A diversified economy has cushioned Columbus from economic downturns and made it one of the fastest growing metros in America. In the latest U.S. Census Bureau estimates, the city became the 14th largest city in the nation. And it's not just population that's booming in Columbus. It is in the midst of a renaissance with a revitalized riverfront, a downtown exploding with new development, a culinary scene that is enjoying national acclaim, top-rated visitor attractions and a friendly, open vibe that is felt by residents and visitors alike. Here's why Columbus is the place to be in 2018:

• With all the population growth Columbus is undergoing, the city has focused anew on transportation. Columbus competed against 77 cities nationwide to win the U.S. Department of Transportation's Smart City Challenge in 2016. With $40 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation and $10 million from Vulcan, Inc., a Paul G. Allen Company, and an additional $450,000 (goal is $1 billion) leveraged from public-private partnerships, Smart Columbus is poised to become the model for the future of innovative urban transportation solutions.

• There is no offseason for Columbus' booming sports scene, which will host the NCAA Women's Final Four in March 2018. Fans who come to the championship games at Nationwide Arena will be right in the heart of the action. A short walk will take visitors to innovative restaurants, such as the highly acclaimed Veritas that is set to open downtown in 2018, and Momo Ghar, a funky Tibetan food stand that's one of the newest additions to the historic North Market. Across the street, the Short North Arts District is bursting with creative dining, unique boutiques and galleries and cool places to grab a locally roasted coffee or craft beer and just hang out.     

• There will be a new place for children to run, play and explore that natural world around them in May 2018 when the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens opens a two-acre children's garden focused on art and educational experiences. The garden will feature sixteen interactive activities that highlight Ohio's landscape and geology, including a playhouse garden, canopy walk, wetlands, a stream and a Nature Art Studio.

• In July, the National Veterans Memorial & Museum will open along the Scioto Mile downtown riverfront, which recently completed a massive revitalization adding 33-acres of greenspace and miles of multi-use paths. It has sparked a rebirth, giving travelers access to exciting riverfront festivals, watersports, outdoor art and a more dynamic place to wander, explore and be active while visiting Columbus.