Tourism initiatives for Columbus, Ohio are headed by the Columbus Visitor Center. The Experience Columbus marketing initiative consists of various efforts, including a comprehensive website that provides detailed information on Columbus, its attractions, accommodations, nightlife, restaurant scene and more. The goal of Experience Columbus is to provide visitors with customized trip-planning, making the experience of visiting Columbus a hassle-free and enjoyable one.
Columbus has a number of attractions and entertainment options. Visitors can explore the many art galleries and performing arts venues, like the Columbus Museum of Art and the Columbus Jazz Orchestra. Attractions include the renowned Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the Short North Arts District, the Arena District and COSI Columbus, a hands-on science center. Visitors to Columbus can also catch some sports action, like the Columbus Crew, Ohio State University and professional golf tournaments. Columbus has an active nightlife with places like Callahan’s, an Irish-themed pub, or the upscale Lindey’s in the historic German Village.
Experience Columbus provides a large directory of accommodation options. The city is home a variety of hotels, including elegant and luxurious hotels like the Westin, Hyatt and Hilton. More modestly priced accommodations are also available, like the Knights Inn, Days Inn and Econo Lodge. Environmentally conscious travelers also have options, like the Holiday Inn, Doubletree Guest Suites and Hilton Garden Inn, which have all been designated as "green" hotels. Many of Columbus’ hotels are located within easy walking distance of the city's many attractions and distinctive neighborhoods.
Columbus has a diverse restaurant scene and is especially known for its German eateries, as the city has deep German roots. The German Village in Columbus has a number of specialty restaurants, like Juergen’s German Bakery and Restaurant, Max and Erma’s and Schmidt’s Restaurant und Sausage Haus. Columbus features a wide array of cuisines besides German. Visitors will find a number of breakfast places, steak houses, sushi restaurants and pizza joints. The Arena District, Short North, downtown area and Ohio State University campus are great places to discover the many restaurants that Columbus offers.
Columbus is home to several shopping districts, which can be found in neighborhoods like the German Village and Easton. There are five malls in the city, including the Eastland Mall, Greater Columbus Antique Mall in the German Village, Prime Outlets at Jeffersonville, Vino 100 at Polaris and The Mall at Tuttle Crossing. The Columbus Convention Center has some shopping options as well. There are a number of boutiques and specialty stores in Columbus, like Caterina Limited, which sells European house wares, art and gifts.
A great way to explore the many sights in Columbus is through a tour. There are a number of tour options for visitors. Experiential tours highlight the culture of Columbus through its art, gardens, neighborhoods and history. Personalized group tours are also available and feature a tour guide, itinerary planning, photos, parking and newsletters. Experience Columbus provides an array of sample itineraries the highlight the best of Columbus, like its history, Columbus hot spots and culinary specialties.
