Columbus Ohio 2 Day Itinerary
Columbus, Ohio 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1:
Morning:
- Start your day with breakfast at Northstar Café, a local favorite known for its farm-to-table dishes and excellent coffee.
- Visit the Columbus Museum of Art to appreciate a diverse collection of American art from the 18th century to the present. Admission is free on Sundays!
Afternoon:
- Head over to the Short North Arts District, an eclectic neighborhood filled with boutiques, galleries, and unique eateries. Don’t miss the LeVeque Tower for a stunning view of downtown Columbus.
- Grab lunch at Harvest Pizza in the Short North, offering delicious wood-fired pizzas and locally sourced ingredients.
- Explore the Scioto Mile, a beautiful riverfront park system that includes attractions like the Columbus Commons and Bicentennial Park.
Evening:
- For dinner, head to the German Village, a historic neighborhood known for its charming architecture and vibrant restaurant scene. Some top picks include Schmidt’s Sausage Haus Restaurant and Gerhard’s Bier Markt.
- Cap off your evening with a show at the Capital University’s Doug & Mike Meyers Studio Theatre or the Lincoln Theatre.
Day 2:
Morning:
- Begin your day with breakfast at Katalina’s, serving classic American comfort food in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
- Visit the Ohio History Connection to learn about Ohio’s rich history, including exhibits on Native American culture, early settlements, and modern innovations.
Afternoon:
- Head to the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, a stunning glasshouse filled with tropical plants, palm trees, and exotic flowers. Don’t miss the outdoor gardens, including the Japanese Garden and the Desert and Dry Forest Garden.
- Grab lunch at The Guild House located within the conservatory. They offer a variety of dishes inspired by global cuisines with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.
- Take a self-guided tour of Ohio State University’s campus and check out iconic landmarks like The Oval, Mirror Lake, and the Ohio Stadium (home of the Buckeyes football team).
Evening:
- For dinner, visit Tasi Cafe & Catering in Clintonville, offering a diverse menu with an emphasis on fresh seafood and farm-to-table dishes.
- End your trip with a dessert at Spoon Sweeties & Bakeshop, serving delicious pastries, cakes, and ice cream made from family recipes.
Transportation:
- Columbus offers an extensive network of CotA buses for getting around the city. You can also rent bikes using CoGo Bike Share. For longer distances, consider using rideshares like Uber or Lyft.
Things to know:
- Columbus is known for its friendly locals, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or strike up a conversation!
- The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, such as Greek Town Festival, ComFest, and Columbus Food Truck Festival.
- Columbus has a humid continental climate, so be prepared for both hot summers and cold winters, with the best times to visit being in the spring and fall.