Neighborhoods in Columbus 

Vibrant and diverse, Columbus is home to a blend of unique neighborhoods, communities that are known for having an open attitude, smart style and entrepreneurial spirit. Once you start exploring the neighborhoods in our city, you’ll find that while they each have unforgettable identities and cultures, they all warmly welcome visitors and new residents. No matter your preferred daily pace or your lifestyle, there’s a place for everyone within a Columbus community.

Want to be right in the heart of central Columbus? Experience one of the Five on High, the five neighborhoods surrounding the Greater Columbus Convention Center on High Street.

Explore the skyline buildings of Downtown Columbus and find yourself surrounded by museums, urban green space (you’ll be right along the Scioto Mile!), Cap Square and the Ohio Statehouse, hotels, historic theaters, and more. There’s something for every taste and every age in Downtown – it’s everybody’s neighborhood and the center of culture in our city.

Head south to enjoy German Village, a historic, quiet and beautiful neighborhood known as one of the most atmospheric in the country. From cozy restaurants and coffee shops to delightful stores, each nook and cranny of German Village is defined by its charming homes and brick-lined sidewalks.

If you’re a sports fan (or a sports family!) who wants to be right on top of the action, it doesn’t get better than the Arena District. Located just northwest of Downtown near the Greater Columbus Convention Center, the Arena District is the city’s vibrant and enthusiastic sports hub. The energy of the Arena District is intense on game days and there are plenty of beloved local bars and restaurants to hit up before the clock starts, but the Arena District is also home to other classic city landmarks, such as the 145-year-old North Market.

North of Downtown lies the Short North Arts District, the art and soul of the city. Alive and diverse, the Short North is known for its inclusive nature and it is home to public art, galleries, chic hotels, experiential activities, unique restaurants and rooftop bars, and hundreds of locally-owned boutiques and shops.

The most north of the Five on High is the University District, home of The Ohio State University. From tech resources to cutting-edge science, you’ll find everything from sports and shopping to music and nightlife in the University District.

Explore our neighborhoods

Live to Explore Cbus

Our weekly series, Live to Explore Cbus, features Columbus’ thriving neighborhoods through the eyes of influential people who live, work and play in the area. Discover personal stories, favorite locales and best kept secrets about the neighborhoods that make our city so special, from the people who experience them every day!