Each year during the fall, Columbus welcomes attendees from across the nation to the world’s largest horse show, the American Quarter Horse Congress. A time-honored tradition since 1967, the American Quarter Horse Congress estimates more than 500,000 visitors in attendance at the Ohio Expo Center this year for hundreds of competitions, equine vendor displays and more. The best part? It’s free to attend!
While you’re in town for the American Quarter Horse Congress, here are some of the best things to do in Columbus.
Source: The Brass Hand
Shopping
Rod’s Western Palace
A Columbus staple for nearly 50 years, Rod’s Western Palace is a must-visit business dedicated to “True Western Living.” Shop boots, jeans, hats and more at their conveniently located brick-and-mortar location just north of the Ohio Expo Center.
The Brass Hand
Inspired by the climate and vibes of the Arizona desert, The Brass Hand is an experiential gift and plant shop in Columbus’ Clintonville neighborhood. Pot-your-own cactus, or choose from a variety of vintage treasures to take home with you from this one-of-a-kind, woman-owned business.
Tecovas
Columbus just got a little more country. Specializing in upscale western wear (and famous for their cowboy boots), Tecovas opened its first Columbus retail location at Easton last year. Just a 10-minute drive from the Ohio Expo Center, Easton is a must-visit destination while you’re in Columbus for the American Quarter Horse Congress.
Little West Tavern. Source: Nick Dekker, contributor.
Dining
Little West Tavern
Inspired by the independent spirit of the West, Little West Tavern is a wood-hearth dining concept in Downtown Columbus. Open for lunch and dinner, choose from their signature dishes like the Bone in Ribeye or wet your whistle with a specialty cocktail.
Ray Ray’s Hog Pit
Founded in 2009, Ray Ray’s Hog Pit combines old-school smoke with new-school magic to make a menu full of mouth-watering barbecue items. Try their famous “Meatsweats” box featuring smoked brisket, pulled pork, jerk chicken, dry rubbed ribs and more. With five central Ohio locations, there are plenty of opportunities to feast on your favorites in Columbus.
Pecan Penny’s
Serving up authentic Texas barbecue, Pecan Penny’s is a great place to stop in for lunch or dinner while you’re in Columbus. Choose from tasty shareables like the “Mount Nacho” or grab the “Downtown Sampler” for a full helping of meaty deliciousness.
Source: PBR Cowboy Bar + Smokehouse
Entertainment
PBR Cowboy Bar + Smokehouse
Let loose in Columbus at PBR Cowboy Bar! Located at Easton, PBR is where the cowboy spirit comes to life, complete with line dancing and a mechanical bull. Add this to your list during your visit.
Dueling Axes
Take your aim at Dueling Axes, a casual spot for axe throwing and drinks in Downtown Columbus. Take your partner, or the whole crew, for some after-hours fun.
Slate Run Living Historical Farm
Turn back time to the 1880s at Slate Run Living Historical Farm in Canal Winchester. Learn from customed staff and volunteers what life was like on the homestead here in Ohio more than 100 years ago.
