Quick Facts: Indy to Columbus Day Trip
Thinking about a change of scenery from Indianapolis? Look no further! Columbus, Ohio, is a vibrant, creative hub just a short drive away, making it the perfect destination for an exciting day trip. In about three hours, you can swap the Circle City for the Arch City and dive into a world of historic neighborhoods, a thriving arts scene, and a foodie paradise. This guide has everything you need to plan the ultimate Indianapolis to Columbus day trip.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | ~175 miles (one way) |
| Driving Time | 2 hours 45 mins – 3 hours 15 mins |
| Estimated Cost | $75 – $150 per person |
| Best Time to Go | Spring (April-May) & Fall (September-October); Weekdays are less crowded. |
How to Get from Indianapolis to Columbus
While there are a few ways to connect the two cities, driving is hands-down the most practical and flexible choice for a day trip. It gives you the freedom to explore on your own schedule. Here’s a breakdown of your options.
By Car (The Best Option)
The journey is a straight shot and couldn’t be simpler. The primary route for driving from Indianapolis to Columbus is I-70 East. The drive is roughly 175 miles and typically takes around 3 hours, though it’s always smart to check Google Maps for construction or traffic delays before you leave. For parking, we recommend finding a central garage near North Market or the Columbus Commons to leave your car for the day. Expect to pay between $10-$20 for all-day parking.
By Bus (The Budget Option)
If you’re on a tight budget or prefer not to drive, companies like Greyhound and FlixBus offer daily routes. While affordable, the travel time stretches to 3.5-4 hours each way. This can significantly eat into your exploration time, making it a less-than-ideal choice for a packed day trip, but it remains a viable option.
A Note on Trains & Planes
Unfortunately, other methods aren’t very practical. Amtrak’s Cardinal line connects the cities, but its infrequent schedule (only three days a week) and inconvenient times make it unsuitable for a day trip. Flying is neither time-efficient nor cost-effective for this short distance.
| Method | Travel Time (One Way) | Cost (Round Trip) | Flexibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car | ~3 hours | ~$35-50 (Gas) + Parking | High |
| Bus | ~4 hours | ~$50-100 (Ticket) | Low |
Top 5 Attractions for a Columbus Day Trip
Columbus is packed with incredible sights, but for a day trip, you need to be strategic. Here are five must-see attractions that offer the best of the city in a short amount of time.
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Explore the Charm of German Village
Step back in time as you wander the brick-lined streets of this stunningly preserved 19th-century neighborhood. German Village is famous for its charming houses, lush gardens, and unique local shops. It’s completely free to explore on foot. Be sure to get lost in The Book Loft, a legendary bookstore with 32 labyrinthine rooms, and consider grabbing a bite at the iconic Schmidt’s Sausage Haus.
Address: 588 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215 (Schmidt’s) | Fee: Free to walk | Visit Duration: 1.5-2 hours -
Wander Through the Short North Arts District
Known as the “art and soul” of Columbus, the Short North Arts District is bursting with creative energy. Stroll down High Street under the iconic arches and pop into eclectic art galleries, trendy boutiques, and cozy coffee shops. It’s the perfect place for window shopping, people-watching, and soaking up the city’s vibrant culture.
Address: Along High St, between downtown and The Ohio State University campus | Fee: Free to walk | Visit Duration: 1-1.5 hours -
Get Lunch at North Market
No trip to Columbus is complete without a stop at North Market. This historic public market is a bustling food hall filled with dozens of independent vendors serving everything you can imagine. From sizzling Vietnamese pho to gourmet hot dogs and Nashville-style hot chicken, it’s a foodie’s dream. It’s the ideal spot for a quick, delicious, and affordable lunch. Don’t forget to grab a scoop from Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams!
Address: 59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215 | Fee: Free to enter | Visit Duration: 1 hour -
Stroll Along the Scioto Mile
After a satisfying lunch, take a relaxing walk along the Scioto Mile. This gorgeous stretch of urban parkland runs along the Scioto River downtown, offering fantastic skyline views, beautiful fountains, and wide-open green spaces. In the warmer months, the 15,000-square-foot interactive fountain is a major highlight. It’s a wonderful, free way to see the modern side of the city.
Address: 233 S Civic Center Dr, Columbus, OH 43215 | Fee: Free | Visit Duration: 45 minutes – 1 hour -
Choose Your Big Adventure: COSI or Franklin Park Conservatory
These two world-class attractions are fantastic but require a good chunk of time, so for a day trip, we recommend choosing one. Your Columbus Ohio itinerary depends on your interests!
For Science Lovers & Families: COSI
The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) is a massive, hands-on science museum that’s fun for all ages. With themed exhibits on space, oceans, dinosaurs, and the human body, you can easily spend hours here. Fee: ~$30 adults, ~$25 youth | Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (check website, as days can vary)
For Nature & Art Fans: Franklin Park Conservatory
Discover a breathtaking world of exotic plants, stunning glasshouses, and incredible art at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The conservatory is renowned for its large collection of glass art by Dale Chihuly, which is beautifully integrated among the tropical flora. Fee: ~$22 adults | Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM daily
Sample Itinerary: A Packed Indianapolis to Columbus Day Trip
Want a ready-made plan? Here’s a schedule designed to maximize your time and hit all the highlights.
Morning (7:00 AM – 11:00 AM)
- 7:00 AM: Depart from Indianapolis. Grab your favorite coffee and a podcast, and hit I-70 E.
- 10:00 AM: Arrive in Columbus. We recommend parking in a garage near German Village to start your day.
- 10:15 AM: Begin exploring the charming streets of German Village on foot. Lose track of time wandering through the 32 rooms of The Book Loft.
Mid-Day (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM)
- 12:30 PM: Drive or take a short rideshare to North Market for a delicious and diverse lunch.
- 1:45 PM: Walk off your meal with a scenic stroll along the Scioto Mile, just a few blocks from the market.
Afternoon (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
- 3:00 PM: Head to your “big adventure” of choice. Immerse yourself in science at COSI or wander through the beautiful glasshouses of the Franklin Park Conservatory.
- 5:30 PM: Depart from the museum or conservatory.
Evening (6:00 PM – 9:30 PM)
- 6:00 PM: Take a quick drive through the Short North Arts District to see the iconic arches lit up at dusk. Grab a final coffee or a scoop from Jeni’s for the ride home.
- 6:30 PM: Begin the 3-hour drive back to Indianapolis.
- ~9:30 PM: Arrive back in Indy, filled with great memories!
Where to Eat in Columbus
Columbus has a phenomenal food scene. Here are a few top picks sorted by price to fit any budget.
Budget-Friendly ($)
- North Market: The ultimate choice for variety. Try Hot Chicken Takeover for fiery fried chicken or grab a delicious sandwich from one of the many delis.
- Condado Tacos: A vibrant, casual spot where you can build your own custom tacos with creative toppings.
Mid-Range ($$)
- Schmidt’s Sausage Haus: A German Village institution famous for its Bahama Mama sausage, massive buffet, and jumbo cream puffs. An unforgettable experience.
- The Pearl: A stylish gastropub in the Short North known for its oysters, craft cocktails, and upscale tavern fare.
Insider Tips for Your Trip
Make your day trip from Indianapolis to Columbus even smoother with these pro tips.
- Avoid OSU Game Days: Before you plan your trip in the fall, check the Ohio State football schedule. Traffic, parking, and crowds are immense on home game Saturdays.
- Use the C-Bus: Columbus offers a free downtown circulator bus, the C-Bus, which conveniently connects the Short North, Downtown/Scioto Mile, and German Village. It’s a great way to save your feet!
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: This itinerary is packed with amazing sights, which means a lot of walking. Prioritize comfort!
- Book in Advance for 2025: For popular attractions like COSI or special exhibits at the Conservatory, booking your tickets online ahead of time can save you from waiting in line.
What to Pack
Pack light, but pack smart for a full day of exploring.
- Comfortable walking shoes (this is non-negotiable!)
- A portable phone charger or power bank
- A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Your camera or smartphone for photos
- A light jacket or umbrella, depending on the 2025 forecast
- Snacks and drinks for the car ride
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Here’s a look at what you can expect to spend on your adventure.
| Item | Low End | High End | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas (Round Trip) | $20 | $25 | Based on a ~350-mile round trip |
| Parking | $10 | $20 | For a full day in a downtown garage |
| Lunch | $15 | $25 | North Market vs. a casual sit-down meal |
| Attraction | $0 | $30 | Free parks vs. a museum ticket |
| Coffee/Snacks | $10 | $20 | A couple of stops for coffee or ice cream |
| TOTAL | $55 | $120 | Excludes dinner, shopping, and souvenirs |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a good itinerary for a 3 day trip to Indianapolis?
A day trip to Columbus fits perfectly into a 3-day Indianapolis itinerary! Here’s a great plan:
- Day 1: Downtown Indy Fun: Explore Monument Circle, grab lunch at the City Market, walk the Canal, and visit the museums in White River State Park.
- Day 2: Sports & Neighborhoods: Visit the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum in the morning, then spend the afternoon exploring a vibrant neighborhood like Broad Ripple or Fountain Square.
- Day 3: Day Trip to Ohio! Follow this guide for an amazing day trip to Columbus to experience a whole new city.
How do I get from Indianapolis to Columbus?
The best way to get from Indianapolis to Columbus is by car. It is the fastest and most flexible option, taking approximately 3 hours via I-70 E. The bus is a slower, budget-friendly alternative, while train and air travel are not practical for a day trip.
Which city is bigger, Columbus or Indianapolis?
Columbus is slightly larger than Indianapolis. As of 2023 estimates, Columbus has a city population of over 900,000, making it the most populous city in Ohio, while Indianapolis has around 880,000 residents. Their metropolitan areas are very similar in size, both with just over 2.1 million people.
Is Columbus close to Indianapolis?
Yes, Columbus is very close to Indianapolis, which is why it’s such an ideal destination for a day trip or a quick weekend getaway. The cities are approximately 175 miles apart, which translates to a very manageable 3-hour drive, making it easy to go there and back in a single day.
TLDR: Your Columbus Day Trip in a Nutshell
Pressed for time? Here’s the quick version:
- Go by Car: It’s a 3-hour drive on I-70 E.
- Morning: Explore historic German Village and get lost in The Book Loft.
- Lunch: Eat at North Market for endless, delicious options.
- Afternoon: Choose one main attraction: COSI (science) or Franklin Park Conservatory (nature/art). Stroll the scenic Scioto Mile.
- Evening: See the lights in the Short North Arts District before driving home.
- Key Tip: Avoid Ohio State home football game days in the fall!
