Parks
From poolside fun and disc golf to river trails and hidden waterfalls, Columbus and Bartholomew County parks are built for adventure.
When you’re ready to stretch your legs and soak up some fresh Indiana air, Columbus and Bartholomew County parks deliver a little something for everyone. With more than 700 acres of parkland, winding trails, playgrounds, riverside spots, and even architectural surprises, the area’s green spaces are as thoughtfully designed as its famous buildings.
One of the biggest draws is Mill Race Park, a downtown favorite that’s often listed among the best designed parks in the country. Created by renowned landscape architect Michael Van Valkenburgh and featuring a landmark observation tower by Stanley Saitowitz, Mill Race is where nature and design come together in unforgettable ways. The park hugs the Flatrock River and offers biking and walking trails, a covered bridge, picnic shelters, and plenty of room for festivals and concerts. On summer evenings, locals and visitors gather on the amphitheater lawn for live music under the stars.
If you’re traveling with kids, Donner Park is a classic. Home to Columbus’s beloved Donner Aquatic Center, it’s the place to cool off on hot days with water slides and splashy fun. Nearby playgrounds and open lawns make it a go-to family hangout, and for those looking for more active fun, the park also features tennis and pickleball courts, and a disc golf course tucked into the shady landscape. Donner also connects to the People Trail System, giving you an easy way to keep exploring.
Speaking of trails, the People Trail System is one of Columbus’s treasures. This network of pathways winds throughout the city and beyond, linking many of Columbus’s parks and neighborhoods. Portions of the trail take you right through town, while other stretches follow the river through wooded areas, making you feel like you’ve escaped miles away into nature—all without leaving the city limits.
The sporty set loves Lincoln Park, where you’ll find Hamilton Ice Arena (don’t miss their public ice skating sessions in the hot summer months!), tennis courts, ball diamonds and batting cages. Nature lovers can also check out Anderson Falls, just east of town, where a scenic waterfall tumbles through limestone rock and offers one of the prettiest picnic spots in the county.
Columbus and Bartholomew County parks invite you to slow down, enjoy the outdoors, and see why locals are so proud of their public spaces. Whether your idea of a perfect park day is paddling a kayak, letting the kids run wild, or simply enjoying a sunset by the river, you’ll find your spot here.
