The Gables - Columbus, OH Area Guide

The Gables is named for the bounty of homes that feature those eponymous architectural details. The neighborhood rests just north of the suburban city of Upper Arlington, which has a history dating back to 1913, when brothers King and Ben Thompson founded the area. Inspired by the Country Club development in Kansas City, MO, the two brothers conceived to build a similar residential space in Columbus.

Historical preservation and celebration is important here, and community resources are easily available to its residents. In the summertime, Music in the Parks — a free outdoor concert series — sweetens the air with music. During Christmas, holiday parades fill the streets with people. The most cherished neighborhood event of the year — the Upper Arlington Labor Day Arts Festival in Northam Park - features food vendors, live music and, if you’re lucky, a famous Amish broom guy.

The Gables busts with enjoyable hangouts, including an array of pubs and taverns.

Check out Windward Passage for some of the best surf and turf in the Columbus area. Local residents keep coming back for the fresh breaded walleye and lake perch. The steaks served here are cooked to order and melt in your mouth.

Winking Lizard Tavern satisfies when you're in the mood for something casual. Dine on Lizard Lips, AKA chicken tenders, or one of the eatery's many styles of traditional chicken wings, including Fire in the Hole seasoned with Trinidadian scorpion peppers. Sandwiches, burgers and brick oven pizzas also do the trick. Opened in 1983, this popular hometown eatery now operates over 20 locations in and around Columbus.

With two locations in the area, the Daily Growler temps patrons with a wide selection of distinctive, competitively priced beers and micro brews. A special growler-of-the-day and happy hour pricing entices you to enjoy another round. This spot serves beer only, so bring your own food or have it delivered by one of three Growler-recommended eateries. Swing by on Friday nights for a sample of menu items by one of Growler's favorite restaurants.

After dinner, head to Ravari Room for dancing and karaoke. Trivia night, live shows and excellent people watching opportunities ensure you'll have a marvelous night on the town.

Public transportation in The Gables provides easy access for non-drivers. Buses, courtesy of COTA, run frequently and efficiently. Park and Ride and Night Owl services make outings nearly effortless, as does the seasonal Zoo Bus, which provides service to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and Zoombezi Bay.

For commuters, Interstates 270 and 71 and Highway 33 can easily be accessed, and a drive into downtown Columbus takes a mere 20 minutes.

If you’re looking for a car service, Lyft is preferred here over Uber, and local cabs remain an excellent choice.

While walking is doable in The Gables, biking is definitely a better way to get around, and if you find yourself near High Street, be sure to pick up an ECT Pedicab for a fun and free rickshaw ride.

The entire Columbus area provides a wide variety of green space. With numerous golf courses and parks, and the celebrated Scioto Mile — a lush, urban oasis of parkland along the Scioto River — there is plenty of outdoor beauty to be enjoyed.

Atrium Park lies to the north of The Gables neighborhood and Sycamore Hills Park to the east. Fancyburg Park, to the west, features a child-friendly playground, shuffleboard court and dog park for your fur babies.

Griggs Reservoir Park, an area favorite, features a spectacular waterfall, bike paths and a disc golf course. Walking trails and woods areas are well lit — perfect for an evening picnic — and you'll find ample free parking. Sign up for a range of low- or no-cost classes, including children’s basketball, pottery, line dancing or acting workshops.

Slate Run Living Historical Farm gives visitors a peek into what Ohio farm life might have been in the 1800s. Filled with gardens and barns, the costumed staff and heritage animals round out this historical experience. Both guided and self-guided tours are available.

The Gables neighborhood grants residents a pleasant suburban experience and easy access to the city all with a moderate price tag.

A comfy one-bedroom apartment here costs less than in downtown Columbus, at approximately $773 compared to $1000.

A pint of beer at the local pub runs $5 for a domestic and up to $10 for premium or craft.

Gas per gallon rates 10 to 15 percent less than the national average.

Bus fare costs $2.00 for a local or cross-town ride and $2.75 for express service, while seniors, the disabled, children and veterans receive discounted fares year-round.

For shopping and dining in one place, Bethel Centre Shopping Center, Carriage Place and Sun Center stand as area favorites. These outdoor malls feature big name retailers and local businesses, and Carriage Place features a movie theater for family fun.

Visit locally owned Fresh Crafts Gallery for a delightful collection of American-made artisan goods, including delicate jewelry, fine gifts items and home goods.

Kroger and Whole Foods are the favored grocery stores in the Gables. CCM — a neighborhood co-op specializing in vitamins, vegan favorites, and organic fruits and vegetables — carries a wonderful selection of loose teas and herbs and takes pride in supporting sustainable businesses. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a trip to the Andersons — a grocer and home improvement store all in one.

Established over 50 years ago, Gentiles the Wine Sellers, carries a captivating assortment of home brewing accessories, fine wine, and craft and micro brews. Wine and beer events take place monthly.