Attractions and Places To See around Urbancrest - Top 14

Urbancrest is rich in history. You can visit the Ellen Walker Craig-Jones Historical Marker at 2853 Broadway Street, commemorating the first African-American woman elected mayor in the U.S. The village itself has historical significance as a settlement for African-Americans. Nearby, you can also see the Historic Columbus Union Station Arch, a Beaux-Arts structure that was once part of Columbus's grand Union Station.

Yes, the area offers several natural spots. The Olentangy River is known for its interesting shale formations and serves as a drinking water source. You can also enjoy views of the Scioto River from Scioto Audubon Metro Park, which was transformed from an industrial zone into a green space with paved trails.

The region provides opportunities for various outdoor activities. You can explore trails for walking, running, and cycling. For instance, the Camp Chase Trail is a 16-mile rail trail suitable for walking, biking, and even cross-country skiing in winter. The Scioto River Bridge is part of a marked bike route, offering a pleasant ride.

Urbancrest and its surroundings offer several family-friendly options. Within the village, you'll find Martin Luther King Park with a playground and basketball court, and Mayors Park Pavilion which has barbecue grills and an adjacent playground. The Scioto Audubon Metro Park is also family-friendly, offering green spaces and paved trails. The Vaughn E. Hairston Southwest Community Center provides amenities like a pool, gym, and outdoor field.

There are several hiking opportunities nearby. You can find easy hikes like the Schiller Park Trails or the REI River Trail. For more options, explore the various routes available in the Hiking around Urbancrest guide, which includes trails of varying difficulties.

Yes, several attractions are wheelchair accessible. The Camp Chase Trail is ADA-compliant, making it suitable for wheelchair users. Scioto Audubon Metro Park also features paved trails that are wheelchair accessible. Additionally, the Historic Columbus Union Station Arch is generally accessible.

The best time to visit Urbancrest and enjoy its outdoor attractions is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is mild and conducive for walking, cycling, and exploring parks. Winter offers opportunities for activities like cross-country skiing on trails such as the Camp Chase Trail, but some outdoor facilities might have limited access.

For runners, there are several popular trails. The Scioto Audubon Metro Park offers nice paved trails. You can also find routes like the Scioto Trail loop or the Olentangy River – Scioto River Bridge loop. More running options are detailed in the Running Trails around Urbancrest guide.

Urbancrest is unique for its significant historical context as a settlement for African-Americans seeking affordable land and its role in electing the first African-American woman mayor in the U.S. It offers a peaceful, country-like atmosphere, despite its proximity to larger cities, providing a quiet escape with a strong sense of community.

While not a hidden gem in the traditional sense, the village's own parks like Martin Luther King Park and Mayors Park Pavilion offer quiet, local spots for relaxation and recreation away from more crowded attractions. The historical context of the village itself, beyond specific markers, provides a deeper layer of exploration for those interested in its unique heritage.

Along the Olentangy River, you can expect to see interesting shale formations along its shores. The river stretches for 97 miles and offers nice paths for walking or cycling, providing a peaceful natural setting. It's also a vital drinking water source for Delaware County.

The Vaughn E. Hairston Southwest Community Center is a modern facility offering a range of amenities. Visitors can access a pool, gym, fitness center, an outdoor walking track, an outdoor field, a computer room, and an art room, making it a versatile spot for recreation and community activities.