Things To Do
in Hilliard
Hilliard is a family-friendly suburb just northwest of Columbus, known for its quiet streets and well-kept neighborhoods. It offers easy access to Columbus' museums, parks, and entertainment while maintaining a small-town feel. The city emphasizes green space with numerous parks and trails, ideal for outdoor lovers.
With a growing assortment of local eateries and shops, it's a convenient base for day trips around central Ohio.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the scenic greenery of the Hilliard Family Aquatic Center and Hilliard's own parks, soaking in the fresh morning air. Don’t miss visiting the Hilliard Historical Society to learn about the rich history of this charming town.
Visit the Hilliard Arts Council to immerse yourself in some local culture, taking part in any ongoing exhibits or workshops. After exploring the arts, enjoy a hearty lunch at a nearby restaurant, trying some regional specialties. Spend the afternoon shopping at the local boutiques, picking up unique gifts and souvenirs.
As dusk falls, enjoy a casual dinner at one of Hilliard's family-favorite restaurants, savoring a blend of flavors. Post-dinner, catch a performance at the Hilliard Davidson High School auditorium or simply relax at a cozy coffee shop. Wind down your day with a peaceful walk in the neighborhood, enjoying the starlit sky.
Kickstart your day with a refreshing hike at the nearby Heritage Trail, exploring the beautiful trails and wildlife. The morning light through the trees creates an enchanting ambiance perfect for photography or quiet contemplation. Don't forget to pack some snacks and water to enjoy amidst nature.
After an invigorating morning, grab a picnic lunch and head to one of the local parks. Spend the afternoon indulging in some outdoor activities like frisbee or soccer with friends and family. Engage with locals in outdoor yoga or any scheduled fun community events if available.
For dinner, try out a food truck or local eatery that serves outdoor dining options. As the sun sets, consider joining a bonfire at the park or hosting one in your backyard with friends. End the day by sharing stories and roasting marshmallows under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🛒Grocery for a week | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🏨One-night hotel stay | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close access to Columbus' cultural attractions
- Family-friendly neighborhoods with good parks
- Limited nightlife within Hilliard itself
- Some distances require a car to reach key sites
Places to Visit in Hilliard
Visit one of these nice places.
Quaint Main Street storefronts and classic architecture provide charming, easy photo backdrops.
Waterfront views, bridges, and city skyline shots along the riverside.
Scenic overlook with forested trails and seasonal foliage, great for sunrise shots.
Colorful murals and traditional brick lanes offering warm, urban photography opportunities.
Food in Hilliard
Hilliard Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Peanut butter centers dipped in chocolate; a state staple found in candy shops and bakeries around Columbus.
Must-Try!
Meaty chili often served over spaghetti or hot dogs at local diners and casual eateries.
Traditional bratwurst with sauerkraut and mustard, best sampled in Columbus' German Village area.
Polish dumplings with various fillings, available at Polish and Eastern European-inspired eateries in Columbus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic downtown market with a rotating lineup of local vendors, prepared foods, and casual eateries.
Seasonal stalls offering fresh produce, baked goods, and local products in or near Hilliard.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings, thanking staff, and waiting your turn in lines are standard. Respect for personal space is common in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Hilliard
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., typical tipping is 15-20% at restaurants and bars; tip more for exceptional service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash and mobile payments are also common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with humidity; frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Great for outdoor markets, park picnics, and water activities.
Peak foliage; comfortable temperatures; ideal for hiking and scenic drives through suburban and rural Ohio.
Cold with occasional snow; some outdoor sites are quieter but offer festive lights and museum visits indoors.
Mild temperatures with spring blooms; many parks start to come alive and farmers markets reopen.
Hilliard at Night
Hiking in Hilliard
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of hiking trails with ridge-top views and forest scenery just a short drive from Hilliard.
Lakeside trails and wooded routes suitable for hiking and biking near the Hoover Reservoir area.
Motivated hiking with varied terrain and scenic overlooks; accessible via Columbus metro area.
Airports
How to reach Hilliard by plane.
Major gateway to Columbus; about a 15-25 mile drive from Hilliard depending on route.
Secondary airport located southeast of Columbus; useful for certain cargo and charter flights; a longer drive from Hilliard.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, young professionals, and a growing diverse population with White, Black, Asian, and Hispanic/Latino residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Highly popular in Ohio, especially college football; OSU Buckeyes games draw large crowds.
Boys and girls high school and college teams attract community interest.
Growing youth and adult leagues with local clubs and recreational programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hilliard.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many spots offer ample vegetarian options—order salads, veggie burgers, veggie bowls, or pasta. When in doubt, ask for clarification on ingredients or dairy in sauces.