Columbus on a Budget: 2 Days of Adventures!

Discover Columbus without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Visit the Columbus Museum of Art, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and the Ohio Statehouse for free or at a low cost. Enjoy budget-friendly food options at local eateries like Philco Bar + Diner and the North Market. Stay at affordable accommodations like the Red Roof Inn or the Motel 6.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Columbus on a Budget

  • Start the morning right with a cup of coffee from One Line Coffee local roasted goodness!
  • Admire the impressive architecture at the Ohio Statehouse, with it's Greek Revival style pillars and rotunda
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the colorful and quirky Short North Arts District with its eclectic boutiques, galleries, and street art
  • Get a taste of Ohio's farm-to-table culture at the North Market, where you can sample artisan cheese, bread, and fresh produce
  • Visit the Columbus Museum of Art, which offers free admission on Sundays, and marvel at the works of both national and international artists
  • For a budget-friendly stay, book a room at The Wayfaring Buckeye Hostel. This charming hostel boasts both dorm and private rooms, as well as a fully equipped kitchen and communal areas.
Day 2

Outdoor Adventures in Columbus

  • Lace up your hiking boots and explore the babbling streams and forest trails at Highbanks Metro Park
  • Get your adrenaline pumping with a zipline tour at ZipZone Outdoor Adventures.
  • Have a picnic and take a paddleboat ride at the picturesque Schiller Park, located in Columbus' charming German Village
  • Have a laugh at Shadowbox Live, a local theater that combines sketch comedy, music, and dance performances
  • Treat yourself to a delicious burger and craft beer at Columbus' original gastropub, The Thurman Cafe
  • For a cozy and affordable place to stay, check out the Graduate Columbus hotel. This retro-themed hotel boasts delicious food in their adjoining restaurant Gatsby's, as well as comfortable and quirky rooms that will transport you back in time.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Columbus by plane is to fly into John Glenn Columbus International Airport, which serves multiple airlines and destinations.

Car

Driving to Columbus is straightforward, with several major highways and interstates running through the city, including I-70, I-71, and I-270. Parking is readily available at most hotels and attractions.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct trains to Columbus, with the closest Amtrak station being in Cincinnati (around two hours away by car). However, there are local commuter rails that serve Columbus and surrounding areas.

Boat

While there are no direct boat routes to Columbus, visitors can enjoy scenic riverboat cruises along the Ohio River or rent boats for recreational use on nearby lakes and reservoirs.

Bus

Traveling to Columbus by bus is affordable and easy, with several options available, including Greyhound and Megabus. The Columbus Bus Station downtown is conveniently located and accessible.

Destination

Columbus

Welcome to a city that's not just known for its delicious chocolate and heartwarming football movies, but also for being the home of the brave and the land of the Buckeyes. Come explore Columbus, the city that's more than just a compass direction!

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

5 Days of Adventure in Columbus, Ohio

Columbus is the capital city of Ohio and is a vibrant destination for tourists. This city is rich in history with fascinating museums, such as the Ohio History Center, and is home to the iconic Ohio State University. With a flourishing arts and culinary scene, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Columbus.

3 Days of Fun: Columbus on a Budget!

A trip to Columbus, United States on a limited budget can be both fun and pocket-friendly. Start your day by visiting the beautiful Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, which won't cost you a cent if you visit on a Wednesday. Take a stroll in the beautiful German Village and visit various art galleries and shops while enjoying free street parking. Lastly, don't forget to take a leisurely walk around the Ohio State University campus and visit the Wexner Center for the Arts, which is free and open to the public.

Romantic Long Weekend in Columbus, USA

Columbus is a delightful destination for a romantic trip in the United States. This charming city offers couples a variety of top-rated restaurants, cultural activities, and natural settings to explore together. From strolling through the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens to enjoying a romantic dinner at The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro, Columbus is the perfect place to connect and make unforgettable memories with your sweetheart.

Unleash Your Inner Explorer in Vibrant Columbus

Columbus, located in the heart of Ohio, offers a fantastic family-friendly destination with something for everyone. Explore the beauty of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, home to a wide range of animals and interactive exhibits. Delight your taste buds at the North Market, a bustling indoor market filled with local food vendors and fresh produce. Finally, immerse yourself in science and innovation at COSI, a hands-on science center, making Columbus a perfect destination for an unforgettable family trip.