After nearly 40 miles on foot, walking the Ohio city across three days, I wouldn't say we're old pals, but I definitely know Columbus better and I definitely like what I see. After all, I was only there a couple hours as a brief diversion while working on a story about the suburb of Dublin. The second largest city in the Midwest, after Chicago, Columbus still has a smaller city vibe.
Thanks to Ohio State University on the north side of town, there are tons of students, faculty and staff to fuel the nightlife, too. Here are some suggestions for your next Columbus roadtrip. Where to stay My first encounter with AC Hotels β a Marriott brand β was in nearby Dublin, Ohio, where the sleek, no nonsense but comfortable and welcoming hotel with amazing dining and a stellar rooftop patio.
X X The hotel is new construction, but inside a base of three vintage two-story buildings filling a full block. That means the modern lobby benefits from the visual addition of sturdy classic exposed masonry walls. I took my laptop up there every night to get some work done in the fresh air, with the skyline as a backdrop.
It is a must-see. The Ohio Statehouse sits in a acre park in the heart of downtown and was begun in There are tours offered, but you can also wander and check out the sturdy castle-like lower level β where Civil War troops once were barracked β and also the domes on the floors above.
Stop outside the shop to grab the free brochure that explains the many fossils to be found in stone used for construction throughout. It also has maps that direct you to the most interesting examples.
