Seasonality of Columbus, Ohio
Columbus isn't your typical tourist destination. As a city with many large businesses, hospitals, and a giant university, it attracts professionals and students as well as recreational visitors. Ohio's capital is also Ohio's largest city, with an estimated population of about 150,000 shy of a million people. So when you're visiting Columbus, think about the school year for timing business conventions.Ohio State University events will, understandably, consume considerable hotel space in the city, so if you're visiting make sure it's not during graduation or any big college games. Columbus also has several conference centers downtown, so it's smart to check if any large gatherings are happening that might make the prices of downtown hotels increase during certain weeks.Ohio has a beautiful fall, which you can see if you drive to the outskirts of Columbus or take a journey into the Hocking Hills. It gets chilly in the winter, with January seeing an average high of only 36 degrees, but many facilities in the city deck themselves out for the holiday season, and you can usually find "The Nutcracker" on stage if you visit during the holidays. Summers are relatively humid, but nothing a U.S. Southerner couldn't handle.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Columbus, OH:
Columbus by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean nightly cost trends by star rating class in Columbus, OH. You can use these illustrations to determine the least expensive time to book a room in Columbus for upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotel Options in Columbus, Ohio
4 Star Average Prices: $140.32
If you're in Columbus and planning a trip to the theater or going shopping at gorgeous Easton Town Center, make the most of your trip by sleeping in style. Enjoy a luxury hotel stay in Columbus, Ohio, when you book at Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph. This four-star hotel sits in downtown Columbus, just blocks away from attractions like the Veterans Memorial Auditorium, Nationwide Arena, and Huntington Park. The Joseph is a boutique hotel with just 135 rooms, and each one has been decorated individually for a unique flourish.The Westin Columbus is another four-star luxury option. This High Street hotel offers deluxe rooms, suites, and executive rooms, giving you a number of space and price options. The Westin offers dry cleaning and laundry services, and has a fitness center. It sits near the Ohio Theater and LeVeque Tower, and is just a few minutes' walk away from the heart of downtown.
Affordable Options in Columbus, Ohio
3 Star Average Prices: $106.72
While some of the most inexpensive Columbus hotels are more than 20 miles from the city's center, savvy travelers can find good deals closer to the thick of things. Extend A Suites was recently renovated in 2012, and has a pool and a fitness center. While you may have to take a two-mile drive to get to downtown, you're still well within city limits. Knights-Inn Columbus offers extremely affordable rooms just west of the main city, and you'll get complimentary breakfast when you stay there.M Star Columbus North is a modest motel property with one floor and 111 rooms. It's in the north part of the city, near Westerville, and offers free Wi-Fi and laundry facilities. The Motel 6 Grove City is just outside of Columbus, putting it just a short drive away from the city itself. Stay at the Motel 6 if you're traveling with a pet and if you're looking for access to shopping and restaurants that are away from the rush of downtown.
2 Star Average Prices: $80.81
Best Discounts in Columbus, Ohio
It's always smart to shop for hotels with discounts in mind, and in Columbus you'll find many hotels that provide AAA, AARP, senior, and military discounts. The TownePlace Suites Columbus Worthington has a stellar senior discount. As long as you present your ID and are over 62, you can earn a discount that's several dollars lower than their AAA discount. The TownePlace Suites is a 2.5-star suburban hotel, located near the Columbus Zoo and the Polaris mall. The senior discount makes it an affordable choice for those who want a little pampering.The Econo Lodge Worthington costs less and offers both AAA and senior discounts of the same rate. The Econo Lodge also offers a government and military rate which is slightly higher than their other discounts, but will still save you money on their already affordable rooms. The Red Roof Inn Columbus West - Hilliard is another affordable option with all three discounts available. Several of their most affordable rooms are made even lower cost with applicable AAA, seniors, and military discounts. Unlike the Econo Lodge, the Red Roof Inn offers the same rate for all three discount types.If you're an AAA member and want to stay in a three-star hotel, the Homewood Suites Columbus Dublin offers a free breakfast, a fitness facility, and an indoor pool. Stay in a one-bedroom suite with a queen bed from Monday through Thursday to take advantage of their AAA discount rate and get the best value for this hotel.
Best Value Options in Columbus, Ohio
Get a comfortable hotel experience without paying luxury prices when you stay in Columbus by booking at the Four Points by Sheraton Columbus-Polaris. It sits near the upscale Polaris shopping mall, giving you access to restaurants and tons of shopping in northern Columbus. Get an extra-comfortable bed and free Wi-Fi for an affordable price at the Four Points.The Holiday Inn Columbus N - I-270 Worthington is located in the same neck of the woods as the Four Points by Sheraton, which means it's also near the same great shopping and food. To get to the center of Columbus and the downtown area from the Holiday Inn, just take nearby I-71 due south. The Holiday Inn has an indoor pool, a fitness center, and spacious rooms.Head to Dublin Ohio, which is northeast of Columbus, for the Sonesta Es Suites Columbus Dublin. This three-star property has a seasonal outdoor pool, a fitness center, free breakfast, and they allow pets. The Sonesta Es Suites has a reputation for being a clean facility with friendly staff, providing an overall excellent value for the price of the rooms.
Stay Near the Columbus, Ohio Airport
The Port Columbus International Airport directly connects to many major cities across the U.S. You can travel from Columbus to connect with most major airport hub cities, which means staying near the airport is often a must if you're visiting Columbus for business, or need to stop over for the night. Because the airport is a major part of Columbus, you can find several quality hotels within a mile of the terminal.The closest hotel to the airport is the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Columbus Airport, which makes it ideal for anyone catching an early flight. The most inexpensive option is the Days Inn Columbus Airport. It's just over a mile away, but the room rates are affordable and perfect for those on a budget, especially if you'll only be staying one night. Since access to the airport is important, many of the closer hotels have room rates well over $100 a night, making the Days Inn (which is under $100 a night) a great value.Come visit Columbus, whether you're thinking of starting a new business and need somewhere to set up shop, or you want to visit Ohio and have access to lots of great activities. University sports, a huge science center, lots of hospitals, and considerable high-end shopping make Columbus a fun place to explore. Plus, it has several lovely neighborhoods that are wonderful to take a walk through, no matter the season.
A visit to Columbus Recapped
Ohio's state capital is a likeable place to visit, with the massive Ohio State University just one of its sprawling structures. Columbus is set in Ohio's rural center, making the city an exciting place to see, not only because it's the only destination there is. Columbus transformed from a former patch of farmland into a fledgling city. The city was built entirely from scratch in 1812, with carefully planned points still evident in the cityscape. Statues portraying its namesake surround the city's well-designated streets. Tourists visit the Santa Maria, a replica of Christopher Columbus' ship, docked like the real thing at the Scioto River. The lively college city may seem to live behind the shadows of Cleveland or Cincinnati, but the tourists love Columbus for what it is - a less crowded old town, filled with a vibrant nightlife, charming Germanic architecture, and interesting museums. The orderly downtown area is not without surprises, as Columbus boasts of the most active gay scenes in the nation. Head to the Brewery or the Short North Arts District, and see that there's no need to take that 2 hour trip to the next urban town.
"I like Columbus, Ohio, because it's Pleasantville for real", says author Bobby Lee.
For a small city, Columbus has a lot to offer. The Ohio state capital, Columbus is situated almost exactly in center of the state. The city is home to several notable buildings, including Ohio State University; Ohio Stadium, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, The Ohio Statehouse and Capitol Square. The Franklin Conservatory and Botanical Garden offers an incredible horticultural display with many acres of breathtaking outdoor and indoor gardens. The Topiary Park is where art and nature truly collide and this makes it one of the most acclaimed parks in country. The eclectic mix of neighborhoods only adds to the creative and vibrant culture in Columbus.
Which Budget Hotels in Columbus Can Travelers Go for?
Varsity Inn is one of the best cheap hotels in Columbus. The hotel provides with an easy commute between the University and Downtown Columbus. The hotel offers clean, comfortable amenities that are perfect for individual or group travelers. Comfort Inn north is another low budget hotel that provides comfortable rooms and amenities you can count on at minimal price. Its location makes it easier to explore all that Columbus has to offer while enjoying the stay at hotel. Drury Inn & Suites, Red Roof Plus, Fairfield Inn & Suites are also some of the best low budget Columbus hotels worth going for.
Which Luxury Hotels in Columbus Can Travelers Go for?
Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel, this stylish hotel in Columbus is very close to Ohio Statehouse and Columbus City Center shopping; the convention center and German Village are located at a miles distance. The Columbus' fitness center is located on the roof overlooking the skyline of the city. The Westin Columbus hotel is another Luxury hotel in the city. Set in a French Renaissance-style building, this traditional hotel is situated within walking distance to many famous landmarks of the city. Free perks include a 24-hour gym and WiFi in public areas. The Blackwell and Sheraton Columbus are also the two most popular luxury Columbus hotels.
What All is There to Experience in Columbus?
Visitors to Columbus can expect plenty of interesting and unique things to do. The city is one of the few cities in the world which has an amazing mix of historical and recreational sites. The Ohio Statehouse in Columbus is a Greek architecture style building very popular with tourists. It is open to the public along with Capitol Square and the Senate building and atrium. For history aficionados and travelers interested in politics, a visit to the capitol building would suffice all senses. Wexner Center for the arts, an Ohio State University museum is another very popular place. If flowers are enticing, then Franklin Park Conservatory is the place to go to. A trip to this city would be considered incomplete without a visit to historic German Village. Strolling through tree-lined that remind of the 19th century streets among an array of charming homes, restaurants and shops could just be another pastime.
FAQs about hotels in Columbus
How much does a cheap hotel in Columbus cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Columbus can be as cheap as $80.81 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Columbus cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Columbus has been $106.72 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a luxury hotel in Columbus cost?
In the last year, the average 4 star hotel in Columbus has been $140.32 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
What did travelers think of the city of Columbus?
Below are reviews of the city of Columbus, OH from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Great!"Score 5.0 / 5
Enjoyed the restaurants and the shopping, plan to come back and check out the zoo.
Marlene S., from 02-Dec-2019
"Fine"Score 5.0 / 5
It was fine
Susan B., from 27-Nov-2019
"Trip"Score 5.0 / 5
A large variety of places to visit, restaurants. Traffic flow was better than expected. Easy access to places of interest.
Nora W., from 13-Nov-2019
"Shopping"Score 4.0 / 5
Hollywood Casino and nearby shopping.
April J., from 01-Nov-2019
"Beautiful"Score 5.0 / 5
German Village area had nice shops and eating places. The view of downtown from Main Street Bridge (with the deer statue on it) is great place for a photo.
Daniel W., from 01-Nov-2019
"Good"Score 5.0 / 5
Plenty of parking clean, found a location with great shops, really like the conference center, not the other group that was booked there.
Kevin J., from 23-Oct-2019
"Kind people"Score 4.0 / 5
The people in this area were some of the nicest people i have met in a long time. I had a flat and needed a repair at Firestone on N 3rd street. I felt like I was at home.
Adrienne G., from 21-Oct-2019
"Location"Score 5.0 / 5
It had a good balance between a small-town feel and a city. The burrito restaurant down the street was VERY good and the people were kind. I felt safe throughout my entire trip.
Aspen G., from 09-Oct-2019
"Helpful"Score 4.0 / 5
Helpful staff.
Charlie M., from 08-Oct-2019
"Great Time"Score 4.0 / 5
I love the city. So many things downtown are in walking distance. I didn't get to do too much exploring but everyone in Columbus that I met were so friendly! A cop bought my starbucks one day. No cop has bought me starbucks where I'm from!
Kimberly N., from 06-Oct-2019
"Columbus is always a great place to visit. "Score 5.0 / 5
the shopping is good and we always enjoy the restaurants. We especially enjoythe atmosphere of a OSU football game weekend. We also find it easy to get around in.
Arlene R., from 05-Oct-2019
"Nice Ride"Score 5.0 / 5
The bus.com shuttle was awesome.
Hailey A., from 02-Oct-2019
"Vacation"Score 4.0 / 5
-the amount of scooters in the area-food options were close
Tyler W., from 30-Sep-2019
"Lovely Area"Score 5.0 / 5
I love the little park area where they have food trucks in the afternoon and the beautiful buildings including the episcopal church up 3rd street.
Amanda G., from 29-Sep-2019
"Awesome!"Score 4.0 / 5
The State fair was grand.
Sharon T., from 05-Aug-2019
"Awesome City"Score 5.0 / 5
Nice city with great restaurants.
John O., from 29-Jul-2019
"Fantastic City "Score 4.0 / 5
Clean city, good food,bus is free. You don't need your car to see and do the sights of the city.
Thomas R., from 21-Jul-2019
"All the amenities of a major metropolitan city without the hustle and bustle! "Score 5.0 / 5
Great restaurants, entertainment, shopping, you name it and Columbus has it. Fun for every budget; you can get a burger or a 5-star meal within minutes from one another.
Anthony M., from 06-Jan-2019
"I love everything about the city of Columbus!"Score 5.0 / 5
Easy to get around, lots of things to do. You're never bored!
Catherine G., from 13-Nov-2018
"Great Stay!"Score 5.0 / 5
Shopping and great accommodations.
Christine R., from 22-Jul-2018
"Great Hotel!"Score 4.0 / 5
Great surprise. Rooms are amazing. Friendly staff and great location.
Anita M., from 11-May-2018
"Great Stay!"Score 4.0 / 5
We ate at the Mexican restaurant; forgot the name. Everything was in close proximity.
Susan M., from 10-Mar-2018
"Great Stay!"Score 5.0 / 5
We come to Columbus every year for our youth convention. Beautiful city!
Tricia M., from 12-Nov-2017
"Nice hotel and location!"Score 5.0 / 5
They enjoyed the city got to see a bit of it while here had time to look around in between events.
Lisa H., from 27-Jun-2017
"Nice hotel and exceptional food!"Score 5.0 / 5
we didn't tour Columbus but did enjoy the Quaker Steak n Lube rest.
Mary C., from 20-Jun-2017
"So Many Activities to Do "Score 4.0 / 5
Ice-skating at The Chiller in Lewis Center. Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory at Polaris. German Village. Lunch at North Market. Tour of The Ohio State University. Dinner at Buca di Beppo. Gallery Hop. Columbus Museum of Art. Movie at the Rave cinema. Shopping at Polaris mall. Bibibop.
Lisa S., from 08-Jan-2017
"Great Area"Score 4.0 / 5
North Market and High Street. Didn't venture beyond that area.
Michaelq M., from 18-Nov-2016
"Sports Tournament"Score 5.0 / 5
Its a great sports town and that's what I was there for.
Larry F., from 10-Oct-2016
"Not Much To Do"Score 4.0 / 5
We were happy with our booking at the Red Roof but I believe we would've enjoyed our stay more if we were in a downtown location.
Christine K., from 10-Jul-2016
"Red Roof "Score 4.0 / 5
Down town area is a much better stay or another location, not this red roof
Christine K., from 10-Jul-2016
"Cool Hangouts"Score 5.0 / 5
Columbus has a lot of cool hangouts. Really an eclectic city.
Debbie B., from 04-Jul-2016
"Must Come Back for Sightseeing!"Score 4.0 / 5
Shopping and Food. We were limited because we where there for a Church Service. Hopefully when I return I would like to sightsee.
Hattie B. R., from 27-Jun-2016
"So Much Fun!"Score 5.0 / 5
Great Columbus Crew game.
Chasity B., from 18-Jun-2016
"Something for Everyone"Score 5.0 / 5
The city was great. Very entertaining with great attractions.
Gary F., from 15-Jun-2016
"Good Getaway"Score 4.0 / 5
The city was great. Really enjoyed the visit.
Gary F., from 15-Jun-2016
"Lots of Food to Choose From!"Score 5.0 / 5
Plenty of near by food choices. Convenient location.
Jenny F., from 05-Jun-2016
"Lots To Do!"Score 4.0 / 5
The city was fun in the aspect of a lot of things to do. There were many shopping centers and restaurants that you can walk too.
Nicole Z., from 11-Feb-2016
"Lots of Restaurants"Score 4.0 / 5
We were there to play volleyball, so not a lot of extra activities. The fact that the hotel is close to the Polaris Mall and Sooooo many restaurants was a big plus.
Richard J., from 01-Feb-2016
"Convenient Stay"Score 4.0 / 5
The area surrounding the hotel had many shopping and dining locations in very close proximity. I didn't venture around too much, but I didn't have to go more than about 2 miles away from the hotel for anything that I wanted to eat or purchase.
Robyn T., from 15-Oct-2015
"Great Things To Do For Families"Score 4.0 / 5
I lived in Columbus for a long time and I love the people there. I think it's easy to get around and it has lots of great places for families to do stuff.
Debra J., from 20-Jun-2015
"Nice Area"Score 4.0 / 5
There are a number of different entertaining activities and tours.
Luke R., from 04-May-2015
"Columbus is a Great City"Score 5.0 / 5
A wide variety of parks and nature centers, not to mention museums, comedy clubs, and casinos.
Michelle M., from 25-Apr-2015
"A Nice, Clean City"Score 4.0 / 5
We were here for a basketball tournament. We did not really have the opportunity to explore, but we did make it to the Waffle House.
Jameka P., from 19-Apr-2015
"Love It"Score 4.0 / 5
There is a lot of places to visit. Zoo and aquarium, recreational/outdoor activities, botanical gardens, and entertainment district.
Terhonda P., from 11-Apr-2015
"Great Place To Visit and Very Clean."Score 5.0 / 5
A good variety of shops whether it be the North Market or the bars/restaurants in the Arena district. The Ohio State University campus and their sports facilities were very impressive. Columbus is a great place to visit and very clean.
Rob D., from 28-Dec-2014
"Full of Attractions"Score 5.0 / 5
The excellent dining and the beauty of its open spaces, especially the river bank. We also found the city full of attractions, especially COSI, and the numerous galleries (art, shops). The north end around the Holiday Inn Express is free of crime and very good for stores and shops. The area around Ohio State is particularly interesting and lively at night, and one can walk around the Short North with no concerns about safety. The freeway system is fairly user-friendly and has a very good link to the airport. We also liked the frequent bus service along High St.
David G., from 25-Oct-2014
"Recommend the visit"Score 4.0 / 5
The city was nice and clean with good food.
Casey C., from 04-Aug-2014
"Great environment"Score 5.0 / 5
Nice, friendly people.
Mellisa H., from 25-Jul-2014
"Columbus OH has the friendliest people."Score 5.0 / 5
Not much for tourist to see, but the people and places I visted were friendly and nice.
Doyce H., from 10-Jul-2014
"Columbus OH has 4th of July fireworks."Score 4.0 / 5
It was right by the fireworks.
Christine E., from 05-Jul-2014
"Columbus Zoo and Aquarium"Score 4.0 / 5
We loved the Columbus zoo. I wish we had more time to stay, there were many other museums and places of interest to check out, we just could not do it all.
Debra R., from 10-Jun-2014
"Lots of great areas and attractions."Score 5.0 / 5
Many different sports teams, Convention Center, Arena District, Short North. Great bars and restaurants.
James H., from 26-May-2014
"Easton Town Center Shopping and More"Score 4.0 / 5
Easy to get around, Easton place, The Ohio State University. A clean city and well laid out.
Janette T., from 13-May-2014
"My Trip to Columbus"Score 4.0 / 5
The number of unique restaurants available, shopping areas, convention center, Veterans Memorial Center, and universities.
Marlen M., from 12-May-2014
"Polaris Fashion Place"Score 4.0 / 5
Polaris Mall is outstanding!
Sharon R., from 28-Apr-2014
"Big City Meets Small Town"Score 4.0 / 5
We are both from Columbus so we must like everything about Columbus to still be here 70 years. Big city atmosphere with small town hospitality.
Clarice K., from 14-Apr-2014
"Some beautiful features"Score 4.0 / 5
Vibrant downtown; impressive Statehouse. Franklin County Botanical Garden.
Kelly H., from 04-Apr-2014
"Easy Navigation and Parking"Score 5.0 / 5
It was fairly easy to get around Columbus, and plenty of parking for a resonable rate.
Andrea C., from 02-Mar-2014
"Recommended"Score 4.0 / 5
Polaris shopping and the Worth Ingrown Country Club for eating.
Tammy W., from 12-Dec-2013
"After hours fun"Score 5.0 / 5
Great night life
Karie P., from 10-Dec-2013
The average traveler rating of the city of Columbus, OH shown above is 4.5 out of 5 based on 60 reviews