Getting Around Columbus
Columbus is primarily a car-dependent city outside of the downtown core and immediate surroundings. However, visitors have several options for navigating the city, from public transit to walking and cycling. Understanding your transportation choices will help you plan your visits to Columbus's cultural institutions, universities, and neighborhoods.
Public Bus System
The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) operates the bus service throughout Columbus. Buses can take you to most important destinations in the city, with stops typically within about five blocks of wherever you need to go.
COTA offers two main bus types with different fares:
- Local and Crosstown buses cost $2.00 per ride
- Express buses cost $2.75 per ride
Transfers between Local and Crosstown buses are free—simply ask the driver for a transfer pass when you pay your fare. However, transfers between different bus types (for example, from a Local to an Express route) are subject to an additional charge. Keep in mind that transfer passes cannot be used to board the same bus line traveling in the opposite direction.
COTA also operates the CMAX bus rapid transit line, which connects Downtown Columbus to Westerville in the northeast direction.
Walking and Pedestrian Areas
Downtown Columbus is a walkable area, with most attractions within a 20-minute walk of each other. High Street (US Route 23), stretching from Clintonville in the north to Merion Village in the south, is pedestrian-friendly along much of its length. The Short North area, which has undergone gentrification in recent years and now features student housing, boutique shops, and restaurants, offers a continuous and safe stretch for walking.
For guided exploration, the Columbus Landmarks Foundation conducts walking tours of the city.
Bike Sharing
CoGo Bike Share provides a bike-sharing program with stations located downtown, in 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 provides unlimited trips of up to 30 minutes each.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Traditional taxis are available throughout Columbus. Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft also operate in the city and tend to offer competitive pricing.
Driving and Parking
Columbus is a car-centric city, and a personal vehicle is generally necessary for travel outside downtown and its immediate surroundings. Parking is extensive and reasonably priced at most major destinations, with many surface lots and parking garages available. Only a few areas, such as the Short North, have limited parking; these locations typically offer abundant valet parking at approximately $5 per vehicle.
Be aware that U-turns are illegal throughout Columbus. Additionally, the city is known for aggressive towing enforcement, particularly 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 the City
John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) is the main airport serving Columbus. The airport is located about 20 minutes from downtown by taxi, depending on traffic. A taxi ride to downtown typically costs between $20 and $50.
In addition to rental cars and taxis, you can reach downtown Columbus from the airport using public transportation:
- The #7 bus
- The AirConnect bus service
Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available at the airport and tend to fall on the lower end of the $20–50 taxi fare range.