How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Columbus, United States

1. Easton Town Center

Large outdoor shopping mall with international brands. Avoid the food court for local flavors.

Local Eateries: Discover unique Columbus dining options off-site.
Off-Peak Hours: Avoid crowds by visiting during non-peak shopping times.
Public Transportation: Utilize city buses to navigate without parking hassles.

Popular attraction with high ticket prices. Explore the lesser-known Wilds for a more authentic experience.

The Wilds: Experience a safari-like adventure at this off-site wildlife conservation center.
Discount Tickets: Search for online deals and promotions to save on admission costs.
Off-Season Visits: Plan a visit during the off-season for fewer crowds and lower prices.

Popular riverfront park with overpriced food vendors. Pack a picnic or explore nearby eateries.

Nearby Restaurants: Discover local dining gems in the Short North Arts District.
Picnic Spots: Enjoy a picnic along the river to save on food costs.
Bike Rentals: Explore the mile at your own pace with bike rentals from nearby shops.

Charming historic neighborhood known for overpriced souvenirs. Find unique, locally-owned shops instead.

Hidden Gems: Discover lesser-known boutiques and artisans in the village.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Stores: Seek out unique finds at locally-owned stores off Schumacher Street.
Farmers Markets: Visit the local farmers market for fresh produce and artisanal goods.

Popular food hall with overpriced options. Explore the surrounding neighborhood for affordable eats.

Surrounding Neighborhood: Discover local dining gems in the Italian Village.
Street Food: Enjoy affordable street food from nearby carts and trucks.
Market Hours: Plan your visit during the best hours for maximum savings.

James Thurber museum with ticket prices. Explore free literary attractions nearby.

Free Literary Spots: Visit the Ohio Statehouse library or the Columbus Metropolitan Library.
Local Bookstores: Browse independent bookstores for Thurber's works.
Guided Tours: Find free self-guided tours of Thurber-inspired sites in Columbus.

Annual event with high ticket prices and expensive food. Plan ahead for deals and discounts.

Advance Purchase: Buy tickets online to save on admission fees.
Food Discounts: Pack snacks and seek out local food vendors for cheaper options.
Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours for fewer crowds and shorter lines.

Beautiful botanical garden with hefty admission fees. Visit during free days or find alternative green spaces.

Free Days: Plan your visit on a free admission day to save money.
Garden Alternatives: Explore the nearby Schiller Park or Topiary Garden instead.
Group Discounts: Consider group rates if traveling with a larger party.

Minor league baseball team with expensive ticket prices. Look for deals and discounts.

Deal Days: Check the team's website for special promotions and discounted tickets.
Food Discounts: Bring your own food or find affordable concession options.
Group Rates: Consider group rates if traveling with a larger party.

Expensive soccer stadium tours. Look for free or low-cost experiences.

Self-Guided Tours: Find self-guided walking tours of the stadium district.
Free Events: Attend free events at the stadium such as open practice sessions or community days.
Online Content: Explore virtual tours and behind-the-scenes content online for a taste of the stadium experience.

Museum with high admission fees. Look for free or discounted entry.

Free Days: Plan your visit on a free admission day to save money.
Reciprocal Museums: Check if your museum membership provides reciprocal benefits.
Group Rates: Consider group rates if traveling with a larger party.

Holiday light display with high ticket prices. Look for deals and discounts.

Advance Purchase: Buy tickets online to save on admission fees.
Food Discounts: Pack snacks and seek out local food vendors for cheaper options.
Group Rates: Consider group rates if traveling with a larger party.

Professional hockey team with expensive ticket prices. Look for deals and discounts.

Deal Days: Check the team's website for special promotions and discounted tickets.
Food Discounts: Bring your own food or find affordable concession options.
Group Rates: Consider group rates if traveling with a larger party.

Annual LGBTQ+ celebration with high ticket prices for events. Look for free or low-cost experiences.

Free Events: Attend free events such as the parade, street festivals, and concerts.
Local Restaurants: Discover affordable dining options in the Gay Street Entertainment District.
Volunteering: Consider volunteering to offset costs and immerse yourself in the celebration.

Annual music festival with high ticket prices. Look for free or low-cost experiences.

Free Stages: Enjoy free music on the main stage and smaller side stages.
Local Food Vendors: Discover affordable dining options from local food vendors.
Community Activities: Engage in free activities such as workshops, art shows, and discussions.