What's New in Columbus

From new direct flights that make getting to Ohio’s capital even easier to major developments downtown, there’s always something new happening in Columbus. Here’s the latest news from the 15th largest city in the country.

North Market Merchant Building

Courtesy of North Market

New luxury hotel and North Market expansion coming in 2026

Construction in underway on the 32-story, $345-million development called The Merchant Building next to North Market, Columbus’ nearly 150-year-old public market made up of Ohio’s best independent merchants, farmers and makers. The project includes a new 206-room lifestyle hotel that embodies the essence of the North Market as well as custom designed event and meeting space. The 9th floor will feature a 5,000-square-foot signature ballroom with an adjoining terrace, along with a junior ballroom, meeting rooms and pre-function space, totaling 17,000 square feet. The project is expected to finish in early 2027 as North Market celebrates its 150^th anniversary.

Airport Rendering

Courtesy of John Glenn Columbus International Airport

John Glenn Columbus International Airport gets new terminal

A brand-new $2 million terminal is currently being constructed at John Glenn Columbus International Airport. Expected to open in 2029 to mark the airport's 100th anniversary, the new terminal is designed with travelers in mind and will feature centralized security, expanded dining and retail, easier parking access and a focus on sustainability. Learn more.

Capital Line Rendering

Courtesy of Downtown Columbus, Inc.

New urban pathway coming to the heart of Downtown Columbus

Phase one of The Capital Line, a nearly $100 million project is underway. This two-mile journey, exclusive to bike and pedestrian traffic, offers an intentional route to some of the city’s most vibrant attractions, connecting amenities, greenspaces, job centers and residential neighborhoods within Downtown Columbus. Proposed by city officials and a local developer, the project aims to improve connectivity between key destinations, like the Arena District, Scioto Mile and Discovery District, while reimagining existing streets. Learn more.

Columbus Fashion Alliance

Photo by Warhol & WALL ST.

New fashion incubator and cultural hub coming Downtown

Did you know Columbus is one of the biggest fashion hubs in the country? National brands like Express, Abercrombie & Fitch, Victoria’s Secret, DSW and Bath & Body Works all call Columbus home as well as talented independent designers. In fact, Columbus is the #1 metro in the U.S. for concentration of professionals working in the apparel and fashion industry. In 2026, Columbus Fashion Alliance will move its headquarters to the Discovery District Downtown and open The Loom. The space will serve as a fashion incubator and cultural hub featuring coworking space, creative studios and vibrant event spaces. Phase one is expected to open in 2025 with the full opening occurring in spring 2026. Learn more.

ASAE 2019

Photo by Kevin Seymour

Columbus to host NCAA Championships and ASAE

Columbus continues to attract top-tier sporting events and conventions, including the 2027 NCAA Women’s Final Four, 2027 Women’s Volleyball Finals and the first and second rounds of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament in March 2028. In 2030, the city will host the ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition again at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, its second time hosting this prestigious “Super Bowl” of association meetings, cementing Columbus as a premier destination for to national and international events. Learn more.

Franklin Park Conservatory Rendering

Courtesy of the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

New master plan unveiled for Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

One of Columbus’ top attractions, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, has a new master plan that provides a 25-year strategic vision. Renovations are expected to begin in 2026 with future changes including a new Broad Street entrance, underground parking topped with rooftop gardens, a modern Visitor Center with dining and event space and revitalized historic glasshouses. For visitors and meeting planners, it means enhanced accessibility, upgraded amenities and stunning new gardens designed to elevate group experiences. Learn more.

Link Us Rendering

Courtesy of Central Ohio Transit Authority

Enhancing mobility and access in Columbus through LinkUS

LinkUS is a long-term transit and infrastructure initiative made possible by a voter-approved sales tax levy (Issue 47) passed in November 2024. It will fund new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lines, with the first three expected by 2030, along with expanded service hours and extensive pedestrian and bike infrastructure across Central Ohio. For visitors and meeting attendees, it means faster, more reliable transit, safer routes and easier access to key neighborhoods and venues. Learn more.

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