Resident-Led Walking & Coach Tours
“The best way to see this charming neighborhood is on a German Village Tours walking tour led by longtime residents and historians.”
Welcome to
German Village Tours
Trace the footsteps of proud German immigrants who built this neighborhood 175 years ago. Admire more than a thousand brick homes and commercial buildings that have been lovingly restored over the past 60 years. Long-time residents John and Jan Clark will share with you the highlights of this nationally celebrated urban historic district.
Tours
Walking Tours
We lead you the way.
Enjoy a 75 minute stroll through the village.
$20/person - group of 5 minimum
Step-on Guides for Coach Tours
We ride with you.
Enjoy the historic sites and colorful stories of German Village from the comfort of your seat.
We "step on" your coach or van.
Email for more information and to schedule.
(Tours of Downtown Columbus also available)
On-Site Presentations
We bring the history to you.
60-minute presentation including Q & A.
German Village Stories:
Learn the amazing history and colorful tales of this fully restored immigrant neighborhood.
Columbus Memories:
Ohio’s capital city comes alive through historic images and film.
Columbus Uncovered, Parts 1 & 2:
Fascinating stories about unusual people and places in Ohio’s Capital City.
$150 within the greater Columbus area.
Meet Your Guides
John and Jan Clark
German Village Tours is owned and operated by John and Jan Clark, two German Village residents who are passionate about their neighborhood. The husband-and-wife couple has made the Village their home for the past 30+ years. John has written a history book, German Village Stories Behind the Bricks, which details many fascinating tales about this special place. Jan has served in many volunteer capacities with the German Village Society. Her particular interest is the beautification of historic Schiller Park. Both John and Jan lead walking and coach tours of German Village and are committed to the preservation of their treasured neighborhood.
Frequently Asked Questions
COVID-19 UPDATES . . .
If you are sick, or have come in contact with anyone who is sick, please refrain from booking. Face coverings are optional. Please provide your own if you choose to use one. To be able to speak clearly, your guide will not be wearing a face covering.
ARE RESTROOMS AVAILABLE? . . .
It’s best to use a restroom in a coffee shop or restaurant before we start. Depending on the hour and the season, you may also find available restrooms at the Schiller Park Community Center, at the corner of Jaeger and East Deshler St.
DO YOU ACCEPT TIPS? . . .
Tips are not expected, but they are appreciated.
WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY? . . .
Tickets are non-refundable. If we deem it necessary to cancel a tour due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, you may choose a refund or a credit voucher for a future tour.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR? . . .
Please dress for the weather and wear sturdy walking shoes. Our old neighborhood is charming but has some uneven brick streets and sidewalks! You may wish to bring bottled water and sunscreen.
WHERE DO I PARK? . . .
Your best option is to park on the street. Pay close attention to signs, as some areas enforce two-hour parking limitations.
WILL MY TOUR BE CANCELED IN THE CASE OF BAD WEATHER? . . .
German Village can be enjoyed in all kinds of weather, but we may choose to cancel in the event of storms or ice. These decisions are often made at the last minute, so please keep your phones handy. We will contact you.
WILL THERE BE TIME TO SHOP OR GET A SNACK? . . .
Not on a standard walking or bus tour. But we would be happy to recommend village shops and restaurants you can enjoy on your own.
WILL WE BE WALKING OR RIDING FOR THE ENTIRE TOUR? . . .
There will be frequent stops, whether you’re walking or on a bus, to take in a particular sight or hear a story.
