You might think you know everything there is to know about Columbus.. (and maybe you do), but humor us for a minute while we fill you in on some of the hidden gems that might’ve snuck passed you. Columbus is quite misunderstood and people tend to underestimate the amount of unique spots there really are. When non-locals (and even locals) think of Columbus, it’s typically not associated with fun, travel-worthy, major destination vibes…
At Step Out Columbus, we consider it an honor to shed the proper amount of light on all the businesses, sights, and events that make Columbus all that it is – especially the ones that not many people know about.
Let’s talk about some hidden gems now, shall we?
Did one of these places close? Send us a note!
The Sacred Palm
457 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
If you haven’t heard of The Sacred Palm, we’re overjoyed to be the first to inform you of it in all it’s glory. The Sacred Palm is a hidden tiki-themed cocktail bar that’s tucked underneath Mikey’s Late Night Slice in the Short North. Some of the best spots are hidden in plain sight, and that is one thing that makes this cocktail bar that much more of a score to stumble upon. We won’t tell you how to find it since we don’t want to rob you of the adventure, but once you see the pinkish-purple hue – you’ll know you’ve found it.
Dan the Baker
1028 Ridge St, Columbus, OH 43215
Dan the Baker is a Columbus legend, to put it simply. When it comes to bread and pastries, this is about as quality as it gets. Their tried-and-true ancient method of sourdough-making has turned first-timers into regulars and we can surely understand why. Using 100% organic grains and as many locally sourced ingredients that are available, Dan the Baker’s menu is nothing short of perfection. It’s easy to miss just driving by, but it’s there!
Little Light Collective
3041 Indianola Ave, Columbus, OH 43202
The Little Light Collective is a vintage co-op with 35+ local vendors. At LLC, you’ll find some of the most unique trinkets, locally made art, handmade items like slingshots (so cool), taper candles that come in every color you could possibly imagine, and so much more. Spend hours digging through each shelf, find a second-hand piece to add to your wardrobe, or just enjoy the ambience. It’s easy to miss the lower level, so look for the stairs to unveil even more vintage goodness!
Otherworld
5819 Chantry Dr, Columbus, OH 43232
Otherworld takes immersive art to the next level with 32 rooms that are filled with mind-bending interactive art. This is one of those places that looks unassuming from the outside, but the minute you step foot inside – it feels as though you’re in another realm. More than 40 artists collaborated to create multiple impressive master-pieces, including crazy puzzles to solve along the way. Crawl through small tunnels, stand in a room that is covered in fuzz, and walk under the massive tree (you’ll know it when you see it).
CRMD
5915 Evans Farm Dr Suite G, Lewis Center, OH 43035
CRMD is not your average ice cream shop… Hidden in plain sight is the entrance to a 90s themed speakeasy. If you’re not paying attention, you’ll miss it! Pop in for some deliciously flavorful ice cream that comes in various unique flavors like buckeye, black vanilla, and cereal and milk. Keep your eyes peeled for the speakeasy entrance, walk through the vibrant hallway, and you’ll find yourself in one of the coolest speakeasies in all of Columbus!
Créme de la Créme
5311 Westpointe Plaza Drive, Columbus, OH 43228
Créme de la Créme is one of the newest bakeries to hit Columbus and it is absolutely stunning. From the outside, you’d have no idea that a stunning bakery is just beyond the glass doors. Enjoy a croissant, a cappuccino, and a sweet treat while pretending you’re somewhere in Europe!
Did one of these places close? Send us a note!
