Your Travel Guide To Columbus, Ohio

Published on by Life With Ra'Nesha

Columbus ranked “Highest In Visitor Satisfaction in the Midwest” by J.D Power in the 2016 Destination Experience Satisfaction Study.

I invite you to come and enjoy beautiful Columbus, Ohio home of the Ohio State Buckeyes. I can assure Columbus has plenty to offer and you will pleasantly be surprised with local and tourist attractions alike for a perfect getaway. The several things which draw me to Columbus as an excellent place to visit are the festivals, attractions, history and popular events there is just so much to do without breaking the bank.

What To Explore (Check for Winter Hours)

Columbus Museum of Art is a very diverse oasis of cultural art. They have a collection of exhibits, events, and programs which education you on a higher level about the history and culture of various eras and pieces through a self-guided tour you will enjoy. Located at 480 East Broad Street please note the museum is not open on Mondays.

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Scioto Mile is 175 acres of beautiful parkland located in downtown Columbus. Scioto Mile calls itself as an “urban oasis comprised of more than 175 acres of lush parkland. Stretching along the riverfront from the vibrant Arena District to the natural beauty of the Whittier Peninsula, the Scioto Mile reconnects downtown to the Scioto River through an integrated system of parks, boulevards, bikeways and pedestrian paths.” and I agree. It is simply beautiful especially right before the sun sets.

Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Garden is full of natural beauty, events, exhibits and memorable experiences for all ages. The Conservatory is situated in the 88-acre Franklin Park just two miles east of downtown Columbus. Featuring indoor gardens filled with exotic plant life and artwork, including a collection of glass works by artist Dale Chihuly, the Conservatory offers the enjoyment of the natural world any time of the day or year. Outdoors, botanical gardens, art sculptures, open green space and a one-mile walking loop offer respite from everyday life.

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There is so much to do, see, and take in, Columbus truly is a gem, but let’s not forget the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and Discover Reef a 100,000-gallon saltwater aquarium which is found on the west side of the Zoo on the right once guests pass through the tunnel. The Columbus Zoo owns and operates a water park called Zoombezi Bay at the Zoo. Did you know Jungle Jack Hanna is the Director Emeritus who often makes appearances at the Zoo for special events, as well as, filming his two hit shows Jack Hanna’s Into The Wild and Jack Hanna’s Wild Countdown? Please visit www.jackhanna.com to view his schedule.04266_lr

The Columbus Zoo is the Safari Golf Club a place to de-stress and have a fantastic time with friends while teeing up on the green. Book a tee time today and discover a world of private club amenities, smart course design, and surprisingly affordable rates. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is open 363 days of the year, rain or shine! To view our operating hours click here.

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Where To Eat & Drink

North Market is fun gathering spot in Columbus known for being a foodie’s hub you can always get a variety of fresh and excellent meals here as well as tickle your shopping fancy. Check out this list of merchants. They also house some of the best farmers in Columbus and also offer various events. Please make sure this is on your list of stops. Tips for first-time visitors: http://www.northmarket.com/NoMa-Press/Tips-for-First-Time-Visitors.aspx

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Dirty Frank’s Hotdog Palace is a favorite of both locals and tourist. It popped up on the scene in 2009 and has made a huge impact ever since. Dirty Frank’s Hotdog Palace is a “hot-dog lover’s” dream. Plus they have beef, vegan, and vegetarian hotdogs a little something for everyone. There are two locations in the greater Columbus area.

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Hot Chicken Takeover is impressive this restaurant spun as a result of the Nashville, TN hot chicken market. I just love their backstory after a baby-moon to Nashville and experiencing hot chicken they knew they had to bring the concept to Columbus and that is what they did through community efforts and a Kick Starter campaign.

King Gyros Greek Restaurant has been around for twenty-five years. The owner, Yanni, takes great pride in staying true to his roots and following in his father’s footsteps off having an authentic Greek-owned restaurant with the experience to match.

Columbus has over 35 breweries with refreshing hand-crafted beers, cocktails, and live entertainment throughout the city. So, don’t miss the chance to experience one the Columbus Brew Adventures. Their tours will provide you with the opportunity to explore Central Ohio from Downtown Columbus and Grandview where you will go behind the scenes to see and taste from producers of some the finest craft beers, cider, meads, and spirits; the Columbus Brew Adventure offers something for everyone! Columbus Brew Adventures even offers day trip beer tours to Licking County and other craft destinations in Ohio. If you’re visiting Columbus, Ohio, this unique attraction is not to be missed!

Where To Shop

Columbus is the headquarters for many big-name retailers like Express, DSW, Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Work and several others just to name a few. Did you know Columbus also has the third highest concentration of fashion designers behind only New York and Los Angeles?

In the heart of Columbus neighborhoods, there are a few chic boutiques from independent fashion retailers and designers. The Short North Arts District is full of one-of-a-kind shops for men and women alike. Also located in the Short North is one of favorite stores FOUNT the Cleveland-based leather goods company offer an array of handbags.

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The Candle Lab, in Worthington and the Short North Arts District, offers hand-poured candles in more than 120 fragrances, pour-your-own custom scented candles, customization home fragrance products and small-batch natural bath and body products.

Easton an indoor/outdoor shopping center with its unique village setting and a broad assortment of restaurants, entertainment and retailers is a fashion guru’s dream. Also located at Easton another one of my favorite stores is Homage features screened vintage sports and civic logos from around the nation and carries only the best and softest t-shirts.

Polaris Fashion Place features an indoor/outdoor mall and close by stores such as Cabelas, and IKEA (opening summer 2017). Just north of Columbus is Tanger Outlets, Ohio’s outlet mall with more than 90 name brands.

There is so much to do, see, and take in, Columbus truly is a gem I invite you to come and explore Columbus as my guest! For a full list of upcoming attractions, places to stay and much more please visit https://www.experiencecolumbus.com/.

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See you soon!

All photos contained in this post belong to the business establishment mentioned in the post above. I don’t own rights to any of the photos. Links provided to each of the locations directly. I have quoted some information from the site links embedded within the post but provided 100% of my opinion without bias. This is not a sponsored post.

 

87 thoughts on “Your Travel Guide To Columbus, Ohio”

  3. Columbus looks like a nice place to settle down. I spent a summer there when I worked for Packard Electric (university co-op program). I didn’t see much of the city, but I remember the location played havoc on my allergies all summer long.

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  4. I have never really explored Ohio. I had a friend who lived in Columbus, but I never got around to visiting her. This looks like a blast, I would really enjoy it I think.

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    1. Hello,

      I didn’t have time to make a candle, but I plan to stop by sometimes in May to make one. Although a friend gave me one in December as a gift. Just FYI I’ve heard nothing, but positive things and my quick visit left me in smiles. Your welcome!

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  17. I graduated from OSU over 10 years ago and I can’t believe how much Cbus has changed! Here’s a hidden gem to add to the list: have you been to the Topiary Garden in the old school for the deaf park (near the art museum)? It is awesome!

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  21. I didn’t know that Columbus was the home for so many big name retailers. I don’t think I’ve ever been to Columbus, but it seems like there is an awful lot to do once you’re there!

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  23. I never thought about Columbus as a spot to visit but might have to add it to the list. Sounds like a great chill place to visit and explore with the MR.

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  36. I’ve never been to Columbus, but have been to Cleveland. North Market sounds amazing! I love visiting markets when traveling, especially ones with a ton of different food options. You’ve inspired me to go back to Ohio!

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  37. What a coincidence! Just the other week I met a girl from Colombus Ohio and we chatted about the city and the things to do! I think I’ll opt for all the food options, especially the hot chicken takeover sounds delish! MMmmhhh nom nom nom.

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  43. I have heard such great things about Columbus and your post just reinforces that. I’d love to stroll around the botanic gardens and have lunch at the market. And the zoo looks great–my kids would love that.

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  45. We are yet to make to this part of the world. And whenever we do gonna keep this post handy with loads of information out there. Columbus Museum of Art sounds very interesting with those beautiful paintings. We would love to visit the Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Garden for it would be a great respite from the city hustle. The zoo would definitely be on the list too.

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  47. I’ve never been to Columbus. Not sure why, but I’ve always thought there was nothing to see there. Reading this has made me reconsider.

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  49. I haven’t been to Ohio in YEARS. I mean since I was a kid going with my dad on his trips as a truck driver. I’d love to revisit, especially make a stop at one of the breweries.

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