There's a new farmers' market in town at the Franklin Park Conservatory. Franklin Park Farmers' Market manager Leslie Markworth shared that "The Conservatory has been teaching people about the benefits of growing their own food since 2000 with the start of its now nationally known community gardening program Growing to Green. In 2009, the Conservatory opened its four-acre ScottsMiracle-Gro Community Garden Campus, a living classroom and community resource for anyone interested in gardening and edible landscapes. In 2010, the Conservatory expanded its nutrition outreach efforts and began offering on-site culinary and nutrition classes. The Farmers’ Market was the natural next step in the Conservatory’s educational outreach efforts, while ultimately increasing access to fresh, local food."

Open Wednesdays through October 17, 2012 from 3-7 pm, Lil and I shopped on opening week in early June. The market is located on a shady path in front of the Conservatory building just off Broad street. Ample free parking is available along the entrance drive and in lots. Guests can find restrooms and a water fountain on the Lower Atrium level of the Conservatory, admission not required.

The vendor selection is small but well curated with ample fruit and vegetable, flower, baked goods, and handmade products stands and grains from Shagbark Mill. The Conservatory hosts a booth with information about their classes, events, and weekly raffle; on the day we were there, Lil was thrilled to pick up a mini-greenhouse. Food carts and trucks visit each week to provide guests with meal options too.

Though we were leaving for vacation the next day, Lil and I couldn't help but pick up the first blueberries of the season and a Soodles Bake Shop cake pop.

Shoppers would be remiss not to wander the gardens during their visit to the market. Benches are scattered throughout for visitors to rest and enjoy their purchases.

Upcoming Events: Weekly: Spend $5 at a featured vendor and receive a coupon for free admission to the Conservatory June 27th: *The Very Hungry Caterpillar visits the Conservatory’s Grand Atrium, 3-5 pm July 4th: RMT Songs of America, 4 pm July 18th: Flavors of the Harvest - sample recipes from the harvests at the Scotts Miracle-Gro Community Garden Campus. *Inside the Conservatory, admission required. All other events free.

If you go:

Bring cash, as most vendors do not accept other forms of payment.
Plan to stay awhile to enjoy the entertainment, gardens, and food trucks.
Carry a reusable bag to bring home your goods; consider a cooler in the car if you are travelling far.
Read my article on how to Shop The Farmers' Market Like A Pro for my complete list of tips.

Franklin Park Conservatory Farmers' Market Wednesdays 3-7 pm through October 17 Conservatory Drive just off 1777 Broad St. Columbus OH 43203 Weekly details on Facebook and the Farmers' Market web page