The Business of Getting Away

A Natural Draw for Urban Escape

Plain City’s location near the nationally designated Big Darby Creek and Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park makes it a natural destination for Columbus-area residents seeking scenic recreation and laid-back charm. The river’s exceptional biodiversity and protected status create a foundation for nature-based tourism including birding, kayaking, fishing, and outdoor photography.

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Recent investments in parkland acquisition, improvements, and preservation reflect the Village’s strong commitment to natural recreation. With nearly 200 acres of public parkland, these spaces are increasingly valued by both residents and visitors alike.

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Building on Heritage and Tradition

The area’s Mennonite and agricultural roots are still visible in the food, architecture, and pace of life that define Plain City. This heritage is brought to life through businesses like Der Dutchman Restaurant & Bakery, The Red Hen Café, Yutzy’s Farm Market, The Orchard & Co., The Cheese House, Bluescreek Farm Meats & Market, Miller Cabinet Company, and Millwest Amish Furniture.​

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Together, they attract thousands annually for farm-to-table dining, fresh produce, and artisanal goods, forming the backbone of a growing agritourism sector.

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​Scenic Routes and Covered Bridges

​Plain City is a key stop along the Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway, a route that winds through scenic farmland, quiet rural towns, and a collection of iconic covered bridges, several of which are located just outside the village. These bridges are a beloved part of the local landscape, attracting bus tours, cyclists, and photographers from across the country. Their cultural importance is reflected in a new downtown mural, which prominently features one of the bridges as a symbol of the community’s rural charm and historic character.

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Public Square: A New Hub for Experience

In 2024, the Village of Plain City broke ground on The Public Square, a major downtown project anchored by a restored 1880s railroad depot. This public space will support concerts, festivals, and weekend markets, helping businesses tap into growing visitor traffic.​ A year-round indoor/outdoor marketplace is currently in development, set to build on the success of the Plain City Farmers Market while expanding opportunities for year-round vendors, retailers, and food entrepreneurs.

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Trails as Economic Infrastructure

Plain City has made trail development a strategic priority, recognizing trails as both recreational assets and vital economic infrastructure. A newly constructed trailhead marks a key step in the village’s long-term vision to become a community where trails are seamlessly integrated with local businesses, community events, and hospitality amenities. Planning is ongoing to extend the Heritage Trail, a six-mile multi-use path that will eventually connect Plain City to Hilliard and the broader Central Ohio trail system. As part of its commitment to walkability and connectivity, the village now requires new developments to include trails and pathways.

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A Strategic Opportunity for Experience-Based Investment

Plain City is at the start of a visitor economy transformation, with demand rising from urban and suburban residents looking to reconnect with food, nature, and local culture.

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The community actively welcomes new ventures including:

• Hotels and lodging 

• Trail-side cafés and rental shops

• Event venues and wedding barns

• Farm experiences and farm-to-fork dining

• Artisan makers, breweries, and specialty retail

• Outdoor guides and equipment suppliers

 

Why It Matters for Business

With access to an affluent, experience-seeking market just minutes away in Columbus, your business venture in Plain City can serve both weekend travelers and loyal locals. Supportive zoning, infrastructure investment, and a community of like-minded businesses make it easy to launch and grow in this emerging sector.