Situated just outside of Interstate 270, 13 miles from downtown Columbus, the City of Hilliard is known for its excellent school system (the 9th largest in the state with 16 preschools and elementary schools, two sixth grades, three middle schools, and three high schools), its wise use of green space, active citizen involvement, and strong sense of community.

Originally called Hilliard's Station in the 19th century, the town grew around a railroad route that shipped agricultural products to market. Today, the community of 25,000 offers residents a broad range of both housing options and employment opportunities, creating a diverse and unique community. The city works hard to balance commercial and industrial growth with residential growth. In turn, all the new growth is balanced by the revitalization of Old Hilliard—a downtown business district that maintains old-fashioned small town charm.

Hilliard boasts a number of first-rate parks and recreational facilities including 17 city parks, an 80-acre Municipal Park, two Olympic-size swimming pools, a Community Center, a Senior Center, an amphitheater, lighted tennis courts and ball fields, and a sledding hill.

• Homestead Park  Developed in 1992, this 44-acre park offers a quiet country atmosphere with a covered bridge, a train station replica, a caboose, and two barns. A paved trail connects to the seven-mile Heritage Rail Trail.

• Heritage Rail Trail  This seven-mile walking/biking/jogging trail is part of the Rails-to-Trails Coalition. It starts in Hilliard and runs to Plain City.

• Aquatic Adventures  This full-service aquatic and scuba training center offers technical dive training, swimming lessons for all ages, and water fitness programs.

Franklin County Fairgrounds Every July the fairgrounds fill up for a week of rides, games, animal shows, harness racing, motocross, horticulture exhibits, food, fun, and entertainment known as the Franklin County Fair.  Off season, the fairgrounds host auctions, 4-H shows and sales, and car and truck rallies.