On the east side of Columbus, you can find several historic neighborhoods, but also a growing crime problem. Columbus' airport is in the east part of the city and, like the east side hotels, are within 15 to 20 minutes of downtown. Most of Columbus' attractions, nightlife, restaurants, sporting and cultural events are found in and around the city center in the Arena District, the Easton Town Center and the Short North Arts District.
The Columbus Airport Marriott is right off of I-670, which allows for easy access to both the airport, which is just under three miles away, and the city center, which is about six miles away. The hotel provides a free airport shuttle. The Columbus Zoo, 15 miles away, is also easily accessible, via the nearby 270 beltway. Few attractions are within the immediate area and dining options are mostly limited to fast food. The River City Grille, within the hotel, serves American cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The fitness center, with a pool, sauna and hot tub is open 24 hours. All rooms and suites are non-smoking.
The HIlton Garden Inn is a quarter of a mile from the airport, about eight miles from downtown and 12 to Ohio State University. It offers easy access to both I-670 and I-270. The hotel offers a free shuttle to the airport and to businesses within five miles. The on-site Great American Grille serves a continental breakfast and a mix of dishes for dinner, including pizzas, burgers and steaks. Both smoking and non-smoking rooms are available and guests have access to a fitness center and pool.
The Ramada Columbus East Airport is two miles from the airport, for which there is a free shuttle, and offers easy access, via the I-270, to the city center, which is about 12 miles away. The Four Seasons Golf Center, with mini golf and a driving range, as well as the 18-hole Columbus Country Club, are within walking distance. The once on-site Napoli's Villa restaurant has moved to a nearby location and serves pizza and Italian food. Most food choices in the area are fast food. Smoking and non-smoking rooms are available and the hotel has a fitness center and outdoor pool.
If you plan to visit Columbus with the kids, this may be the hotel for you. The Fort Rapids Indoor Water Park Resort has 12 water rides, a river and a 1,000-gallon tipping bucket. The resort is at the junction of I-70 and I-270, so transportation to the airport, about 5 miles away, and to the city center, about 11 miles away, is simple. Dine Tex-Mex style, at the Branding Iron Grille, or grab a drink at the Copper Star Saloon. Smoking and non-smoking rooms and villas are available. In the local area , you can find rollerskating, bowling, a JC Penny Outlet store and a few restaurants, including the Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse.
