an example of how beautiful neighborhoods can transcend mere residency, and truly effect standards of life in the upmost positive way. It is the largest private restoration effort listed on the Register of Historic Places, running many block just south of downtown. There's is not any special architecture of note, nor are the buildings in a German style (they are in styles popular for the age), but it's the unity of styles pieced together that's eye-catching. The earliest buildings date back to the 1840s, but most are post-bellum 19th century 'shotgun' houses, story-and-a-half single family homes built on small plot crowded together. Working class immigrants came first, settling here at the dead-end of the National Highway as it was being built. Later they built breweries and opened markets, created German Societies, good school, and fabulous churches, two still stand today as St Mary and Trinity Lutheran. Extending their influence Northwards, the German's built The Great southern Hotel and the Lazarus Building. As their civic profile grew they built bigger homes: vertical, hipped roof Italianates; and later turret studded Queen Anns. Other stylized homes can be found on High Street where the German upper crust built. As with many urban neighborhood in America, the GV went to blight by mid-20th Century; a good portion of it was torn down to make room for I70, the rest was targeted for the same, until people like Frank Fetch, and later Fred Holdridge and Howard Burns shared a vision. Their vision was in full bloom by the time I made my walks. Ten years ago I came down with a balance disorder; spells of vertigo and the loss of hearing made my life miserable. Once the attacks stop coming I still had subpar balance; mere walking was like being on a trampoline. For any hope of complete recovery I need to take walks, to reteach balance to my body. I found it impossible to do in my neighborhood and feared I'd never be myself again, until I came here. The colorful gardens with their flowery smells, the various limestone stoops and black fences, the tree lined streets and cobblestone quaintness filled me with inspiration and determination. Just the sights of the unique curves and shady horticultures, parks and cafes, the restaurants and small shops sprinkled among the slate topped houses urged me on. I walked the streets here 4-times a week for a year. Eventually I regain my balance, my lust for living, and the gumption to drink the marrow out of life. I kept my routine here for many years after; today sadly I don't get down there as much. This is certainly a walking part of town. For those interested in living here it is a amazing, though pricy, neighborhood. There is still restoration opportunities--there's been a constant hum of saws here since 1970s at least. There are also luxury condos, apartments, and newer infill in the area. It has some much to offer in Nightlife, eating, and shopping, and easy access to other parts of town. One caution--the GV as a Historic designation with defined boarders,as a neighborhood it doesn't; Columbus does not have official neighborhoods. When Columbus speak of GV we means the area bordered by Livingston, High Street, Parson's, and Thurman Avenues, which includes Shumacher place and parts of the Merion Village. Beware of unscrupulous realtors listing plots just outside these streets as being German Village to mark-up the prices to unknowing outsiders--though some of those neighborhoods are good too--it's outside the common 'borders' residence agree on. This place is very special to me. read more

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When in Columbus, a stop through German Village is a must. A nice district with historical housing, great food, a nice and relaxing park, and plenty of brick lanes and quiet folks. A good cup of coffee is available on about 15 different corners, and the housing is worth a second look re: architecture and historical preservation. A bit hoity-toity for living situation and parking is rough, but as a tourist it's the most highly-concentrated area for a relaxed and food-filled weekend of anywhere within 100 miles. Have fun - and try Truman's (from Man vs. Food TV series), Skillet (awesome for brunch), and Pistachia Vera (for coffee) while you're taking a break from Schiller Park. read more

I've been in the village for awhile now and missed this event last year since i was down in miami for art basel. I had a friend visiting this year so we took the stroll. All I can say is that I would not have attempted if I did not live in the village. Generally, I am not taken aback by difficult parking situations but this was insane. Other than that this event brought the village to life! It even snowed and I felt like I went back in time. Despite the heavy traffic I was able to get a table quickly at the old mohawk, not one of my village favorites but i knew my friend would like the prime rib dinner. It's their best special. Even better practically every business had not only super sales but went all out to be festive, free hot chocolate, wine, and snacks. Mars, the small jewelry shop even opened the upstairs for a wine tasting. Absolute highlight was the house on S. 5th Street that became a cookie wonderland. They only open for the holidays and when you walk in, despite the foyer, you go straight into the kitchen. I was in absolute awe, it was so welcoming and smelled magnificent. Prices were decent and the cookie recipes come from a family legacy. This event does what the gallery hop does for the short north. I wish it didn't come only once a year. read more

Village Lights is one of my favorite events in Columbus. It's kind of weather dependent, rain is not nearly as romantic as snow, but when conditions are right it makes for a very memorable experience. German Village is cute to begin with, but when all the houses are decorated and there's music in the air and the smell of food everywhere and the luminaries are all glowing in the snow it's hard to believe its a real neighborhood with real people, it's almost too perfect. So what's to do? I like to start in the Barcelona/Hey-Hey Tavern area for cocktails cookies and sauerkraut balls. Then I usually head north up Mohawk, there's fewer businesses on Mohawk and more cute houses. After walking up Mohawk I'm ready for more snacks so I'll go in Juergens and get some cookies and some mulled wine, then I like to head south on Third and duck in Cup O Joe for a free coffee and The Book Loft because I can't walk past The Book Loft and not go in. After visiting a bunch of businesses and eating a bunch of snacks on Third I'm back where I started and its time to go. Village Lights is a can't miss event when there's snow on the ground, see you there! read more

As one of America's Great Places named by the American Planning Association, everyone should take the time to visit German Village while in Columbus. It has "remained true to its mid-19th century history, architecture, and character despite periods of disinvestment, decline, and near ruin." http://www.planning.org/greatplaces/neighborhoods/2011/index.htm#OH Start at the German Village center, then get a macaron at Pistacia Vera, coffee from Cup o Joe, visit the Book Loft, get a Bahama Mama at Schmidt's, a Thurmanator at Thurman's, and stroll Schiller Park. read more

German Village is a top notch neighborhood that is a must for any out-of-towner. The brick homes, brick streets, Schiller Park and having a setup where several businesses are spread all over the neighborhood vs. all of them concentrated in a traditional downtown core encourages you to wander around and stumble onto something neat. Despite losing an entire 1/3 of the neighborhood to a lousy highway, it's still a rather large area and sure to please visitors. 3rd St is the closest thing to a main drag that exists here where you'll find a few of the best spots in the city. read more

German Village - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

German Village is my favorite neighborhood to visit....but I wouldn't want to live there. Schmidt's, Bookloft, Harvest, Club 185, German Village Kitchen, Schiller Park, and cool looking streets and houses. Know these places, and you'll be just fine. They're also home to one of the best neighborhood yard sales you'll find in the city. read more

I will be honest and say I am not someone who goes to german village often. It has a reputation for bad parking, and this event lived up to the reputation. I drove around for about 15 minutes down the very narrow streets until settling on a spot at schiller park. In fact for future reference, that was the only place I saw with any spots open all night. I thought this would be christmas lights, I was wrong. As people have posted in the pictures, it is mainly tea lights in paper bags, which is charming because there sure were a lot to light! Walk around the park, the bags are everywhere! As someone who never comes to GV, I did go in a few shops with my friends, and got a few free treats. Most shops were way out of my price range, and the one shop I did like immediately was lost and forgotten amongst all the other things happening that night :( Oh well. This is a nice alternative to zoo lights or gallery hop in the winter time, if you go to those as often as we do. It is very helpful having someone who lives in GV be your guide, which we did. I would recommend everyone tries this once, but be aware there is parking issues and it does get very crowded. read more

I've been living in German Village for about 4 months now. I love the area. The restaurants and a lot of activities that are close by. The general architecture and atmosphere is gorgeous. read more

The German Village is a neighborhood with brick streets, narrow lanes and many unique small stores. We parked on the street near the information center and then walked a short distance before we got too tired to continue. The architecture is unique, houses are a visual interest with many facades that will interest those who appreciate the unique neighborhood. worth a visit, plan on walking to get the best of German Village. read more

Funny thing about this place.....there's no German village.....well let me explain. When I was told by a hotel that there's a German village I expected a square or long street with lots of German shops & restaurants. There r brown signs on some streets that point to a "German village", but it's not what u think. It's actually a historic neighborhood lined with brick brownstones, brick lined streets & sidewalks. A very charming hood. I guess they call it a German village because it was settled by Germans very long ago. There's only a couple of restaurants in this neighborhood, no real shops. I asked the hotel to be sure & tell their future guests the real description as it's very misleading. I also overheard a couple on the street say, "Is this it?" So I'm not the only one being mislead. On the plus side there's a very popular local German restaurant called Schmidts. They offer 4 different types of sausages. They were all tasty except for the bratwurst which was bland, so don't get the sampler, go for the other 3. There's also an all u can eat sausage plate for $18 but it didn't appear to be on the menu, just ask. It was good but their sausages r made in Michigan NOT imported from Germany. There's an Oktoberfest on Labor Day in Columbus, perhaps this would be the best time to come. read more

Great atmosphere with cool shops. Enjoyed the book store. So many rooms. It's hard to see everything. Will definitely come back. Brick roads and homes are cute. read more

I love the quaint brick German-style houses that fill in this small district on the south side of Columbus. Brick and cobblestone streets are a fantastic testament to this 19th century district. Of course several side roads and alleys are appeasing to the eye, but not the smoothest to drive on. Brick housing is the norm. A registered historic district, remodeling must follow certain guidelines to stick with the era. Lots of German touches on the outside. German Village does many community events throughout the year, from sponsored walks, to their well-known garage sale, to a yearly Octoberfest or their Holiday Lights festivities. Plenty of local businesses, restaurants and boutique shops line the streets, too. This area is, pretty much, a must-see if you're visiting or new to Columbus. **Caution: Pay attention to street signs when finding parking, as permit parking is STRONGLY enforced, and you can easy get a ticket or even towed! read more

I am visiting the area from New Mexico and decided to visit since there is nothing back home like this. Trying to find a parking space was a nightmare and I ended up parking in a neighborhood and walking several blocks. However, the walk gave me a chance to observe the charming houses and the brick streets and sidewalks. I visited a few stores, including the book loft and then ended up leaving the area. I wasn'table to eat at any of the places there since everywhere I went was jam packed. A little disappointed since it was so busy and I'm sure I missed out on a few things. read more

I had read the awesome reviews about this place, but when we got there, I found myself aimlessly walking around searching for something to do. The saving grace were the eateries. We ended up eating at the sausage haus and it was great! But I wish we would've only planned on going to German village to eat instead of relying on it to fill up a full day. read more

I lived in the Brewery District for some time and frequented the German Village area quite a bit. It's a wonderful walkable neighborhood with plenty to occupy anyone - single, married, young or old. Coffeshops, bookstores, my favorite bakery, interesting sights, great people watching - just wish I could have afforded a reasonable place! read more

The German Village Society is all about bringing restoration to the historical community. It is this society that has worked so hard to breathe life into German Village and make it what it is today. At the visitor center you can see a timeline of the history of German Village or watch a video that encompasses all the history and what the GVS has done these past many years. Here, you can also register to become a member. The GVS is very active, with its renovation projects but also with fellowship. Constantly the GVS is holding events throughout the year like an open house where you can walk around and view the work that others have been doing in refurbishing the homes. Other activities include going to Oktoberfest, or a stroll down the street visiting the shops and restaurants in German Village. read more

This was a really fun Sunday evening event for my family. Walked around this adorable part of town - which was made 100 times more adorable with the luminaries lining the streets. Carolers performed. Shops and restaurants were bustling. Loved it! Great kick off to the holiday season. read more

This is a very cute place. The buildings are very cute and it was nice to walk down the streets and look at all the architecture and the shops. I would definitely come back here again to walk around. read more

Oh, how I want to live here! I came up to Columbus for a long weekend to visit my parents and my mom had suggested we go to their annual Christmas Street event. My dad lived in German Village back in the 80's before my parents were married and we were able to see his old apartment that is now a B&B. German Village is the most enjoyable neighborhood in Columbus to visit. It has history, it is quaint, and their Christmas lighting evening is a lot of fun. The shops were all open and we enjoyed stepping in and out of them. The best part of the evening was walking around and enjoying the homes lit up for the holiday season. They had tents available for cookies, cakes, treats, coffee, hot chocolate, and alcoholic options. I have been to this area a few times before to see the 32 roomed bookstore and enjoy some celebrations at Lindy's (wonderful restaurant). If in the area, this is a place one must check out! Can't wait to come back to dive back in the bookstore, enjoy the beautiful homes, and get a cocktail or dinner at one of the amazing restaurants! read more

German Village manages to be one of the most interesting parts of columbus with one of the richest histories. The society has its own building, but strongly impresses walking around and exploring german village, as much of its history is out there on the street. The visitor center isn't really a museum as much as a starting point. You sit and watch a video, and are given a wonderful map and some info about things that had impact on the community. After that you're ready to explore with information and truly understand this gorgeous community. read more

This place is such much fun. Great food. Wonderful neighborhood. Shakespeare in the park. What more could you ask for?

It's was Great! !!!!! Had fun And people watching at its best ,seeing everyone having fun. It brings Christmas back they way it should be.