Columbus Ohio 3 Day Itinerary

Columbus, Ohio 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Downtown Columbus

Morning

  • Start at: Scioto Mile (345 E. Rich St), a scenic park along the Scioto River with walking trails and stunning city views.
  • Visit: The Columbus Museum of Art (480 E. Broad St), featuring American and European art, as well as rotating exhibitions.

Afternoon

  • Lunch: The North Market (59 Spruce St), a historic public market offering a variety of food vendors, including seafood, BBQ, and vegan options.
  • Explore: The Short North neighborhood, known for its vibrant street art, independent boutiques, and eclectic restaurants.
  • Visit: The Ohio Theatre (39 E. State St), a stunning example of 1920s architecture with guided tours available.

Evening

  • Dinner: The Pearl Kitchen & Bar (641 N. High St), serving contemporary American cuisine in a trendy setting.
  • Stay: Hotel LeVeque, Autograph Collection (50 W. Broad St), a boutique hotel with luxurious rooms and a rooftop bar offering city views.

Day 2: Discover Science, History, and Nature

Morning

  • Visit: The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) (333 W. Broad St), featuring interactive exhibits on science and technology.
  • Explore: The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (1777 E. Broad St), a stunning botanical garden with over 400 acres of gardens, greenhouses, and art installations.

Afternoon

  • Lunch: The Boat House at Confluence Park (679 W. Spring St), offering waterfront dining with views of the Scioto River.
  • Visit: The Ohio History Center (800 E. 17th Ave), showcasing the state’s history through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.

Evening

  • Dinner: The Guild House (624 S. Front St), serving farm-to-table American cuisine in a historic setting.
  • Tip: Catch a show or concert at the Express Live! outdoor music venue (405 Neil Ave) or the Newport Music Hall (1722 N. High St).

Day 3: Experience German Village and Brewery District

Morning

  • Visit: The German Village (S. Third St), a charming neighborhood with historic architecture, boutique shops, and European-inspired restaurants.
  • Brunch: Schmidt’s Sausage Haus und Deli (240 E. Kossuth St), serving traditional German cuisine and beer.

Afternoon

  • Explore: The Brewery District (W. Broad St), home to several craft breweries, including Wolf’s Ridge Brewing (215 N. Fourth St) and Land-Grant Brewing Company (424 W. Town St).
  • Tour: Take a guided tour of the Columbus Brewery scene with companies like Columbus Brew Adventures.

Evening

  • Dinner: The Butcher & The Brewer (1205 W. Broad St), offering gourmet burgers and craft beer in a lively atmosphere.
  • Tip: End your trip with a stroll along the Scioto River Greenway, which offers beautiful views of the city skyline.

Things to Know

  • Columbus is easily accessible by car or plane, with Port Columbus International Airport (CMH) located about 6 miles from downtown.
  • The city has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and a streetcar service.
  • Be sure to check the schedules and availability for attractions, restaurants, and breweries before heading out.

Tips

  • Consider purchasing a Columbus Attractions Pass, which grants discounted admission to several popular attractions.
  • Don’t miss the stunning sunsets over the Scioto River, perfect for romantic strolls or Instagram-worthy photos.
  • Be prepared for variable Midwestern weather, packing layers and waterproof gear as needed.