Whether you arrive early for Ohio State game day or stay late to enjoy the weekend, Experience Columbus invites you to explore these curated local recommendations. From Buckeye-inspired favorites to city highlights, you’ll find inspiration to make the most of your time in Columbus.
 

Jump to: Breakfast | Mid-Morning | Lunch/Dinner | Nightlife | Hotels | Beyond Game Day

Variety pack of Buckeye Donuts Buckeye Donuts
Source: Nick Dekker 		Parking lot outside of Ohio Stadium filled with tailgaters before football game Tailgate outside Ohio Stadium
Source: Jo McCulty 		North Market exterior North Market
Source: Experience Columbus

Breakfast

Start your day with a true Columbus classic and head to Buckeye Donuts inside North Market. This local favorite fuels fans with fresh donuts and strong coffee, perfect for setting the gameday mood.

Prefer something heartier? Head to Hangover Easy on campus, where you’ll find big brunch energy, bold flavors and a menu built for Buckeye fans gearing up for today’s tailgate.
 

Group touring Ohio Stadium Ohio Stadium tour
Source: Experience Columbus 		Ohio State Buckeyes football field inside Ohio Stadium Football field in Ohio Stadium
Source: The Ohio State University 		Ohio shirt Ohio shirt
Source: Brian Kaiser

Mid-Morning (Plan Ahead Experience)

Kick things off with a behind-the-scenes look at the iconic Ohio Stadium by booking a stadium tour—just be sure to book ahead of time. After soaking in the history and views, stock up on scarlet and gray swag at the Stadium Team Shop or The Buckeye Collection store to gear up in style before the game.
 

Beer pong game setup at DraftKings Sports & Social Bar games
Source: DraftKings Sports & Social 		Cocktails offered at Speck Italian Eatery Specialty cocktails
Source: Speck Italian Eatery 		A view of the Columbus skyline from The Brass Eye, a rooftop bar at The Junto Brass Eye
Source: The Junto

Lunch/Dinner

Fuel your Buckeye spirit with flavors as bold as the fans in the stands. Whether you’re grabbing a fast bite before kickoff or settling in for a celebratory post-game feast, Columbus has plenty of options.

Quick & Casual:

Elevated Favorites:

  • Enjoy modern American classics at Hudson 29.
  • Dig into comfort food with a twist at Cap City Fine Diner.
  • Share plates of fresh pasta and appetizers at Marcella’s.
  • Savor handmade pastas, seasonal small plates and Italian-inspired flavors with a modern twist at Speck.
  • Dine and drink at The Junto—from skyline views and cocktails at Brass Eye to wood-fired tavern fare at Little West Tavern.
  • Treat yourself to any Cameron Mitchell Restaurant for an unforgettable dining experience—there’s a flavor for every fan, from steak and seafood to sushi and Italian.
     
Threes Above High and Fours on High merch Threes Above High and Fours On High merch
Source: Threes Above High 		Fans cheering on the Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium Ohio State college students
Source: The Ohio State University 		Standard Hall door sign Standard Hall
Source: UA Creative Studios

Nightlife Near Campus

Keep the Buckeye energy going long after the game. Columbus keeps the team spirit alive well into the night.

  • Varsity Club — A game-day institution steps from the stadium, packed with Buckeye pride.
  • Out-R-Inn — A classic college bar vibes with cheap drinks and loud cheers.
  • Library Bar — A campus favorite for beer, cocktails and plenty of sports on TV.
  • Threes Above High — A high-energy campus spot with DJs, dancing and plenty of Buckeye fans.
  • Standard Hall — A trendy Short North bar with a big patio, great for people-watching and post-game celebrations.
     
Scarlett Ann, the hotel dog at Graduate Columbus, sitting in a scarlet and grey chair Graduate Columbus' hotel dog Scarlett Ann
Source: Graduate Columbus 		Hilton Columbus Downtown with new tower, opened in 2022 1,000-room hotel in Columbus
Source: Hilton Columbus Downtown 		A classic king room at The Junto, Independent Lifestyle Hotel The Junto hotel room
Source: The Junto

Staying Overnight or Arriving Early?

Check into one of our preferred hotel partners near campus:

A woman's hand holds a tray of buckeye candies Buckeyes from Krema Nut Company
Source: Wendy Pramik 		Woman riding high-wire unicycle at COSI High-wire unicycle
Source: Center of Science and Industry (COSI) 		National Veterans Memorial and Museum at dusk National Veterans Memorial and Museum
Source: Randall L. Schieber

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