Articles from Experience Columbus

Columbus, Ohio, Aug. 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- From an annual witch/warlock paddle down the Scioto River to HighBall Halloween, the nation’s most elaborate costume party where fashion meets fear, Columbus has long been an ideal place to spend spooky season. But did you know Columbus is the hometown of legendary horror author R.L. Stine? Yes, Columbus! In celebration of the Bexley native and aligned with the Aug. 5 release of his latest book, “Goosebumps House of Shivers #5: The Last Sleepover,” and the 10th anniversary of the “Goosebumps” film, Experience Columbus is launching a new campaign. Get Goosebumps in Columbus invites visitors to celebrate Halloween in the place where Stine’s fright-filled career began.   “R.L. Stine is one of the best-selling authors of all time with more than 400 million books sold worldwide and his ‘Goosebumps’ and ‘Fear Street’ series inspiring generations of readers,” said Sarah Townes, ECI, Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer at Experience Columbus and the Greater Columbus Sports Commission. “Get Goosebumps in Columbus gives us an exciting opportunity to celebrate the city’s literary history and authentically unique Halloween experiences. Columbus offers an alternative to overcrowded Halloween destinations. Here you can enjoy peak fall foliage against a picturesque Midwest backdrop while enjoying ’Goosebumps’-inspired fun at more than a dozen of the city’s top attractions, restaurants and bars.”  R.L. Stine Returns to Columbus Oct. 23  Anchoring the monthlong celebration is a special talk with R.L. Stine presented by Experience Columbus and Columbus Metropolitan Library. Happening Thursday, Oct. 23, at 6 p.m. in Main Library’s Reading Room, the event features a conversation with Stine about his newest book, followed by a book signing. The event is free and open to the public, but tickets are required and will be available beginning at 9 a.m. Aug. 28 at www.columbuslibrary.org. Be sure to look at the sky that night as City Hall, the Short North arches, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens and more local landmarks light up neon green to welcome Stine home.   Free Family Movie Night Oct. 2  Kicking off the monthlong celebration is a free outdoor screening of “Goosebumps” on Thursday, Oct. 2, at 7 p.m. at Columbus Commons, part of Downtown Columbus, Inc.’s Sunset Movie Series presented in partnership with CAPA. The film stars Jack Black as Stine and reflects on the lasting legacy of the “Goosebumps” franchise. In addition to two films starring Black, Stine’s books were popularized even more when they became a TV series in the 90s. The beloved series is reaching a new generation of fans through the Disney+ series “Goosebumps: The Vanishing,” now in its second season.   Experience Columbus will be the official nonprofit partner of the night, bringing special activations and giveaways. The Columbus Crew will also join in on the fun. See their “The Goosebumps™ Kit” by adidas in person and bring home your own. Released ahead of the 2025 MLS season, the black kit features bright yellow slime that activates under ultraviolet light, making it the first kit in MLS history to feature UV-activated technology.  “Goosebumps”-Inspired Food & Drink Offerings  Recognized as one of America’s “Next Great Food Cities,” according to Food & Wine, Columbus restaurants and bars are having fun with the city’s celebration with offerings ranging from a special “Goosebumps”-themed menu at Law Bird starting in mid-October to cocktails inspired by the books at Budd Dairy Food Hall, Land-Grant Brewing Co., Lincoln Social and Stories on High. Land-Grant's taproom is also undergoing a terrifying transformation for the month of October. The brewery will become Nightmare on Town Street, filled with over-the-top spooky scenes, cauldrons and dripping with cobwebs—the perfect place to try their green lime slushie.  Reading Challenges, Themed Zip Lining, Scavenger Hunts & More 

Columbus, Ohio, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Named one of the best big cities in the U.S. and one of the best food cities in the country by Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards and one of AFAR’s picks for Where to Go in 2025, Columbus is a must-visit U.S. destination. Here’s a look at five reasons to visit Ohio’s capital in 2025.   Attend the First-Ever NHL Stadium Series Game at Ohio Stadium Home to the 2024 College Football Playoff National Champions The Ohio State University Buckeyes and four professional sports teams, Columbus is a sports city. On the heels of hosting several major sporting events last year, including the 2024 Prevagen U.S. Figure Skating Championships and 2024 MLS All-Star Game, the excitement for sports in Columbus continues in 2025.   One of the most highly anticipated events takes place March 1 as the Columbus Blue Jackets face off against the Detroit Red Wings in the 2025 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series™ at the iconic Ohio Stadium. Columbus' own O.A.R. and Twenty One Pilots will take the stage for special performances before and during the game. Learn more and purchase tickets.   Experience the Force at COSI’s New Unofficial Galaxies Exhibit Coming to COSI May 10 to Sept. 1, Unofficial Galaxies will showcase one of the largest private collections of Star Wars memorabilia and bring the beloved universe to life, immersing fans of all ages in the iconic stories, characters and artistry that have captivated audiences for generations. From legendary characters to unforgettable, full-scale starships and costumes, the exhibition will offer a rare opportunity to step into the world of Star Wars and explore its cultural and artistic impact.  Taste the City’s Buzzed About Culinary Scene Columbus’ chefs, restaurants and bars continue to get national recognition, including three being named 2025 James Beard semifinalists. With the acclaim of being one of best food cities in the country according to Condé Nast Traveler and with several new highly anticipated restaurant openings, 2025 is the perfect time to make a reservation. Try the globally inspired menu at Agni, led by Avishar Barua, a 2025 James Beard Award semifinalist in the Best Chef: Great Lakes category, or check out Law Bird, a semifinalist in the Outstanding Bar category. For some of the best baked goods in Columbus, stop by Dan the Baker, a semifinalist in the Outstanding Bakery category. Taste your way across Columbus by taking the #1 food tour in the country with Columbus Food Adventures or exploring one of Experience Columbus’ self-guided trails, like the new Columbus Buckeye Treat Trail. New restaurant openings coming in 2025 include Isla from Chef Andrew Smith, and Rosalita from Chef Josh Dalton.  Enjoy New Experiences at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Zoombezi Bay and The Wilds Home to more than 10,000 animals representing over 600 species from around the world, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is one of the largest and most renowned zoos in the United States. 2025 brings new experiences to the Zoo, Zoombezi Bay and The Wilds. This summer, the Columbus Zoo will debut the revitalized North America Trek region. The redevelopment will immerse guests in the wonders of North American wildlife while highlighting conservation efforts to protect the planet’s most precious species. Key features include new habitats for bald eagles, black bears, river otters and Mexican wolves, and the Ohio Center for Wildlife Conservation highlighting conservation initiatives right here in Ohio. Adding to the excitement, two new elephant calves are expected to arrive in 2025.    Also opening this summer at Zoombezi Bay—the only water park connected to a world-class zoo—guests can enjoy the all-new Conservation Tower. This innovative attraction features three thrilling slides inspired by the Zoo’s conservation mission, including one that marks a first for the Midwest and two making their world premiere.   The Wilds, one of the largest conservation centers in the world spanning nearly 10,000 acres in southeast Ohio, will also introduce a new lodging experience—the Hellbender RV Campground. Opening in June, the 75-acre development adds to The Wilds’ unique lodging options, which range from luxury 21+ yurts to rustic cabins and family-friendly camping. Whichever way you choose to stay, unforgettable experiences like open-air safaris, zipline tours, horseback tours and more await.  Immerse Yourself in Columbus’ Newest Attraction—an Experimental Museum   A new first-of-its-kind supersensory experimental museum is coming to Downtown Columbus this year. Expected to be completed by Labor Day, Prototype: The Experimental Museum will be a 30,000-square-foot facility with opening day experimental exhibits ranging from large kinetic artworks and cutting-edge digital worlds to original sensory illusions, immersive films, sound studios—even a virtual reality salon. Prototype is designed collaboratively by Roto, the largest design/build company in North America for experience and attraction design, specializing in highly immersive media and physical interactivity.   To learn more about what’s new and what’s happening in Columbus, visit www.experiencecolumbus.com and follow us on social media. Share your experiences online by tagging Experience Columbus on social media and using #yesColumbus.   About Columbus  Did you know Columbus is a top 10 best big city in the U.S. and one of the best food cities in the country according to Condé Nast Traveler, one of the top places to go in 2025 according to AFAR and one of the best solo trips for women in the U.S. and around the world by Glamour? yes, Columbus. Columbus is bold, welcoming and forward-thinking. Home to world-class museums and attractions, historic and unique neighborhoods like the Short North Arts District, historic German Village and the Arena District — where four professional sports teams live on one street — Columbus has so much to offer. Visitors can learn what awaits in the 14th largest city in the country and Ohio’s capital by visiting www.ExperienceColumbus.com and following Experience Columbus on Instagram: @ExperienceColumbus, Facebook: @ExperienceColumbus, Threads: @ExperienceColumbus and TikTok: @ExperienceColumbus.

Columbus, Ohio, June 14, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Named a favorite U.S. family destination for 2024 by Afar, home to a twice-ranked best zoo and the third best beer city in the country, it’s time to put Columbus on your summer travel list. Through its new brand campaign, “yes, Columbus,” Experience Columbus is inviting visitors to be surprised by the amazing and sometimes unexpected accolades and experiences the city has quietly been stacking up in recent years. From matches featuring soccer’s biggest stars to new trails and experiences to some of the Midwest’s biggest summer festivals, keep reading to see what awaits in Ohio’s capital this summer.  "Many people underestimate just how much Columbus has to offer," said Sarah Townes, Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer at Experience Columbus. "Our Stonewall Columbus Pride Festival and March is celebrated as one of the best in the country by Condé Nast Traveler and U.S. News & World Report. We host the biggest Fourth of July fireworks show in the Midwest with Red, White & Boom! But beyond these beloved summer staples, Columbus also offers fresh, new reasons to experience—or re-experience—the Arch City this season."  New Reasons to Visit  Experience the Summer of Soccer Home to the 2023 MLS Cup champions Columbus Crew, the reigning best in the league will host the 2024 MLS All-Star Game presented by Target on July 24. Fans are invited to vote now through June 10 on what players they want to see in Columbus. Leading up to the game, fans can experience a week of festivities, from interactive fan experiences to the MLS All-Star Concert presented by Target featuring Marshmello and PinkPantheress on July 21 at Nationwide Arena. The MLS All-Star Game is just the beginning. On July 27, the Crew takes on Aston Villa, and on Aug. 3, Columbus welcomes Manchester City vs. Chelsea at Ohio Stadium.  Enjoy the Scioto Mile Fountain’s Splashing Return The iconic Scioto Mile Fountain has undergone a breathtaking $15 million transformation, and it’s ready to wow visitors once again. This family-friendly attraction, along one of the nation's best riverwalks, is free and now boasts a spectacular new lighting system, water features that shoot jets 75 feet into the air and additional seating areas with ample shade for comfortable enjoyment.   Sip and Stroll Downtown with a New DORA Thanks to Columbus' new Center City DORA, you can sip and stroll in parts of downtown and Franklinton. The Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) spans 0.62 square miles covering popular spots like the Scioto Mile, Columbus Commons, Gay Street, Franklinton and more. Enjoy a cold drink in a place USA Today has named one of the top three beer cities in the country.  Support Local Minority-Owned Businesses Launching in the summer of 2024, Ground Floor Growth is a program aiming to support small, local, minority- and women-owned businesses in downtown Columbus. Notable openings include Black Kahawa Coffee Roastery & Patio and Three Bites Bakery + Little Cat Boba.   Re-launching this Juneteenth, Experience Columbus’ CBUS Soul® Sculpture Trail is adding several new components so visitors can experience local African American art in an even more interactive and engaging way. While the nine sculptures featured on the trail will stay the same, new additions include accompanying audio storytelling, gamification of the trail so participants have the chance to earn a new CBUS Soul-themed tote bag and a curated itinerary pairing the trail with nearby recommended minority-owned businesses to support.  Festival Favorites Return  Amidst all the new offerings, some of Columbus' most iconic events are making their annual return. In addition to Stonewall Columbus Pride (July 14-15) and Red, White & Boom! (July 3), immerse yourself in art at the 62nd annual Columbus Arts Festival along the downtown riverfront (June 7-9), meet your favorite authors at the Columbus Book Festival (July 13-14), savor award-winning barbecue and jazz at Jazz & Rib Fest (July 19-21) and celebrate Columbus’ vibrant Black culture at the third annual CBUS Soul Fest (Aug. 17). These summer highlights, along with many others, promise an unforgettable experience filled with art, literature, music and delicious food.  A Summer of Unforgettable Flavors  Named one of the Best Destination for Culinary Travel in 2024 by Essence Magazine, this summer Columbus will sizzle with the opening of several new restaurants. Cameron Mitchell Restaurants will open Butcher & Rose downtown, bringing an upscale steakhouse to the redeveloped Preston Centre with an innovative design connecting to a below-grade garden element. Chouette by Makeready will add French flair to downtown with an authentic experience that infuses art, culture and history and aims to inspire curiosity, lively conversation and a sense of community. And for those seeking a fun, new food hall, The Little Grand Market by Thrive Companies will open in August in nearby Grandview Heights, boasting 10 local vendors, expansive social bars and relaxing patios with stunning city views.  To learn more about all there is to see and do in Columbus this summer, visit www.experiencecolumbus.com/summer.   About Columbus, Ohio Columbus is a city unlike any other. Vibrant and alive, Ohio’s capital is known for its open attitude, smart style and entrepreneurial spirit. Columbus' blend of neighborhoods, dynamic nightlife, noteworthy music scene, arts and culinary experiences, events, attractions and accommodations are all made unforgettable by the diversity of its outgoing locals who eagerly await and warmly welcome visitors. Free travel guides, maps, online booking and detailed information are available at www.ExperienceColumbus.com. Visitor information is also available on Instagram: @ExperienceColumbus, Facebook: @ExperienceColumbus, Threads: @ExperienceColumbus and  TikTok: @ExperienceColumbus. 

Columbus, Ohio, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Columbus is road trip-ready and rising to the top of travelers’ lists in 2025. As Americans plan shorter getaways and embrace the return of the road trip, The Wall Street Journal notes a clear trend: drivable, experience-rich cities are in. With national nods from AFAR and Travel + Leisure as one of the best places to visit this summer, it’s clear Columbus should be on your summer travel list.  “Summer is our busiest season for a reason,” said Sarah Townes, ECI, Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer at Experience Columbus and the Greater Columbus Sports Commission. “There’s always something happening with festivals nearly every weekend celebrating the arts, music, culture, books and more. Columbus provides that perfect mix of a city escape that blends energy and ease. And with 81 percent of overnight visitors returning, it’s clear that once people experience Columbus, they come back again and again.”  

Columbus, OH, Nov. 07, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Craving a new way to celebrate the holidays? Experience Columbus invites you to discover a city where James Beard-nominated chefs are ready to craft the next best seasonal dish you'll be dreaming about for holidays to come, historic neighborhoods shine with festive lights and landmark venues offer performances for all ages. Named one of the nation’s best cities for holiday lights by Best Life, Columbus is your winter getaway for one-of-a-kind shopping, family-friendly attractions and unique experiences like shopping in the Short North Pole or experiencing a Striezlemarkt in historic German Village.   "Columbus brings together everything you want in a holiday destination," said Sarah Townes, Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer at Experience Columbus. "Here, you'll find a top 10 best big city in the country that celebrates big while keeping that warm, welcoming spirit. When visitors experience our creative energy, nationally recognized restaurants and vibrant neighborhoods, they can't help but ask, 'Really, that's in Columbus?' And we're proud to say, ‘Yes!’ There are so many ways to celebrate the holidays this season, including by visiting the first week in December, which we dub Columbus’ biggest holiday weekend because of the number of festive events taking place."    Enjoy Festive Holiday Experiences 

Columbus, Ohio, April 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Force will be strong in Columbus this summer as the city prepares to celebrate the Center of Science and Industry's (COSI) marquee exhibition, Unofficial Galaxies. From May 10 through Sept. 1, 2025, this immersive installation features one of the largest private collections of Star Wars memorabilia at COSI, named the nation’s No. 1 science museum five times by USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice.   But the experience doesn’t stop at the museum doors. All across the city, Experience Columbus partners are embracing the galactic theme, offering out-of-this-world experiences that turn a visit into a multi-day fan adventure.  “With Revenge of the Sith returning to theaters for its 20th anniversary and Andor gearing up for its final season in late April, there’s never been a better time to celebrate the Star Wars universe, and this exhibit delivers that excitement right here in Columbus," said Sarah Townes, ECI, Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer at Experience Columbus. “This is the Columbus Way in action, bringing the community together in a uniquely creative and collaborative way to create unforgettable experiences.”  The Junto Hotel, an independent lifestyle hotel just steps from COSI, is offering a special Dark Side or Light Package hotel package that includes two complimentary exhibition tickets, two themed cocktails at Trade Room, where you must choose your Dark or Light destiny, and more.  Across the city, themed events like a one-day Star Wars story times and trivia-filled costume parties at Columbus Metropolitan Library branches, or Star Wars Night at Huntington Park with character appearances and lightsaber-worthy views, offer family-friendly entertainment. Adventurers can soar through the trees at ZipZone Outdoor Adventures during special night flights. Local restaurants and bars are getting in on the fun, offering some limited-edition treats and drinks like the Maris Magenta cocktail at Stories on High, the Luke Skywalker cocktail at Lincoln Social Rooftop and the Light Speed Lager at Land-Grant Brewing Company, all inspired by this intergalactic universe.   The Unofficial Galaxies exhibit itself will feature more than 150 meticulously preserved artifacts. Visitors can explore legendary characters, full-scale starships and authentic costumes that have captivated audiences for generations.  To complete the adventure, fans can continue the fun at other immersive Columbus attractions like Otherworld, Big Fun and LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or introducing a new generation to the galaxy, Columbus is ready to transport you to a world far, far away.  For more information on planning a trip to Columbus, including accommodations, dining recommendations and event calendars, visit ExperienceColumbus.com/UnofficialGalaxies.  

Columbus, OH, Feb. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --  This spring, Experience Columbus is inviting visitors to skip the crowds and experience a refreshingly unique spring break in Ohio's capital. Named a top 10 best big city in the U.S. and one of the best food cities in the country according to Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards and one of only five U.S. destinations on AFAR’s Where to Go in 2025 list, Columbus is home to stunning cherry blossoms, a nationally-acclaimed food scene and new experiences at the city’s top attractions. All of these amazing things will have you saying yes to Columbus this spring.  "Columbus is in full bloom in the spring, making it a beautiful time to visit, and this year is even more exciting with the national spotlight on our destination," said Sarah Townes, ECI, Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer at Experience Columbus and the Greater Columbus Sports Commission. “With three 2025 James Beard Award semifinalists and more than a dozen USA TODAY 10Best nominations across categories including Best Beer City, Best Zoo and Best Botanical Garden, Columbus is ready to be discovered. We can’t wait for visitors to explore, whether it's their first time or a return trip, and create lasting memories.”  Enjoy New Experiences at Top Attractions This season, don’t miss COSI, recently named the best science museum in the nation by USA TODAY's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards for the fifth time, along with earning the No. 3 spot for the best planetarium. Prepare to journey to a galaxy far, far away as COSI presents Unofficial Galaxies, a world-class exhibition showcasing one of the largest private collections of Star Wars memorabilia. Opening May 10, this highly anticipated exhibition will run until Sept. 1, and features over 150 artifacts, including iconic characters, full-scale starships and costumes, offering a rare opportunity to explore the cultural and artistic impact of the Star Wars universe.  Then head to the newly opened Gamegrounds, a carnival-inspired gaming experience from the creators of Otherworld. This high-energy, immersive attraction features 12 unique games for two to six players, including skill games, physical challenges and mental puzzles, with 75 minutes of unlimited play. Enjoy carnival-inspired food and drinks, track your progress with RFID wristbands and climb the leaderboard for a chance to win prizes like plushies, apparel and more. It’s an unforgettable experience for all ages. 

Columbus, Ohio, Aug. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Experience Columbus is launching a new free experiential trail dedicated to Ohio’s iconic—and delicious—buckeye candy. The Columbus Buckeye Treat Trail is your guide to exploring Columbus’ delicious buckeye treats, which are inspired by Ohio’s state tree. Visitors and locals alike can discover a sweeter side of Columbus culture by trying the chocolate-dipped, peanut butter confection. Sixteen stops are featured on the trail, including Anthony-Thomas Chocolates, Brownie Points, Buckeye Candy Company, The Buckeye Lady, Chocolate Café, C. Krueger’s Finest Baked Goods, Donna’s Delicious Dozen, Krema Nut Company, The Original Goodie Shop, Schmidt's Fudge Haus, Schmidt’s Sausage Haus, The Yard Milkshake Bar and Winans Coffee & Chocolate. From traditional buckeyes from one of the largest family-owned candy companies in the country to half-pound jumbo cream puffs in buckeye flavors to a milkshake version, the trail features a variety of unique buckeye interpretations and desserts inspired by the chocolate and peanut butter flavor combination."At Experience Columbus, we love creating trails that give visitors a true taste of our city while promoting the amazing small businesses that call Columbus home," said Michelle Wilson, ECI, Senior Director of Destination Services at Experience Columbus. "Our Columbus-Style Pizza Trail and Columbus Distillery Trail are just two examples of our other trails that have been a huge hit. We kept hearing from locals and visitors asking, 'What about something sweet?' The Columbus Buckeye Treat Trail is our answer to that. It's the perfect addition to our existing free, experiential trails."The Columbus Buckeye Treat Trail, which is a mobile exclusive passport delivered to your phone via text and email (no app required), offers rewards for participation:

Columbus, Ohio, Oct. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Condé Nast Traveler announced today that Columbus has been ranked a top 10 Best Big City in the U.S. as part of its prestigious 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards. Columbus came in ninth on the list alongside cities such as Chicago, Washington, D.C. and Boston. “Ohio’s capital city is ready for its close-up,” the article says. The city’s culinary scene was highlighted for having travel-worthy burgers and international cuisines such as amazing Himalayan restaurants. More than 575,000 readers across the country shared their travel experiences in the awards survey, offering insight into the destinations they most look forward to revisiting. As the longest-running and most respected accolades in the travel industry, the Readers' Choice Awards are widely recognized as a benchmark of excellence in travel. The full list of winners can be found here and will be celebrated in the magazine’s November issue. “Columbus is stepping into the spotlight and solidifying its place as one of the premier travel destinations in the U.S.,” said Sarah Townes, Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer at Experience Columbus. “Being named among the top large U.S. cities is a testament to the diverse experiences we offer, from our award-winning culinary scene to our vibrant neighborhoods and cultural institutions. Travelers are catching on to the energy and warmth that make our city truly unique, and we’re excited to show the world how Columbus says ‘yes’ to innovation, culture and endless discovery.”  This recognition further solidifies Columbus’ place as a city on the rise. Earlier this year, the city earned more than a dozen USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, including being home to the No. 1 Best Food Tour, No. 1 Best Farmers Market, No. 2 Best Half Marathon, No. 2 Best Science Museum and No. 3 Best Beer City. Columbus was also recognized in USA Today 10Best’s top 10 rankings in categories like Best Riverwalks, Best Food Halls, Best Place to Visit for Fall and Best Public Markets. Once considered a hidden gem, Columbus is now firmly on the radar. Essence magazine named Columbus a top 10 destination for culinary travel in 2024. AFAR recognized Columbus as one of the top eight family destinations in the U.S. and Glamour highlighted Ohio’s capital among the 25 best solo trips for women worldwide. With its welcoming entrepreneurial spirit and vibrant blend of arts, culture and cuisine, Columbus continues to capture the attention of visitors from around the globe. To see why Columbus is making headlines and to start planning your next trip, visit www.experiencecolumbus.com.  About Columbus Columbus is a city unlike any other. Vibrant and alive, Ohio’s capital is known for its open attitude, smart style and entrepreneurial spirit. Columbus' blend of neighborhoods, dynamic nightlife, noteworthy music scene, arts and culinary experiences, events, attractions and accommodations are all made unforgettable by the diversity of its outgoing locals who eagerly await and warmly welcome visitors. Free travel guides, maps, online booking and detailed information are available at ExperienceColumbus.com. Visitor information is also available on Instagram: @ExperienceColumbus, Facebook: @ExperienceColumbus, Threads: @ExperienceColumbus and   TikTok: @ExperienceColumbus.  

Columbus, Ohio, April 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The votes are in, and six Columbus tours, attractions, restaurants and races are among the best in the country according to the prestigious USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards announced this month. The rankings further solidify Ohio’s capital as a must-visit destination for 2024 home to unique attractions and experiences, a vibrant waterfront and some of the best culinary offerings in the country. Columbus Food Adventures, which offers a dozen unique tours throughout Columbus’ neighborhoods, earned the No. 1 spot in the Best Food Tours for 2024 category. “From neighborhood walking tours to by-van excursions and private tours, Columbus Food Adventures offers a full menu of ways to meet the area's rich culinary scene," the article reads. Also landing in the top spot nationwide is the Worthington Farmers Market in the Best Farmers Market for 2024 category. The article highlights the market’s nearly 100 vendors and how they provide year-round fresh, local produce and artisanal goods. Columbus has been recognized as a must-visit food destination for 2024 according to Essence, and USA Today 10Best readers agree with two more national rankings that point to the city’s unique culinary offerings. Budd Dairy Food Hall was named the third Best Food Hall for 2024 nationwide while North Market was named the #8 Best Public Market for 2024.  “The word is getting out that Columbus is an ideal place to visit, whether you’re coming with friends or family, for a special event or for business travel,” said Sarah Townes, ECI, Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer at Experience Columbus. “While you’re here you can immerse yourself in our award-winning, chef-driven food scene, spend time outdoors along our expansive riverwalk and abundant green spaces or explore our unique and walkable neighborhoods.” 

COLUMBUS, Ohio, March 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Experience Columbus, the destination marketing organization for Columbus, is thrilled to announce that Columbus has been named one of the best beer cities in the country for 2024 according to the prestigious USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. Ohio’s capital ranked third in the country following Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Grand Rapids, Michigan.   Columbus was one of 20 cities from across the country nominated for the award by a panel of beer experts. Nominees were recognized for hosting the best beer scenes in the nation—ones with stellar collections of established and up-and-coming breweries, beer bars, brewpubs, beer festivals and even thriving homebrewing communities where novice brewers can get their foot in the door. After four weeks of public voting, USA Today 10Best recently announced the top 10 winners. Rounding out the top five after Columbus were Fort Collins, Colorado, in fourth and Richmond, Virginia in fifth.   “With an impressive selection of more than 30 craft breweries in Central Ohio and more than 50 breweries across Greater Columbus, we knew our beer scene was top tier, but we’re excited that the word is out even more now thanks to this new accolade,” said Sarah Townes, Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer for Experience Columbus. “Columbus has a truly unique beer scene, from craft breweries that were introducing IPAs to the market before the style gained popularity to ones that focus on sour and wild beers to the newest one that uses AI to generate beer recipes.”