Columbus

Exploring Columbus, Ohio: A Midwestern Gem – Travel Guide

Planning Your Columbus Trip: Essential Information

General Information

  • Location: United States, Ohio
  • Time Zone: GMT -4 (Eastern Daylight Time) / GMT -5 (Eastern Standard Time)
  • Language: English
  • Currency: US Dollar (USD)
  • Weather: Columbus experiences four distinct seasons. January is the coldest month (average 30°F/-1°C), while July is the warmest (average 75°F/24°C). Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures. Summers can be humid. Winter (December-February) can bring snow and ice.

Columbus, Ohio: A City Overview

Columbus, the capital of Ohio, is a vibrant and diverse city known for its thriving arts scene, delicious food (check out the Columbus food scene!), and friendly atmosphere. This Midwestern hub boasts a blend of historical charm and modern innovation. From the Short North Arts District, brimming with galleries and boutiques, to the historic German Village, offering a glimpse into the past, Columbus has something for everyone. The city is home to Ohio State University, lending a youthful energy and intellectual buzz to the cityscape. With its walkable neighborhoods, green spaces, and a growing culinary scene, Columbus provides a welcoming and engaging experience for visitors. Explore the Scioto Mile riverfront park, catch a show at the Ohio Theatre, or delve into the art at the Columbus Museum of Art – Columbus offers a diverse array of attractions and experiences. Looking for things to do in Columbus, Ohio? You’re in the right place!

 

Best Time to Visit Columbus: Seasonal Guide

Seasonal Pros and Cons

  • Spring (April-May):
    • Pros: Pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers, fewer crowds than summer.
    • Cons: Occasional rain showers.
  • Summer (June-August):
    • Pros: Warm weather, outdoor events and festivals.
    • Cons: Higher humidity, larger crowds, peak season prices.
  • Fall (September-October):
    • Pros: Beautiful foliage, comfortable temperatures, harvest festivals. A great time for fall travel in Ohio!
    • Cons: Weather can be unpredictable.
  • Winter (November-March):
    • Pros: Fewer crowds, holiday events, lower prices. Consider a Columbus Christmas trip!
    • Cons: Cold temperatures, potential for snow and ice.

Getting to Columbus & Visa Information

Flights, Trains, Visa, and Airport Transfers

  • Flights: Columbus is served by John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH). Many major airlines offer flights to CMH from across the US and internationally. Search for cheap flights to Columbus online.
  • Trains: Amtrak provides train service to Columbus.
  • Visa Details: Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Check the US Department of State website for specific requirements before you travel to the United States.
  • Airport Transfers: Taxis, ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft), and airport shuttles are available for transfers from CMH to downtown Columbus.

Columbus Trivia and Notable Locals

Fun/Historical Fact about Columbus

Did you know that Columbus, Ohio, was named after Christopher Columbus but actually has little to do with the explorer’s actual voyages? The city was founded in 1812, decades after Columbus’s explorations, as a centrally located capital for the state of Ohio.

Famous Personalities from Columbus, Ohio

  • Simone Biles: Olympic gymnast
  • R.L. Stine: Author of “Goosebumps”
  • Guy Fieri: Celebrity chef and TV personality

Top 10 Attractions in Columbus, Ohio

Looking for the best Columbus attractions? Here’s a list to get you started:

  • Ohio Statehouse:
    • Address: 1 Capitol Square, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Description: A Greek Revival masterpiece where Ohio laws are made. Free tours are available.
  • Columbus Museum of Art:
    • Address: 480 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Description: Art museum with a variety of exhibits.
  • Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens:
    • Address: 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203
    • Description: Beautiful botanical garden and conservatory.
  • Scioto Mile:
    • Address: 233 S Civic Center Dr, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Description: Park along the Scioto River with trails and fountains.
  • Short North Arts District:
    • Address: N High St, Columbus, OH
    • Description: A lively arts district with shops and restaurants.
  • German Village:
    • Address: German Village, Columbus, OH
    • Description: Historic German neighborhood with unique shops.
  • North Market:
    • Address: 59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Description: A public market with food vendors and local produce.
  • Center of Science and Industry (COSI):
    • Address: 333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Description: Interactive science museum for all ages.
  • Topiary Park:
    • Address: 480 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Description: A unique park featuring topiary sculptures.
  • Otherworld:
    • Address: 5819 Chantry Dr, Columbus, OH 43232
    • Description: Immersive art experience with interactive installations.

Columbus Hidden Gems: Explore Beyond the Tourist Trail

Discover some lesser-known Columbus attractions:

  • Schiller Park:
    • Address: 1069 Jaeger St, Columbus, OH 43206
    • Description: A tranquil park in German Village.
  • Hayden Falls Park:
    • Address: 100 Hayden Falls Dr, Columbus, OH 43235
    • Description: A hidden waterfall in a natural park.
  • Olentangy Indian Caverns:
    • Address: 1779 Home Rd, Delaware, OH 43015
    • Description: Caves with Native American history.

Columbus Festivals and Events: Join the Fun!

Check out these popular Columbus events:

  • Ohio State Fair (July-August): A celebration of agriculture, entertainment, and food.
  • Columbus Arts Festival (June): A large arts festival showcasing local and national artists.
  • Red, White & Boom! (July 4th): A massive fireworks display over the Scioto River.
  • German Village Oktoberfest (September): A celebration of German culture with food, beer, and music.

Day Trips from Columbus: Expand Your Adventure

Consider these day trips near Columbus:

  • Hocking Hills State Park (1 hour): Stunning natural area with hiking trails, waterfalls, and caves. Hocking Hills cabins make for a great weekend getaway!
  • Yellow Springs (1 hour): A quirky village known for its natural beauty and artsy vibe.
  • Cincinnati (1.5 hours): A larger city with a rich history, museums, and entertainment options.

Columbus Photography: Instagram-Worthy Spots

Capture the perfect shot at these Columbus photo spots:

  • Scioto Mile fountains: The interactive fountains make for dynamic photos.
  • Ohio Statehouse rotunda: Capture the grandeur of the state capitol.
  • Murals in the Short North: Find vibrant street art for colorful backdrops.
  • Franklin Park Conservatory: The glasshouse and gardens offer stunning photo opportunities.

Where to Stay in Columbus: Accommodation Guide

Recommended Length of Stay

3-5 days is ideal for exploring Columbus’s main attractions and neighborhoods.

Top Columbus Hotels (Sorted by Budget)

Budget-Friendly Hotels

  • Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Columbus – Ohio State Fairgrounds:
    • Address: 4399 Sinclair Rd, Columbus, OH 43229
  • Days Inn by Wyndham Columbus Fairgrounds:
    • Address: 1212 E Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus, OH 43229
  • Motel 6 Columbus, OH – Ohio Fairgrounds:
    • Address: 1200 E Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus, OH 43229

Mid-Range Hotels

  • Graduate Columbus:
    • Address: 75 E 11th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
  • Hotel LeVeque, Autograph Collection:
    • Address: 50 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
  • Hilton Columbus Downtown:
    • Address: 402 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

Luxury Hotels

  • The Joseph, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Columbus:
    • Address: 620 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
  • Hotel LeVeque, Autograph Collection:
    • Address: 50 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
  • Hilton Columbus Downtown:
    • Address: 402 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

Getting Around Columbus: Transportation Options

Public Transport, Taxis, Bikes, and Walking Tips

  • Public Transport: The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) operates buses throughout the city.
  • Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available.
  • Bikes: CoGo Bike Share offers bike rentals throughout downtown.
  • Walking: Many neighborhoods, such as the Short North and German Village, are easily walkable.

Columbus Travel Tips: Plan Like a Pro

What to Pack for Your Columbus Trip

Essentials Based on Weather and Culture

  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Clothing appropriate for the season (layers are recommended).
  • Umbrella or raincoat.
  • Sunscreen and hat (for summer).
  • Warm coat, hat, and gloves (for winter).

Useful Apps for Visiting Columbus

Navigation, Local Guides, Food, Translation, and Transport

  • COTA (bus tracker): For public transport.
  • Yelp: For restaurant reviews.
  • Google Maps: For navigation.
  • Uber/Lyft: For ride-sharing.

Columbus Safety and Cultural Etiquette

Do’s and Don’ts for a Respectful Trip

  • Do: Be friendly and open to meeting locals.
  • Do: Explore different neighborhoods and cuisines.
  • Don’t: Leave valuables unattended.
  • Don’t: Be afraid to ask for directions.

Columbus Food, Fun & Finds: A Local’s Guide

Top Columbus Restaurants

Cuisines, Budgets, and Experiences

  • Schmidt’s Sausage Haus (German):
    • Address: 240 E Kossuth St, Columbus, OH 43206
    • Description: Famous for its German cuisine and cream puffs.
  • Northstar Cafe (American):
    • Address: Multiple locations
    • Description: Casual dining with organic and locally sourced ingredients.
  • Lindey’s (American):
    • Address: 169 E Beck St, Columbus, OH 43206
    • Description: Upscale American cuisine in a historic German Village setting.

Must-Try Columbus Dishes

Local Delicacies and Street Food

  • Schmidt’s Sausage Haus Cream Puff: A giant cream puff filled with vanilla cream.
  • Thurman Cafe Burger: A massive burger piled high with toppings.
  • Buckeye Candy: Peanut butter fudge dipped in chocolate.

Columbus Nightlife and Entertainment

Clubs, Bars, Live Music, and Night Markets

  • Short North Arts District:
    • Address: N High St, Columbus, OH
    • Description: A hub for nightlife and entertainment.
  • Park Street Patio:
    • Address: 523 Park St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Description: Outdoor patio bar.
  • The Basement:
    • Address: 391 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Description: Live music venue.

Best Souvenirs from Columbus

Where to Buy Local Products

  • North Market:
    • Address: 59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Description: A public market with food vendors and local produce.
  • German Village:
    • Address: German Village, Columbus, OH
    • Description: Historic German neighborhood with unique shops.
  • Short North Arts District:
    • Address: N High St, Columbus, OH
    • Description: A lively arts district with shops and restaurants.

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