· US

Hilliard

Hilliard, Ohio, United States

Discover Hilliard: Small-Town Charm Meets Big City Fun Just west of Columbus, Ohio, you'll find Hilliard, a vibrant city with a welcoming small-town feel. Brimming with Midwestern charm and a surprising array of attract…

#Suburban#Family-friendly#Safe#Close-knit community#Good schools

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Hilliard.

Top Hotels in Hilliard

Top Flights to Hilliard

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Hilliard.

Tours

Hilliard Historical Village Tour

Explore the rich history of Hilliard by visiting the Historical Village featuring 19th-century buildings and archives.

Shopping

Tuttle Crossing Mall Shopping Spree

Visit the nearby Tuttle Crossing Mall for a complete shopping experience with a variety of stores and dining options.

Outdoor

The Homestead Park Walk

Enjoy a day outdoors in one of Hilliard's largest parks, featuring trails, courts, and beautiful nature spots.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Hilliard.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Hilliard, Ohio, is 37,000.
Languages
English, English
Average weather
Hilliard
Jan
cold
8°-3°
Feb
cold
10°-2°
Mar
cloud
15°2°
Apr
rain
20°7°
May
cloud
25°12°
Jun
sun
29°17°
Jul
hot
31°19°
Aug
hot
30°18°
Sep
sun
26°14°
Oct
cloud
20°8°
Nov
rain
14°3°
Dec
cold
9°-1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Hilliard.

What people love

Hilliard, Ohio is a charming city with a lot to offer travelers. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Hilliard:

  1. Family-friendly attractions: Hilliard is home to several family-friendly attractions, including the Early Television Museum, the Franklin County Fairgrounds, and the Hilliard Ohio Historical Society. These attractions offer a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

  2. Outdoor activities: Hilliard has several parks and outdoor spaces where visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. Homestead Park, Heritage Rail Trail, and Spindler Sports Complex are popular outdoor destinations in Hilliard.

  3. Local events and festivals: Hilliard hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Old Hilliardfest Art & Street Fair, the Franklin County Fair, and the Weaver Park Concert Series. These events showcase the local culture and provide opportunities for visitors to engage with the community.

  4. Dining and shopping: Hilliard has a diverse selection of restaurants and shops, ranging from casual eateries to upscale dining establishments. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of cuisines and shop for unique gifts and souvenirs in Hilliard's charming downtown area.

  5. Convenient location: Hilliard is located just a short drive from downtown Columbus, making it easy for visitors to explore the attractions and amenities of the state capital. Additionally, Hilliard is close to major highways, making it a convenient stop for travelers passing through the area.

Overall, traveling to Hilliard, Ohio offers visitors a mix of family-friendly attractions, outdoor activities, local events, dining and shopping options, and a convenient location near Columbus.

What to know

Hilliard, Ohio is a lovely suburb located just outside of Columbus, Ohio. While Hilliard offers many advantages for travelers, there are a few potential cons to consider:

  1. Limited Public Transportation: Hilliard is primarily a car-dependent city, and public transportation options are limited. Travelers may find it challenging to get around without a car, especially if they are used to relying on public transportation in other cities.

  2. Limited Nightlife and Entertainment Options: While Hilliard offers a variety of dining and shopping options, it may not have as many nightlife and entertainment options as larger cities. Travelers looking for a vibrant nightlife scene may need to travel to nearby cities like Columbus.

  3. Weather Variability: Like much of the Midwest, Ohio can experience extreme weather fluctuations, including hot summers and cold winters. Travelers should be prepared for potential weather changes and pack accordingly.

  4. Limited Cultural Attractions: While Hilliard has its own charm and attractions, travelers looking for a wide range of cultural experiences may find the city lacking compared to larger metropolitan areas.

Overall, Hilliard is a welcoming and charming city with much to offer visitors. However, travelers should be aware of the potential limitations mentioned above when planning their trip.

Hilliard, Ohio, is a city located in Franklin County, a suburb of the state capital, Columbus. Its history is rich with development and transformation from a farming community to a thriving suburban city.

Early History

  • Founding: Hilliard was founded in 1853 when John Reed Hilliard purchased ten acres of land in western Franklin County, Ohio. The area was initially known as Hilliard's Station because of its location along the Piqua and Indiana Railroad.
  • Railroad Significance: The railroad played a crucial role in Hilliard's early development, providing a means for transporting goods and people. This connection helped Hilliard grow and attract residents.

20th Century Growth

  • Incorporation: Hilliard was officially incorporated as a village in 1869. The establishment of schools, churches, and businesses followed, fostering a tight-knit community.
  • Post-WWII Expansion: After World War II, Hilliard, like many American suburbs, experienced significant growth. The population boom was driven by the demand for suburban housing and the proximity to Columbus.
  • City Status: Hilliard became a city in 1960, reflecting its growth and development over the previous decades.

Significant Events and Developments

  • Hilliard's Station Park: This modern park, located at the heart of Hilliard, pays homage to the original train station that was pivotal to the city's early growth.
  • Hilliard Memorial Middle School Shooting: In 1972, Hilliard experienced a tragic event when a middle school student opened fire, injuring several students. This event is a somber part of the city's history.

Historical Figures

  • John Reed Hilliard: Founder of Hilliard, his purchase and development of land laid the foundation for what would become the city.
  • Local Leaders: Various mayors and city officials have played roles in Hilliard's growth, though none have achieved national historical prominence.

Landmarks and Institutions

  • Historical Village: Managed by the Hilliard Ohio Historical Society, this site includes several restored buildings from the 1800s and early 1900s, showcasing the city's history.
  • Franklin County Fairgrounds: Located in Hilliard, the fairgrounds host the annual Franklin County Fair, a significant event drawing visitors from across the region.
  • Early Schools and Churches: Many historic schools and churches in Hilliard reflect its development over time, including the Hilliard Presbyterian Church, among the first in the area.

Modern Hilliard

  • Today, Hilliard is known for its strong community focus, excellent schools, and vibrant parks system. It is part of the larger Columbus metropolitan area and continues to grow as a desirable place to live and work.

Hilliard's history is a testament to its evolution from a small railroad-based village to a modern suburban city, maintaining a balance between honoring its past and embracing future growth.