Explore Columbus
Columbus is a vibrant city full of unique neighborhoods, each offering its own charm, culture, and activities. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or art lover, there’s something for everyone! Here are some top recommendations, organized by neighborhood, to help you make the most of your stay.
German Village /
Schumacher Place
Charming, historic neighborhood with cobblestone streets and cozy cafes.
Schiller Park: A beautiful park with lovely walking paths, a pond, and regular outdoor events like Shakespeare in the Park.
The Book Loft: A massive 32-room independent bookstore. It's a must-visit for book lovers!
St. Mary’s Church: A stunning and historic Catholic church with beautiful architecture.
What to See and Do:
Where to Eat:
The Olde Dutch Restaurant & Tavern – Classic German fare in a cozy setting (try the schnitzel!).
Lindey’s – Upscale American cuisine with a great wine selection.
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus – Famous for its bratwurst and cream puffs (a Columbus tradition).
Skillet - Farm to Table breakfast. Incredible!
Commune - Vegan Restaurant with a fun twist on classics
Mercury Diner - Their massive wood-fired pancakes are the best!
Have a Night Out:
Club185 – a Local’s Favorite dive with a late night kitchen
Beck Tavern – Traditional dive bar nestled in a beautiful german neighborhood
Antiques on High – Wonderful cocktail bar in a cool mid-century atmosphere
Short North Arts District
The heart of Columbus’s art scene, filled with galleries, boutiques, and great food.
What to See and Do:
Short North Arts District: Explore the eclectic mix of galleries, murals, and public art installations. Don't miss the Gallery Hop on the first Saturday of every month!
Make sure to stop by Hinoki Boutique!
716 N. High st. - AirBnB guests get 20% off your entire purchaseNorth Market: A historic public market with local vendors, fresh produce, and artisanal food stalls.
Goodale Park: A relaxing green space perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
Where to Eat:
The Rossi Bar & Kitchen – Trendy spot with great cocktails and Italian-inspired dishes.
Brassica – Delicious Mediterranean bowls and sandwiches (try their falafel!).
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams – Columbus’ famous ice cream parlor (their salty caramel is a local favorite!).
Arena District
Sports, nightlife, and entertainment in the heart of downtown.
Nationwide Arena: Home to the Columbus Blue Jackets hockey team and venue for concerts and events.
Huntington Park: A beautiful ballpark where you can catch a Columbus Clippers game.
The Scioto Mile: A beautiful riverfront area perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying outdoor activities.
What to See and Do:
The Pearl: A laid-back spot serving seafood and oysters, perfect for brunch or dinner.
North Market Downtown: A must-see food hall with everything from local coffee to artisanal cheeses and baked goods.
Where to Eat:
Campus District - OSU
Home to The Ohio State University, with a lively mix of students, sports fans, and local attractions.
Ohio Stadium (The Horseshoe): If you’re visiting during football season, don’t miss a Buckeye game!
The Wexner Center for the Arts: A dynamic space for contemporary art, film, and performances.
The Ohio State University Campus: Explore the beautiful campus, including the Thompson Library and Mirror Lake.
What to See and Do:
Hangover Easy: A favorite brunch spot for students and visitors alike, known for creative breakfast dishes.
Café Cúrate: Delicious Spanish tapas and paella in a casual setting.
Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace: A quirky, student-friendly spot serving gourmet hot dogs.
Where to Eat:
Italian Village
A cozy, up-and-coming neighborhood known for its craft beer scene and local eateries.
The Columbus Brewing Company: A great place to sample local beers and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere.
The Market District: A neighborhood staple offering a variety of food, coffee, and local goods.
Italian Village Park: A quaint little park perfect for relaxing or enjoying a picnic.
What to See and Do:
Where to Eat:
The Eagle’s Pizza: Delicious pizza in a casual setting, known for its thick, cheesy crust.
Fox in the Snow Café: A cute café serving excellent coffee, pastries, and sandwiches.
Clintonville
A peaceful residential neighborhood with a great mix of nature, food, and quirky shops.
Whetstone Park of Roses: A hidden gem with beautifully landscaped gardens and walking paths.
Clintonville Farmers Market: Open on Saturdays, it’s a great place to grab fresh produce and locally made goods.
What to See and Do:
The Crest Gastropub: A trendy spot offering craft cocktails, burgers, and delicious small plates.
Maplewood Kitchen and Bar: Fresh, healthy American fare in a relaxed environment.
Where to Eat:
Victorian Village
Historic homes and charming streets filled with beautiful architecture and small boutiques.
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: Stunning indoor and outdoor gardens, perfect for a peaceful walk or photography.
Victorian Village Walking Tour: Take a self-guided tour through the area’s beautifully preserved 19th-century homes.
What to See and Do:
The Top Steakhouse: A longtime Columbus institution offering classic steakhouse fare in an elegant setting.
Tasi Café: A cozy brunch spot known for its freshly baked goods and hearty dishes.
Where to Eat:
Transportation
Historic homes and charming streets filled with beautiful architecture and small boutiques.
Public Transport: Columbus has a variety of buses, but a car is often the most convenient way to get around.
Uber and Lyft are widely available.
Walking Tours: Columbus has some great walking tours of the Short North, German Village, and downtown areas if you’re looking to dive into the history and culture of the city.
Biking: For a more active exploration, consider renting a bike through CoGo Bike Share, which has stations throughout the city.