3 Days of Fun: Columbus on a Budget!

Discover Columbus on a dime: budget-friendly adventures await!

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Downtown Columbus

  • Check in at Red Roof Plus+ Columbus Downtown-Convention Center – a budget friendly hotel located right in the heart of downtown.
  • Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at Katalina's Cafe Corner, famous for their fluffy pancakes and sweet and savory breakfast tacos.
  • Take a stroll through the Columbus Commons and admire the art sculptures and colorful flowers.
  • Tour the Ohio Statehouse and learn about Ohio's history and politics.
  • Grab a cold brew at Wolf's Ridge Brewing, a local brewery serving up delicious craft beers.
  • Dinner at Dirty Frank's Hot Dog Palace – where you can customize your hot dog with over 50 toppings. Don't forget to try their famous veggie dogs!
Day 2

Cultural Exploration

  • Start the day at the Columbus Museum of Art and appreciate the fine art displays from all over the world.
  • Take a walk through the Short North Arts District – a hip and trendy area filled with unique shops and galleries.
  • Lunch at North Market – a historic market featuring international cuisine from over 30 different vendors.
  • Visit the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens and see the stunning plant displays and butterfly exhibit.
  • Enjoy the night at Shadowbox Live, a theater showcasing comedy shows, live music, and more!
  • End the day with dinner at Schmidt's Sausage Haus und Restaurant – a German eatery serving up authentic bratwurst and sauerkraut.
Day 3

Nature Adventures

  • Start the day off with breakfast at Buckeye Donuts – a beloved local spot serving up delicious donuts and coffee.
  • Explore the Ohio State University campus and admire the beautiful architecture and landscaping.
  • Take a scenic walk through the Olentangy River Trail and appreciate the natural beauty of Columbus.
  • Lunch at the Explorer's Club – a cozy spot serving up Latin and Caribbean inspired dishes.
  • Spend the afternoon at the Scioto Audubon Metro Park and participate in outdoor activities such as rock climbing, bird watching, and hiking.
  • Finish off the trip with dinner at Harvest Pizzeria – a farm-to-table pizza restaurant featuring fresh and flavorful ingredients.

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.

More travel plans

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.

5 Days in Columbus: Unearthing Family Fun!

A family friendly trip to Columbus, United States offers a wide range of activities and attractions for all ages. Explore the interactive exhibits at the Center of Science and Industry (COSI), wander through the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and make lasting memories at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. With its lively atmosphere and family-oriented attractions, Columbus promises an exciting and educational experience for the whole family.

4 Days of Fun in Budget-Friendly Columbus, USA

A trip to Columbus on a limited budget can still be enjoyable. Visiting free attractions like the Ohio Statehouse, Franklin Park Conservatory, and the Columbus Museum of Art is a great way to save money. Staying in a budget hotel or hostel and enjoying meals from local food trucks and markets can also help stretch your dollar.

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.