7 Best Hotels Near Ohio Stadium in Columbus Ohio
If you’re planning a trip to Columbus, Ohio to catch a game or event at Ohio Stadium, finding the right place to stay can make your visit much more enjoyable. Staying at a hotel near Ohio Stadium lets you skip long drives and easily get to all the action on campus.
There are several hotels near Ohio Stadium that fit different budgets and needs. Whether you want something simple or a place with extra comforts, you’ve got good options nearby.
1) The Blackwell Inn & Pfahl Conference Center
When you visit The Blackwell Inn, you really notice the easy access to Ohio State’s campus. It’s right by Ohio Stadium, so you can walk to the game in just a few minutes. The area feels safe and active, especially on game days.
The rooms are simple but comfortable, and you get all the basics you need. There’s a gym on-site if you want to fit in a workout. The hotel’s restaurant has a laid-back vibe and good food, so you don’t have to leave the building for meals.
If you’re coming for an event or a meeting, there’s plenty of conference space. It also works well for weddings or other gatherings. The staff is helpful and keeps things running smoothly.
Parking is easy, which is a big plus around campus. If you need anything, you can always call down to the desk and they’re quick to help.
Rating: 4.6 (1055 reviews)
Location: 2110 Tuttle Park Pl, Columbus, OH 43210
Contact: (614) 247-4000
Website: Visit Website
2) Marriott Columbus OSU
If you’re staying near Ohio Stadium, Marriott Columbus OSU is a solid choice. The rooms feel clean and modern, and you get a sense of calm when you walk in. The atmosphere is pretty relaxed, and you don’t have to worry about big crowds.
You can take a swim in the indoor pool or squeeze in a workout at the gym, which is open all day. The restaurant has simple dishes, and it’s handy if you want to grab something quick before heading out. The staff are usually friendly and help you find anything you need.
There’s plenty of parking, and it’s easy to get to the stadium or other spots in the area. If you call ahead, the front desk can help with directions or event info. It made my stay a lot smoother.
Rating: 4.5 (936 reviews)
Location: 3100 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH 43202
Contact: (614) 447-9777
Website: Visit Website
3) Hyatt House Columbus OSU / Short North
If you want a relaxed place close to Ohio Stadium but not right in all the traffic, Hyatt House Columbus OSU / Short North is a solid pick. You can grab a quick breakfast downstairs and even enjoy a coffee at the cafe/bar before heading out. There’s also an indoor pool, which is perfect if you like a swim no matter the weather.
The rooms feel modern and roomy, with lots of light and comfortable beds. You get handy extras like a small fridge and a workspace in the room, which is nice if you want to relax or get a little work done. The hotel is clean, and the staff is friendly if you need anything.
Parking at the hotel is easy, and you can also walk or take a short drive to some good local restaurants. If you like to stay active, there’s a 24/7 gym that has enough equipment to get a basic workout in.
Rating: 4.4 (267 reviews)
Location: 633 W 5th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
Contact: (614) 298-1299
Website: Visit Website
4) Holiday Inn Express Columbus – Ohio Expo Center by IHG
If you want to be close to Ohio Stadium and the campus, this is a handy spot. It’s less than ten minutes to Ohio State University, downtown, or most anywhere you’d want to go in Columbus.
You get free breakfast in the morning, so you don’t have to leave hungry. Wi-Fi is included, and the internet is fast enough for work or streaming. The hotel has a gym that’s open all the time, so you can work out when it fits your schedule.
The rooms are simple, fresh, and give you what you need. I noticed the staff were friendly and helped with check-in and questions. If you’re in town for a game, the flat rate cab fares made it easy to get around and not worry about parking or driving.
You’re also close to places like Easton Town Center for shopping, and the Newport Music Hall if you want to catch a concert. There’s a business center downstairs for anyone who needs to print tickets or do some work.
Rating: 3.7 (673 reviews)
Location: 701 E Hudson St, Columbus, OH 43211
Contact: (614) 263-7725
Website: Visit Website
5) SpringHill Suites Columbus OSU
SpringHill Suites Columbus OSU is a great spot if you want to stay close to Ohio Stadium. The place feels modern yet relaxed, so you can unwind after a day out. It’s a good fit whether you’re in town for a big game, a wedding, or even a work meeting.
You get a suite with a bit more space than a regular hotel room, which is nice if you’re traveling with friends or family. Breakfast in the morning is included and it’s easy to grab a bite before heading out. There’s also an indoor pool and a small bar area that’s perfect for a quick drink at night.
Parking is simple and getting around the city is easier with their free area shuttle service. You don’t have to worry about how to get to shops or restaurants nearby. The hotel staff are friendly and make sure you have what you need during your stay.
Rating: 4.4 (1050 reviews)
Location: 1421 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH 43212
Contact: (614) 297-9912
Website: Visit Website
6) Graduate by Hilton Columbus
When you walk into Graduate by Hilton Columbus, you notice the college-themed style right away. The whole place feels lively, with fun details and bright colors. It’s easy to feel relaxed here because nothing is stuffy or too fancy.
The rooms are cozy and have a cool vibe, with touches that remind you of college days. Free Wi-Fi makes it simple to get work done or stream shows. If you want to explore the city, you can grab one of their free loaner bikes to ride around.
There’s a gym on site, so you don’t have to skip your workout. For food, there are on-site dining options that are convenient, especially if you’re tired after a long day. The area around the hotel is packed with restaurants and shops, and you’re not far from Ohio Stadium.
Staff are friendly and helpful if you ever need anything. It’s nice knowing you can always ask for local tips or help with your plans. If you call ahead, they’re quick to answer any questions.
Rating: 4.4 (479 reviews)
Location: 750 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Contact: (614) 484-1900
Website: Visit Website
7) Hampton Inn & Suites Columbus/University Area
When you walk into Hampton Inn & Suites Columbus/University Area, you’ll notice it feels welcoming right away. The lobby is bright and open, making check-in quick and easy. It’s a good spot if you plan to spend time near Ohio Stadium or the university area.
Your room comes with free Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected or stream a movie after the game. The beds are comfortable and the rooms are clean with plenty of space to relax. Every morning, you get a hot breakfast included, which is a nice way to start your day.
If you like to stay active, there’s a fitness room and a pool. Parking is free, and you’re right off Olentangy River Road, which makes it easy to get in and out. Staff are friendly and always ready to help with directions or local tips.
Rating: 4.4 (947 reviews)
Location: 3160 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH 43202
Contact: (614) 268-8700
Website: Visit Website
What To Know About Staying Near Ohio Stadium
Staying near Ohio Stadium puts you close to the action and gives you many choices for getting around and finding a place to park. Planning ahead helps save time and makes your stay smoother.
Walkability and Access
If you choose a hotel near Ohio Stadium, you can walk to most of the big events, including football games and concerts. The area around the stadium is designed for people on foot, so you won’t have to worry about long hikes or busy roads. Hotels like The Blackwell Inn, Graduate Columbus, and Hilton Columbus Downtown are all within a short walking distance.
Restaurants, coffee shops, and convenience stores sit nearby, so you don’t have to travel far for food or supplies. Sidewalks are well-marked, and crosswalks help you get around safely. The area is usually busy, which adds to the sense of safety, especially during major events.
Public transportation is also easy to use. The city bus has stops close to the stadium, and ride-share options like Uber and Lyft work well here. This makes it simple to reach other parts of Columbus if you want to explore.
Parking Tips
Parking near Ohio Stadium can be tricky, especially on game days or during big events. Most hotels offer parking garages or lots. Some charge extra fees for parking, so double-check with your hotel before you arrive. If your hotel includes free parking, that’s a big plus.
Ohio Stadium has public parking lots, but they fill up early on event days. If you plan to park there, arrive at least two hours early. Street parking is rare and usually limited to short periods. Be careful to read all posted signs to avoid tickets or towing.
A few hotels offer valet parking, which can save time but usually costs more. You may also find private parking lots close by, though prices can change depending on the event. If you don’t want to bother with parking, walking or using public transportation from your hotel is often easier and less stressful.
Best Times to Book
Hotel prices around Ohio Stadium go up whenever there’s a big event at the stadium or at Ohio State University. The busiest times are football season (September to November), graduation weekends, and concerts. Rooms can sell out fast, and prices might double or even triple during these events.
If you’re visiting during the off-season or on weekdays, you’ll find better rates and more choices. Try to book at least 2-3 months ahead if you know you’ll be coming for a big game or concert. For less popular dates, booking a few weeks out is usually fine.
Many hotels offer flexible booking, so you can change or cancel your reservation if your plans change. Use travel sites to compare deals and look for early booking discounts. If you have travel rewards points or memberships, check if you can use them for extra savings.
Neighborhoods Around Ohio Stadium
This part of Columbus brings together college town action, easy access to game day, and a bunch of places to eat and hang out. Whether you want to dive into campus life or find a relaxed spot after a game, there’s something nearby.
University District Vibes
You’ll find Ohio Stadium right in the middle of the University District. This area is home to Ohio State University, so it’s full of students, professors, and college energy. The streets are lined with campus buildings, coffee shops, and Buckeye spirit everywhere you look.
The vibe here is laid-back but busy, especially on weekends. You’ll see people walking to class, grabbing food, or heading to a football game. There’s plenty of green space, like the Oval, where you can relax or toss a frisbee.
Staying here means you’re close to everything on campus. Hotels like The Blackwell Inn are within walking distance of Ohio Stadium, which makes getting to events simple. You can easily explore the campus and nearby sights without needing a car.
Dining and Nightlife
When you’re hungry, there’s a wide range of food nearby. High Street is the main strip, packed with restaurants, bars, pizza spots, and coffee shops. From cheap tacos to sit-down Italian places, you won’t run out of options.
For sports bars, try places like Ethyl & Tank or Late Night Slice. If you want something quick before a game, grab a burger or sandwich from local favorites like Buckeye Donuts. After dark, the area gets lively with live music, crowded patios, and people celebrating after big wins.
Almost every corner offers pizza, wings, or pub food, which is great for groups. Whether it’s a family trip or friends weekend, you’ll find a spot that fits your style and budget. You don’t need to venture far to have a full Columbus experience right around the stadium.
