Top reasons to visit Columbus
- Diverse Attractions: Columbus offers a mix of educational attractions, urban parks, and science museums, perfect for family outings and cultural experiences.
- Lively Neighborhoods: Explore vibrant neighborhoods filled with friendly locals, unique shops, and a lively atmosphere, showcasing the city's urban charm.
- Ohio State University: Immerse yourself in campus life at one of the largest universities in the U.S., known for its beautiful campus and events.
- Variety of Accommodations: Enjoy a range of hotels, from budget motels to luxury stays, catering to all travelers’ needs.
- Seasonal Markets: Experience vibrant holiday markets and local shopping events that highlight the city's community spirit.
Find great hotels in Columbus
Discover a diverse selection of hotels in Columbus, Ohio, tailored to meet the needs of every traveler. From pet-friendly accommodations to welcoming LGBTQIA-friendly options, you'll find everything from budget-friendly motels to upscale stays like the Hilton Columbus Downtown. Whether you're here for business or leisure, Columbus offers a variety of lodging choices to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
- WoodSpring Suites Columbus West - Hilliard: This budget-friendly hotel offers a comfortable and convenient stay for travelers seeking a blend of affordability and practicality. Located in Columbus, it caters to both business and leisure guests, especially those traveling with pets. With features like a Dog Exercise Area and a pet policy accommodating dogs up to a certain weight, it’s an ideal choice for pet owners. The property also provides essential amenities for business travelers, ensuring a hassle-free experience while exploring the city.
- Wyndham Columbus: This 4-star hotel combines elegance with comfort, making it a suitable option for travelers looking for a more upscale experience. Situated in Columbus, it welcomes pets with a flexible pet policy that allows both dogs and cats, ensuring furry companions can join the journey. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities tailored for business travelers, including meeting spaces and workstations, alongside leisure facilities that provide a relaxing retreat after a busy day of sightseeing or meetings.
- Olentangy Motor Inn: Known for its budget-friendly rates and outstanding guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, Olentangy Motor Inn offers a cozy atmosphere for travelers in Columbus. This pet-friendly inn focuses on comfort and convenience, welcoming dogs with specific weight limits and a clear pet policy. Its strategic location provides easy access to local attractions, making it a practical choice for those exploring the area while prioritizing a welcoming environment for their pets.
Where to stay in Columbus
Columbus, Ohio, is a vibrant metropolis offering a rich blend of experiences for every traveler. Explore the city's luxury accommodations and discover its lively neighborhoods filled with friendly faces and urban charm. Enjoy stunning city views, relax in peaceful getaways, and immerse yourself in campus life at The Ohio State University. Whether you're seeking family fun or a business trip, Columbus has something special to offer for everyone.
- Dublin: Located to the northwest of Columbus, Dublin is a charming city known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor experiences. Peak travel seasons from May to July attract visitors eager to explore its shopping centers and urban parks. Dublin also boasts a historic college university and a vibrant sports facility stadium. With its picturesque streets and community events, Dublin offers a blend of city living and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
- Westerville: Situated to the northeast of Columbus, Westerville is a city that caters to families and business travelers, especially during peak months like February, July, and October. This city features a mix of recreational areas and shopping centers, offering something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the nearby national state park and visit the historic college university. With its welcoming atmosphere and engaging community events, Westerville provides a balanced experience of urban convenience and natural beauty.
- Downtown Columbus: The heart of the capital city, Downtown Columbus is a vibrant neighborhood that never fails to impress. With peak travel periods in March through April and July, it attracts families and business travelers eager to explore its dynamic atmosphere. The area is home to a range of attractions, including educational institutions, an arena entertainment facility, and numerous shopping centers. Nearby landmarks such as the event conference venue and convention center add to its appeal, making Downtown Columbus a hub of activity for visitors seeking a city-themed experience.
Things to do in Columbus
Shopping
For a great shopping experience in Columbus, visit Easton Town Center, where you’ll find a mix of popular retailers and unique boutiques. Also, check out Polaris Fashion Place for a variety of stores and dining options. Don’t miss the local markets for handcrafted souvenirs.
Recreation
Woodhouse Day Spa offers a tranquil environment where you can indulge in rejuvenating massages and skincare treatments. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Scioto Mile provides scenic walking paths along the river, perfect for leisurely strolls or biking while enjoying views of the city skyline.
Adventure
Explore the Scioto Mile, a vibrant waterfront park featuring trails, play areas, and stunning views of downtown Columbus. For thrill-seekers, the Zoombezi Bay water park offers exciting slides and lazy rivers, while the Columbus Zoo provides close encounters with diverse wildlife in immersive habitats.
Nightlife
Columbus offers a vibrant nightlife scene with trendy bars like The Short North Pour House for craft cocktails and lively conversations. For live music, check out A&R Music Bar, where local bands often perform. If you're in the mood for dancing, try Axis Nightclub, known for its energetic atmosphere.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Columbus
To save money during your trip to Columbus, take advantage of the many free attractions such as Bridge Park, Genoa Park, and the World Harvest Church. For transportation, use the bus or rideshare services, which are economical options. Consider visiting from December to February for lower accommodation rates, with Mondays being the cheapest days to stay. Utilize Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels, apply filters for the best prices, and consider booking a package deal to combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Columbus are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and October, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Columbus is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Columbus is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will reveal sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Columbus hotel reservation with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.
Find the best attractions in Columbus
Columbus offers a diverse range of attractions perfect for family and business vacations. Visitors can explore urban parks, science museums, and botanical gardens, providing a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly outing or a vibrant city atmosphere, Columbus has something for everyone to enjoy.
- COSI: Dive into the world of science at COSI, a hands-on science museum ideal for families. Explore interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages, from space exploration to ocean life, all while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere rich in culture.
- Bridge Park: Experience the charm of Bridge Park, an urban park that offers a lively setting for outdoor activities. Stroll along the scenic riverfront, enjoy family-friendly events, and take in the city’s vibrant atmosphere while relaxing in a green space.
- Wexner Center for the Arts: Discover contemporary art and culture at the Wexner Center for the Arts. This dynamic arts center features rotating exhibitions, performances, and film screenings, making it a hub for cultural exploration in Columbus.
Best time to go to Columbus
The best time to visit Columbus is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Columbus
Flying into Columbus, Ohio, is convenient with its primary airport, John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), situated 11km from the city center. Nearby accommodations include the 4.5-star Hotel LeVeque, Autograph Collection, and the 4-star Sonesta Columbus Downtown, both easily accessible to the airport. For those considering alternative airports, DAYton International Airport (DAY) is 105km away, with options like the 3.5-star Wingate by Wyndham Dayton North. Another option is Akron-Canton Airport (CAK), located 169km from Columbus, offering hotels such as the 4-star DoubleTree by Hilton Canton Downtown. Each airport provides various transportation services to ensure a smooth journey to your destination.