First Visit
Stay central and walkable. Downtown, the Short North and Franklinton all connect on foot, and the Scioto Mile riverfront ties them together. Start the morning with coffee at Maudine's in Franklinton or a stall at North Market downtown, and you've already seen three neighborhoods before lunch.
A Weekend for Two
The Short North has the densest run of restaurants and bars in the city. German Village is the quieter, prettier pick, with brick streets, Schiller Park and The Book Loft. For a drink with a view, go to one of the city's rooftop bars. Brass Eye, on the roof of The Junto, faces the downtown skyline across the river.
Families
Look for a hotel with more than two beds and something to do nearby. COSI, one of the country's best-known science museums, is in Franklinton, and the Columbus Zoo is about 25 minutes north. The Junto's bunk rooms, a king bed with a full-size bunk above, are built for exactly this, and guests can get two COSI tickets on request.
Ohio State Games and Campus Visits
Stay near campus if you can get a room, and book early. Game weekends and graduation fill up months out. Downtown, the Short North and Franklinton are three to five miles away, with more places to eat. Our Ohio State football weekend guide covers getting to the stadium.
Conventions and Business Trips
The Greater Columbus Convention Center sits between downtown and the Short North, so either neighborhood lets you walk to your sessions. If you'd rather not eat every meal with your conference, stay a bridge away. Franklinton is five minutes by car from the Convention Center, and Little West Tavern is a good place to take a client for a wood-fired dinner.
Groups and Wedding Weekends
Keep everyone under one roof with a room block. Look for a hotel with a place for the group to gather that isn't a hotel bar. At The Junto, groups end up in The Trade Room, a fireside library bar off the lobby.
On a Budget
Timing matters more than the hotel. Rates spike on home football weekends and during big conventions, and drop on Sunday nights. Booking a few days ahead also helps. Many hotels discount nonrefundable rates, including The Junto's Advance Purchase offer.
Staying in Franklinton: The Junto
The Junto is on Belle Street in Franklinton, just west of downtown across the Scioto River and across the street from COSI. It's modeled on Ben Franklin's original Junto, a club that met to trade ideas, and the lobby works as the neighborhood's gathering spot. Rooms range from classic kings to bunk rooms, lofts and suites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Hotels in Columbus, Ohio?
It depends on your trip. Downtown hotels are best for conventions and arena events, Short North hotels for restaurants and nightlife, and Franklinton for a neighborhood feel a short walk from downtown. Near campus is best for Ohio State games.
Where Should I Stay in Columbus, Ohio for a First Visit?
Downtown, the Short North or Franklinton. All three are central, connected on foot and close to the riverfront.
Which Area of Columbus Is Best for Families?
Franklinton, across the street from COSI and a short drive from downtown. The Columbus Zoo is about 25 minutes north.
When Are Hotels in Columbus Cheapest?
Sunday nights and weekends without a home Ohio State game or a large convention. Booking ahead at a nonrefundable rate usually saves more.