Rankin Gardens & Atrium

Discover one of Columbus’ best-hidden secrets! Nestled in the heart of Uptown Columbus, between Broadway and First Avenue, the historic Rankin Building provides an unparalleled setting for special events, such as weddings, proms, corporate outings and more! Captivating lovers with its wrought iron balconies and historic French Quarter feel, the Rankin Garden and Atrium allows guests to step back in time and experience the allure of historic Columbus.

The building we now occupy was once known as the Rankin Hotel, opening after being purchased by Scotsman James A. Rankin in 1864. The wood-structured building was rebuilt with brick after suffering a fire in 1878, and continued operating as a hotel for another hundred years until changing hands and eventually becoming the Rankin we know today.

While walking the building, you can encounter history at every turn. The original cast iron marquee, marking the entrance to the old hotel, is still standing and prominent at our Broadway entrance. The Victorian details of the building, like the aged brick archways, serve as a window to the past and a doorway to present day beauty. Our largest event space, the Livery, once housed horse and carriage for hotel visitors, and later hosted the Springer Opera House Guild’s annual Governor’s Dinner in 1978.

Noted actors and high profile guests to the late Rankin Hotel include:

-Oscar Wilde (Irish Poet/Playwright known for “The Importance of Being Earnest”)
-John L Sullivan (dubbed the “Boston Strong Boy”, Sullivan was recognized as the first heavyweight champion of gloved boxing)
-Marie Dressler (Academy Award Winner for her performance in Min and Bill, 1930)
-John Phillip Sousa (known for composing “The Stars and Stripes Forever”)
-William Jennings Bryan (Member of the House of Representatives, ran for President three times on the Democratic ticket)

The Rankin Square was placed on the National Register of Historic Sites and Places in 1977. Today it serves as a beautiful and historic setting for intimate events and gatherings. Our spaces can accommodate a range of settings and budgets—for example, a charming outdoor wedding ceremony held in the garden—and can host up to 250 guests.

For more information, please contact us at 706.568.5101 or https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/be7496ee09f94b9cb0a6756fb8bcb563.