29 Reasons to Explore Columbus, Ohio

Deaf School Park (Pictured at left) At this whimsical topiary tribute to George Seurat's La Grande Jatte, you can stand by a bronze easel and see the scene as it appears in the painting -- or walk among the figures, as though stepping into a work of art (614/645-3300; columbusrecparks.com)

Due Amici This sleek Italian restaurant serves a wonderful sausage ravioli, with banana peppers, spinach and a lemon-Parmesan broth (614/224-9373; due-amici.com).

The Lofts This newly updated boutique hotel near Short North has modern furniture in brick-walled rooms. From $150 (800/735-6387; 55lofts.com).

North Market In addition to a seasonal, outdoor farmers market, 35 vendors run indoor shops. Spots are highly competitive, so the quality is top-notch--artisan breads, cheeses, chocolate and more (614/463-9664; northmarket.com).

Riffe Gallery This cool state-run gallery across from the capitol shows works from state museums and contemporary Ohio artists. Free (614/644-9624; riffegallery.org).

Statehouse The rotunda's roof is flat, as if its dome had been sliced off, but that was the design in 1839. Though it's meant more for kids on field trips, adults will learn a lot at the interactive Ohio Statehouse Museum. Free (888/644-6123; ohiostatehouse.org).