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    The Topiary Park: A Best Kept Secret

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    Prior to 2010, The Topiary Park was hands down the nicest green space to be found in Downtown Columbus, and a Columbus botanical garden. This one-of-a-kind space is the only park in the world based on a painting (George Seurat’s “A Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grande Jatte”) and illustrated through topiary.

    But in the two years since 2010, we’ve seen the dedication of Columbus Commons and The Scioto Mile, both of which have cast a bit of a shadow over the serene lawn behind the library with their crowd-drawn amenities, event-hosting pavilions and high traffic locations. By comparison, The Topiary Park could now be considered a hidden gem located a bit off most people’s radar.

    “There has been a growing interest in public parks within the last few years and Columbus has intelligently responded through the addition of the Scioto Mile and Columbus Commons,” said Carlene Palmquist, Executive Director of the Topiary Park. “These Downtown parks create a unique sense of space for the city as well as provide a draw to pull more people downtown to experience the entire city.”

    The 230 events hosted at Columbus Commons in 2012 certainly outweigh the programming of the Topiary Park, but some would argue that not every green space requires a busy calendar to be an attractive destination. The Topiary Park has open stretches of grass that are great for hosting impromptu picnics, kickball games or quiet escapes for reading books or relaxing. Still, the Topiary Park does host some group gatherings that are worthy of note.

    “The Topiary Park celebrated its 20th Anniversary in July with an event geared to show our history and accomplishments,” said Palmquist. “In addition, the park is hosting its fourth year of the PBJ & Jazz Family Concerts with the final two shows of the season on August 11th and September 8th.”

    As to what the future holds for this urban oasis… that’s in the process of being determined right now.

    “We’re in the middle of preparing a new strategic plan for the park, which will address our goals and programing for the next five years,”  said Palmquist. “I don’t have more to share at this time, but keep watching.”

    Until then, the park is open for your enjoyment from sunrise to sunset, 365 days per year. Grab a blanket and head on down to enjoy this hidden gem.

    Looking for another Columbus botanical garden? Check out the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens and Inniswood Metro Gardens.

    More information can be found online at www.topiarygarden.org.

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    Walker Evans
    Walker Evanshttps://columbusunderground.com
    Walker Evans is the co-founder of Columbus Underground, along with his wife and business partner Anne Evans. Walker has turned local media into a full time career over the past decade and serves on multiple boards and committees throughout the community.
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