Photo: Park Street Complex

This post is part three of a seven part series featuring Columbus happy hours . Whether you like to head downtown or to the suburbs, we have you covered. Check back each week as Experience Columbus staff spotlight their favorite areas of Columbus to meet friends, share a drink and have some fun.

In this post, Tony explores the happy hour specials on and around Park Street. You can also check out options in the Short North Arts District here , or options in Grandview here . Stay tuned for future posts in the series as we explore downtown, the University District at OSU, Easton Town Center and Worthington.

Park Street and the surrounding area is a popular place for nightlife and clubbing in Central Ohio. With dozens of bars in the immediate area, it’s never hard to find an establishment that fits your style.

A few tips as we continue this happy hour series: if you’re staying out for a few drinks, keep the number for the local Yellow Cab on you. If you’re driving, there’s plenty of parking in the convention center garage (accepts credit cards) and in a nearby flat-lot . If you’re heading in to town to experience the nightlife and happy hour is just the beginning, make reservations at a hotel within walking distance .

My favorites on and around Park Street: (more…)

This past weekend a few of the Experience Columbus crew hit the new piano bar, The Big Bang . We had one rockin’ time!

Located under Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant in the Arena District , dueling piano players sit opposite each other and play old school favorites that you can’t help but sing out loud.

If you are looking for a high-energy hang out, this is the place to go. Tip: You should get there early - the night we went it was packed by 11 p.m. and we spotted a line at the door.

Here are the impressions our group had about the night:

Meg Gordon : When I heard that Big Bang was opening in Columbus, I was super pumped and my expectations were high. I was not disappointed! I think it’s nearly impossible to go to The Big Bang and not have a good time. I mean, what could be better than belting out some of your favorite tunes with your friends?

Melissa DeGraw : I liked that we got there before a cover started and the drinks were not that expensive. It’s a fun place to hang with your friends and relax with some great entertainment to boot!

Kate Kastenholz : I think The Big Bang is a home run. There was so much energy and I was amazed that the performers were able to rotate and play each instrument!

Brenda Carter: I loved the music and group participation, and that the price of drinks was reasonable.

Kelly Brooks : My favorite thing about The Big Bang is that it has a little something for everyone. Whether you want grab a few drinks, enjoy some live entertainment or spend a night people watching, you can do it here. But make sure you arrive early if you want to grab a table - it fills up quickly!

Since it’s new, we know only some of Columbus has had the chance to experience The Big Bang. Have you? How was it?