Art & Architecture
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.
Lincoln Park Batting CagesOne of Columbus’s biggest draws is Mill Race Park, a downtown favorite often ranked among the best designed parks in the country. Set along the Flatrock River, the park blends nature and architecture with trails, a covered bridge, picnic shelters, an observation tower, and an amphitheater that hosts summer concerts under the stars.
Families love Donner Park, home to Donner Aquatic Center, playgrounds, open lawns, tennis and pickleball courts, and a shaded disc golf course. It also connects to the People Trail System, a citywide network linking parks, neighborhoods, riverside paths, and wooded escapes.
For active visitors, Lincoln Park offers Hamilton Ice Arena, tennis courts, ball diamonds, and batting cages, while nearby Anderson Falls provides a scenic waterfall and one of the prettiest picnic spots in the county.
Whether you’re kayaking, exploring trails, letting the kids play, or catching a sunset by the river, Columbus and Bartholomew County parks make it easy to enjoy the outdoors.
