HOST CITY
Our hosts have put together lists of the best, tastiest, and most awe-inspiring places that you just have to see while you’re here.
Columbus Highlights
Start Planning Your Columbus Visit!
About Columbus
Columbus is known as the 14th largest city in the U.S. and a "hidden gem in plain sight" according to Forbes. Located within a day’s drive or a one-hour flight of more than half the U.S., getting there is easy — you’ll be experiencing Columbus’ welcoming and progressive community in no time. Discover locally-owned restaurants, learn about Columbus' neighborhoods and see how Columbus lives for inclusion. Here are some surprising facts about Columbus that you may not have known:
- Columbus is home to several culinary stars such as restaurateur Cameron Mitchell, a James Beard Award-winning cookbook author, and Jeni Britton, founder of Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams.
- As a top LGBTQIA+-friendly city, Columbus boasts the largest pride celebration in the Midwest.
- Four professional sports teams are on one dynamic street and call Columbus home - the Columbus Crew (MLS and 2023 MLS Cup Champions), Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL), Columbus Clippers (AAA) and Columbus Fury (Pro Volleyball Federation).
- Columbus is the #1 metro in the U.S. for concentration of professionals working in the apparel and fashion industry.
- The Columbus Region is home to five Fortune 500 and 16 Fortune 1000 companies, including Nationwide, Huntington, DSW, Express, Wendy's, Big Lots and more.
Learn more about all that Columbus has to offer and see more surprising facts about Columbus.
Experience Columbus
There's so much to see and do - arrive early or stay a few days after ESTO while you're in Columbus. Here are some experiences you cannot miss:
- Explore German Village: Built by German settlers hundreds of years ago, German Village is one of the most idyllic neighborhoods in the country, featuring a unique combination of historic charm and modernism.
- Walk the Scioto Mile: Named one of the 21 Best Urban Parks in the country by Men's Journal in 2022, the Scioto Mile is one of Columbus' most popular areas to get outdoors.
- Learn something new: Columbus has a variety of museums to choose from, including COSI, the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, and the Ohio Historical Society.
- Grab a bite or drink: Columbus boasts a thriving rooftop restaurant scene where you'll have Downtown Columbus as your backdrop.
Find more Columbus experiences here, curated for ESTO attendees.