These Are a Few of My Favorite Things
I love this place all year round but by early spring you will find all the orchids in bloom at the conservatory. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places and filled with over 400 plant species. What is extra special about the spring season is the release of tropical butterflies twice daily in the Pacific Island Water Garden. Thousands of butterflies are flying around with just as many colors and beauty as that as the wakening plants and trees after a long winters nap. From blooms and butterflies to Mic and Max (two blue and gold macaws), palms, orchids, cacti and bonsai, Franklin Park has something for everyone!
If you get a chance to be our guest here at The Timbrook Guesthouse, then you should take advantage of our recreational bikes and hop on the Olentangy Bike Trail which is located directly across the street. Head south for three miles and you will come across The Park of Roses. Peter and I do not get on the bike trail very often but we always look forward to dusting the bikes off by mid May and riding down to the park to see hundreds of rose bushes in bloom. It is a relatively easy 6 mile round trip ride to all those who do not have seasoned okoles (hawaiian word for bottom) such as myself. I usually can get home from this excursion, hop off the bike and do not have to worry about walking around too funny! For those of you who wish to skip the bike ride but still see the roses, then it is just 10 minutes from here by car. Great place for pictures and a picnic!
The most fabulous zoo! And springtime means all exhibits are back open and full of animal life. I warn our guests who plan on visiting that seeing everything in the zoo is hard to do in one day. So bring your most comfortable walking shoes and have a ball earning your 10,000 steps!
Bonus: For concert lovers who are looking for a different venue to listen to some great music fun, The Columbus Zoo Concert Series presents a number of fantastic shows during the spring and summer months held at the beautiful Water’s Edge Events Park. Pack your own picnic or order from the available food trucks and cash bar. A wonderful way to spend a warm spring/summer night with your loved one, family or friends.
It is hard not to take day trips down to the Hocking Hills area to venture out on the endless hiking trails it has to offer. Divided into five sections, Old Man Cave is definitely a favorite but you really can’t go wrong exploring Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, Cantrell Cliffs or Rock House as well. Known for it’s towering cliffs, waterfalls and deep gorges, Hocking Hills is fabulous. Peter and I can’t wait to check out the newest edition, Whispering Caves which is located on the Hemlock Bridge Trail. Treat yourselves to a day of hiking and climbing and then come back and rest your weary muscles by soaking in our Puna Pond; a great way to end your day.
Silver white winters that melt into spring, these are just a few of my favorite things!
Farmer’s Markets, Gallery Hop, Picnic With the Pops, my list could go on and on. Reserve a room today at our lovely bed and breakfast, The Timbrook Guesthouse, and discover the many reasons you can love Springtime in Columbus.
Happy Spring, Everyone!
Mahalo!
Jill
The Timbrook Guesthouse
5811 Olentangy River Road
Columbus, Ohio 43235