Top reasons to visit Columbus
- Diverse Attractions: Columbus boasts a mix of urban parks, science museums, and botanical gardens, perfect for all ages.
- Vibrant Shopping Scene: Enjoy unique holiday markets and various shopping malls that capture the festive spirit.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The city offers numerous activities suitable for families, making it an ideal vacation spot.
- Inclusive Accommodations: A range of hotels cater to different budgets, including pet-friendly and LGBTQIA-inclusive options.
- Dynamic Neighborhoods: Explore friendly local neighborhoods that provide peaceful getaways and a taste of local culture.
Find great hotels in Columbus
Explore a diverse range of hotel accommodations in Columbus, Ohio, catering to every traveler's needs. Whether you're seeking a luxurious stay at the Hilton Columbus Downtown or budget-friendly options, the city offers a variety of hotels and motels. Many establishments are pet-friendly and welcoming to the LGBTQIA community, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for all visitors. Discover the ideal lodging for your business or leisure trip in this vibrant Midwestern city.
- WoodSpring Suites Columbus West - Hilliard: This budget-friendly hotel offers a practical and comfortable stay for travelers in Columbus. With a focus on affordability, WoodSpring Suites Columbus West - Hilliard is ideal for those on business trips or family vacations, especially pet owners, as it welcomes dogs. The amenities include spacious rooms equipped with kitchen facilities, making it easy to prepare meals. The pet policy allows for a deposit and weight restrictions, ensuring a comfortable environment for both guests and their furry companions.
- Wyndham Columbus: A distinguished 4-star hotel, Wyndham Columbus caters to both business travelers and pet lovers. This property boasts a sophisticated atmosphere with modern amenities designed for comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy spacious accommodations, on-site dining, and fitness facilities. The hotel’s pet policy permits various breeds with certain restrictions, making it easier for guests to travel with their pets. Enjoy a blend of luxury and practicality, with a focus on service that enhances your stay.
- La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Columbus Airport Area: Situated conveniently near the airport, La Quinta Inn provides budget-friendly accommodations, ideal for travelers seeking convenience and comfort. This pet-friendly hotel offers essential amenities such as complimentary breakfast and free Wi-Fi, making it a suitable choice for both business and leisure travelers. The property welcomes dogs and cats with defined weight limits and a small fee, allowing guests to enjoy their stay without leaving their pets behind.
Where to stay in Columbus
Columbus, Ohio, offers a vibrant blend of urban charm and family-friendly experiences. Explore the city's luxury accommodations and enjoy stunning views from various campuses. Discover peaceful getaways in nearby neighborhoods, where friendly locals enhance your journey. Whether you're on a family vacation or a business trip, Columbus invites you to immerse yourself in its dynamic atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and exploration.
- North Columbus: Situated in the vibrant area of Columbus, North Columbus is a hub for family, business, and city-themed experiences. This neighborhood welcomes travelers year-round, peaking in May and the summer months of July and August. Visitors can enjoy a variety of popular activities, including shopping at local malls and exploring educational institutions. Among its local landmarks are a sports facility stadium and a historic college university, making it a great spot for sports enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Events and conferences are frequently held in this area, adding to its appeal for business travelers.
- East Columbus: Located in the eastern part of Columbus, this neighborhood offers a moderately seasonal travel experience, with peak visitor numbers in April and mid-summer. East Columbus is perfect for families and business travelers seeking city-themed activities. The area boasts a range of entertainment options, including shopping centers and arena facilities. Visitors can also explore urban parks and historic colleges nearby, allowing them to immerse themselves in both nature and culture. The event conference venues in the area make it an ideal spot for professionals attending meetings or conventions.
- Riverlea: Riverlea is a charming neighborhood nestled near Columbus, known for its outdoor, family-friendly, and city-themed experiences. With steady visitor numbers throughout the year, this area sees peaks in May and the summer months. Travelers can indulge in a variety of recreational activities, including visits to golf courses and shopping centers. The neighborhood is flanked by beautiful urban parks and a national state park, offering ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Riverlea's inviting atmosphere makes it a wonderful destination for families and nature lovers alike.
Things to do in Columbus
Shopping
The Easton Town Center offers a mix of retail shops and dining options in an outdoor setting, while Polaris Fashion Place features a variety of popular brands under one roof. For unique finds, explore the North Market, where local vendors sell artisanal goods and fresh produce.
Recreation
Explore the serene atmosphere at the Spa at the Joseph for rejuvenating treatments and massages. In nearby Goodale Park, enjoy leisurely walks or yoga sessions amidst beautiful gardens and tranquil ponds, making it an excellent spot for relaxation and reflection.
Adventure
In Columbus, explore the Scioto Mile, where you can kayak along the river or stroll through scenic parks. For thrill-seekers, visit Zoombezi Bay, a water park featuring exciting slides and a lazy river, or head to the nearby Franklin Park Conservatory for breathtaking botanical gardens and art installations.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Short North Arts District with its eclectic mix of bars and clubs. Visit the Axis Nightclub for dancing or enjoy craft cocktails at 16-Bit Bar+Arcade while playing retro games. Don’t miss the live music scene at The Basement for emerging artists.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Columbus
Columbus offers numerous ways to save during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like Bridge Park, Genoa Park, and the Wexner Center for the Arts. For transportation, consider using buses or rideshares for budget-friendly travel. The best time to visit for lower prices is between December and February, with Monday being the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia to find eco-friendly hotels and sort by price for the best deals. Combine your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings, and explore cancellation options to stay flexible in your planning.
- 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 and September to 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 customize your travel preferences, such as budget, desired location, and type of hotel you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Columbus with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Columbus
Columbus, Ohio, is an excellent destination for family, business, and city-themed vacations. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including urban parks, science museums, and botanical gardens. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or urban experiences, Columbus offers a range of points of interest that cater to all types of travelers, ensuring a memorable visit for everyone.
- McConnell Arts Center: Immerse yourself in a vibrant cultural hub at the McConnell Arts Center, known for its diverse art exhibitions and community events. The center showcases local talent and offers a range of classes, making it an engaging place for art lovers and families alike.
- COSI: Explore the wonders of science at COSI, a dynamic science museum that features interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. Perfect for families, COSI emphasizes learning through play, with live demonstrations and a planetarium that captivate visitors of all ages.
- Columbus Museum of Art: Discover an impressive collection of American and European art at the Columbus Museum of Art. With its focus on visual storytelling, the museum hosts rotating exhibitions and offers programs that enhance your appreciation of art and culture.
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
Traveling to Columbus, Ohio is convenient with its primary airport, Columbus (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.), situated 11km from the city. Notable hotels nearby include the 4.5-star Hotel LeVeque, just 11km away, and the 4-star Sonesta Columbus Downtown, located 10km from the airport. For those considering other airports, Dayton (DAY-James M. Cox Dayton Intl.) is 105km from Columbus, with nearby options such as the 3.5-star Wingate by Wyndham Dayton North, 6km away. Additionally, Akron (CAK-Akron-Canton) is 169km from Columbus, featuring hotels like the 4-star DoubleTree by Hilton Canton Downtown, 14km from Akron Airport. Each hotel offers convenient access to their respective airports.