Hotels near Ohio State University, Columbus

Located at 633 West 5th Avenue, the Hyatt House Columbus OSU Short North is an excellent option for visitors looking for comfortable, modern accommodations within close proximity to the university campus and the vibrant surrounding neighborhoods of Columbus.

Proximity to Campus

• Distance: The hotel is situated just 1.5 to 2 miles south of the main university campus, making it roughly a 5-minute drive depending on traffic.
• Medical Center Access: It is exceptionally convenient for those visiting the Wexner Medical Center and the James Cancer Hospital, which are located on the southern edge of the campus, just a few minutes north of the hotel down Olentangy River Road.
• Game Days: For sports fans heading to Ohio Stadium (The Shoe) or the Schottenstein Center, you are close enough for a quick rideshare trip, allowing you to avoid the heaviest congestion directly on High Street while still being right next to the action.

Rooms and Extended-Stay Features

As a Hyatt House property, this hotel caters heavily to travelers who appreciate extra space and home-like conveniences, such as visiting professors, families touring the campus, or patients' families.

• Suite-Style Living: Many of the rooms are studio or one-bedroom suites featuring fully equipped kitchens (including a full-size refrigerator, microwave, stovetop, and dishwasher) and separate living areas.
• Modern Comforts: Rooms are spacious, clean, and equipped with plenty of workspace and plush bedding.

Key Amenities

• Complimentary Breakfast: Guests receive a free hot breakfast daily, featuring a build-your-own omelet bar, oatmeal, fresh fruit, and other morning staples.
• H Bar: The on-site bar and lounge offers craft cocktails, beer, and a menu of light bites and soups in the evening.
• Recreation: The property features a well-equipped 24-hour fitness center and a heated indoor pool.
• Pet-Friendly: If you are traveling with a furry companion, the hotel welcomes pets (for an additional fee).
• Convenience: There is a 24-hour guest market for snacks and essentials, as well as on-site laundry facilities.

Neighborhood and Parking

• Location: Despite having "Short North" in its name, the hotel is actually tucked into a quieter area just west of the Victorian Village/Harrison West neighborhoods and south of Grandview Heights. It is about a 5-minute drive to the bustling restaurants and boutiques of High Street and Grandview Avenue.
• Trail Access: Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate being right next to the Olentangy Trail, a scenic paved path that runs directly north into the university campus and south toward downtown Columbus—perfect for a morning run or bike ride.
• Parking: Unlike many hotels directly in the downtown or central Short North districts that charge hefty valet fees, this location offers complimentary on-site parking, which is a major value add for guests driving into town.

If you are visiting Columbus for campus tours, graduation, or a Buckeyes game, the Comfort Suites Columbus Expo Center at 1690 Clara Street is a practical and wallet-friendly option to consider.

Proximity to Campus

The hotel is located just under two miles directly east of the main university campus. While it is not an ideal walking distance—especially since it requires crossing the I-71 highway overpass—it is only a quick 5- to 8-minute drive or rideshare trip to the heart of campus, the Schottenstein Center, and Ohio Stadium. Its immediate proximity to I-71 makes getting around the city very straightforward.

Rooms & Amenities

Because this is an all-suite property, the rooms are noticeably larger than standard hotel rooms, featuring separate living areas with pull-out sofa beds. This layout is fantastic for families visiting students or groups of alumni traveling together for a game weekend.

Key amenities include:

• Free Hot Breakfast: A reliable spread with waffles, eggs, and coffee to fuel up before a busy day on campus.
• In-Room Conveniences: Every suite comes equipped with a microwave, mini-fridge, and coffee maker.
• Indoor Heated Pool & Fitness Center: Great for unwinding after a long day of walking tours.
• Free Parking: Unlike many hotels closer to downtown or right on High Street that charge hefty nightly parking fees, parking here is complimentary.

What to Keep in Mind

While the hotel offers great value and space, its immediate surroundings are geared toward the Ohio Expo Center and State Fairgrounds rather than a bustling college town vibe. You will not find many restaurants, bars, or shops within immediate walking distance, so you will need to drive a few minutes west toward High Street for dining and entertainment. Additionally, some guests note that while the hotel is clean and functional, the decor is a bit dated, and rooms facing the highway may experience slight traffic noise.

The Verdict

Comfort Suites Columbus Expo Center is a solid, economical choice for visitors who have a car (or don't mind a short Uber ride) and want extra room space and free perks without paying the premium prices of on-campus boutique hotels.

If you are looking for comfortable, reliable lodging right next to campus, the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Columbus OSU on Olentangy River Road is one of the most convenient options in the area. Whether you are in town for a Buckeyes game, visiting a student, or have an appointment at the Wexner Medical Center, this hotel caters directly to university visitors.

Location & Proximity to Campus

The hotel's biggest selling point is its location. Situated just south of the main campus, it offers effortless access to everything university-related:

• Wexner Medical Center: Less than a mile away, making it a stress-free option for patients and visiting families.
• Main Campus & Ohio Stadium: Just a 5-minute drive (or a brisk 20-to-25-minute walk along the Olentangy Trail) to the heart of campus and the "Shoe."
• Local Shuttle: The hotel typically offers a complimentary local shuttle service that runs within a limited radius, which is incredibly helpful for getting to campus buildings or hospital appointments without worrying about campus parking.
• Dining & Shopping: There are plenty of casual dining spots, coffee shops, and grocery stores directly across the street and along the Olentangy River Road corridor.

Rooms & Comfort

Because this is an all-suite property, the rooms are significantly larger than a standard hotel room.

• Layout: Each suite features a semi-separated living and sleeping area, complete with a pull-out sofa bed, making it great for families touring the college or groups of friends in town for a football weekend.
• In-Room Amenities: Rooms come equipped with a mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee maker, plus a dedicated ergonomic workspace and free Wi-Fi.

Amenities & Value

• Complimentary Breakfast: A free hot breakfast buffet is included with your stay, offering standard favorites like waffles, eggs, oatmeal, and fruit—a great way to save money before heading out for a busy day on campus.
• Facilities: The hotel features an indoor swimming pool, a well-equipped fitness center, and a cozy outdoor patio with a fire pit.
• Parking: Unlike properties closer to downtown that charge hefty fees, parking here is very accessible (though it is always wise to check current parking rates, as fees can sometimes apply during peak university events).

The Verdict

The SpringHill Suites by Marriott Columbus OSU hits the sweet spot between comfort and location. While prices naturally surge during home football games and graduation weekend, it remains a top-tier, dependable choice for anyone needing immediate access to the university and the surrounding medical district.

If you are visiting the Ohio State University area, the Holiday Inn Express Columbus - Ohio Expo Center by IHG is a practical and convenient lodging option. Located at 701 East Hudson Street right off Interstate 71, this property offers the reliable standards of the IHG brand while keeping you just minutes away from campus activities.

Proximity to Campus

• Distance: The hotel is located roughly 1.5 to 2 miles east of the main OSU campus.
• Commute: It is a very straightforward 5- to 8-minute drive straight down East Hudson Street and Summit Street/High Street to reach the university, the Schottenstein Center, or Ohio Stadium.
• Accessibility: Because it sits right next to the I-71 highway entrance, getting to and from the hotel is exceptionally easy, whether you are driving in from out of town or taking a quick Uber/Lyft to a Buckeyes game. However, because it is separated from the campus by the highway and a residential neighborhood, it is best suited for driving rather than walking.

Amenities & Value

Staying slightly outside the immediate campus perimeter often translates to better value and easier logistics, especially on busy weekends like graduation, move-in days, or home football games.

• Complimentary Breakfast: The hotel provides the signature Express Start hot breakfast, which is a great perk for fueling up before a full day of campus tours or tailgating.
• Rooms: Guest rooms are clean, modern, and geared toward functionality, featuring plush bedding, plenty of outlets, free Wi-Fi, a mini-fridge, and a microwave.
• Facilities: Guests have access to a fitness center and an indoor pool. Parking is much easier to navigate here than at downtown or High Street properties.

Things to Consider

Because the hotel is situated immediately adjacent to I-71 and near the Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds, the immediate surroundings are mostly commercial and commuter-focused rather than scenic or walkable. Light sleepers may want to request a room facing away from the highway to minimize traffic noise.

The Verdict

The Holiday Inn Express Columbus - Ohio Expo Center is a solid, no-fuss choice for parents, prospective students, and sports fans. It successfully balances very close proximity to the university with the convenience of easy highway access and complimentary perks.

For travelers visiting the Ohio State University area, Aloft by Marriott Columbus University District on Olentangy River Rd is a prime lodging option. This trendy, loft-inspired hotel caters exceptionally well to visiting parents, prospective students, alumni, and Buckeyes fans looking for modern accommodations close to the action.

Location & Proximity to Campus

The hotel's biggest selling point is its convenient location. Situated just southwest of the main campus, it is roughly a 5-minute drive to iconic spots like Ohio Stadium (The Shoe), the Schottenstein Center, and the Wexner Medical Center. While it is a bit of a trek to walk to the heart of campus (around 25–30 minutes), rideshares are plentiful, and driving is a breeze with easy access to major roads. Additionally, there are several convenient dining and shopping options within walking distance along Olentangy River Road, and Downtown Columbus is less than 10 minutes away.

Rooms & Comfort

Following the signature Aloft style, the rooms feature an urban, industrial-chic design with high ceilings and plush platform beds.

• Work & Tech: Rooms are equipped with ergonomic workspaces, fast free Wi-Fi, and plenty of charging outlets, which is great for visiting academics or business travelers.
• Cleanliness: The rooms are consistently praised for being clean, modern, and well-maintained.
• Bathrooms: Featuring walk-in showers with rainfall showerheads and Bliss® Spa bath amenities.

Amenities

• W XYZ® Bar: The lobby area is vibrant and social, anchored by a stylish bar that serves craft cocktails and light bites. It frequently features live acoustic music and is a great spot to unwind after a campus tour or game.
• Re:fuel by Aloft: A 24/7 grab-and-go market in the lobby offering snacks, beverages, and quick made-to-order breakfast options (note that breakfast is typically not complimentary).
• Recreation: Guests have access to a well-equipped 24-hour fitness center and an indoor splash pool.
• Pet-Friendly: If you are bringing a furry family member to visit your student, the hotel is very pet-friendly.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Game Day Pricing: Like all hotels in the immediate vicinity, rates spike significantly during OSU home football games and graduation weekends. Book well in advance for these dates.
• Storage Space: True to the minimalist Aloft brand, rooms lack traditional closets and dressers, offering open hanging spaces instead. This is fine for a weekend trip, but something to note for longer stays.

Verdict

Aloft by Marriott Columbus University District hits the sweet spot between convenience and style. It avoids the wear-and-tear of older campus-area motels while offering a fun, energetic atmosphere just minutes away from everything Ohio State University has to offer.

The Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Columbus-Ohio State University OSU on Ackerman Road is a practical, budget-conscious choice for travelers visiting the university area. As a "PLUS+" property, it offers a slightly elevated experience compared to standard Red Roof Inns, featuring updated modern decor, wood-like flooring, and enhanced in-room amenities.

Location & Proximity to Campus

For anyone visiting Ohio State University, the location is the hotel's strongest selling point:

• Campus Access: It is situated immediately north of the main campus, less than a 5-minute drive (or about a 15-to-20-minute walk) to the Schottenstein Center, Bill Davis Stadium, and Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium.
• Ohio Stadium ("The Shoe"): Located roughly 1.5 miles away, making it very convenient for Buckeye football game days without paying the premium prices of luxury campus hotels.
• Medical Center: It provides quick access to the OSU Wexner Medical Center via Route 315, which is right next to the property.

Rooms & Amenities

• Upgraded Rooms: Guests can opt for Premium rooms, which include a welcome snack box Containing water, popcorn, and trail mix, as well as high-end bedding and extra electrical outlets.
• Essentials: All rooms feature flat-screen TVs, microwaves, mini-refrigerators, and in-room coffee makers.
• Cost-Saving Perks: The hotel offers free on-site parking and free Wi-Fi, which helps save money compared to downtown or central campus properties that often charge hefty daily parking fees.
• Pet-Friendly: One well-behaved family pet is permitted per room at no additional charge.

Things to Keep in Mind

• No Breakfast: The hotel does not serve a complimentary morning breakfast, though free coffee and tea are available in the lobby. Fortunately, there are several fast-food spots, diners, and grocery stores nearby on Olentangy River Road and Lane Avenue.
• Exterior Corridors: Like many traditional motor inns, the rooms are accessed from the outside rather than an interior hallway.
• Highway Noise: Because the property sits right off State Route 315, light sleepers may want to request a room facing away from the highway.

Verdict

If you are looking for a clean, no-frills place to sleep while attending an OSU sporting event, moving a student into the dorms, or visiting the medical center, this hotel delivers solid value in an unbeatable location.