There are many choices for those looking to enjoy a guided tour of Columbus while visiting for a meeting, event or tradeshow. From your own two feet to a ride on a bike, Segway or vehicle, there are options for all mobility types and preferences. No matter the avenue chosen for exploration, all tours will allow you to discover the history, architecture and unique culture of downtown Columbus and its surrounding neighborhoods while being led by highly experienced, knowledgeable, local staff.
Each Saturday from May through October, CityWalks Columbus Guided Tours offers 90-minute walking tours of downtown at 10 a.m. The route is approximately 1.5 miles and focuses on the architecture of downtown buildings, which range in style from Beaux Arts to Gothic, Art Moderne to Greek Revival and more. Participants will learn the stories of Columbus’ immigrant roots, natural disasters and famous residents that are woven throughout the monumental and symbolic government and bank buildings, and the tucked-away architectural gems and outstanding public art pieces.
CBUS Bike Tours offers three unique opportunities to see Columbus by bike. Trail Treasures includes a 9-mile ride focusing primarily on areas along the Scioto River, including parts of downtown and Franklinton. The Classic is a nearly 12-mile ride along trails and bike-friendly designated streets throughout neighborhoods surrounding downtown, including German Village, The Short North Arts District, Olde Towne East and the King-Lincoln District. Private tours, typically about nine miles, are also available for groups wishing for a customized experience. All tours are approximately 3 hours.
SegAway Tours of Columbus offers one of the most unique ways to see the city. Two-hour tours take participants through miles of peaceful parkland along the Scioto River, the thriving Short North Arts District, vibrant Arena District and historic downtown, all-the-while being entertained with fascinating and humorous stories told by tour guide.
Columbus City Adventures is a new endeavor by the same group that operates local- and visitor-favorite companies Columbus Food Adventures and Columbus Brew Adventures. Three options, offered on various days of the week (or by appointment for private groups), offer opportunities to experience Columbus in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus. The Columbus Central City Tour offers an introduction to the city through Columbus’ museums, historical sites and picturesque neighborhoods over approximately two hours. The Past, Present, and Future Tour focuses nearly three hours on the city’s history, including the stories of its people, their contributions and creations. The Columbus Architecture Tour takes three hours to unpack the wealth of architectural history found throughout the city.