Sunday, September 5, 2010

Scioto Audubon

Saturday we spent the day at The Scioto Audubon Park which is right downtown. I'll warn you now that the signage in the park can be a bit confusing. I had to ask the park ranger where the dog park was. I was a bit disappointed that it's basically just empty fields at the back of the park, closest to the free-way. But was told they are working on fencing in the dog park and making it a really fantastic place for our four legged friends. (so I plan on going back to check it out)
The coolest part of the park is the rock climbing wall! There were alot of climbers on the wall and were using the "lingo" that I didn't understand. Since we didn't have any of our own climbing gear we weren't able to climb the wall, but mentioned to a few of the climbers that we need a beginners class with the gear for people to come and enjoy the wall. I think that's a great idea.... now who wants to organize that? Still the kids had alot of fun on the playground equipment that focused alot on climbing activities as well and the coolest "tongue" slide. I've never seen anything like it! We also had alot of fun on the sand volley ball courts! We didn't play volleyball but had a blast trying to bury our dog! After a LONG time playing on the playground and volleyball courts we wandered around the path through the little bird watching area.... and then stumbled upon the bike path. The bike path appears to connect with several of the other bike trails in the downtown area. (They had signs up for "Ride the C-bus" which is a 37 mile bike ride)
This is definitely a park still in the developing stages. No bathrooms (Porta pottys) and it's right next to the Columbus police impound lot (IE. A bunch of old crappy cars) but I've been told that's going to be moved and then that will be developed as part of the park as well! We did NOT go into the Grange Audubon Center but it too sounds like it could develop into a great nature center with educational classes as well!
I'd give this park a B.... its got some cool stuff and has the potential to be even more fun! We'll be going back to check on it's progress!
Getting there
It's visible from 70, but you have to know it's there...Think Brewery district... Here's the Physical address 395 W. Whittier Street Columbus, OH 43215