OAKLAND NURSERY TOUR: You will visit landmarks that celebrate the natural history of the Columbus area and gardens that highlight the agricultural ties to the region. These historic gardens each have a story to tell that contributes to Columbus’ rich heritage.

. Oakland Nursery Oakland Nursery has been serving the gardening needs of Central Ohio residents and businesses since 1940. Most widely known for its extensive rose selection but also houses the largest plant selection in Central Ohio. Dedicated to offering its customer the best quality and selection for over 75 years, Oakland Nursery boasts the slogan, “If you haven’t been to Oakland Nursery, you haven’t been to a nursery!” (Oaklandnursery.com)

. Ohio Governor’s Residence and Heritage Garden Developed and designed in 2000 under the guidance of former Ohio First Lady, Hope Taft, the Heritage Garden was designed for the three-acre property surrounding the Governor’s Residence. A wide selection of native plants showcases Ohio’s natural history and represents what most of Ohio looked like when man first arrived. Other key features include a formal water garden, vegetable garden, and native wetland area. (friendsohio.org)

. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens The Conservatory has earned its reputation as a premier horticultural and educational institution, dating back 150 years. A newly erected 12,000 square foot barn, constructed from 200-year-old hand-hewn timbers stands as a landmark, reflecting the Conservatory’s rich history. The Conservatory provides a variety of demonstration gardens, community gardens, and serves as a venue for outreach and educational programs. (fpconservatory.org)

. Schiller Park Dating back to 1867 and located in the Historic neighborhood, this 23-acre municipal park is the second oldest park in Columbus, Ohio. Populated by German immigrants throughout the 19th century, the park continues to honor its heritage with beautifully landscaped gardens that feature an array of German and American plants. (Columbus.gov/recreationandparks; germanvillage.com)

. The Topiary Park This seven-acre park is home to a beautifully sculpted representation of ’s painting, “A Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grande Jatte.” Jim Mason, a local sculpture, transformed the Post-Impressionist painting into a tableau of topiary which includes, 54 human figures, eight boats, three dogs, a monkey and a cat — each made of yew. In addition to the topiary, more than 220 trees are located on the site. (topiarypark.org)