Columbus Indiana Hotels & Motels

When to Visit Columbus, Indiana

Columbus, Indiana, experiences four very different seasons, so you should time your trip accordingly, particularly if you're planning on taking in its outdoor attractions. Winter here is cold and snowy with average highs in the upper 30s and low 40s, and lows that can dip below 20 degrees. The average annual snowfall in Columbus is 17 inches.

In spring, Columbus warms gradually with average highs of 42 degrees in February, 52 in March, 64 in April, and 74 by May. Monthly precipitation increases steadily through these months as well. While you might find pleasant temperatures around April and May, be prepared for muddy trails in the parks.

Summer highs are typically in the mid to upper 80s, with average lows in the 60s. The weather is drier, offering an excellent opportunity to explore the local parks system if you don't mind the heat. Keep in mind that summer is one of the busier seasons in Columbus, as families flock to its recreational facilities during their school vacations.

Autumn is one of the most picturesque times to visit Columbus as the temperatures drop and the leaves change. The average highs fall from 79 in September to 67 in October and 54 in November. Time your visit right and you can catch Columbus and nearby destinations like Brown County in a riot of fall colors.

The Best Hotel Discounts in Columbus, Indiana

Loyalty programs are one of the smartest ways to get hotel discounts, particularly if you're a frequent traveler. Staying with the same chain for every trip will help you amass useful points and cash in on money-saving rewards.

Remember that many different hotel chains fall under the same management company and share rewards programs. For example, you can earn or use your Wyndham Rewards at the Super 8 Columbus or Days Inn Columbus. These hotels also offer discounts for AAA, CAA, and AARP members.

The Sleep Inn & Suites, Comfort Inn & Suites, and Clarion Hotel and Conference Center all participate in the Choice Privileges program. If you're a member of this rewards program, you'll have several picks at your disposal in Columbus.

Cash in your Marriott Rewards at the Courtyard Columbus Tipton Lakes. This hotel also offers discounts for AAA and CAA members, seniors, government employees, and military personnel. Special deals like breakfast packages offer more ways to save.

Best Value Hotels in Columbus, Indiana

If you're after a mid-priced hotel that's packed with amenities, you'll find several value picks in Columbus. The Sleep Inn & Suites and Comfort Inn & Suites offer very similar accommodations with a free hot breakfast, complimentary WiFi, and convenient guest laundry facilities. If you're visiting during one of Columbus's cooler seasons, you may prefer the Sleep Inn & Suites for its heated indoor pool and sauna. In summer, the heated outdoor pool at the Comfort Inn & Suites may have more allure.

The Clarion Hotel and Conference Center offers a wealth of amenities for both business and pleasure. If you're looking for entertainment, you'll find a heated indoor pool, hot tub, ping pong, pool table, putting green, and fitness room. Rooms feature microwaves and refrigerators so you can add more value to your stay by keeping snacks and small meals on hand. Business travelers can take advantage of the guest use fax and copy machine and business center.

The Courtyard Columbus Tipton Lakes offers a wealth of perks beginning with the comfortable guest rooms featuring microwaves, mini-refrigerators, complimentary wireless internet access, and 42-inch TVs with premium movie channels, CNN, and ESPN. On-site dining is available at The Bistro, where you can grab a casual breakfast or dinner. A convenience store can supply your other needs during your stay.

At the La Quinta Inn & Suites in Columbus, you'll have access to an indoor pool and spa, 24-hour fitness center, business center, and bar. Head outside and relax on the sun deck or gather around the fire pit. At night, the Simmons Beautyrest mattress will lull you to sleep, while the Bright Side Breakfast gives your day a great start.

Getting Around Columbus, Indiana

You may not need a car to experience Columbus, Indiana highlights during your visit, particularly if you don't mind working up a bit of a sweat as you make your way around town. Columbus offers a bike share program known as ColumBIKE, with seven kiosks around the city. Bikes are $4 for an hour or $8 for the whole day, offering an affordable way to get around town with your own two legs.

The ColumBUS system offers another convenient option, six days a week. The buses here operate on five fixed routes. They run from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekdays, and 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturdays. If you're planning on using the buses as your primary means of transportation while you're in town, it's important to note that they don't run on Sundays. You can purchase a bus pass at the Transit Center for just $5 for 25 rides.

If you're looking for a memorable escape to southern Indiana, head to Columbus for the vacation you're after. You'll find a diverse selection of attractions and hotels, so you can build the perfect trip for business, pleasure, or a bit of both.