Discover Columbus: Top Movies, TV Series, and Books Set There

Columbus, the vibrant capital of Ohio, is not just renowned for its bustling arts scene and rich history, but also its significant role in the world of cinema and literature. With its diverse architecture, picturesque landscapes, and dynamic ambiance, Columbus has been the backdrop for many renowned films, TV shows, and books. If you’re an ardent fan of cinema, TV shows, or books, or simply seeking to explore Columbus from a unique perspective, this guide will take you on a remarkable journey through the city’s famous filming locations.

Columbus in the Spotlight: Famous Films Shot in the City

Columbus has starred in numerous popular films that have captivated audiences worldwide. Here’s a curated list of some of the most famous films shot in this bustling Midwestern city:

1. “I Am Wrath” (2016)  – Directed by Chuck Russell. This action thriller starring John Travolta was primarily shot in Columbus, showcasing several city landmarks.
2. “Aftermath” (2017)  – Directed by Elliott Lester. Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, the movie features several scenes shot in and around Columbus.
3. “The 5th Wave” (2016)  – Directed by J Blakeson. This science fiction film, featuring Chloí« Grace Moretz, was partially shot in the outskirts of Columbus.
4. “Liberal Arts” (2012)  – Directed by Josh Radnor. The movie, shot mainly in Columbus, beautifully showcases the city’s vibrant college scene.
5. “Parker” (2013)  – Directed by Taylor Hackford. Starring Jason Statham and Jennifer Lopez, this action thriller features several scenes shot in Columbus.
6. “Saints and Soldiers” (2003)  – Directed by Ryan Little. While not entirely filmed in Columbus, this war drama has some scenes set and shot in the city.
7. “Ready Player One” (2018)  – Directed by Steven Spielberg. Although not physically filmed in Columbus, the city plays a significant role in the plot, as the story is set in a dystopian future Columbus.

TV Shows Set in Columbus: From Drama to Sci-Fi

Moving from the big screen to the small one, Columbus has also been the setting for several intriguing TV shows. Here are some of the most popular TV series set in the city:

1. “Family Ties” (1982-1989)  – Created by Gary David Goldberg. This popular sitcom, starring Michael J. Fox, is set in suburban Columbus.
2. “10TV News” (1952-present)  – An ongoing daily news show broadcasted from Columbus, offering an authentic glimpse into the city’s daily life.
3. “Hang Time” (1995-2000)  – Created by Troy Searer, Robert Tarlow, and Mark Fink. This teenage-oriented sitcom, although filmed in Indiana, is set in the fictional Deering High School in Columbus.
4. “Raising the Bar” (2008-2009)  – Created by Steven Bochco and David Feige. Although filmed in Los Angeles, the show is set in Columbus, focusing on the lives of young lawyers.
5. “Dogs of Berlin” (2018-present)  – A German television series available on Netflix. One of the main characters, Hakim, is originally from Columbus.

Animated Films Set in Columbus

The enchanting cityscape of Columbus is not just limited to live-action films and TV shows; it has also inspired several animated films. Here are a few you might want to check out:

1. “Teachers’ Pet” (2004)  – Directed by Timothy Bjí¶rklund. This animated musical comedy film features a short scene set in Columbus.
2. “The Spectacular Spider-Man” (2008-2009)  – An animated television series where one of the episodes called “Probable Cause” is set in Columbus.
3. “Time Squad” (2001-2003)  – Animated television series. In the episode “Day of the Larrys,” the squad travels to Columbus to correct history.

Famous Books Set in Columbus: A Blend of Classic and Contemporary

Columbus’ rich culture and history make it a popular setting for numerous literary works. Here are a few classic and contemporary examples:

Classic:

1. “Winesburg, Ohio” by Sherwood Anderson  – Although not directly set in Columbus, this collection of related short stories presents a vivid picture of small-town Ohio life.
2. “The Broom of the System” by David Foster Wallace  – The story is partially set in Columbus, highlighting the city’s corporate culture.
3. “The Confessions of a Shopaholic” by Sophie Kinsella  – Columbus is one of the many cities visited by the protagonist in this popular chick-lit novel.

Contemporary:

1. “Ready Player One” by Ernest Cline  – This science fiction novel is set in a dystopian future Columbus, depicting the city as a major hub for innovative virtual reality technologies.
2. “The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving” by Jonathan Evison  – The plot of this novel takes the characters on a road trip, with Columbus being one of their destinations.
3. “I Am Number Four” by Pittacus Lore  – This science fiction novel, part of the Lorien Legacies series, is located in the fictional town of Paradise, Ohio, which is near Columbus.

Exploring Columbus Filming Locations: Where to Go

To immerse yourself in Columbus’ cinematic history, there are several key locations you must visit. Here are some must-see places chosen by authors and filmmakers:

1. Ohio State University  – This campus has been a filming location for several movies and TV shows, including “Aftermath” and “Parker.”
2. German Village  – Featured in movies like “I Am Wrath,” this historic neighborhood is known for its old-world charm and beautiful brick houses.
3. Short North Arts District  – Known for its vibrant arts scene, this district has been a backdrop for many local films and TV shows.
4. Columbus Metropolitan Library  – This beautiful library, with its stunning architecture, has been used as a filming location for several films.
5. Scioto Mile  – This urban oasis in downtown Columbus, with its beautiful parks and interactive fountains, has been featured in several local productions.
6. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens  – Featured in the movie “Parker”, this location is known for its beautiful gardens and conservatories.
7. Ohio State Reformatory  – Although located in Mansfield, a short drive from Columbus, this historic prison has been featured in several films, including “The Shawshank Redemption.”

Where to Sleep in Columbus: From Budget to Luxury

When it comes to accommodation, Columbus offers a wide range of options to suit every budget.

Budget:

1. German Village Guest House  – This budget-friendly guesthouse, located in the historic German Village, offers cozy rooms and a homely environment.
2. The Wayfaring Buckeye Hostel  – For those looking for a budget option, this hostel offers dormitory-style rooms, a communal kitchen, and a fun environment.
3. Varsity Inn  – This budget hotel, located close to Ohio State University, offers basic rooms and an outdoor pool.

Luxury:

1. The Westin Columbus  – This luxury hotel, located in downtown Columbus, offers stylish rooms, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.
2. Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph  – Located in the Short North Arts District, this luxury hotel features modern rooms, a spa, and an Italian restaurant.
3. Hilton Columbus Downtown  – This upscale hotel, located close to many attractions, offers contemporary rooms, an indoor pool, and multiple dining options.

Where to Eat in Columbus: From Budget Eats to Fine Dining

Columbus’ culinary scene is as diverse as its cinematic landscape. From traditional American fare to international flavors, the city has plenty to offer.

Budget:

1. Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace  – This quirky hot dog joint is known for its creative toppings and laid-back atmosphere.
2. Los Guachos Taqueria  – For authentic Mexican street food, this is the place to go. Their tacos al pastor are a local favorite.
3. Pierogi Mountain  – Offering delicious and affordable Polish food, this eatery is a hidden gem in Columbus’s culinary scene.

Luxury:

1. The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro  – Known for its French and American cuisine, this upscale restaurant is perfect for a fancy night out.
2. M at Miranova  – This luxury restaurant offers innovative American cuisine and a spectacular view of the Scioto River.
3. Mitchell’s Ocean Club  – Offering seafood and steaks in an upscale setting, this restaurant is a must-visit for a luxurious dining experience in Columbus.

Detailed Itinerary: Exploring Columbus’s Filming Locations Day by Day

To make the most of your film-themed trip to Columbus, here’s a comprehensive itinerary that will take you through the city’s most iconic filming locations.

Day 1: Downtown Columbus

• Start your day at  Scioto Mile, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverfront.
• Next, head to the  Ohio Statehouse  for a guided tour of this historic building.
• After lunch, visit the  Columbus Metropolitan Library  to admire its stunning architecture.
• End your day with dinner at  Mitchell’s Ocean Club, followed by a performance at the  Ohio Theatre.

Day 2: Ohio State University Campus

• Begin your day with a tour of the  Ohio State University campus, featured in films like “Aftermath” and “Parker”.
• Visit the  Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of cartoon and comic art.
• After lunch, explore the  Wexner Center for the Arts, known for its contemporary art exhibits.
• End your day with a football game at the  Ohio Stadium, also known as “The Horseshoe.”

Day 3: Short North and German Village

• Start your day in the  Short North Arts District, known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture.
• Visit the  Pizzuti Collection, which showcases a collection of contemporary art.
• After lunch, head to  German Village, known for its historic homes and beautiful parks.
• End your day with a visit to the  Book Loft, one of the largest independent bookstores in the U.S., comprising 32 rooms filled with books.

Local Legends and Curiosities about Columbus’s Film Industry

One of the lesser-known facts about Columbus is that it is home to the Film Council of Greater Columbus and the Columbus Film Commission, which have been instrumental in bringing various film projects to the city.

Another curiosity is the Wexner Center for the Arts, which not only has been a filming location but also hosts the annual Columbus International Film & Animation Festival.

A local legend is the haunting of the Ohio State Reformatory, the filming location of “The Shawshank Redemption”. Stories of ghost sightings and strange occurrences have been reported, adding a touch of mystery to the historic site.

Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Filming Locations in Columbus

While Columbus’s iconic landmarks often steal the spotlight, the city also boasts several lesser-known filming locations:

1. Goodale Park  – This urban park, although not as famous as others, has been a location for several local film shoots.
2. Thurber House  – This historic building, once home to author and cartoonist James Thurber, has been used as a setting in several films and TV shows.
3. Topiary Park  – Known for its unique topiary interpretation of Georges Seurat’s painting “A Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grande Jatte”, this park is a hidden gem and has been featured in several local productions.

What to Pack for a Film-Themed Trip to Columbus

When packing for your film-themed trip to Columbus, consider the weather, as it varies significantly between seasons. Bring comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking between filming locations. Don’t forget your camera to capture memories of your cinematic journey. Depending on the time of year, you may need to pack a variety of clothes, from light summer attire to heavy winter wear. Remember, Columbus is known for its unpredictable weather, so it’s always a good idea to pack layers!

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Columbus’s Filming Locations

Navigating Columbus is relatively easy thanks to the city’s comprehensive public transportation system. The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) operates bus routes throughout the city, making it easy to reach various filming locations. Alternatively, you can use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Lyft. For the more adventurous, consider renting a bike from CoGo Bike Share or using the city’s car-sharing service, car2go. And of course, walking is always a great way to explore the city at your own pace.

Whether you’re a cinema lover, a TV series enthusiast, or a bookworm, Columbus offers a unique travel experience. So, pack your bags, brush up on your favorite Columbus-based films, TV shows, and books, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through this cinematic city.