Worthington
Just north of Columbus, Worthington offers a blend of historic charm and lively community spirit. Its walkable downtown is filled with local shops, cozy cafés, and a central green that hosts markets and festivals year-round. The vibe is warm, welcoming, and full of small-town character with a modern twist.
Discover the community
History
Worthington was founded in 1803 by New England settlers led by James Kilbourne, who named it—depending on who you ask—either to honor a political ally or to gain influence. Designed with a central green and colonial layout, it reflected its founders’ roots and values. The arrival of the electric streetcar in the late 1800s turned it from a quiet village into a growing suburb of Columbus. After World War II, new housing developments expanded the population, but the town’s historic charm and civic-minded spirit remain central to its identity.
Vibe
Worthington has a cozy, classic vibe with a lively twist—think colonial charm meets community buzz. Its walkable downtown is filled with boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants that stay active from morning farmers markets to evening wine tastings. While it’s more quaint than edgy, there’s a creative energy here, with art walks, porch concerts, and pop-up events that bring neighbors and visitors together. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find kids playing on the Village Green, friends catching up over brunch, and a steady rhythm of small-town life with just enough spark to keep things interesting.
Activities and attractions
Worthington may be steeped in history, but its activities and attractions are anything but sleepy. Spend a Saturday morning strolling the bustling Worthington Farmers Market, one of the largest in Central Ohio, or pop into Joya’s for a Bengali-American bite from a Top Chef alum. Creative types can pour their own candles at Worthington Candle Works or craft custom décor at AR Workshop, while families love the whimsical Story Garden at Northwest Library and the model trains at the Central Ohio Model Railroad Club. For a sweet treat, grab a warm cookie from Lion Cub’s or a cupcake from Mrs. Goodman’s Baking Co. And when you need a break from the buzz, Selby Park and the Village Green offer peaceful green space right in the heart of town.
