Columbus on a Budget: 2 Days of Adventures!

Discover Columbus without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Visit the Columbus Museum of Art, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and the Ohio Statehouse for free or at a low cost. Enjoy budget-friendly food options at local eateries like Philco Bar + Diner and the North Market. Stay at affordable accommodations like the Red Roof Inn or the Motel 6.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Columbus on a Budget

  • Start the morning right with a cup of coffee from One Line Coffee local roasted goodness!
  • Admire the impressive architecture at the Ohio Statehouse, with it's Greek Revival style pillars and rotunda
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the colorful and quirky Short North Arts District with its eclectic boutiques, galleries, and street art
  • Get a taste of Ohio's farm-to-table culture at the North Market, where you can sample artisan cheese, bread, and fresh produce
  • Visit the Columbus Museum of Art, which offers free admission on Sundays, and marvel at the works of both national and international artists
  • For a budget-friendly stay, book a room at The Wayfaring Buckeye Hostel. This charming hostel boasts both dorm and private rooms, as well as a fully equipped kitchen and communal areas.
Day 2

Outdoor Adventures in Columbus

  • Lace up your hiking boots and explore the babbling streams and forest trails at Highbanks Metro Park
  • Get your adrenaline pumping with a zipline tour at ZipZone Outdoor Adventures.
  • Have a picnic and take a paddleboat ride at the picturesque Schiller Park, located in Columbus' charming German Village
  • Have a laugh at Shadowbox Live, a local theater that combines sketch comedy, music, and dance performances
  • Treat yourself to a delicious burger and craft beer at Columbus' original gastropub, The Thurman Cafe
  • For a cozy and affordable place to stay, check out the Graduate Columbus hotel. This retro-themed hotel boasts delicious food in their adjoining restaurant Gatsby's, as well as comfortable and quirky rooms that will transport you back in time.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Columbus by plane is to fly into John Glenn Columbus International Airport, which serves multiple airlines and destinations.

Car

Driving to Columbus is straightforward, with several major highways and interstates running through the city, including I-70, I-71, and I-270. Parking is readily available at most hotels and attractions.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct trains to Columbus, with the closest Amtrak station being in Cincinnati (around two hours away by car). However, there are local commuter rails that serve Columbus and surrounding areas.

Boat

While there are no direct boat routes to Columbus, visitors can enjoy scenic riverboat cruises along the Ohio River or rent boats for recreational use on nearby lakes and reservoirs.

Bus

Traveling to Columbus by bus is affordable and easy, with several options available, including Greyhound and Megabus. The Columbus Bus Station downtown is conveniently located and accessible.

Destination

Columbus

Welcome to a city that's not just known for its delicious chocolate and heartwarming football movies, but also for being the home of the brave and the land of the Buckeyes. Come explore Columbus, the city that's more than just a compass direction!

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Romantic Day Trip: Discovering Columbus Love

A trip to Columbus for a romantic getaway offers a blend of culture, nature, and urban refinement. Couples can explore the gorgeous gardens at Franklin Park Conservatory, enjoy a stroll at Scioto Mile, and grab a romantic dinner at The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro. With countless romantic activities on offer, Columbus is a destination not to be missed for couples seeking a little romance.

Columbus Uncovered: A Day of Culture and Charm

As a tourist, visiting Columbus in the United States is an exciting experience. From exploring the city's history in the German Village or the Ohio Statehouse, to taking in art museums or wandering the city's unique neighborhoods, there's no shortage of things to do. Sample local cuisine and craft beers, watch a Columbus Crew SC match, and soak in the charming atmosphere of Columbus for a memorable vacation.

Columbus on a Budget: 2 Days of Adventures!

Visit the Columbus Museum of Art, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and the Ohio Statehouse for free or at a low cost. Enjoy budget-friendly food options at local eateries like Philco Bar + Diner and the North Market. Stay at affordable accommodations like the Red Roof Inn or the Motel 6.

Unleash Your Inner Explorer in Vibrant Columbus

Columbus, located in the heart of Ohio, offers a fantastic family-friendly destination with something for everyone. Explore the beauty of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, home to a wide range of animals and interactive exhibits. Delight your taste buds at the North Market, a bustling indoor market filled with local food vendors and fresh produce. Finally, immerse yourself in science and innovation at COSI, a hands-on science center, making Columbus a perfect destination for an unforgettable family trip.