Discover museums, pro ball and a German village in this riverside capital city.
Find culturally rich neighborhoods, a sophisticated art scene, major sports and tons of entertainment in Columbus, Ohio. Situated along the Scioto River, this capital is a walking city, with winding greenways, parks and a hip arts district centered on North High Street. Whether you visit the museums and theaters of Downtown Columbus or savor the local delicacies available in the sweet shops and sausage houses of German Village, Columbus is sure to impress.
Explore Columbus
- Downtown Columbus
- Clintonville
- University District
- German Village
- Short North Arts District
Downtown Columbus
Overview
Stroll the winding greenways and verdant parks of Downtown Columbus. Host to some of the city’s top family-friendly attractions — including the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium — this area is the perfect locale to learn about the city’s past and get a sense of its future.
Known For
Restaurants, Shopping, Museums
Clintonville
Overview
Located in the capital city’s northern end, Clintonville was once a summer retreat for downtown business owners. Today, it’s a leafy residential area full of public parks and gardens, gastropubs, boutiques and bike paths that wind along the Olentangy River.
Known For
Boutiques, Dining , Parks
University District
Overview
With 50,000-plus students, Ohio State University nearly qualifies as a city in itself. Immerse yourself in the energy of bright minds and Buckeye football in this business district that abuts the main campus. Shop for vintage clothing, squirrel up in a cozy coffee shop or get the shot-and-beer combo at one of the neighborhood’s popular dives.
Known For
Student Life, Nightlife , Vintage Shopping
German Village
Overview
Explore the historic streets of German Village, which are full of shops and private residences built by 19th-century immigrants. Highlights include modern art galleries and iconic eateries like Schmidt’s Sausage Haus, an unpretentious, 125-year-old landmark with an oompah band.
Known For
Historic Sites, Restaurants, Architecture
Short North Arts District
Overview
Take to the streets of the Short North Arts District to visit some of Columbus’ top contemporary art galleries. On North High Street, you’ll find performance theaters — like the Wexner Center for the Arts and Short North Stage — as well as eclectic shops, coffeehouses, vintage stores and breweries.
Known For
Art Galleries, Breweries, Coffeehouses
Stay in The Center of it All
Immerse yourself in your destination at these centrally located hotels.
How to Have the Best Three-Day Weekend in Columbus, Ohio
Explore German Village, Scioto Mile and Short North Arts District
Visit historic German Village, the Ohio Statehouse and Scioto Mile, a lush, 175-acre urban oasis, before giving thanks for our military at the National Veterans Memorial & Museum. Later, cheer on the home team at Huntington Park or hit Short North, the city’s popular arts district.
Experience Downtown Columbus’ Art and Brewery Scene
Begin your day with a free public yoga class at Columbus Commons before touring the Columbus Museum of Art. Get your nature fix at Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, then a dose of drama (the good kind) during an off-Broadway performance at the historic Ohio Theatre.
Enjoy Columbus’ Best Brunch Spots, Shopping, History and Riverview Dining
After a delectable brunch, head to the Ohio History Center and Ohio Village for old-school adventures via regional culture and history. That evening, treat yourself to an upscale meal at Milestone 229, an upscale restaurant with floor-to-ceiling views of the Scioto River and Columbus’ shimmering skyline.