3 Days of Fun: Columbus on a Budget!

Discover Columbus on a dime: budget-friendly adventures await!

21 June 2023

A trip to Columbus, United States on a limited budget can be both fun and pocket-friendly. Start your day by visiting the beautiful Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, which won't cost you a cent if you visit on a Wednesday. Take a stroll in the beautiful German Village and visit various art galleries and shops while enjoying free street parking. Lastly, don't forget to take a leisurely walk around the Ohio State University campus and visit the Wexner Center for the Arts, which is free and open to the public.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Downtown Columbus

  • Check in at Red Roof Plus+ Columbus Downtown-Convention Center – a budget friendly hotel located right in the heart of downtown.
  • Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at Katalina's Cafe Corner, famous for their fluffy pancakes and sweet and savory breakfast tacos.
  • Take a stroll through the Columbus Commons and admire the art sculptures and colorful flowers.
  • Tour the Ohio Statehouse and learn about Ohio's history and politics.
  • Grab a cold brew at Wolf's Ridge Brewing, a local brewery serving up delicious craft beers.
  • Dinner at Dirty Frank's Hot Dog Palace – where you can customize your hot dog with over 50 toppings. Don't forget to try their famous veggie dogs!
Day 2

Cultural Exploration

  • Start the day at the Columbus Museum of Art and appreciate the fine art displays from all over the world.
  • Take a walk through the Short North Arts District – a hip and trendy area filled with unique shops and galleries.
  • Lunch at North Market – a historic market featuring international cuisine from over 30 different vendors.
  • Visit the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens and see the stunning plant displays and butterfly exhibit.
  • Enjoy the night at Shadowbox Live, a theater showcasing comedy shows, live music, and more!
  • End the day with dinner at Schmidt's Sausage Haus und Restaurant – a German eatery serving up authentic bratwurst and sauerkraut.
Day 3

Nature Adventures

  • Start the day off with breakfast at Buckeye Donuts – a beloved local spot serving up delicious donuts and coffee.
  • Explore the Ohio State University campus and admire the beautiful architecture and landscaping.
  • Take a scenic walk through the Olentangy River Trail and appreciate the natural beauty of Columbus.
  • Lunch at the Explorer's Club – a cozy spot serving up Latin and Caribbean inspired dishes.
  • Spend the afternoon at the Scioto Audubon Metro Park and participate in outdoor activities such as rock climbing, bird watching, and hiking.
  • Finish off the trip with dinner at Harvest Pizzeria – a farm-to-table pizza restaurant featuring fresh and flavorful ingredients.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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!

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

An Art and History Weekend in Columbus

Columbus, Ohio is a charming city with much to offer couples. From strolling hand in hand along the Scioto Mile to indulging in gourmet cuisine at The Refectory, Columbus is the perfect setting for a memorable romantic getaway. With numerous museums and parks to explore, Columbus is a city where you can make cherished memories with your partner.

5-Day Romantic Escape to Columbus, Ohio

Columbus is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. Explore the city's thriving arts and culture scene, take a romantic stroll through the beautiful parks, and indulge in the local culinary scene. Relax and unwind in one of the city's luxurious hotels or bed and breakfasts.

A Budget-Friendly Day in Columbus, OH

A trip to Columbus, United States, on a limited budget can still be a fun and enjoyable experience. Visit the Ohio Statehouse, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Franklin Park Conservatory for free or low-cost entertainment. Finding affordable accommodations and using public transportation will also help keep costs down while exploring the city.

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.