Olde Towne East
One of Columbus’ oldest neighborhoods, Olde Towne East (OTE) is a neighborhood located between Downtown Columbus and Bexley. Known for its turn of the century homes, the area has over 1,000 residencies. No matter what your budget, OTE offers historic homes, apartments and new condos, all with architectural character. This up-and-coming urban neighborhood is a place where the neighbors are diverse and accepting, with residents from start-up families to millionaires. Within walking distance, there are restaurants, galleries, and shops that are sure to fulfill your need for Columbus culture.
In addition to the accessibility of Interstate 71 and bus routes, the ample amount of parking makes a commute to and from OTE nearly stress-free. The businesses in OTE tend to be smaller and entrepreneurial, largely due to the size and historical nature of the buildings. Many small start-up businesses quickly become successful here because of value-priced real estate. The Columbus Foundation, Columbus Health Department, and The American Red Cross of Greater Columbus all call OTE home.
If food is your passion, you’ll find lots to love in OTE. Start your day (or afternoon) at Hangover Easy. Nearby there’s The Olde Oak, an upscale take on comfort food. While traveling down Oak Street, get your local pizza fix at Yellow Brick Pizza, drink beer at Gemut Biergarten or Tavern Olde Towne. The Woodbury on East Town Street combines urban dining with a warm, approachable menu that caters to everyone and anyone. For a unique coffee experience, try Upper Cup Coffee Co. – inspired by Eritrean tradition – where coffee is an integral part of the culture.
It is an easy walk or bike to downtown venues and events, less than a mile away, next to the Discover District and CCAD, adjacent to the Alum Creek bike paths and Franklin Park Conservatory. And if you need to use your car, we are next to I-70/71.”
One of the newest hidden gems is an event titled Music in the Garden. Sponsored by OTENA, it is held in the OTE garden at the corner of Oak and Garfield three times in the summer. It’s a free concert with a variety of musicians playing in the neighborhood garden. Neighbors and visitors just bring a chair or blanket, food and drink, maybe some wine, and enjoy the sounds of a Sunday evening. It’s a family-friendly event where kids and adults mingle and have great time.
Neighborhood events to experience include the annual Tour of Historic Homes, a walking tour of historical homes and gardens every second Sunday in July, and Hot Times in Olde Towne Festival every second weekend in September, held on lawn of the Columbus Health Department grounds on Parsons and Main.