Frequently Asked
Questions

Located in the heart of downtown Columbus, the Scioto Mile is an urban oasis comprised of more than 145 acres of lush parkland. Stretching along the riverfront from the vibrant Arena District to the natural beauty of the Whittier Peninsula, the Scioto Mile connects downtown to the Scioto River through an integrated system of parks, boulevards, bikeways and pedestrian paths.

The Scioto Mile is open year round, including the Promenade, Bicentennial Park and surrounding parks on the Mile. All Parks are open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

All parks and fountains along the Scioto Mile are free and open to the public.

There are ample meter parking, surface lots, and parking garages located in the area. Find parking around the Scioto Mile.

Each week brings new and exciting events to the downtown riverfront all season long. Columbus Recreation and Parks produces multiple events and concert series along The Scioto Mile; check out the signature events including, Jazz & Rib Fest, CBUS Soul Fest and WinterFest.

All Scioto Mile programs and performances produced by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department are held rain or shine. However, if the weather becomes a safety issue for the performers or audience, programs will be postponed or canceled depending on the duration and severity of the weather. Check the Scioto Mile Facebook page for updates.

Visit Plan an Event to find out more about hosting an event on the Scioto Mile.

Yes, during the summer months, large restrooms and changing facilities are available in Bicentennial Park and Dorrian Green.

Yes, Milestone 229, located in Bicentennial Park, is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. Additionally, during special events and festivals, find a variety of local and national food vendors.

Yes, dogs are welcome along the Scioto Mile! However, pets are strictly prohibited from being in or around the Scioto Mile Fountain and must remain on a leash at all times for the safety of everyone enjoying the parks.

The fountain was built to be enjoyed by people of all ages. Children ages eight and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Swimsuits are not required; however, children playing in the fountain who are not potty trained are required to wear swim diapers. Changing stations are available in all public restroom facilities and diapers are only to be changed in these locations.

The water in the fountain is chlorinated and re-circulated, so avoid getting water in your mouth.

Visit our Connect page for more information.

No person shall use any form of tobacco within the created zones in city parks and facilities including the restrooms, spectator and concession areas, playgrounds, swimming pools, spraygrounds, athletic fields/courts, marinas and special event venues.

The following policies have been established by Columbus Recreation and Parks Department to ensure all park patrons have a safe and enjoyable experience at the Scioto Mile. We thank you in advance for your cooperation.

• Clean up after your pets
• Pets must be under direct control
• Dispose of litter properly
• Alcohol is prohibited (except when purchased or permitted during special events)

City of Columbus codes Chapter 919 are enforced at all parks along the Scioto Mile. Call 614-645-4545 to report illegal activity.

• Motorized vehicles are prohibited on all trail ways on the Scioto Mile.
• Dogs must be on a leash on trails and owners must clean up after pets.
• Bikers must yield to pedestrians and give an audible warning when passing other trail users. Ride and skate at a safe speed and slow down to form a single file line in congested areas, reduced visibility and other hazardous conditions.

Pedestrians must stay to the right side of the trail except when otherwise designated. Be alert when running or walking and listen for audible signals when others are passing to ensure trail safety.

• Toys of any kind are not permitted in the fountain as they may damage its internal workings.
• Children under 8 years old must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
• Pets are not permitted in any of the fountains or water features on the Scioto Mile.
• Any children playing in the water who are not potty trained must wear swim diapers.
• Please walk, do not run in the fountain.
• Fountain water is re-circulated; avoid getting water in your mouth.
• Diaper changing in public restrooms only.
• Refrain from playing in the fountain if you are ill or have had diarrhea in the past 2 weeks.

• Smoking and any other form of tobacco
• Unauthorized vehicles on sidewalks or in the parks
• Commercial activities, including soliciting and/or vending without permission from Recreation and Parks
• Panhandling
• Camping
• Cooking grills or open fires
• Feeding the geese or other wildlife
• Illegal drug use
• Illegal weapons
• Alcohol (except that purchased or permitted during special events)
• Glass containers
• Unleashed pets/animals or pets/animals in the fountains
• Skateboards
• Large shade structures including tents and patio umbrellas
• Staking of any type