Columbus might not scream “tourist hotspot” like New York or Los Angeles, but if you give it a chance, you’ll find a city full of character, creativity, and comfort. Where you stay here can completely shape your trip — and since I’ve visited several times, I’ve learned that the right hotel can make the difference between “just okay” and “unforgettable.”
This guide breaks down five fantastic places to stay in Columbus, organized by neighborhood. I’ll share my own first-hand experience with one hotel I stayed in, and then I’ll recommend four more based on research, guest reviews, and insider knowledge.
My Stay: Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph – Short North Arts District 🎨
The Short North Arts District is my favorite part of Columbus. It’s vibrant, walkable, and full of color — quite literally, because almost every block is covered in murals. On my last trip, I stayed at Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph, and it felt like the perfect match for the neighborhood’s artsy, upscale vibe.
Booking & Price
I booked my stay through Marriott’s official website because I’m a Bonvoy member. I paid about \$235/night, but the site had a “Stay Longer” deal where if you booked three nights or more, you’d get 15% off. This actually brought my average nightly rate down to around \$200 after taxes. I checked Hotels.com and Booking.com as well — the prices were similar, but Marriott offered bonus points.
Location & Nearby Attractions
The hotel is right on High Street, the Short North’s main artery. I could literally walk to:
- Goodale Park (5 minutes) — great for a morning jog.
- North Market Downtown (10 minutes) — one of my favorite food halls in the country.
- Dozens of galleries, cafes, and boutiques.
If I wanted to head downtown or to the Ohio State University area, I could grab a COTA bus right outside the hotel, or call a Lyft (about \$8–\$10 to most central spots).
Facilities & Services
- A small but sleek fitness center with free weights and Peloton bikes.
- A restaurant and cocktail bar, Soul at the Joseph, serving creative American dishes.
- Complimentary Illy coffee in the lobby every morning — a lifesaver for early sightseeing days.
- Valet parking (pricey at \$40/night, but there’s street parking if you don’t mind moving your car).
Room Experience
My room had floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking High Street, a huge king bed with crisp white linens, and an oversized walk-in shower. What stood out was the art — each room has original, curated artwork from the Pizzuti Collection, which makes it feel like you’re staying in a private gallery. The Wi-Fi was fast enough for me to upload dozens of photos each night.
Pros
- Unbeatable location for nightlife and dining.
- Modern design with a strong local art connection.
- Staff were genuinely friendly — the front desk clerk even wrote down her favorite taco spot for me.
Cons
- No pool (if that’s important to you).
- Valet pricing is steep.
Would I Stay Again? Absolutely. This hotel feels like the heartbeat of the Short North, and waking up to that energy every day was worth every penny.
2. The Westin Great Southern Columbus – Downtown Columbus 🌇
If you’re into history and charm, The Westin Great Southern Columbus will win you over. Built in 1897, it’s one of Columbus’s most historic hotels, and it’s been renovated to blend classic architecture with modern touches.
Why I Recommend It
- Recently updated rooms still have original architectural details.
- Westin’s Heavenly Beds are famously comfortable.
- Located in the heart of downtown, within walking distance of the Ohio Statehouse, Columbus Commons, and Scioto Mile Riverwalk.
Facilities & Services
- On-site restaurant serving seasonal American cuisine.
- Business center and event spaces for meetings or weddings.
- Fitness studio with 24-hour access.
Nearby Attractions
Scioto Mile, Ohio Theatre, and the Center of Science and Industry (COSI).
Booking & Price
Average rate is around \$200/night on Hotels.com, but I’ve seen it drop to \$170 during low season. Marriott Bonvoy members can sometimes find free-night promotions.
3. Hilton Columbus at Easton – Easton Town Center 🛍️
If you want shopping, dining, and entertainment right outside your door, the Hilton at Easton is unbeatable. It’s literally inside the Easton Town Center complex — a mix of high-end and mid-range stores, plus dozens of restaurants.
Why I Recommend It
- Spacious rooms with big work desks for business travelers.
- Indoor heated pool and modern fitness center.
- Complimentary shuttle to and from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (10–15 minutes away).
Facilities & Services
- On-site restaurant and lobby bar.
- Conference and meeting facilities.
- Concierge desk to help plan your shopping or nightlife.
Nearby Attractions
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus, AMC Easton Theatre, and 200+ stores from Nordstrom to Apple.
Booking & Price
Around \$240/night via Expedia; Hilton Honors members often get 10% off. If you visit during the holidays, Easton transforms into a winter wonderland — and you’ll be right in the middle of it.
4. 50 Lincoln Short North Bed & Breakfast – Short North Arts District 🏡
For a cozy, personalized stay, 50 Lincoln Short North B\&B is a hidden gem. It’s tucked on a quiet street just steps from High Street, so you’re close to all the Short North action but far enough to get a good night’s sleep.
Why I Recommend It
- Every room is uniquely decorated — no cookie-cutter hotel vibes here.
- Complimentary gourmet breakfast made with local ingredients.
- Owners are warm and full of insider recommendations.
- Free on-site parking (rare in this area).
Facilities & Services
- Shared lounge and dining areas.
- Outdoor patio for warm weather mornings.
Nearby Attractions
Goodale Park, local art galleries, coffee shops, and some of the city’s best restaurants.
Booking & Price
Around \$160/night; booking directly on their site may include extras like late check-out.
5. Residence Inn Columbus University Area – University District 🎓
If you’re staying longer or need extra space, the Residence Inn near Ohio State University is perfect. Every suite has a full kitchen, making it great for families, business travelers, or anyone who likes to cook.
Why I Recommend It
- Suites with full kitchens — fridge, stove, microwave, dishwasher.
- Complimentary hot breakfast every morning.
- Indoor heated pool and fitness center.
Nearby Attractions
OSU campus, Ohio Stadium, Wexner Center for the Arts, Chadwick Arboretum.
Booking & Price
Around \$180/night on Priceline; extended stays often come with 15–20% off.
Columbus is not a city that tries to impress you with flashy skyscrapers or over-the-top tourist gimmicks. Instead, it wins you over with a combination of authentic neighborhoods, approachable attractions, and an understated charm that slowly works its way into your heart. Where you stay here truly matters — because each district has its own rhythm, personality, and even flavor.
If you choose the Short North Arts District, you’re signing up for an energetic, creative atmosphere. Mornings might start with a locally roasted coffee and a stroll past street murals, afternoons with gallery hopping or boutique shopping, and evenings with rooftop cocktails or live music. Staying at Le Méridien or 50 Lincoln Short North B&B keeps you right in the middle of this heartbeat — perfect if you want to feel like part of the city’s young, artsy crowd.
Downtown Columbus, on the other hand, is for those who like to be at the center of everything — whether it’s business, politics, or culture. You can walk from the Westin Great Southern to the Statehouse in minutes, catch a Broadway show at the Ohio Theatre, or end your day with a sunset walk along the Scioto Mile. It’s a district that blends history with modern life, and if you’re here for work or a short city break, the convenience is unbeatable.
Then there’s Easton Town Center — not so much a neighborhood as a self-contained world. If you love shopping, dining, and entertainment in one place, the Hilton at Easton gives you exactly that. This is especially great for travelers who don’t want to fuss with parking or transportation every day, because you can step outside your hotel and have hundreds of stores and restaurants at your feet.
Finally, the University District offers something completely different — a youthful, academic energy. Staying at the Residence Inn Columbus University Area means easy access to Ohio State University, sports events, and the lush green spaces of the campus. If you’re here for a longer stay, the kitchen-equipped suites give you the comfort and flexibility of home.
Some Extra Tips Before You Book:
- Compare rates across platforms like Booking.com, Hotels.com, and the hotel’s own site — loyalty programs can make a big difference.
- Consider parking fees — in downtown and Short North, valet can run $35–$45/night, so free parking at a B&B or suburban hotel could save a lot.
- Look for seasonal deals — winter rates can be 20–30% cheaper, and Easton often has holiday packages that include shopping vouchers.
- Check event calendars — if there’s a big game at Ohio Stadium or a festival in Short North, book early to avoid sold-out rooms.
Columbus might not be on everyone’s bucket list yet, but for those who give it a chance, it offers a travel experience that feels both fresh and familiar. Whether you want art, history, sports, or just a comfortable base for exploring Ohio, the right hotel in the right neighborhood will make your stay not only enjoyable, but truly memorable.
And who knows — like me, you might find yourself already planning your next trip before you’ve even checked out.
