Columbus Uncovered: A Day of Culture and Charm

Discovering history, art, and innovation in the heart of Ohio.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, visiting Columbus in the United States is an exciting experience. From exploring the city's history in the German Village or the Ohio Statehouse, to taking in art museums or wandering the city's unique neighborhoods, there's no shortage of things to do. Sample local cuisine and craft beers, watch a Columbus Crew SC match, and soak in the charming atmosphere of Columbus for a memorable vacation.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring the Heart of Columbus

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Katalina's, a cozy spot with a charming patio and famous Nutella-filled pancake balls.
  • Take a stroll through the charming German Village, where brick-lined streets and quaint shops transport you to another time.
  • Don't miss the Book Loft, a sprawling complex with 32 rooms filled with new and used books. You could easily spend hours browsing the shelves.
  • Head to the Short North Arts District for lunch at Northstar Cafe, known for its locally-sourced ingredients and delicious veggie burgers.
  • Spend the afternoon at the Columbus Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of American and European art, as well as rotating exhibits.
  • End your day with a sweet treat at Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, where you can sample artisanal flavors like Salted Peanut Butter with Chocolate Flecks or Queen City Cayenne.
  • Columbus may be known for its football team, but one day here will show you that it has so much more to offer.

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

Columbus Uncovered: A Day of Culture and Charm

As a tourist, visiting Columbus in the United States is an exciting experience. From exploring the city's history in the German Village or the Ohio Statehouse, to taking in art museums or wandering the city's unique neighborhoods, there's no shortage of things to do. Sample local cuisine and craft beers, watch a Columbus Crew SC match, and soak in the charming atmosphere of Columbus for a memorable vacation.

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.

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.

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.