Columbus has been turning heads lately. So much so that it was recently spotlighted in a global travel campaign celebrating Elsewhereism (h/t to Skyscanner), the idea of skipping the obvious tourist spots and chasing the unexpected.
While everyone else is making their way to the usual big-name cities for the holidays, Columbus is quietly (and confidently) proving that a culture-packed escape doesn’t require skyscraper clichés or tourist-trap boulevards.
So, we thought we’d show you exactly why this city stands out as a travel destination.
About Columbus
As the state capital, this city is the kind of place that surprises you at every turn. With a population of around 880,000, it’s the 14th largest city in the US, but it somehow manages to feel both bustling and approachable.
Ohio State University dominates the city, along with the iconic Horseshoe stadium, home to the legendary Buckeyes.
Columbus is also home to big names like Wendy’s and White Castle, Fortune 500 companies, and a calendar full of events, from the Arnold Sports Festival to Wildlights at the zoo, Columbus Pride, and the Ohio State Fair.
There’s never a dull moment in this Midwestern gem.
Things to do in Columbus
Now, if you’re thinking about skipping the more conventional cities for your travels and heading here, these are the activities you shouldn’t miss out on.
Sip, Savor, and Satisfy Your Tastebuds
Columbus is quietly killing it on the food and drink front. From casual food trucks to fancy farm-to-table spots with award-winning chefs, the city knows how to feed a crowd. Plus, if you’re into craft spirits, you’re in luck because Columbus has a ton of artisanal distilleries producing everything from gin to bourbon, all inspired by the Ohio River Valley’s rich heritage.
You can tour places like Middle West Spirits, Watershed Distillery, and High Bank Distillery to see what goes into making your favorite cocktails..
For a more casual, all-in-one experience, check out the North Market, a historic food hall and farmers market that’s been running since 1876.
Explore Art, Science, and Nature
Columbus has plenty to keep your brain buzzing and your eyes delighted.
Start in the heart of the city at the Columbus Museum of Art, a historic gem listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Here you can see American and European works from the late 19th and early 20th centuries (including works by Mary Cassatt, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Norman Rockwell) alongside creations by talented local artists.
If science is more your thing, head over to COSI (Center of Science and Industry). With over 300 interactive exhibits, you can get up close with a life-size Tyrannosaurus rex, an Oviraptor, or explore the stars in the planetarium.
For a slower pace, wander through Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. From the dazzling Dale Chihuly glass sculptures to the Victorian-style glasshouse dating back to 1895, there’s beauty in every corner.
Why Columbus Should Be on Your Radar
Elsewhereism is all about chasing the unexpected, skipping the obvious tourist traps, and discovering the hidden corners of a city that make it feel like it’s yours alone for a few hours. While the campaign itself focused on Columbus’ lesser-known gems, the city itself is worth a spotlight all on its own.
So before you head to the usual big-name cities, here’s why Columbus is the alternative you didn’t know you needed and why it should definitely be on your radar.
