Columbus is ushering in fall with another win under its belt. Just two weeks after USA Today named it one of the 10 best spots in the U.S. to visit this fall, we’re excited to announce that Condé Nast Traveler has ranked Columbus as the No. 9 Best Big City in the United States in its prestigious 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards.
To celebrate this achievement, here are some BIG reasons Columbus should be on your travel list:
Columbus is home to more than 900,000 residents.
1. Get a Feel for the Biggest City in Ohio
If you're looking for a metropolitan moment, Columbus is a must, serving up big-city experiences with a small-town feel. Columbus is the largest city in Ohio with more than 900,000 residents—double the size of Cleveland and Cincinnati. As one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., Columbus is gaining recognition.
In 2024, Columbus landed on the tours of several nationally acclaimed musicians like Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Timberlake, and Jelly Roll held at Nationwide Arena. Columbus also made headlines this year hosting major sporting events such as the 2024 MLS All-Star Game, the 2024 Prevagen U.S. Figure Skating Championships, and is the annual host of the Arnold Sports Festival. There are plenty more can't-miss events coming to Ohio's capital city in 2025, so now is the perfect time to plan your trip.
Ohio Stadium, also known as "the Horseshoe" is home to the Ohio State University Buckeyes.
2. The "Shoe"—A Colossal Stadium
Experience Ohio Stadium, one of the largest stadiums in the world. With a seating capacity of 102,780, it ranks as the fifth largest stadium globally and the third largest in the U.S. This Big Ten Conference venue is not just a major sports arena but a symbol of the Ohio State University's vibrant culture.
Pins Mechanical's downtown Columbus location is home to the world's largest ping pong paddle.
3. World's Largest Ping Pong Paddle
Downtown Pins Mechanical Company houses a colossal ping pong paddle measuring over 11 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 8 inches deep. This wooden and rubber behemoth perfectly captures the playful spirit of this retro-inspired bar and arcade.
"Gavel" Sculpture. Photo by Dr. Bob Hall.
4. World's Largest Steel Gavel
Outside the Supreme Court of Ohio stands a massive steel sculpture of a gavel and sound block in a reflecting pool. Commissioned by the Ohio State Bar Association and crafted by artist Andrew F. Scott in 2008, it's a striking symbol of justice.
LeVeque Tower is home to personal residences and serves as a 149-room hotel.
5. Towering LeVeque
The LeVeque Tower, originally opened in 1927, stands at 555½ feet - deliberately half a foot taller than the Washington Monument. Once the fifth-tallest building in the world, it remains an iconic part of Columbus's skyline. The best part? You can book your stay at Hotel Leveque and sleep soundly in this fantastic Art Deco-style property.
The Book Loft is a true gem located in Columbus' historic German Village.
6. A Bookworm's BIG Dream
The Book Loft of German Village is a must-see for book lovers and one of the biggest reasons to visit Columbus. This sprawling bookstore spans 32 rooms and holds an impressive 500,000 books—all under one roof! As one of the nation’s largest independent bookstores, the Book Loft offers a massive selection and unbeatable prices, creating a truly immersive, budget-friendly experience.
The Chihuly Collection at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
7. The Biggest Collection of Chihuly Glass
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens boasts 18 permanent installations from renowned glass artist, Dale Chihuly. This is the largest private collection inside a botanical garden. You won't want to miss Chihuly Nights, a special evening event where the artworks are brilliantly illuminated.
The Stonewall Columbus Pride March starts downtown and routes through the Short North Arts District.
8. The Largest Three-Day Pride Festival in the Midwest
The Stonewall Columbus Pride Festival welcomes more than 700,000 people to the central Ohio region each June making it the largest, three-day Pride Festival in the Midwest. It's no wonder Thrillist named Columbus a "queer oasis" and U.S. News & World Report named Stonewall Columbus Pride among the 21 Top Pride Parades and Celebrations in the U.S.
Columbus is also the proud home of nationally acclaimed Drag Queens, Nina Virginia West. Slay.
Fashion Week Columbus is a series of events held annually each fall.
9. The Highest Concentration of Fashion Professionals in the U.S.
We know what you're thinking—the highest concentration of fashion professionals in the U.S. is in Columbus? Yes! Columbus boasts the headquarters of large national retail brands like Abercrombie & Fitch, DSW and Express. What's more, is the spectacular community of fashion designers and professionals contributing to the entrepreneurial retail economy of the city which is on display each fall during Fashion Week Columbus. Many of the designers got their start right here at the Columbus College of Art and Design. Be sure to experience the local fashion scene at these boutique shopping districts.
10. Largest Free Outdoor Climbing Wall in the U.S.
One of 20 metro parks in the city, Scioto Audubon Metro Park is a 119-acre park just south of downtown Columbus. There are so many ways to enjoy the park, but perhaps the most notable is the outdoor climbing wall. With stunning views of the Columbus skyline, this bring-your-own-equipment activity is a must-do for climbing enthusiasts everywhere.
There are big ways to explore Columbus this season and beyond. Download the CBUS Rewards App to explore the city, check in and earn prizes along the way. Don't forget to share your memories with us using #yesColumbus.
