About
Central Ohio’s Authentic Public Market
North Market is a destination that serves over one million guests each year and is consistently ranked as one of the top public markets in the country. We proudly provide an authentic Columbus, Ohio experience that highlights the diversity and vibrancy of our community, both economically and culturally, by promoting and incubating “best in class” local, independent businesses. Our heritage can be traced back to 1876. Across many transitions, economic ups and downs, and countless merchants, vendors, and visitors, North Market stands today, stronger than ever, as a symbol of our community’s resilience, cultural diversity, and success.
Our History
1876
The original North Market is built as the second of four public markets at the site of the city’s public cemetery; “The North Graveyard”.
1948
The North Market (called North End Market) burns down. Merchants pool their funds to purchase a war surplus “Quonset hut” in which to reopen the North Market.
1970’s
The building of the Ohio Center and temporary closing of High Street cause the North Market to hit rock bottom.
1980’s
The North Market Development Authority (NMDA) non-profit group is formed in order to “preserve and promote the traditional and cultural aspects of the historic North Market”.
1988
NMDA assumes daily operation of the North Market.
1991
Realizing the need for a new, modern building for the growing market, NMDA spearheads a capital campaign to raise funds to construct a new home for the North Market.
1995
Construction on the current day North Market building begins in January.
1995
The new North Market opens in November with 25 merchants.
2016
The City of Columbus and North Market create a plan to solidify North Market in perpetuity by developing the property’s surface lot. The City launches a RFP process to find the right developer for the project.
2017
Downtown, North Market Mixed Use Development Project moves forward after RFP process yields development partners The Wood Companies and Schiff Capital Group. Rockbridge Capital is later added to the development team.
2019
In partnership with developer Crawford Hoying, the North Market announces the building of a new North Market at the Bridge Park community in Dublin, Ohio.
2020
North Market Bridge Park is officially open for business in November with a limited preview: four initial merchants open. The remaining merchants continue to open one-by-one as they complete construction over the course of the next 12 months.
2023
Groundbreaking North Market Mixed Use Development Project: The Merchant Building.