Columbus on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

Explore Columbus without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Columbus

  • Check in at The Wayfaring Buckeye Hostel, a cozy and affordable accommodation located in the heart of the city
  • Take a stroll through the Scioto Mile, a green oasis in downtown Columbus
  • Visit the Statehouse, where Ohio's political history comes to life
  • Grab a slice of mouth-watering pizza at Mikey's Late Night Slice, a local favorite
  • Enjoy the sunset from the rooftop of The Walrus, a trendy bar with delicious cocktails and stunning views of the city
Day 2

Arts and Culture

  • Explore the Short North Arts District, home to many art galleries, boutiques, and cafes
  • Visit the Columbus Museum of Art and admire its outstanding collection of American and European paintings
  • Take a guided tour of the Ohio Theatre, a beautifully restored venue that hosts concerts, ballets, and operas
  • Have lunch at North Market, a vibrant indoor market with diverse food options
  • Catch a performance at the Wexner Center for the Arts, a contemporary art center showcasing cutting-edge exhibitions and events
Day 3

Nature and Parks

  • Head to Topiary Park, a unique green space that features manicured shrubs in the shape of famous paintings
  • Explore the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, an enchanting oasis with colorful flowers, exotic plants, and stunning glass artworks
  • Rent a bike and ride the Olentangy Trail, a scenic route along the river that leads to beautiful parks and neighborhoods
  • Visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, a world-renowned attraction with over 10,000 animals and fascinating exhibits
  • Have dinner at Wolf's Ridge Brewing, a local brewery and restaurant that offers a delicious farm-to-table menu
Day 4

History and Heritage

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at German Village Coffee Shop, a charming diner with classic American fare
  • Visit the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, a powerful tribute to the men and women who served in the US armed forces
  • Explore the charming neighborhood of German Village, known for its preserved 19th-century architecture and quaint shops
  • Learn about the history of Ohio State University at the Ohio Union, a stunning building that serves as a hub for student life
  • Have a drink at The Bottle Shop, a cozy bar that specializes in craft beers and fine wines
Day 5

Food and Fun

  • Join a food tour of Columbus and sample the city's best bites, from artisanal chocolates to spicy ethnic dishes
  • Play a round of mini-golf at putt-putt or visit Dave and Buster's arcade for some family fun
  • Check out the Columbus Crew Stadium and catch a soccer game with the locals
  • Have one last meal at Dirty Frank's Hot Dog Palace, a funky hotspot that serves creative hot dogs and vegetarian options
  • Raise a toast to a memorable trip at Ace of Cups, a live music venue with an eclectic vibe and great drinks.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

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

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Columbus on a Budget: 2 Days of Adventures!

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.

A Budget-Friendly Day in Columbus, OH

A trip to Columbus, United States, on a limited budget can still be a fun and enjoyable experience. Visit the Ohio Statehouse, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Franklin Park Conservatory for free or low-cost entertainment. Finding affordable accommodations and using public transportation will also help keep costs down while exploring the city.

5-Day Romantic Escape to Columbus, Ohio

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.

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.