Columbus, Ohio-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Friday

Morning

  • Stop 1: Start your day with a visit to the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (470 W. Broad St). Explore the stunning glasshouses and gardens, which feature over 400 species of plants.
  • Stop 2: After visiting the conservatory, head over to the nearby Columbus Museum of Art (480 E. Broad St) for a dose of art and culture.

Lunch

  • Grab lunch at The Short North’s The Eagle Food and Beer Hall (13 W. 7th Ave), which serves up delicious burgers and craft beer in a lively atmosphere.

Afternoon

  • Stop 1: Visit the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) (333 W. Broad St) for some interactive science fun.
  • Stop 2: End your day with a stroll through the trendy Short North neighborhood, known for its boutique shops, galleries, and street art.

Dinner

  • Enjoy dinner at The Keepers (15 E. Beck St), which serves up farm-to-table American cuisine in a cozy setting.

Nightlife

  • Head to the North Market (59 Spruce St) for some live music and drinks.
  • Alternatively, check out the Short North’s nightlife scene, with bars like The Guild House (445 N. High St) offering craft cocktails and DJs.

Day 2: Saturday

Morning

  • Start your day with a visit to the Ohio Statehouse (1 Capitol Square), which offers guided tours of the historic building.
  • Take in the stunning views from the top of the building, if you time it right!

Lunch

  • Grab lunch at The Schmidt’s Sausage Haus und Restaurant (240 E. Kossuth St), a Columbus institution serving up tasty sausages and traditional German cuisine.

Afternoon

  • Stop 1: Visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, home to polar bears, penguins, and sharks.
  • Stop 2: Stop by the Maple Heights neighborhood for some shopping and exploring.

Dinner

  • Enjoy dinner at The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro (1128 Mount St), which offers upscale American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

Nightlife

  • Head to the German Village neighborhood, known for its lively nightlife scene.
  • Check out the Short North’s nightlife for some alternative options, like bars and clubs.

Day 3: Sunday

Morning

  • Start your day with a visit to the Clintonville neighborhood, known for its eclectic mix of shops and eateries.
  • Stop by the North Market Farmers’ Market (59 Spruce St) for some fresh produce and artisanal goods.

Lunch

  • Grab lunch at The Crest (1310 Oakwood Ave), which serves up delicious burgers and sandwiches in a cozy setting.

Afternoon

  • Stop 1: Visit the Columbus Children’s Theatre, which offers interactive theater experiences for kids.
  • Stop 2: Explore the Wexner Center for the Arts, located on the campus of Ohio State University.

Dinner

  • Enjoy dinner at The Skillet (1215 Oakwood Ave), a farm-to-table restaurant serving up delicious Southern-inspired cuisine.

Day 4: Monday

Morning

  • Start your day with a visit to the Columbus City Archives, which offers guided tours of the historic city building.
  • Take in the stunning views from the top of the building, if you time it right!

Lunch

  • Grab lunch at The Pearl Kitchen and Bar (532 S. High St), which serves up fresh seafood and creative cocktails.

Afternoon

  • Stop 1: Visit the Kelton House Museum, a historic home turned museum showcasing Victorian-era artifacts.
  • Stop 2: Explore the Columbus Art Association’s Gallery, featuring works by local artists.

Dinner

  • Enjoy dinner at The Guild House (445 N. High St), offering upscale American cuisine and craft cocktails.

Day 5: Tuesday

Morning

  • Start your day with a visit to the Columbus Museum of Health, which offers interactive exhibits on health and wellness.
  • Explore the nearby Columbus State Community College campus for some modern architecture and beautiful gardens.

Lunch

  • Grab lunch at The Short North’s The Sycamore Kitchen & Bar (242 W. 7th Ave), serving up delicious sandwiches and salads.

Afternoon

  • Stop 1: Visit the Columbus Public Library, a stunning example of neoclassical architecture.
  • Stop 2: Explore the Franklinton neighborhood, known for its vibrant arts scene and eclectic shops.

Dinner

  • Enjoy dinner at The Keepers (15 E. Beck St), offering farm-to-table American cuisine in a cozy setting.

Day 6: Wednesday

Morning

  • Start your day with a visit to the Columbus International School, which offers tours of their historic campus.
  • Take in the stunning views from the top of the building, if you time it right!

Lunch

  • Grab lunch at The North Market’s The Pita Pit (59 Spruce St), serving up fresh pita sandwiches and salads.

Afternoon

  • Stop 1: Visit the Columbus Children’s Theatre, offering interactive theater experiences for kids.
  • Stop 2: Explore the Wexner Center for the Arts, located on the campus of Ohio State University.

Where to Stay:

  • The Short North’s Hotel LeVeque (700 N. High St) offers upscale accommodations in a stylish setting.
  • The German Village neighborhood’s Hyatt Regency Columbus (350 N. High St) provides comfortable rooms and modern amenities.

Getting Around:

  • Public Transportation: The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) operates buses throughout the city, including downtown areas.
  • Ride-hailing Services: Uber and Lyft are widely available in Columbus.
  • Walking: Many neighborhoods, like the Short North and German Village, are pedestrian-friendly.

Tips and Essentials:

  • Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable Ohio weather, with layers and sunscreen.
  • Safety: Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and follow local guidelines.
  • Parking: Parking fees may apply in some areas; be sure to check signs or meters for information.
  • Currency: US dollars are the standard currency; credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted.

Other Interests:

  • Sports: Catch a Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL) game at Nationwide Arena or an Ohio State Buckeyes football game at Ohio Stadium.
  • Food Tours: Explore Columbus’s culinary scene with food tours that highlight local eateries and specialties.
  • Local Events: Check out the city’s event calendar to catch festivals, concerts, and other happenings throughout the year.