Cherry Creek - Columbus, OH Area Guide

Cherry Creek was one of several neighborhoods constructed in the 1960s to house workers at the nearby Westinghouse and General Motors factories. These communities were designed to be self-contained, meaning they provided residents with neighborhood schools, shopping, and dining destinations and other amenities to keep them from having to drive far for daily needs. That beginning helped Cherry Creek become the popular neighborhood it is today. While it is still fairly self-contained, easy commutes into Downtown Columbus and an affordable array of housing attracts a variety of new residents.

Cherry Creek is minutes from the Columbus Museum of Art, located downtown.

No matter what kind of food Cherry Creek residents happen to be craving, they can always find it nearby. From ethnic restaurants to burger shacks, you can find just about anything represented in this neighborhood's culinary landscape.

For Oriental food, Asian Wok satisfies. Whether dining-in or ordering ahead for pickup or delivery, you can expect fast service and only the freshest ingredients. Enjoy traditional favorites such as fried wonton or crab rangoon followed by lo mein or pad thai. Don't forget to try some yummy fried donuts for dessert.

For over the past half-century Emelio’s restaurant has served up the best pizza, subs and salads around. A family-owned and operated business, it also provides tailgating packages and catering for occasions ranging from weddings and private parties to corporate events and luncheons.

Tres Potrillos Mexican Restaurant uses only fresh ingredients for the most authentic Mexican dining experience you can find without crossing the border. The burrito Mexicano comprised of a tortilla stuffed with pork, guacamole, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes and shredded cheese really hits the spot — it comes out still sizzling on the plate when it reaches your table. Diners who enjoy a libation with their meal don't want to miss the beer and margarita happy hour, which runs daily until 7 p.m.

While the most diverse nightlife lies in downtown Columbus and the area immediately surrounding Ohio State University, Cherry Creek residents have access to numerous local bars and lounges in close proximity to the neighborhood.

On the north side, long-time local hot spot Mugsy's Pub And Patio claims to have the hottest bartenders in town along wtith the best prices and selection. The heated covered patio beckons for year-round weatherproof fun, and plenty of free parking makes a visit here hassle-free.

Gamblers appreciate the nearby Hollywood Casino Columbus, a popular night-time destination for locals and tourists alike. Constant promotions here present opportunities to win thousands of dollars in cash and amazing prizes, including brand new cars and trucks.

Many Cherry Creek residents enjoy taking a stroll around the neighborhood to walk their dogs or visit neighbors. They do can so reasonably safely because most residential streets in the community contain sidewalks.

Most people in Cherry Creek prefer to drive, and they enjoy abundant free parking. Residents also have easy access to many points of interest in Columbus via the Outerbelt freeway.

Those who don't want to drive call a taxi company for a pickup, as you cannot hail a cab in Cherry Creek. Residents also take advantage of a ride-sharing service such as Uber, which operates in the neighborhood.

Public transportation is another option. The public bus system, COTA, provides a stop for Cherry Creek residents.

Cherry Creek residents have access to two small parks, Green Countrie Park and Freedom Park, each less than a half-mile away. Neither park has exercise facilities or annual events, but both provide free parking and admission, lush scenery and plenty of green space for picnicking or being active with family members and pets. Drive a little farther southeast, and you'll find Big Run Park. This much larger park features wetlands, wildlife viewing stations and organized soap box derby events.

Cherry Creek residents enjoy a much lower cost of living than the Columbus metro average. Residents pay an average of $519 a month for a one-bedroom apartment. Expect to pay $3 for a pint of beer in a local pub and $2 for a bus ticket to downtown Columbus. Area gas prices hover between nine and 12 percent below the national average.

Cherry Creek doesn't have any large shopping malls nearby, but numerous outdoor strip malls reside within a five-minute drive of the neighborhood and provide residents with a variety of big box retailers and value stores.

A nice selection of specialty stores and boutiques fill out the area's shopping options. These include Big Rock Bridal Atelier, a locally owned boutique that carries dresses made by Vera Wang and Jenny Packham, among others.

For major grocery shopping trips, Cherry Creek residents head to the nearby Walmart Supercenter. When seeking specialty items or international fare, their most common destinations include Whole Foods and Aldi. World Market in the neighboring community of Lennox on Olentangy River Road also features specialty foods, as well as houseware and furnishings from around the world. Kuhlwein's Farm Market and Deli sits about 10 minutes away and is the closest farmers' market to the neighborhood.