German Village is a historic neighborhood just south of Downtown Columbus with a rich history and modern-day charm. The village was settled by German immigrants in the mid-1800s, and was primarily developed between 1840 and 1914. At one point, German descendants comprised as much as one-third of Columbus’ population. German Village was added to the National Register of Historic Places, and is today one of the world’s premier historic restorations. It was recognized by the White House as a Preserve America Community in 2007. With restored historic homes, quaint local shops and eateries, mature trees, and brick sidewalks, German Village is teeming with charm and beauty.

Hosting an amphitheater, gardens and recreational facilities, the 23-acre Schiller Park has been the site of many neighborhood festivals and activities since the 1800s, including an annual Oktoberfest celebration that eventually moved to the Ohio Expo Center. Today, a smaller version of Oktoberfest still takes places in German Village each year.

The commercial area of German Village is mainly centered along South Third Street, which hosts a variety of unique shops selling everything from books to wine, art galleries, and locally owned restaurants—some of which have been in business for over 100 years. Located immediately west of German Village, The Brewery District is full of lively entertainment and dining options, plus a great selection of beer. Brewing beer was a prosperous industry for German immigrants here, and this popular district still resembles the area’s notable past.