Top Attractions for…
Columbus packs an incredible variety of sights and activities into its compact city limits. So to help you plan an itinerary tailored to your unique crew, we’ve broken down some of the city’s best offerings based on your group’s interests:
Sports fanatics – You can’t come to Columbus without experiencing the electric game day atmosphere surrounding Ohio State football. Gear up for an unforgettable tailgate and spend the afternoon cheering your lungs out at the iconic Ohio Stadium.
Basketball buffs won’t want to miss the Schottenstein Center, home court for the Buckeyes men’s and women’s teams.
Arts aficionados – Don’t sleep on Columbus’s flourishing arts scene! From cutting-edge installations at the Wexner Center to the outstanding collection at the Columbus Museum of Art, this city’s museums have you covered. Or time your visit for the Columbus Arts Festival, when downtown transforms into a vibrant, open-air celebration of arts and crafts.
Family Fun
Traveling with kids in tow? Columbus has you covered with loads of amazing family-friendly hotspots. Get up-close with incredible wildlife at the world-renowned Columbus Zoo and Aquarium or spark their curiosity at the hands-on COSI science museum. When it’s time to blow off some steam, look no further than Zoombezi Bay waterpark (open in summer months) or the massive Center of Science and Industry (COSI). For an educational yet engaging day, explore Ohio’s natural wonders at Highbanks Metro Park or soak in some history at sites like the Ohio History Center or Ohio Village. Or simply let them run free in an open green space like the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. No matter where you go, Columbus makes keeping the whole family entertained a breeze.
Outdoor Adventurers
If your crew is more at home hitting the trails than indoor exhibits, you’ll find plenty of ways to soak in the great outdoors around Columbus. Take a peaceful stroll through the lush gardens surrounding the Park of Roses or the stunning Inniswood Metro Gardens. For a more active adventure, grab your bikes and spend the day cruising along the scenic paths winding through Scioto Audubon or Blendon Woods Metro Park. Looking for thrills? You can’t go wrong with parasailing or jet skiing on the water at Alum Creek State Park Beach. Or channel your inner daredevil trying out one of the ropes courses and ziplines at Hocking Hills Adventure Trail. When the weather cools down, nearby ski resorts like Mad River Mountain and Snow Trails beckon with fresh powder and pristine slopes.
Foodies & Craft Brew Lovers
With creative, eclectic restaurants around every corner, it’s easy to see why Columbus is a foodie paradise. The Short North Arts District houses a particularly vibrant collection of trendsetting eateries like Paulie Gee’s (wood-fired pizza), Roost (locally-sourced modern French fare), and Arch City Tavern for elevated pub grub. And of course, no Columbus food tour would be complete without a stop in the Brewery District. Sample offerings from local staples like Seventh Son Brewing, Gemut Biergarten, or Wolf’s Ridge. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, fulfill your cravings at beloved spots like Late Night Slice (gourmet pizza), Dirty Frank’s (hot dog heaven), or Momo Ghar for authentic Himalayan dumplings. Trust us, in Columbus, your taste buds will never be bored!
History Buffs
Columbus has played a pivotal role in American history since its founding, and there’s no shortage of incredible sites and attractions for students of the past to explore. Walking tours like the Scioto Mile immerse you in the city’s origins, or you can visit important landmarks like the Ohio Statehouse (one of the oldest working statehouses in the US) and German Village (a quaint heritage neighborhood founded by immigrants). Set aside ample time for the outstanding exhibits at Ohio History Center, which illuminate centuries of Ohio history through artifacts and educational programs. The museum’s Ohio Village area even recreates life in the 1800s with costumed actors and bustling historical interpreters. For insights into African-American history, the King Arts Complex and Kelton House Museum are must-visits. However you choose to experience it, Columbus’s past is sure to inspire.
Nightlife Connoisseurs
When the sun goes down, that’s when Columbus’s vibrant nightlife scene really comes alive! The Short North Arts District is the hottest hub for trendy nightspots. Grab cocktails and tapas at The Curio or dance the night away at the energetic Park Street Patio. Columbus’s LGBTQ+ population keeps things lively at beloved hangouts like the AWOL Bar and Ledo Lounge in The Short North or Maverick’s in the Brewery District. But if dive bars and craft brews are more your speed, you’ll be right at home in campus-adjacent neighborhoods like The Lantern District. For a big night out, look no further than the glittering Arena District. Here you’ll find upscale lounges, rowdy sports bars, and striking views of the Columbus skyline. However you choose to experience it, Columbus’s nightlife won’t leave you disappointed!
Big Event Enthusiasts
With its lively atmosphere, central location, and state-of-the-art event facilities, Columbus is a premier host city for massive conventions, festivals, and celebrations each year. Some of the biggest happenings include the beloved Ohio State Fair in late July, the Asian Festival in late May, and the Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival every June. Sports fans will want to plan visits around major competitions at the Schottenstein Center, Nationwide Arena, and Ohio Stadium. If you’re a foodie, don’t miss the weekend-long Columbus Food Truck Festival or the massively popular Columbus Oktoberfest. And for a uniquely Columbus experience, time your travels for the vibrant Columbus Pride Festival & Parade held in mid-June. Whenever you come, there’s sure to be a big event bringing the city’s endless energy to life!
How to Get Around Columbus
Columbus may pack a lot of excitement into its compact footprint, but getting between its many attractions can still feel like a daunting task—especially if you’re trying to navigate an unfamiliar city with a big group in tow. Have no fear, Columbus visitors: we’ve broken down the city’s top transportation options to help you get around easily and efficiently. For smaller groups, public transit like the CBUS (free downtown circulator) and COTA buses make getting to the top sights a breeze. But if you’re rolling with a larger crew, avoid the hassle of separating into multiple vehicles. Hailing a fleet of rideshares can get expensive fast, after all. That’s why a private charter bus rental is the smart, cost-effective choice for group travel in Columbus. But more on that shortly…
Public Transportation
Though it may not be as extensive as transit systems in bigger metropolises, Columbus does offer solid public transportation that can easily connect you to many of the top attractions around downtown and beyond. The CBUS is a free circulator bus that runs every 10-15 minutes and makes a loop through key areas like the Short North Arts District, Brewery District, German Village, and more. For trips farther afield, the COTA bus system links Columbus to many surrounding suburbs at a standard $2 fare. One perk of the COTA service: many of the major attractions, like the Columbus Zoo, offer free transfers to and from transit stops. Paying full price for a round-trip fare makes exploring easy as can be. Just be aware that night service is limited, making public transit less convenient for late evenings on the town.
Taxis and Rideshares
For small groups looking to avoid parking headaches and get door-to-door service, hailing a taxi, Uber or Lyft can seem like the obvious choice. And to be fair, rideshares eliminate plenty of the stress from getting around Columbus—no need to navigate or worry about finding parking at your destination. But for groups bigger than 4 or 5 people, rideshare costs can add up incredibly fast. You’ll likely need to split into multiple vehicles, coordinate pickup times, and divvy up fare costs just to get everyone where you need to go at once. And if you plan on bouncing between multiple Columbus neighborhoods, those trip fares will climb even higher. Unless you travel with a very small entourage, Columbus taxis and rideshares are far from the most efficient or affordable transportation option. You’ll save money and prevent major logistical headaches by considering a better group travel solution…
Charter Buses
Want to keep your whole crew together while navigating Columbus smoothly and affordably? Look no further than a private charter bus rental from Party Bus Columbus! Our team has years of experience helping groups explore Ohio’s capital in comfort and style. By renting a full-sized motorcoach, you can roll all across Columbus together and on your own schedule—no need to split up into multiple vehicles or wait on rideshares. Load up all your luggage and travel accessories with ample onboard storage bays, then stretch out in plush, reclining seats while you enjoy premium amenities like free WiFi and televisions with DVD players. Best of all, a professional, locally-based driver handles all the road logistics while you focus on having fun with your group! Whether you need a compact minibus for under 30 people or a full 56-passenger Columbus charter bus rental, we’ll pair you with the perfect vehicle for your group. Just give us a call at 614-591-0565 to start planning your transportation today.
Ready to Get Started?
Now that you’ve gotten a preview of what Columbus has in store, it’s time to start mapping out your ideal group getaway! Whether your crew is looking to delve into history, catch a big game or concert, or simply experience Columbus’s creative side through food, culture and nightlife, this city aims to please. And when it comes to group transportation that keeps your whole squad together smoothly and affordably, we’re Columbus’s top crew. Call Party Bus Columbus at 614-591-0565, and one of our knowledgeable reservation specialists will be happy to discuss all our comfortable bus options, special pricing for large groups, and more. Lock in your perfect Columbus charter bus rental, and you’re all set for an unforgettable getaway in Ohio’s capital city! Ready to make some memories with your people? Let’s get this show on the road.