There’s something magical about stepping into a space that was once sacred, only to find it repurposed into something equally awe-inspiring — like sipping an espresso under stained glass or catching a country concert where a choir once sang.
Central Ohio is full of these places, and honestly, the vibes are immaculate.
So whether you’re here for caffeine, concerts, or powerful civil rights history, these are a few church-turned-cultural-hotspots that prove holy ground can still raise a ruckus.
The Bluestone
📍 583 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
If you’ve ever wanted to get spiritually lifted and hear country music on the same night, The Bluestone is the place. Once a century-old Baptist church, this venue now throws down as one of the coolest concert halls in the city. We’re talking stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings, and a main stage where a pulpit used to be. But don’t let the holy origins fool you — this place gets rowdy.
From EDM to hip-hop to bluegrass, the Bluestone doesn’t discriminate. It hosts everything from weddings to wild shows, all with that ethereal church glow that makes you feel like you’re witnessing something divine (even if it’s just a killer guitar solo). For more on the transformation, check out our full article: From Church to Concert Hall.
Stauf’s Coffee (Victorian Village Location)
📍 1334 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
If you’re even a little bit of a coffee lover in Columbus, you know Stauf’s. While all their shops bring a unique charm, none quite match the Victorian Village location, nestled inside a beautifully preserved church. That’s right — order your latte and sip it under some of the prettiest stained glass windows in the city, or soak up the gorgeous tree-lined streets of Victorian Village on their front patio.
It’s cozy, stunning, and surprisingly versatile. Whether you’re pulling an all-nighter, catching up with friends, or simply vibing with your espresso, this spot hits the holy trifecta of atmosphere, comfort, and caffeine.
It might just be the most aesthetic place in Columbus to finish your term paper or spiral about your life decisions — respectfully.
Ohio Baptist General Association Headquarters (OBGA)
📍 48 Parkwood Ave, Columbus, OH 43203
Now this one isn’t your typical café or concert venue — it’s something deeper. The OBGA headquarters was originally a family home built in the early 1900s, but by the mid-1950s, it became a powerful force in the civil rights movement as the epicenter for Ohio’s Black Baptist churches.
This building hosted NAACP meetings, condemned the murder of Emmett Till, and trained new ministers while teaching Sunday school to kids. It was a space where faith and activism came together to push for desegregation, education, and social justice.
After sitting vacant for decades, the space was restored and reopened in 2023 with a new purpose: modern living with historical reverence. Original elements like decorative wall coverings, stained glass, and porch tiles were preserved, and today, the building stands as a symbol of resistance, restoration, and remembrance. A new mural next door helps keep the legacy alive.
Whether you’re looking for good coffee, great music, or a powerful history lesson, these Central Ohio gems offer all the spiritual energy — minus the pews.
Stay tuned. We have a feeling this list is just getting started.