The Short North buzzes with artistic energy along High Street, where Victorian buildings house contemporary galleries and indie boutiques. Monthly Gallery Hop events draw thousands to wander between illuminated shopfronts and pop-up displays. The area pulses with creative spirit and cultural flair. This arts district balances visitor attractions with local hangouts. Craft cocktail bars and eclectic restaurants create a vibrant nightlife scene. North Market offers local flavours while colourful murals and street performers add to the neighborhood's unmistakable creative character.
Step back in time along the brick-lined streets of German Village in Columbus. This beautifully preserved 19th-century area showcases distinctive architecture and strong European heritage. The cobblestone pathways lead visitors past charming cottages and flowering gardens. The Book Loft's 32 rooms of literary treasures delight bibliophiles. Schiller Park serves as a green oasis with its amphitheatre hosting German festivals throughout the year. Authentic German restaurants fill the air with tempting aromas while local boutiques offer artisanal goods.
City centre Columbus blends corporate energy with cultural richness in the heart of Ohio's capital. Glass skyscrapers stand alongside the historic Ohio Statehouse, creating a dynamic urban landscape. The Arena District buzzes with sports fans heading to Nationwide Arena, while art lovers explore the Columbus Museum of Art. Theatre enthusiasts can catch performances at the ornate Ohio and Palace Theatres. Bicentennial Park offers peaceful riverside walks away from the weekday bustle. The area transforms on weekends with festivals, live music, and vibrant nightlife. North Market draws food lovers with diverse culinary options. Well-connected by buses and bike lanes, City centre Columbus makes exploration easy.
The Arena District pulses with energy as Columbus's premier entertainment hub. Hockey fans flock to Nationwide Arena for Blue Jackets games while concert-goers head to KEMBA Live! for shows. Sleek glass towers and converted brick buildings create a modern urban landscape perfect for night owls and sports enthusiasts. During game nights, sports bars and upscale restaurants buzz with excited crowds. The North Market offers local flavours just steps from luxury apartments and business hotels. Perfectly walkable and centrally located, this area puts you right where the action happens in city centre Columbus.
The University District pulses with energy around The Ohio State University's sprawling campus. High Street buzzes with student-friendly eateries, vintage shops, and lively sports bars. The iconic Ohio Stadium and cutting-edge Wexner Centre for the Arts anchor this college area with scarlet and grey spirit. Explore the peaceful campus Oval or catch performances at Newport Music Hall between classes. Budget-conscious travellers appreciate the affordable dining scene where food trucks and casual cafes serve international cuisines. Game days transform the area into an electric celebration that showcases authentic campus traditions.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Columbus
Ohio State University
9.0/10 (4,101 reviews)
The Ohio State University captivates visitors with its iconic Ohio Stadium and prestigious Wexner Centre for the Arts. Explore the beautiful campus during spring when academic energy blends with blooming gardens.
Photo by throwingsofas
Open Photo by throwingsofas
Greater Columbus Convention Center
8.8/10 (2,325 reviews)
This city centre venue showcases impressive Central Ohio art alongside event space. Discover the interactive 'As We Are' sculpture while attending one of the premier conventions or trade shows.
Easton Town Center
9.2/10 (4,025 reviews)
Easton Town Centre blends luxury shopping with vibrant public spaces on brick-lined streets. Explore 200+ retailers, dine at chef-driven restaurants, or enjoy seasonal events in this pedestrian-friendly destination.
Nationwide Arena
8.8/10 (2,037 reviews)
Nationwide Arena anchors Columbus's vibrant Arena District as home to the NHL's Blue Jackets. Experience the electric atmosphere of hockey games or concerts while enjoying the surrounding entertainment hub.
Ohio Stadium
9.0/10 (1,340 reviews)
"The Horseshoe" hosts Ohio State Buckeyes football with seating for over 100,000 fans. Experience the electrifying atmosphere during games or take a guided tour to access the press box and field.
Photo by Mike Gauthier
Open Photo by Mike Gauthier
Ohio Expo Center and State Fair
8.6/10 (852 reviews)
This sprawling complex hosts the Ohio State Fair, one of America's largest state fairs drawing over a million visitors annually. Explore agricultural exhibits, catch concerts, or enjoy thrilling carnival rides.
Photo by Mike Gauthier
Open Photo by Mike Gauthier
Ohio State Fairgrounds
8.6/10 (117 reviews)
Enjoy a stop at Ohio State Fairgrounds, an entertaining place to visit in Columbus. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene and great live music.
Polaris Fashion Place
9.0/10 (2,247 reviews)
Discover Central Ohio's premier shopping destination with over 170 retailers and exclusive brands. Explore market-exclusive boutiques, enjoy diverse dining options, and catch one of the mall's 75 annual events.
"If you are looking to elevate your stay, I highly recommend booking a room with access to the executive lounge—the evening hors d'oeuvres and morning breakfast spread were fantastic!"
"This was a very comfortable place for a three night stay. Nice to have a king bed and a sofa. Also liked having a separate shower and sink room from the toilet room. My only complaint was with the mediocre breakfast buffet, which offered the same “Today’s Special” each day I was there. But that’s a minor complaint. I appreciated the staff moving me from the first floor to an upper floor when very noisy/happy soccer (or baseball?) players were partying loudly in the lobby bar area. I will stay...
"The staff was exceptional, always focused on meeting my needs. The room was clean, aesthetically appealing, and highly functional. I would recommend this hotel."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Offering excellent value package deals on Expedia, you'll be surprised at how little a holiday to Columbus costs! Expedia's packages make travel planning easier and your savings go further.
What are the cheapest months to go to Columbus?
You can usually find lower prices and better availability in December, January and February. Take a look at our cheap Columbus holiday packages and you could score some great off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Columbus?
Dedicate around 2 days for your Columbus holiday if you're hoping to take in everything that makes this destination special. Stroll around key areas, including Downtown Columbus and Oletangy West. Then make a beeline for major sights like Lincoln Theatre and Riffe Centre Theatre Complex. With a clever itinerary, you can keep busy with room for some relaxation too. Want to go beyond Columbus? Consider fitting in an excursion or two.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Columbus?
Whether you're planning to discover attractions like COSI and Ohio State Fairgrounds, or want to experience its terrific culture and history, a Columbus holiday will leave you with lasting memories. Book your getaway with Expedia and discover why Columbus is such a good holiday destination.
How to find the best Columbus package deals?
Use Expedia's filter tool to find some tempting Columbus package deals. When you start your search, just set your maximum budget and then order the results by "Price: low to high." If you want to save, plan your trip for midweek, or search for Columbus package deals in the off-season. Play around with your travel dates and you may score even better discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's typically best to book your holiday package as soon as possible.
Is it cheaper to book a Columbus holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to give you more bang for your buck. Bundle your flight, car rental and hotel into one great-value price and you could save hundreds of dollars. You'll typically land a better deal than booking each component separately. And you'll still get the freedom to create a personalised Columbus holiday by choosing your preferred accommodation type, airline and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Columbus?
If you're planning a spontaneous Columbus adventure, check out our last-minute deals that can be booked up to a week before you go. Prefer not to wait until the last minute? You can find terrific deals on your hotels and flights by booking well in advance.
How to plan a trip to Columbus?
Pick your travel dates: The things you plan to do in Columbus and your preferred season will help you decide when to travel.
Set a budget: Factor in costs like transportation, flights and meals when working out how much to set aside for your trip to Columbus. Then, pick a hotel that fits your budget, whether that's an affordable option or a lavish retreat.
Decide your trip length: Consider how much time you'd like to spend exploring Columbus. Plan your days so you can get to all the attractions and activities you're interested in at a comfortable pace.
Bundle your accommodation and airfare: Once you've settled on your trip dates and duration, book the right Columbus holiday package for you.
Columbus, Ohio, offers a delightful mix of family-friendly and business-themed activities, making it an ideal destination for all types of visitors. Explore the city's vibrant shopping centres, engage in educational attractions, and consider various tour packages. Whether you're looking to shop or discover the local culture, Columbus has something for everyone, ensuring a memorable experience in this dynamic city.
Shopping
Experience the vibrant shopping scene in Columbus at Shops On Lane Avenue and The Mall at Tuttle Crossing, both bustling centres offering a mix of business and entertainment. Don't miss North Market for unique local goods and a taste of city life, perfect for gifts and souvenirs.
Recreation
At Lou Berliner Sports Park, enjoy tranquil surroundings while engaging in outdoor activities like walking or cycling. Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Newport Music Hall, where live music uplifts the spirit. Ohio Stadium offers an exhilarating environment, perfect for sports enthusiasts looking to soak in the energy of local games.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of karting at Magic Mountain Fun Center, where adrenaline meets fun. For family-friendly excitement, explore the arcadeAdventureZone at Magic Mountain Fun Center East, packed with games. Dive into summer fun at Groveport Aquatic Center, a vibrant waterpark offering adventure and entertainment for all ages.
Nightlife
Columbus boasts a vibrant nightlife, with lively spots like the trendy Short North Arts District, filled with eclectic bars and art galleries. For a more laid-back vibe, visit the local pubs in German Village, where you can enjoy craft beers and hearty fare in a charming atmosphere.
Find the best attractions in Columbus
Columbus is an excellent destination for family, business, and city-themed holidays, offering a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore urban parks, historic colleges and universities, and event conference venues, providing a rich experience for those seeking outdoor adventures or a vibrant city atmosphere. Whether travelling with family or on business, Columbus has something to cater to every traveller's needs.
Gahanna Woods Park and State Nature Preserve: Immerse yourself in nature at this serene reserve, known for its friendly atmosphere and recreational activities. Wander through lush trails, enjoy birdwatching, and experience the tranquillity of the woodlands, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Red Rooster Quilts: Explore the vibrant world of quilting at this charming gallery. With a focus on cultural artistry, Red Rooster Quilts showcases stunning fabric creations and offers workshops, making it an ideal stop for craft enthusiasts.
Ohio State University: Visit this historic institution, renowned for its academic excellence and rich culture. Stroll through its picturesque campus, admire iconic architecture, and soak in the vibrant student life that defines this esteemed university.
Best time to go to Columbus
The best time to visit Columbus can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Columbus falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Columbus falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Columbus
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically December to February) for more affordable package holidays to Columbus.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.