Columbus, Ohio-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Downtown Columbus

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start the day with breakfast at The North Market, a historic public market featuring local food vendors.
    • Address: 59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Must-try: Try some sweet or savory crepes from the Crepeserie booth!
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Columbus Metropolitan Library’s Main Branch, a stunning example of modern architecture with an impressive interior.
    • Address: 96 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Admission: Free

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Northstar Cafe, a popular spot for sandwiches and salads in the Short North neighborhood.
    • Address: 4241 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214
    • Must-try: Their signature “K-Town” burrito!
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the vibrant Short North neighborhood, known for its street art, boutique shops, and restaurants.
    • Address: Between 5th and 6th Avenues, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Must-see: The stunning murals and graffiti covering the walls!

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Dine at The Refinery, a contemporary American bistro with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
    • Address: 1023 W Main St, Columbus, OH 43222
    • Must-try: Their signature “Reef Burger”!
  • 9:00 PM: Catch some live music or comedy at the historic Southern Theatre.
    • Address: 21 E 5th Ave, Columbus, OH 43215

Where to Stay:

  • The Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel, a stylish hotel with comfortable rooms and excellent service.
    • Address: 28 E Spring St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Rates: Around $150 per night.

Day 2: Science and Nature

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Center of Science and Industry (COSI), a world-class science museum featuring interactive exhibits.
    • Address: 333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Admission: $14.95 for adults, free for children under 3
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the beautiful Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, a stunning greenhouse with over 2 million plants.
    • Address: 400 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Admission: $14.95 for adults, free for children under 3

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at The Book Cafe, a cozy spot near COSI with sandwiches and salads.
    • Address: 333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Must-try: Their famous “Reuben” sandwich!
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, home to over 10,000 animals from around the world.
    • Address: 4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065 (about 30 minutes north of downtown)
    • Admission: $24.99 for adults, free for children under 3

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Dine at The Boat House, a waterfront restaurant with stunning views and seafood options.
    • Address: 525 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Must-try: Their signature “Fisherman’s Platter”!

Day 3: Art and Culture

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Columbus Museum of Art, a world-class art museum featuring over 12,000 works.
    • Address: 480 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Admission: Free
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the vibrant German Village neighborhood, known for its unique shops and restaurants.
    • Address: Between 3rd and 4th Avenues, Columbus, OH 43215
    • Must-see: The stunning architecture and beautiful parks!

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at The Katalina’s Cafe, a cozy spot in German Village with sandwiches and salads.
    • Address: 1267 W Lane Ave, Columbus, OH 43221
    • Must-try: Their famous “Cubano” sandwich!
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Wexner Center for the Arts, a world-class art museum featuring cutting-edge exhibitions.
    • Address: 1871 N High St, Columbus, OH 43210 (about 20 minutes north of downtown)
    • Admission: Free

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Catch some live music or theater at the historic Village Theater.
    • Address: 4170 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214
    • Must-see: Their summer concert series!

Day 4: Outdoor Adventures

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Highbanks Metro Park, a stunning park with hiking trails and scenic views.
    • Address: 7101 S Old 3rd St, Powell, OH 43065 (about 30 minutes north of downtown)
    • Admission: Free
  • 11:00 AM: Rent a kayak or paddleboard at the Scioto Audubon Metropolitan Park.
    • Address: 1225 W Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43223
    • Rental fees: Around $20 for an hour

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at The Melt, a popular spot near the park with sandwiches and salads.
    • Address: 1330 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201
    • Must-try: Their famous “Truffle” sandwich!
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Columbus Zoo’s Water Park, a fun water park featuring slides and splash pads.
    • Address: 4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065 (about 30 minutes north of downtown)
    • Admission: $29.99 for adults, free for children under 3

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Dine at The Short North’s latest hotspot, Lido, with a focus on seafood and sushi.
    • Address: 1115 W Lane Ave, Columbus, OH 43221
    • Must-try: Their signature “Sushi Pizza”!

Transportation:

  • The city has an excellent public transportation system called the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA). You can use their website or app to plan your route.
  • If you prefer to drive, parking is widely available in most areas.

Tips and Other Things of Interest:

  • Be sure to try some local craft beer at one of Columbus’ many breweries!
  • Visit the Ohio Statehouse, a stunning Capitol building with beautiful architecture.
  • Take a stroll through the vibrant Clintonville neighborhood, known for its unique shops and restaurants.