Getting Around Columbus
Car
Visitors to Columbus can travel by car to the Ohio State University campus via Route 315. This highway intersects both Interstate 70 and Interstate 670. The campus is located just two miles north of downtown Columbus. Exits signs for the university are clearly marked.
Airport
Port Columbus International Airport is just ten miles east of the downtown core, with easy access to the central business district. Several licensed taxi service companies operate at both Port Columbus International Airport and the Ohio State University Airport, located just to the north of the main campus. Fares are not fixed for destinations within the city of Columbus.
Rental Cars
Rental car facilities are located at Port Columbus International Airport as well as in and around the downtown area. Limousine service is available for transport to the university campus, the convention center, and all major points of interest.
The downtown area between German Village and the convention center is frequented by Capital Crossroads Ambassadors. These uniformed visitor information experts can direct motorists and pedestrians to the desired destination within the city. The ambassadors will also provide escort service for pedestrians and those with physical disabilities.
Public Transportation
The Central Ohio Transit Authority is the metro area's public transportation entity. COTA operates numerous bus routes throughout the city including several routes from downtown to the Ohio State University campus. Special routes are indicated for certain activities taking place on the campus or when major sports events such as football are scheduled.
Shuttles
Visitors staying at area hotels may be able to obtain free transportation using an airport shuttle service. Hotels and motels can be called directly from telephone kiosks at the airport, and shuttle van service is available for taking those visitors holding reservations directly to their hotel destination.
Tours
The main downtown visitor center has special kiosks that will print out discount coupons for city tours. The tours are an excellent way to see the central business district as well as the university campus. Visitors traveling by car can use the touchscreens at the visitor center to print out driving directions to any major destination in the city.
Columbus Transportation and Tours is the city's most prominent tour company, specializing in transportation for groups. The company operates a fleet of buses, vans, and limousines and offers flat-rate service from most local pick-up points. Capital City Tours is a unique tour company that will take visitors on a guided, narrated tour of the city. The service can be arranged with company-owned vans or with a guide contracted to accompany visitors in their own vehicle.