Yeah, Columbus is pretty cool.
I've lived here my entire life (minus 4 years near Cincy for college) and now I get to share my favorite places with you!
Every kind of traveler can enjoy the experiences that the Columbus area has to offer! Where to stay, what to eat, and unique activities are paramount!
In this guide you'll find a little bit of everything.
From breweries to imbibe, coffee to savor, neighborhoods to stroll, and outdoor activities to enjoy!
Columbus is quickly becoming a destination! Let me show you why... Welcome to CBus!
So... where do you even start? Honestly, it depends on what you're looking to get out of your visit!
Want nightlife + hip boutiques? Short North & Park Street should be on your radar.
Want to be close to everything, but away from the hustle and bustle?
I'd recommend Dublin or the North Side (Powell, Polaris/Lewis Center, Worthington, Westerville)
Want higher-end shopping? Easton will be where that is (... unless you thrift then you can go anywhere but the best thrifts are in Clintonville, southside of Dublin, & Westerville)
Looking for breweries? Any suburb has plenty of those! I can direct you to specifics on your tastes.
Low-key hiking and nature? Unless you want to drive an hour southeast to Hocking Hills, the southwest side near Hilliard and the north side near Lewis Center will offer what you're looking for.
What about history? Phew! German Village is drool-worthy and worth a stroll down the brick-lined streets. Bexley, Grandview, and Upper Arlington also have the IG-worthy houses and tree-lined streets.
Disclaimer: Columbus is A LOT bigger than it looks on a map. 270 is one big circle that takes about an hour to go around fully. Downtown takes 15-20 minutes to get into from any suburb.
Where to Stay?
A look into the different neighborhoods / areas of Columbus to help you choose the best option!
First and foremost, parking in the neighborhoods around downtown can be challenging at times and expensive. Some streets are permit only, one way, or metered through a separate app.
Uber/Lyft are great options for getting around without a car. COTA is the bus transport and does have an app (link: https://cota.com/transitapp/). Scooter rides are an option as well: Bird and CoGo Bike Share ($8/day) are frequented.
#1 | Short North (Arts District)
If you're looking for lively nightlife, to be in the heartbeat of art galleries, and surrounded by restaurants, look no further than the Short North, named because it's literally just north of Downtown.
Decked out in a collegiate theme, the rooms are cozy and affordable. Parking is at a garage nearby. They do have rentable bikes to explore the city on 2 wheels!
I'll preface this with... Columbus' Downtown area is great at certain times and days. When there's a game, activity or show in town, there's plenty to do. I've found that most restaurants close earlier than normal in the heart, but the areas connecting to other neighborhoods are much more lively. (More on Restaurants/Bars/Activities below)
The building has a lot of cool history. Located on Gay Street which is lined with nighttime markets (on certain weekends through summer) and is home to many yummy restaurants. The common areas are fully remodeled, but the rooms are not. Keep that in mind. :)
Not located directly in Downtown but just over the River, this is where I'd stay. Close to the most popular breweries in Columbus and a short walk to Cosi, the location is good. The Gear Garage is the best amenity though- be sure to check that out!
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#3 | Dublin (Bridge Park)
So why this area? Let me tell you about Dublin. Nestled on the Scioto River, the city had developed the west side of the River (High Street) but left the east side undisturbed, until a few years ago when they made it a destination and added a pedestrian bridge to fully enjoy both sides safely. More on that later...
Free covered parking, check. Walking distance to restaurants/bars/nightlife, check. Rooftop restaurant, check! Every time we've stayed here it's been great. Close to anything you want to do and a quick drive to Downtown.
This place is great! It's easy to get to, parking is free, it's close to so many activities but in a hidden pocket of Columbus. While technically, in Lewis Center, it's still on the line for me. Indoor & Outdoor pools!
Built recently right off the freeway, it's convenient to anything! A quick trip across the street to IKEA and Top Golf, around Polaris and the yummy restaurants there, and shopping!
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#5 (Easton)
If you're looking to shop this visit, this is the area for you! It's super convenient to CMH and you could probably spend you're entire trip here (...but you'd be missing out!)
Great Easton location, near Trader Joes and numerous restaurants & shopping options.
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Where to Eat & Drink?
Honestly, I don't know where to even start. Columbus is a foodies dream. So I'm going to put the options in neighborhood pockets. That way you can make a route and know what's around you.
Downtown (including Franklinton + Olde Town East)
Food
- The Walrus | BIG burgers, live music, great vibe, always people inside!
- Tiger + Lily | Asian fare + delicious!
- The Taproom at Wolf's Ridge (in the alley)
- Dirty Franks Hot Dogs
- Speck Italian Eatery | Yummy cocktails + food near the Palace Theatre
Brunch
- Wolf's Ridge (need reservation for brunch)
- HangOver Easy (Olde Town East)
Coffee
- Maudine's
- One Line
- Cafe De Nook | Paris-style cafe
Dessert
-Jeni's | Ice Cream with many different flavors. A few locations around CBus
- Hills Market | A Grocery store with amazing desserts!
Breweries
- Wolf's Ridge & Jackie O's on Fourth Street (Downtown)
- Land Grant, BrewDog, + Taft's Brewpourium (Franklinton)
- Gemüt Biergarten (Olde Town East)
Hidden Gem | East Market
A recently-opened market-style food + bars. Home to Columbus Beer Hall, Yellow Brick Pizza, the Bearded Baker (drool...), Monster Baby Donuts (which are GF + Allergy friendly!)
Those balls... those pancake balls. They're famous here for a reason. *chefs kiss* This is one of 2 locations in CBus & what it lacks in seating, it makes up in taste.
One of the most popular coffee shops in CBus! Famous for their bakery and to-die-for biscuits (see TikTok for that) A few locations around but I love this one for nostalgic sake.
The North Market from the Short North on a smaller more intimate scale. Great bar and selections are only getting better! And the kicker... free parking!
One of my favorite breweries in CBus. Unique cocktails & beverages, great happy hour, & the decor is all travel themed making you feel like you're not in Ohio.
How do you choose what to have? They have a great selection of unique beers. Small patio that overlooks High St and love how it reminds me of Cheers with friendly staff that knows your name.
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This is just a sampling of the offerings in CBus! If you're looking for something specific, I'm here to help!
What are some things to do?
Just like the food section... there's a LOT!
Here is a taste of what you can find here!
Columbus Zoo
It really is a cool zoo. Kids will love the sea lion exhibit and if it's summer, having a day at Zoombezi Bay is so fun.
The "Center Of Science and Industry" is not just a place for the kids. They host 21+ nights where you can enjoy the sections without kids running around.
This park is spectacular & during the bloom season, awe-inspiring. Clintonville is the neighborhood north of Campus that houses one of the best farmers markets and cute shops that line High Street.
Columbus Crew (MLS Soccer), Columbus Clippers (Minor League Baseball), Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL Hockey), Columbus Fury (Women's Volleyball) are all entertaining and affordable options!
Literally, the area of Arenas. You'll find Nationwide Arena, Huntington Park, Lower.com Field all in this section of town.
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OSU Campus
THE Ohio State University is here and right off High Street north of the Short North. Take a stroll through campus and get your photo at the infamous SHOE (it's a lot larger than it looks on TV). During off-season, the Shoe has been hosting golf ranges from the upper deck if that's something that interests you!
Want to go for a drive? This area is spectacular year round. For first time visitors, I'd recommend Ash Cave, Conkle's Hollow, and Old Man's Cave. Those are 3 popular spots to visit. For other options, I can help with that! Just remember to take a screenshot of directions (no service) and leave no trace.
Hi, I’m Jen!
I’ve lived in Ohio my entire life and while most people give it an “ugh...”, but I’ll be the first to admit that it’s pretty wonderful + a hidden gem surrounded by others.
Growing up, we never had the funds to travel. I’ve been trying to make sure that my kids (6yo boy + 10yo girl) grow up seeing the world through a different lens.
I’ve been the primary planner for my friends + family for YEARS. Literally. You name it- I’ve probably planned it!
- off-the-beaten path stays
- the most “kid-friendly” breweries + wineries with views
- the best restaurants for food allergies (my daughter has nut allergies + I’m GF/lactose-intolerant)
- low budget friendly travels with the nicest amenities
- wonderful hikes with views + scenery
- group + bachelorette / wedding travel
- coordination + itineraries (both loose + regimented)
I hope that you enjoy the tidbits and tricks. Travel well, my friends.
