5-Day Romantic Escape to Columbus, Ohio

Fall in love all over again in Columbus, where adventure and romance collide.

22 April 2023

Columbus is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. Explore the city's thriving arts and culture scene, take a romantic stroll through the beautiful parks, and indulge in the local culinary scene. Relax and unwind in one of the city's luxurious hotels or bed and breakfasts.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
  • Stay at the luxurious Hotel LeVeque, named after renowned Columbus architect John LeVeque, and take in the stunning art deco style of the building.
  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at Lindey's in German Village, known for its upscale cuisine and cozy atmosphere.
  • Sip on delicious cocktails at Curio, a speakeasy-style bar hidden behind a bookcase in German Village.
  • Take a romantic stroll through the picturesque Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
  • Indulge in a couple's massage at The Spa at The Joseph, a sleek hotel located in the trendy Short North Arts District.
  • Head to the Columbus Museum of Art, featuring a diverse collection of American and European art.
  • Explore the scientific wonders of the Center of Science and Industry (COSI), including their Planetarium and Giant Screen Theater.
  • Have lunch at North Market, a bustling indoor market with a variety of delicious eateries.
  • Take a walk along the Scioto Mile, a 175-acre park along the Scioto River that features stunning views of the city skyline.
  • Catch a show at the historic Palace Theatre, a beautifully restored vaudeville-style theatre.
  • Visit the Ohio Statehouse, where you can take a guided tour and learn about Ohio's legislative history.
  • Immerse yourself in Ohio's past at the Ohio History Center, featuring exhibits and interactive displays.
  • Take a break and grab lunch at Schmidt's Sausage Haus und Restaurant, a local favorite for authentic German cuisine.
  • Visit the Topiary Park, showcasing beautiful topiary sculptures inspired by Georges Seurat's painting "A Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grande Jatte."
  • Take a ride on the Olentangy Trail, a scenic 13.7-mile paved trail that meanders through woods and alongside the river.
  • Start the day with brunch at Katalina's, a cozy cafe in Victorian Village known for their famous breakfast tacos.
  • Visit the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens again for their Farm-to-Table Dinner Series, featuring seasonal and locally sourced meals.
  • Indulge in sweet treats at Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, a local ice cream chain known for their unique and delicious flavors.
  • Experience the flavors of Italy at Marcella's, offering modern twists on classic dishes inspired by the tradition of Italian cooking.
  • End the night with drinks at The Bottle Shop, a laid-back craft beer and wine bar in the Victorian Village neighborhood.
  • Shop for unique finds at the Short North Arts District's boutiques and galleries.
  • Take a tour of the Wexner Center for the Arts, showcasing contemporary art exhibits and world-class performances.
  • Have lunch at the Northstar Cafe, a local favorite for organic and locally sourced cuisine.
  • Visit the Ohio Village, an immersive living history museum depicting life in 19th century Ohio.
  • End the trip with a show at the Ohio Theatre, a stunningly restored theatre showcasing classic films and live performances.

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.

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.

Columbus on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

Visiting Columbus on a limited budget doesn't mean you have to sacrifice fun. Start your trip at the Science Museum, a hands-on experience for all ages. Explore the unique neighborhoods like Short North and German Village for delicious eats and shopping, with plenty of budget-friendly options. End your trip with a walk around the Ohio State University campus and a picnic in the beautiful Scioto Mile park.

3 Days of Fun in Columbus, Ohio

Columbus, Ohio offers a mix of historic and modern attractions that are perfect for tourists. Visitors can explore the city's downtown area, which features a range of shops, museums, and restaurants, before heading over to view the stunning architecture at the Ohio Statehouse. A trip to Columbus wouldn't be complete without a visit to popular attractions such as the Columbus Zoo or the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.