Early History
“German Village is a historic neighborhood just south of downtown Columbus, Ohio. Initially platted in 1814 in Columbus's South End, the German Village area primarily developed between 1840 and 1914. It was settled largely by German immigrants in the mid 1800s. German descendants at one time comprised as much as a third of the population of the entire city of Columbus.
German immigrants who arrived in the South End in the 1850s immediately felt at home: people spoke German in the stores, schools, and churches; their homes were solid yet unpretentious. After work, bakers, stonecutters, storekeepers, carpenters, tanners, bricklayers, and brewery workers relaxed in nearby bier gartens. Most belonged to gymnastic and singing societies. This simple, yet distinctive working-class neighborhood was a little bit of Germany.”
Source - https://germanvillage.com/about/history/
Wine and Dine – Restaurants in German Village
Via Vecchia Winery offers a great place to take friends or family for a German Village wine tasting. Limestone walls, beautiful brickwork, and well thought out lighting create the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing afternoon of sipping wine. And with grapes coming all the way from California, this is one stop in German Village. And, one glass of red wine, you definitely do not want to miss.
German Village is home to over a dozen great eateries. Barcelona, one of Columbus’ premier restaurants, offers delicious food and a charming atmosphere to dine in. The chef’s at G Michael’s Bistro and Bar strive to focus on local and seasonal food. They source as much of their ingredients as they can from local Ohio farmers. With a new menu each season and dishes made from scratch with quality ingredients, G Michael’s Bistro and Bar doesn’t disappoint. If you are looking for something more casual or you frequently dine in German Village there is a variety of eateries to satisfy any craving you may have. They range from pizzerias and pubs to fine dining and famous establishments.
Satisfy That Sweet Tooth
Looking for a little dessert after that gourmet meal? Schmidt’s Fudge Haus is the place to go. This famous fudge shop, featured on the Travel Channel’s Man vs Food series, offers patrons a chance to watch fudge being made while nibbling on delicious, sweet treats. Using Belgian chocolate and handcrafting their tasty treats, Schmidt’s Fudge Haus offers only high-quality chocolates and sweets.
Winnans Fine Chocolates and Coffee is also a worthwhile stop in German Village. With a full espresso bar and a plethora of sweet treats such as caramels, chocolates, truffles, and creams. This shop has a menu that can satisfy both adults and children.
The Great Outdoors
Schiller Park, which once was the center for this neighborhood’s activities, is full of history and offers a beautiful place to picnic or walk around. Grace Highfield Memorial Gardens is beautifully landscaped and inviting. It is especially recommended for flower lovers. There is also Scioto River which many German Village residents use as a place to relax and read a book. Or to cast their fishing rod, out to see what they catch.
Shopping in German Village
With unique shops and art galleries scattered throughout the district, German Village is also a great place to do some shopping. Ranging from hobby shops and gift stores to bridal boutiques and furnishing showrooms. Everyone is sure to find something that catches their eye when shopping in German Village. Home to more than one art gallery, German Village offers patrons a chance to browse beautiful pieces spanning across varying time periods.
If you live in one of the few German Village apartments or homes that are left, you have undoubtedly gained a beautiful home in a coveted district of Columbus, Ohio.
German Village residents enjoy the best of food, art, culture, shopping, and entertainment, making this little town a must-see stop for anyone living in or visiting Columbus. Everything from the architecture to the preserved layouts of the shops and streets shows just how much this district is cared for and cherished by its residents, making it one of Columbus’ premier areas to live or visit.