Travel Guide to Ohio State University

travel guide / By CollegeNetWorth / June 11, 2025

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Ohio State University, located in the heart of Columbus, Ohio, is a vibrant hub of academic excellence and athletic prowess. With a rich history dating back to its founding in 1870, the university has grown to become one of the largest and most respected public institutions in the United States.

Visitors to Ohio State will find a campus brimming with energy, from the bustling Oval to the iconic Ohio Stadium. Whether you’re a prospective student, a sports enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, there’s something for everyone to explore.

In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the must-see landmarks, the best dining spots, and the hidden gems that make Ohio State University a unique destination. Get ready to immerse yourself in the Buckeye spirit and discover what makes this university so special.

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Table of Contents

Key Facts about Ohio State University

Address: 281 W Lane Ave, Columbus, OH 43210
Date Established: 1870
Campus Size: Approximately 1,764 acres
Notable Alumni: Jesse Owens (Olympic Gold Medalist), John Kasich (Former Governor of Ohio), Patricia Heaton (Actress), Jack Nicklaus (Professional Golfer)
Mascot: Brutus Buckeye
Other Relevant Information: The Ohio State University is one of the largest universities in the United States, known for its strong athletic programs, extensive research facilities, and vibrant student life.

Unique and Interesting Information about Ohio State University Campus

Founded in 1870: Ohio State University (OSU) was established in 1870 as a land-grant university under the Morrill Act of 1862.
Iconic Football Program: The OSU Buckeyes football team is one of the most successful programs in college football history, with numerous Big Ten titles and national championships.
Innovative Research: OSU is a major research institution, known for its cutting-edge work in fields such as medicine, engineering, and agriculture.
Wexner Center for the Arts: The university hosts the Wexner Center, a multidisciplinary contemporary art center that offers exhibitions, performances, and film screenings.
Oval and Mirror Lake: The campus features the Oval, a central green space, and Mirror Lake, a picturesque spot that is a favorite among students and alumni.
Diverse Student Body: With students from all 50 states and over 100 countries, OSU boasts a vibrant and diverse community.

Points of Interest on Ohio State University Campus

Wexner Center for the Arts – 1871 N High St, Columbus, OH 43210

This contemporary art center offers a dynamic range of exhibitions, performances, and film screenings, making it a cultural hub on campus.
Orton Geological Museum – 155 S Oval Mall, Columbus, OH 43210

Located in the historic Orton Hall, this museum features fascinating geological exhibits, including fossils and minerals, and is a must-visit for science enthusiasts.
Ohio Stadium – 411 Woody Hayes Dr, Columbus, OH 43210

Known as “The Horseshoe,” this iconic stadium is home to the Ohio State Buckeyes football team and is a landmark for sports fans.
Newport Music Hall – 1722 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201

As America’s longest continually running rock club, this venue hosts a variety of live music performances and is a favorite among music lovers.
Thompson Library – 1858 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH 43210

This library is not only an academic resource but also an architectural gem, offering stunning views of the campus from its top floors.
Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens – 2001 Fyffe Ct, Columbus, OH 43210

This 60-acre green space provides a peaceful retreat with its beautiful gardens, walking trails, and educational programs on horticulture and sustainability.

How to Travel to Ohio State University Campus

By Air
- Fly into John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), which is approximately 10 miles from the campus.
- From the airport, you can take a taxi, rideshare, or shuttle service to the university.
By Train
- Amtrak services are available to Columbus, with the nearest station being the Columbus Union Station.
- From the station, you can take a taxi or rideshare to the campus.
By Car
- Drive via major highways such as I-70 or I-71, which connect to Columbus.
- Parking is available on campus, though it may require a permit or fee.
Public Transportation
- Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) buses provide extensive routes to and from the campus.
- Consider using the Campus Area Bus Service (CABS) for on-campus transportation.
By Bicycle
- Columbus is a bike-friendly city with many bike lanes and paths leading to the university.
- There are bike racks and storage facilities available on campus.

What to See

The Oval – Located at the heart of the campus, The Oval is a large green space perfect for relaxing, studying, and people-watching. It’s a central hub for students and a great place to experience the vibrant campus life.
Thompson Library – Address: 1858 Neil Avenue Mall, Columbus, OH 43210. This iconic library offers stunning architecture and a beautiful reading room. Make sure to visit the 11th floor for panoramic views of the campus and Columbus.
Ohio Stadium (“The Shoe”) – Address: 411 Woody Hayes Drive, Columbus, OH 43210. A must-see for sports fans, this historic stadium is home to the Ohio State Buckeyes football team and offers tours that provide a behind-the-scenes look at one of college football’s most famous venues.
Wexner Center for the Arts – Address: 1871 N High St, Columbus, OH 43210. This contemporary art center hosts a variety of exhibitions, performances, and film screenings, making it a cultural hotspot on campus.
Orton Hall and the Orton Geological Museum – Address: 155 S Oval Mall, Columbus, OH 43210. Named after the university’s first president, this historic building features a bell tower and a fascinating geology museum with a wide array of fossils and minerals.

Where to Eat

Bistro 2110 At The Blackwell – 2110 Tuttle Park Pl, Columbus, OH 43210

Located within The Blackwell Inn, Bistro 2110 offers a refined dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Perfect for a more upscale meal or a special occasion.
Varsity Club Restaurant & Bar – 278 W Lane Ave, Columbus, OH 43201

A staple for OSU sports fans, Varsity Club is known for its lively atmosphere, hearty pub food, and proximity to the stadium. Ideal for game days and casual dining.
Ethyl & Tank – 19 E 13th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201

Behind the Newport Music Hall, Ethyl & Tank serves as a versatile spot offering coffee, a bar, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Its eclectic menu and relaxed vibe make it a favorite among students and visitors.
Hudson 29 Kitchen + Drink – 1600 W Lane Ave, Upper Arlington, OH 43221

Just a short drive from campus, Hudson 29 provides a modern American menu with a variety of options from sushi to steaks. The stylish setting is great for both casual and business dining.
North Market – 59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215

A bit further from campus, North Market is a must-visit for food lovers with its diverse array of vendors. Highlights include Momo Ghar’s dumplings, which are highly praised and even featured on TV.

Where to Stay Near Ohio State University Campus

The Blackwell Inn and Pfahl Conference Center
Address: 2110 Tuttle Park Place, Columbus, Ohio 43210
Why stay here: Located right on the Ohio State University campus, The Blackwell Inn offers modern accommodations and excellent conference facilities. It is perfect for visitors attending university events or conferences. Book here.
Marriott Columbus OSU
Address: 3100 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43202
Why stay here: This hotel provides a comfortable stay with amenities like an indoor pool and fitness center. It’s a short drive from the main campus, making it convenient for visitors. Book here.
Graduate Columbus
Address: 750 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Why stay here: Located in the vibrant Short North Arts District, this hotel offers a unique, collegiate-themed experience and is close to numerous dining and entertainment options. Book here.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Columbus OSU
Address: 3045 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43202
Why stay here: This hotel offers free breakfast and a convenient location near the university, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. Book here.
Le Meridien Columbus, The Joseph
Address: 620 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Why stay here: This upscale hotel in the Short North Arts District features luxurious rooms and is close to the university as well as top dining and shopping spots. Book here.

Conclusion

Ohio State University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor. From its rich history and top-notch facilities to the bustling local culture of Columbus, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re a prospective student, a sports enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique travel destination, OSU provides a welcoming atmosphere and numerous attractions. To make the most of your visit, be sure to use the resources provided above to book your lodging and plan your trip efficiently.

Additional Details About Visiting Ohio State University Campus

Parking: Visitors to Ohio State University can park in several garages including the Ohio Union South Garage and the Tuttle Park Place Garage. These garages are conveniently located near key campus buildings. For more information, visit the CampusParc website.
Visitor Center: The Ohio State University Visitor Center is located at 281 W Lane Ave, Columbus, OH 43210. It offers campus tours and information sessions for prospective students and their families.
Ohio Stadium: Known as “The Horseshoe,” Ohio Stadium is located at 411 Woody Hayes Dr, Columbus, OH 43210. It is the home of the Ohio State Buckeyes football team and can accommodate over 100,000 fans.
Thompson Library: One of the main libraries on campus, Thompson Library is located at 1858 Neil Avenue Mall, Columbus, OH 43210. It provides extensive resources and study spaces for students and visitors.
Ohio Union: The Ohio Union is a central hub for student activities and events, located at 1739 N High St, Columbus, OH 43210. It also offers dining options and meeting spaces for the campus community.

Joe Hughes is the founder of CollegeNetWorth.com, a comprehensive resource on college athletes' earnings potential in the NIL era. Combining his passion for sports with expertise in collegiate athletics, Joe provides valuable insights for athletes, fans, and institutions navigating this new landscape.

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