Columbus, Ohio 3 Day Itinerary

Columbus, Ohio 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Downtown Columbus

Morning:

  • Start your day with breakfast at Northstar Cafe (459 North High St) - a local favorite for delicious and healthy options.
  • Visit the Ohio Statehouse (1 Capitol Square) to learn about Ohio’s history and government.
  • Stroll down the Scioto Mile (233 S Civic Center Dr) and enjoy the beautiful riverfront parks and views.

Afternoon:

  • Head to the Columbus Museum of Art (480 E Broad St) for an afternoon of art appreciation.
  • Explore the German Village (3rd Ave & S James St) - a charming historic neighborhood filled with unique shops, restaurants, and houses.
  • Grab lunch at Schmidt’s Sausage Haus (2406 S 3rd St) for authentic German food.

Evening:

  • Catch a show or concert at the Nationwide Arena (200 West Nationwide Blvd) if there’s an event happening.
  • Dine at Lincoln Social & Restaurant (420 S High St) for upscale American cuisine and great cocktails.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventure & Short North

Morning:

  • Begin your day with breakfast at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams (965 N High St) - a must-try Columbus treat, even for breakfast!
  • Visit the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (1777 E Broad St) to enjoy a variety of beautiful plants and exhibits.

Afternoon:

  • Head to the Scioto Audubon Metro Park (405 W Whittier St) for hiking, biking, or birdwatching.
  • Grab lunch at Harvest Pizza (651 N High St) in the Short North Arts District.

Evening:

  • Spend your evening exploring the trendy boutiques, art galleries, and street art of the Short North (N High St).
  • Dine at The Guild House (99 W 5th Ave) for a modern twist on American classics.

Day 3: Columbus Museums & Foodie Tour

Morning:

  • Start your day with breakfast at Katalina’s (487 S 3rd St) - a popular breakfast spot in German Village.
  • Visit the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) (333 W Broad St) for interactive science exhibits.

Afternoon:

  • Explore the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (4850 Powell Rd) - one of the best zoos in America.
  • Have lunch at Zauber Brewing Company (19 W 5th Ave) for tasty craft beers and sandwiches.

Evening:

  • Embark on a Columbus Food Adventures tour to discover local favorites and hidden gems.
  • End your trip with dinner at The Pearl (464 S 3rd St) - a unique dining experience set inside a renovated historic church.

Transportation:

  • Columbus has an excellent public transportation system, COTA (Central Ohio Transit Authority). You can also rent bikes from CoGo Bike Share.

Things to Know:

  • Columbus is known as the “Discovery City” because it was the site of the first non-native settlement in Ohio.
  • The city has a vibrant music scene, with venues like the Newport Music Hall and A&R Music Bar hosting concerts regularly.

Tips:

  • Visit Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams multiple times to try different flavors!
  • Check event schedules for Nationwide Arena, COSI, and other attractions before your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city on foot or by bike.