Discover Westerville’s Beautiful Nature Paradise, Inniswood Metro Gardens
Want to get away from your daily busy schedules? Head to Inniswood Metro Gardens Westerville OH. This free, public garden is a 123-acre oasis filled with colorful flowers, peaceful streams, and hidden gardens inspired by folklore. Located just 20 minutes from downtown Columbus in Central Ohio, Inniswood Metro Gardens brings in families, hikers, photographers, and nature lovers all year long. Whether you are planning a casual stroll or a special occasion, let’s explore why you must visit Inniswood Metro Gardens in Westerville in this article.
Inniswood Metro Gardens and a legacy of sisterly generosity
Inniswood Metro Gardens has a heartwarming origin story that comes from family and giving to others. Back in 1972, sisters Grace and Mary Innis donated their 38-acre Westerville estate to the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks. They wanted to create a public space that everyone could enjoy. Over many years, the park has expanded to 123 acres, adding woodlands, streams, and over 2,000 plant species across themed gardens like the Rose, Herb, and Woodland Rock Gardens. The Innis House, the sisters’ former home, now hosts education programs, a non-lending horticulture library, and monthly local art displays.
Gardens, weddings, and trails
One of the best things about Inniswood Metro Gardens in Westerville is its diversity. There is always something blooming or buzzing in every season. The Rose Garden got updated in 2025 with a new trellis and stone benches. The bright hybrid and heirloom roses peak in summer. The Herb Garden offers visitors aromatic delights like lavender and thyme, while the Woodland Rock Garden gives shady retreats with cascading waterfalls. The Sisters’ Garden honors Grace and Mary. It features a treehouse, a secret garden, and a paved 0.25-mile loop trail that is perfect for families to explore. Do not miss the 2025 ‘Fables and Fairy Tales’ theme beds!
Inniswood Metro Gardens wedding ceremonies
Inniswood Metro Gardens weddings are very romantic and popular outdoor ceremonies. The park hosts small, informal weddings for free. Venues like the Rose Garden or Sisters’ Garden give you stunning backdrops, and you can take Inniswood Metro Gardens photos anytime. There are a few rules to focus on low-impact events, though, like no decorations that harm plants, and groups under 50 people. You do not need reservations, but check to make sure nothing else is happening.
Inniswood Metro Gardens trails
Inniswood’s trails cover approximately 2.3 miles of beautiful pathways. The Boardwalk Trail (0.5 miles, ADA-accessible) winds through a beech-maple forest. Visitors can spot wildflowers and deer here. The Frog Talk Walk (0.1 miles, ADA-accessible) goes around a pond near the Rose and Herb gardens. The Brookwood Trail (0.5 miles, paved) crosses Spring Run and passes memorial areas. If you want something more rugged, try the Spring Run Trail (0.3 miles, gravel). It wanders through oak-hickory woods but is not fully ADA-accessible. You got dogs? Then remember this. Dogs can only go on the Chipmunk Chatter Trail (0.6 miles, paved). They must stay on leashes that are 6 feet or shorter. And dogs cannot go to other areas in order to protect the plants.
You can get the Inniswood Metro Gardens map online or at the entrance. It details trails, gardens, and amenities like benches and restrooms. Photographers attract nature lovers with Inniswood Metro Gardens photos that showcase golden fall leaves, fairy-tale beds, and well-maintained paths in the gardens year-round. After seeing these Inniswood Metro Gardens photos, no one wants to miss a moment of this joyous location.
Planning your visit to the Westerville treasure
You can find Inniswood Metro Gardens at 940 S. Hempstead Road. Admission is free all year long, so you do not need Inniswood Metro Gardens tickets. The hours change with the seasons. Through September 30, 2025, it is open 6:30 AM-9 PM, then 6:30 AM-7 PM starting in October. The Innis House is open Tuesday-Friday 8 AM-4:30 PM and weekends 11 AM-4 PM. For the best experience, visit in spring for wildflowers (peak mid-April) or fall for foliage.
Conclusion
Inniswood Metro Gardens, Ohio, is a great destination to get a free dose of nature. It is a testament to beautiful landscapes and a welcoming community. With this year’s “Fables and Fairy Tales” theme, you will even find plants inspired by Snow White and Rapunzel! While there, do not forget to have an Inniswood Metro Gardens picnic, explore the Tree Walk QR codes, and just wander around as much as you need.
