In 1852, John Reed Hilliard bought 10 acres (40,000 m2) of farmland in western Franklin County, Ohio from Hoseah High and Abraham Wendell.

Geographically, the Hilliard area is between Big Darby Creek on the west and the Scioto River on the east.

Hilliard's Station served as an ideal shipping point for agricultural products going to market and supplies coming to the farmers in the area.

Until the mid 20th century, the railroad station and Main Street were the town center.

The original train station has been restored and remains in Hilliard's historical Weaver Park.

The original platted area contained a mix of residences and businesses of varying ages and architecture.

The construction of three large residential subdivisions in the 1950s brought explosive growth to Hilliard.

The connection to the Columbus regional sewer and water systems in the 1960s opened up the area to development.

The Village of Hilliard gained city status officially from the Ohio Secretary of State by attaining a population of 5,633 on December 12, 1960.

A rich heritage of residential structures and architectural styles can be found in the historic district along Norwich Street.

Downtown Columbus lies in a distance to the southeast, its skyline visible at times when crossing bridges.

Hilliard is home to the Early Television Museum, the second largest First Responders Park in the United States, and Heritage Rail Trail.

[13][14] The city also holds a weekly summer concert series known as Celebration at the Station.

No major railways nor rail-based transport run to, from, through, or within Hilliard; however, there is a park and ride on Cemetery Road close to I-270.