This U.S. City Is Nicknamed the 'Athens of the Prairie'-and It's an Unexpected Destination for Art and Architecture Lovers

"Amid its Victorian-era streetscapes, Columbus, Indiana-nicknamed the "Athens of the Prairie" for its remarkable modern architecture and public art-boasts an extraordinary collection of more than 60 buildings designed by globally renowned icons. Eero Saarinen, who designed the Gateway Arch in St. Louis; I.M. Pei, who designed the Louvre Pyramid in Paris; and Richard Meier, who designed the Getty Center in Los Angeles, all left a mark on this Midwestern city. Seven of the structures are designated as National Historic Landmarks."

"Thanks to its compact size, Columbus is incredibly walkable, allowing visitors to discover an exceptional concentration of influential modern architecture without long distances between sites. Alongside its architecture, the city also has a vibrant art scene that includes works by Dale Chihuly, Henry Moore, and Jean Tinguely. This unexpected creative hub, just 45 miles south of Indianapolis, is the perfect stop for travelers seeking underrated cultural experiences. Here's how to plan a trip."

"Housed in a beautifully preserved Edwardian-era mansion built in 1864 and remodeled in 1910, The Inn at Irwin Gardens retains much of its original woodwork, period furniture, and imported European tiles, giving the property a distinct sense of history and character. "Outside, you'll find a sunken garden inspired by a garden excavated at Pompeii," says Erin Hawkins, director of strategic partnerships and communications at Columbus Area Visitors Center, referring to the property's formal Italianate gardens, which has paths lined with wisteria-covered pergolas, fountains, sculptures, and a tea house. "It's an enchanting place to sit with a glass of wine or morning coffee." For non-guests interested in the gardens, free tours are offered every Tuesday and Sunday from 3 to 6 p.m., from May through October."

Columbus, Indiana features a dense collection of modern architecture and public art that earned it the nickname "Athens of the Prairie." The city contains more than 60 buildings by internationally renowned architects including Eero Saarinen, I.M. Pei, and Richard Meier, with seven designated National Historic Landmarks. Its compact layout makes major architectural sites easily walkable. The public art collection includes works by Dale Chihuly, Henry Moore, and Jean Tinguely. Located about 45 miles south of Indianapolis, Columbus provides accessible, underrated cultural and architectural experiences. The Inn at Irwin Gardens offers period lodging and formal Italianate gardens with seasonal public tours.

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