Columbus Ohio 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Downtown Columbus

  • Morning: Start your day at the Ohio Statehouse, the seat of government in Ohio. Take a guided tour of the building and climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views.
  • Lunch: Head to North Market, a historic public market that’s been around since 1876. Try some local cuisine, such as Polish Boy sandwiches or Greek gyro.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Center of Science and Industry (COSI), a science museum with interactive exhibits and a giant screen theater.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Kofinky, a modern American bistro with a focus on local ingredients.

Day 2: Columbus Neighborhoods

  • Morning: Explore the Short North, a vibrant neighborhood known for its boutique shops, street art, and brunch spots. Try Bier’s Cafe for some of the best breakfast in town.
  • Afternoon: Visit the German Village, a charming neighborhood with German-inspired architecture and culture. Take a stroll down Sycamore Street and grab a coffee at The Coffee Cup.
  • Evening: Head to The Arena District, a lively area with restaurants, bars, and live music venues. Try The Boat House for some upscale dining.

Day 3: Outdoor Columbus

  • Morning: Start your day at Folks Park, a beautiful green space in the heart of downtown. Take a stroll around the lake and rent a bike if you like.
  • Afternoon: Visit Franklinton, a historic neighborhood with a rich arts scene. Check out the Franklinton Arts District for some local galleries and street art.
  • Evening: Head to The 4th Street Corridor, a lively area with restaurants, bars, and live music venues. Try Skillet’s Kitchen for some farm-to-table cuisine.

Day 4: Columbus Attractions

  • Morning: Visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, home to polar bears, penguins, and sharks. Be sure to check out the Mane Event horse show.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Imagination Station, a children’s museum with interactive exhibits and play areas.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Red Horse, a modern American restaurant with a focus on local ingredients.

Day 5: Columbus Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Phipps Neighborhoods Conservatory, a beautiful garden conservatory with a stunning glass house. Take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy some peace and quiet.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Columbus Museum of Art, featuring a diverse collection of American art from the 19th century to the present.
  • Evening: End your trip at The North Market, where you can grab some dinner and browse the local shops.

Accommodations

There are plenty of great places to stay in Columbus, but here are a few recommendations:

  • The Lofts on Pearl: A boutique hotel with modern amenities and a great location.
  • The Hyatt Regency Columbus: A upscale hotel with comfortable rooms and a rooftop bar.
  • The Residence Inn Columbus Downtown: A convenient option for families or business travelers.

Transportation

Columbus has a public transportation system, including buses and a downtown trolley. However, it’s easy to get around on foot or by bike. If you need a ride, consider using Uber or Lyft.

Tips and Other Things to Know

  • Be sure to try some of the local cuisine, such as Polish Boy sandwiches or Greek gyro.
  • Columbus has a vibrant arts scene, with plenty of galleries and street art to explore.
  • Don’t miss the Ohio State Fair, which takes place every August.
  • If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to check out the Columbus Festival of the Arts, a free outdoor festival featuring live music and food vendors.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Columbus!