Tours During Congress

Register for the following Columbus area tours inside the Convention Center at the Tour Counter in the Registration Area:

Columbus Driving Tour

Wednesday, 17 August 2016, 10:00 – 12:30
2.5 hours | one stop | $22 | maximum capacity 34

Discover Columbus’ distinct and diverse neighborhoods by bus. Learn about the region’s nearly 200 years of history, see cultural venues and landmarks, and learn about the future of the Cap City. Tour includes views of Victorian Village, Franklinton, German Village, the Short North Arts District, King Lincoln District, Olde Towne East, and Downtown.

German Village Guided Walking Tours

Tuesday, 16 August 2016, 10:00 – 12:00
Thursday, 18 August, 13:30 – 15:30
2 hours | walking involved | $18 | maximum capacity 30

Originally built by German settlers in the mid-1800s, the lovingly restored brick houses, shops, streets and sidewalks of German Village are full of historic charm and modern swank. Experience this storied urban neighborhood first-hand by stepping into two private residences to see the innovative renovation and design efforts.

Taste of German Village Guided Walking Tours

Wednesday, 17 August 2016, 13:30 – 15:30
Thursday, 18 August 2016, 10:00 – 12:00
2 hours | walking involved | $14 | maximum capacity 30

Taste some of German Village’s sweetest treats on this culinary trip through one of the U.S.’ most storied urban neighborhoods.  Enjoy a macaron from Pistacia Vera, a chocolate from Winans Fine Chocolates & Coffees, and a special mystery bite. A walking tour of the Village’s brick-lined streets is also included as part of the tour.

Short North Arts District Guided Walking Tours

Tuesday, 16 August 2016, 10:00 – 12:00
Wednesday, 17 August 2016, 13:30 – 15:30
Thursday, 18 August 2016, 10:00 – 12:00
Thursday, 18 August 2016, 13:30 – 15:30
2 hours | walking involved | $20 | maximum capacity 10

Explore the neighborhood named “the art and soul of Columbus” on this guided walking tour. Take in the district’s expansive public art installations and learn about its unique history. Stops include art gallery The Pizzuti Collection as well as local retailers Robert Mason Co., The Candle Lab and Tigertree.

Or, book these additional tour options online before or during your visit:

SegAway Tours of Columbus

Traverse the city on a Segway! Pick from one of two tours of the city’s downtown that include practice time before heading out. For booking and additional information visit http://www.segawaytoursofcolumbus.com/index.php
2 hours | must weigh 100-260 pounds | $59

Columbus Food Adventures

Sign up for a guided culinary tour and discover why Columbus has foodies across the U.S. talking. Twelve tour options are available at varying days and times including the Taco Truck Food Tour, Short North Food Tour, Breakfast Tour, Meat Lovers Tour, and more. For booking and additional information visit http://columbusfoodadventures.com/
Pricing and tour durations vary.

Columbus Brew Adventures

As the home of 20 craft breweries, Columbus craft beer scene is thriving. Get connected with the latest concoctions and landmark brewers on a guided tour of several breweries.  For booking and additional information visit http://www.columbusbrewadventures.com/
Pricing and tour durations vary.

And, set your sites on one of these FREE tour options:

The Ohio Statehouse

Visit the site of working government offices set against the magnificent backdrop of Greek Revival architecture at its finest. Free guided tours are offered Monday through Friday every hour on the hour and multiple times throughout the day on Saturday and Sunday. For more information, visit http://www.ohiostatehouse.org/visit/guided-tours

Downtown Columbus Self-Guided Walking Tour

Visit local landmarks such as The Scioto Mile, Columbus Commons, Columbus Metropolitan Library, and more on a free, self-guided tour of downtown’s top spots. For maps and details, visit http://downtowncolumbus.com/home/about-us/

Columbus Art Walks Self-Guided Tours

Take a free tour of Columbus art, history and architecture at your own pace with Columbus Art Walks. Walking maps and audio recorded messages tell you about the history and significance of each stop. Most routes are accessible and flat. Learn more about the App and plan your walk at https://columbus.gov/publichealth/programs/Healthy-Places/columbus-art-walks/

Short North Blank Spaces Murals

Murals are installed on the exterior brick facades of 19 buildings along High Street in the Short North Arts District. These art pieces are designed to be photographed and enjoyed for a limited time, until the next, new series is installed. Get more information about the Blank Spaces Murals program and download the map at http://shortnorth.org/blank-spaces/

Additional options for exploring on your own:

Coffee and Ale Trails

Columbus is home to a booming local brew and craft coffee scene. Pick up a passport, buy a drink at four participating shops, and earn a souvenir. Visit cbusaletrail.com and cbuscoffee.com for details.

CBUS

Take COTA’s CBUS throughout downtown to explore Columbus neighborhoods on your schedule. This free circulator runs every 10-15 minutes and travels through the Short North Arts District to the north and German Village/Brewery District to the south. Find stops and schedule details at http://www.cota.com/Riding-COTA/CBUS.aspx

Visit Columbus’ top attractions on COTA (central Ohio public bus system):

COTA Zoo Bus

To get to the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, take COTA line 98 (marked Zoo Bus) which picks up at five downtown locations. Zoo Bus riders who take COTA to the zoo, receive ½ off general admission price or $4 off at nearby waterpark Zoombezi Bay. Bus fare is $2 each way. For more information, visit COTA.com at: http://www.cota.com/COTA/media/PDF/Schedules/Current/ZOO.pdf

COTA Easton

Visitors can shop one of the U.S.’ largest shopping destinations Easton Town Center via COTA line 16 (not an express route). Bus fare is $2 each way.  For full route information, including stops, visit http://www.cota.com/maps/route/16