Columbus, Indiana is often called the Athens of the Prairie, and for good reason. This small Midwestern city is filled with world-class architecture, public art, and creative spaces—yet it remains surprisingly quiet and underrated. For travelers who love culture but dislike crowds, the Athens of the Prairie is a rewarding and unexpected destination.
Below is a simple, easy-to-read travel guide to help you plan a visit to the Athens of the Prairie, with highlights on where to stay, what to see, where to eat, and the best time to go.
Why Columbus, Indiana Is Known as the Athens of the Prairie
The moniker Athens of the Prairie refers to Columbus’s unusual density of modern architecture and public art. The city is tiny, but it has over 60 architecture-designed buildings contributed by some of the biggest names in the world.
Many of the era’s leading architects — Eero Saarinen, I.M. Pei and Richard Meier all made a mark here — left their mark in such places. Seven of the buildings are even designated National Historic Landmarks, which makes the Athens of the Prairie arguably the most significant small city in America for architecture.
The fact that the Athens of the Prairie feels lively is because everything is close together! You can walk from one of the most iconic structures in town to another with minimal fuss, away from big-city distractions.
THE BEST HOTELS
The Inn at Irwin Gardens
One of the most delightful places to stay in the Athens of the Prairie is The Inn at Irwin Gardens. Built in the 1800’s, this historic home still has many of its original woodwork and antique furniture, European tile.
Why Stay Here
- Peaceful Italian-style gardens
- Romantic, historic atmosphere
- Free garden tours on designated days
It’s for folks who want a quiet, classy room in the Athens of the Prairie.
Hotel Indigo Columbus Architectural Center
What Makes It Fun
- Walkable location
- Stylish interiors
- An affable hotel dog that guests adore
Best Activities
Go on the Architectural Highlights Tour
The best way to understand why is by taking the Architectural Highlights Tour. This guided walking tour includes entry to more than 40 significant sites.
Must-See Buildings
- First Christian Church
- LEX (formerly North Christian Church)
- Columbus City Hall
Every building illustrates why to continues to be revered by architects worldwide.
Take a Tour of the Miller House
The Miller House is one of the most iconic houses in the U.S., and a driving force behind why Columbus, the house, which was designed in 1957, comes with glass walls, open plan spaces, and a sunken conversation pit.
Why It’s Special
- Designed by Eero Saarinen
- Clean, modern lines
- Seamless indoor-outdoor design
See Art Beyond Buildings
The Athens of the Prairie isn’t just a city filled with architecture — it’s also a public art mecca.
Famous Artworks to Find
- Dale Chihuly glass installations
- Henry Moore’s Large Arch
- Jean Tinguely’s kinetic art motion sculpture Chaos I
- The sculptures dot the urban environment, weaving art seamlessly into life in the Athens of the Prairie.
Where to Eat
Zaharakos Enjoy the history of yore at the old-fashioned soda fountain Zaharakos.
What to Order
- Ice cream sundaes
- Milkshakes
- Classic American snacks
Henry Social Club
This sleek, restaurant serves up classic cocktails and comfort-style high-end dining. It’s a favorite among visitors to the Athens of the Prairie.
Best Time to Visit the Athens on the Prairie
Spring and Summer
May to August is walking-tour and garden-listings season in the Athens of the Prairie.
Design Lovers’ Best Season
Forthose willing to take a punt, between August and November thecity comes alive with temporary art and architecturefrom Exhibit Columbus making it the most vibrant timeto visit this faraway outpost of the Athens ofthe Prairie.
How to Reach and Travelling
Getting There
Fly into Indianapolis International Airport, approximately an hour away from the Athens of the Prairie. Hiring a car is the most convenient choice.
Final Verdict
The Athens of the Prairie is evidence you don’t need a big city to have great art and architecture.” Columbus, Ind. has beauty and creativity — but no crowds. The Athens of the Prairie is a forgotten cultural getaway worth your visit.