Getting Around Columbus
Columbus is a car-centric city, but visitors have several transportation options depending on where they're staying and what they plan to see. Downtown Columbus is walkable with most attractions within a 20-minute walk of each other, but reaching destinations outside the downtown core typically requires public transit, a rental car, or a ride-hailing service.
Public Buses
The COTA bus service is the primary public transit option, reaching most important locations in the city—typically no more than five blocks from wherever you need to go. The bus network is divided into Local/Crosstown routes and Express routes.
- Local/Crosstown buses cost $2.00 per ride, and transfers between Local/Crosstown buses are free
- Express buses cost $2.75 per ride
- Transfers between different bus types (for example, from a Local to an Express route) cost extra
- Ask your bus driver for a transfer pass when you pay your fare; present it when boarding your next bus
- Transfers cannot be used to board a bus going in the opposite direction on the same line
- The CMAX bus rapid transit line provides service from Downtown Columbus northeast to Westerville
Walking
Downtown Columbus is very walkable, with most major attractions within easy walking distance of each other. High Street (US Route 23) is pedestrian-friendly for much of its length, running from Clintonville in the north through the Short North district and down to Merion Village in the south. This stretch has been revitalized with shops, restaurants, and student housing, creating a continuous and safe area for walking. The Columbus Landmarks Foundation offers guided walking tours if you'd like structured exploration.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis are available throughout the city. Uber and Lyft operate in Columbus and typically offer competitive pricing compared to traditional taxis.
Biking
CoGo Bike Share operates a bike-sharing program with stations located in downtown, surrounding communities, and at Easton Town Center. You can pick up a bike at any station and return it to any other station. A 24-hour pass costs $6 and allows unlimited 30-minute trips.
Driving
If you rent a car, be aware that Columbus requires specific knowledge of local rules. U-turns are illegal citywide. Parking is generally available and reasonably priced at major destinations, with both surface lots and garages throughout the city. The Short North is an exception where parking can be difficult; this area features abundant valet parking available at $5 per vehicle. Be cautious about parking restrictions: the city is known for aggressive towing, especially downtown, on campus, and in the Short North. Always check for "Private Parking" or "Tow Away Zone" signs before parking.
Getting from the Airport to Downtown
John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) is the main airport serving the city. Several transportation options connect the airport to downtown Columbus:
- Rental cars are available at the airport
- Bus service: The #7 bus and AirConnect buses serve the airport
- Taxi: A taxi ride to downtown takes about 20 minutes depending on traffic and costs approximately $20–50
- Ride-hailing: Uber and Lyft are available and typically cost on the lower end of the $20–50 range
Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK), a smaller facility farther from the city center, handles a limited number of passenger and charter flights. Ohio State University Airport (OSU) is primarily a general aviation facility.