Best Hotels Near Nationwide Arena: Top Picks for Your Visit
Planning a trip to Columbus, Ohio for an event at Nationwide Arena? Whether you’re attending a Blue Jackets hockey game, a concert, or another major event, finding the right accommodation nearby can make your stay more convenient and enjoyable. Nationwide Arena, located in the heart of downtown Columbus, draws thousands of visitors annually, making it essential to book accommodations that offer proximity, comfort, and value.
The area surrounding Nationwide Arena has developed significantly over the past decade, with numerous hotel options catering to different budgets and preferences. From luxury high-rises to budget-friendly chains, you’ll find accommodations that suit your needs. This comprehensive guide covers the best hotels near Nationwide Arena, helping you make an informed decision for your next Columbus visit.
Luxury Hotels Near Nationwide Arena
For visitors seeking premium accommodations with exceptional service, downtown Columbus offers several luxury hotel options within walking distance of Nationwide Arena. These establishments provide upscale amenities, fine dining, and personalized service that elevate your entire experience.
The Hilton Columbus Downtown stands as one of the premier luxury choices, located just steps from the arena. This sophisticated property features contemporary design, a full-service spa, and multiple dining venues. The hotel’s rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city skyline, perfect for pre-event celebrations. Guests appreciate the fitness center amenities available for maintaining your workout routine during travel.
Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel combines modern elegance with convenient positioning near the arena. This property boasts spacious rooms with premium bedding, a full-service restaurant, and a well-equipped business center. The hotel’s central location makes it ideal for attendees who want to explore downtown Columbus before or after events.
The LeVeque Tower, Columbus’s historic landmark, has been reimagined as a luxury residential and hotel space. While primarily residential, its hotel component offers spectacular views and historic charm. The building’s Art Deco architecture makes it a visually distinctive choice for discerning travelers.
For those prioritizing wellness during their stay, luxury hotels near Nationwide Arena increasingly offer spa services, premium fitness facilities, and healthy dining options. These accommodations understand that modern travelers want more than just a place to sleep—they want an experience that enhances their overall trip quality.
Mid-Range Hotels with Great Value
If you’re seeking a balance between comfort, convenience, and affordability, mid-range hotels near Nationwide Arena provide excellent value. These properties offer quality accommodations without the premium price tag of luxury establishments.
The Drury Inn & Suites Columbus Convention Center represents outstanding mid-range value, located within reasonable walking distance of the arena. This property includes complimentary breakfast, free evening beverages, and spacious suites with separate living areas—perfect for families or those needing extra space. Their commitment to guest satisfaction has earned consistent positive reviews from event attendees.
Red Roof Columbus Downtown offers budget-conscious travelers a reliable option without sacrificing essential comfort. The hotel’s straightforward approach to hospitality means clean rooms, friendly staff, and no unnecessary frills that inflate costs. Pet-friendly policies make it ideal for travelers with furry companions.
The Comfort Suites Downtown Columbus provides modern accommodations at reasonable rates. Rooms include refrigerators and microwaves, allowing guests to prepare light meals and snacks. The hotel’s convenient location reduces transportation costs and time spent getting to Nationwide Arena.
Many mid-range hotels near Nationwide Arena have recently upgraded their facilities to compete with luxury properties. These renovations often include modern décor, updated technology, and improved dining options. When booking, specifically inquire about recent upgrades to ensure you get the most current room configurations.
Hotels offering free parking represent particularly good value in downtown Columbus, where parking fees can add significantly to your total accommodation costs.
Budget-Friendly Options
Budget travelers attending events at Nationwide Arena have several solid options that maintain quality standards while keeping costs down. These hotels prioritize essential amenities and convenient locations over luxury extras.
Motel 6 Columbus Downtown delivers basic, clean accommodations at budget-friendly rates. While amenities are minimal, the hotel’s proximity to the arena and public transportation makes it practical for event attendees who plan to spend most of their time away from their rooms.
Super 8 by Wyndham Columbus Downtown offers reliable budget accommodation with free Wi-Fi and continental breakfast options. The hotel’s straightforward service model keeps prices low without compromising cleanliness or basic comfort.
When choosing budget hotels, prioritize location over room size. A smaller room in a property near Nationwide Arena provides better value than a larger room requiring transportation to the venue. This strategy reduces your overall trip costs significantly.
Budget accommodations often lack some amenities found in higher-priced properties. However, downtown Columbus offers abundant nearby restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, reducing your dependence on in-hotel dining and services. This accessibility makes budget hotels particularly practical for event attendees.
Must-Have Amenities for Event Attendees
When selecting a hotel near Nationwide Arena, certain amenities prove particularly valuable for event attendees. Understanding which features matter most helps you choose the best property for your specific needs.
Location and Walkability: The most important amenity is proximity to Nationwide Arena. Hotels within a 10-minute walk reduce fatigue and transportation hassles, especially after evening events. Downtown Columbus’s improving pedestrian infrastructure makes walking increasingly practical.
Early Check-In Options: If your event occurs in the evening and you’re traveling during the day, early check-in availability allows you to freshen up before attending. When booking, specifically request early check-in and confirm availability before arrival.
Late Check-Out or 24-Hour Room Access: Events at Nationwide Arena often end late, making standard checkout times problematic. Hotels offering late checkout or 24-hour room access provide essential flexibility for event attendees.
Family suite accommodations benefit families attending events together, providing separate sleeping areas and reducing cramped quarters. These suites, while more expensive than standard rooms, often cost less than booking multiple separate rooms.
Business Centers and Wi-Fi: Reliable internet connectivity matters for modern travelers. Strong Wi-Fi allows you to research local attractions, make restaurant reservations, and stay connected with traveling companions.
Luggage Storage: Some hotels offer secure luggage storage for guests with early departures or late arrivals, allowing you to explore Columbus without carrying bags.
Concierge Services: Knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations for nearby restaurants, entertainment, and attractions, enhancing your overall Columbus experience beyond your event attendance.
Parking Considerations and Solutions
Parking represents a significant consideration when choosing hotels near Nationwide Arena. Downtown Columbus parking can be expensive and complicated, making this factor crucial in your decision-making process.
Hotel Parking Options: Some hotels include complimentary parking with room rates, while others charge daily fees ranging from $15 to $35. Always clarify parking costs before booking, as these fees significantly impact your total accommodation expense.
Properties offering complimentary parking often justify slightly higher room rates through the parking savings. Calculate your total cost including parking to make accurate comparisons between properties.
Public Parking Alternatives: If your hotel charges parking fees, investigate nearby public parking garages and surface lots. The City of Columbus operates several downtown parking facilities with reasonable rates. Using public parking instead of hotel valet can save substantial money, particularly for multi-night stays.
Valet Parking Services: While more expensive than self-parking, valet services eliminate the hassle of finding parking in crowded downtown areas. After evening events, valet parking convenience may justify the additional cost.
Public Transportation: Columbus’s COTA bus system provides reliable downtown transportation. Some hotels offer transit passes or information, reducing your parking needs entirely. If you don’t plan to drive during your stay, choosing a hotel with good transit access negates parking concerns.
Nearby Neighborhoods Worth Exploring
Staying near Nationwide Arena positions you perfectly to explore vibrant Columbus neighborhoods. Understanding nearby areas helps you maximize your visit beyond event attendance.
The Arena District: Surrounding Nationwide Arena, this rapidly developing neighborhood features restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. The district’s pedestrian-friendly design makes exploring on foot enjoyable and practical.
German Village: Just south of downtown, this historic neighborhood offers charming brick homes, local restaurants, and boutique shops. A short bus ride or 20-minute walk from most downtown hotels, German Village provides authentic Columbus character and dining experiences.
Short North Arts District: North of downtown, this trendy neighborhood features galleries, restaurants, and nightlife. The district’s creative energy and diverse dining options make it worth exploring before or after arena events.
Brewery District: Columbus’s growing craft brewery scene centers in this neighborhood south of downtown. Beer enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous tasting rooms and brewery tours available.
Hotels near Nationwide Arena provide excellent bases for exploring these neighborhoods. Most are accessible via short transit rides or pleasant walks, allowing you to experience Columbus’s diverse character.
Tips for Booking Your Hotel
Book Early for Major Events: When major events occur at Nationwide Arena, hotels fill quickly. Booking 2-3 months in advance ensures availability and often provides better rates than last-minute reservations.
Compare Total Costs: Don’t focus solely on nightly room rates. Factor in parking fees, resort fees, taxes, and any other charges when comparing properties. A hotel with a slightly higher room rate but included parking might cost less overall.
Read Recent Reviews: Guest reviews provide insights into current conditions and service quality. Focus on recent reviews mentioning your visit timeframe, as hotel quality can change seasonally or after management transitions.
Check Cancellation Policies: Flexible cancellation policies provide peace of mind if your travel plans change. During uncertain times, prioritize hotels offering free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before arrival.
Consider Package Deals: Many hotels offer packages including event tickets, dining credits, or parking. These packages sometimes provide better value than booking room and amenities separately.
Use Hotel Loyalty Programs: If you frequently travel, hotel loyalty program memberships offer perks like complimentary upgrades, late checkout, and room credits. Even occasional travelers benefit from joining free loyalty programs.
Verify Location Details: Confirm walking distance to Nationwide Arena and nearby transit stops. Some hotels advertising “near” the arena might be further than you expect. Check distances on maps before booking.
Understanding hotel room safety practices helps you stay secure during your visit. Choose properties with strong reputations for guest safety and security.
For families, family-friendly hotel considerations apply regardless of location. Look for properties offering kid-friendly amenities, spacious rooms, and family packages.
Downtown hotel selection requires balancing multiple factors including location, price, and amenities. Taking time to research thoroughly ensures you find the best fit for your needs.
FAQ
How far are downtown Columbus hotels from Nationwide Arena?
Most downtown hotels are within 0.5 to 1 mile of Nationwide Arena, requiring 10-20 minute walks. This proximity makes walking practical for most visitors, though public transit and rideshare options also connect hotels to the arena.
What’s the best time to book hotels near Nationwide Arena?
Book 6-8 weeks before major events for optimal availability and pricing. For regular Blue Jackets games or smaller events, 2-4 weeks advance booking typically provides good options. Last-minute bookings risk limited availability and higher rates.
Are there hotels with complimentary parking near Nationwide Arena?
Yes, several properties offer free parking, though these typically charge slightly higher room rates. Comparing total costs including parking helps determine if complimentary parking properties offer better value for your situation.
Which hotels offer family suites near Nationwide Arena?
Mid-range and luxury properties near Nationwide Arena frequently offer suite accommodations with separate living areas. Specifically request family suites when booking and confirm configurations meet your family’s needs.
Can I walk from hotels to restaurants and entertainment?
Yes, downtown Columbus’s improving pedestrian infrastructure makes walking to nearby restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues practical from most hotels. The Arena District and nearby neighborhoods offer abundant dining and entertainment options.
What public transportation connects hotels to Nationwide Arena?
Columbus’s COTA bus system provides reliable downtown service. Most downtown hotels are within walking distance of multiple bus routes serving Nationwide Arena and throughout the city. Check COTA’s website for specific route information.
Are there pet-friendly hotels near Nationwide Arena?
Several downtown hotels welcome pets, though policies vary regarding pet fees and size restrictions. Always confirm pet policies during booking to avoid surprises at check-in.
What amenities matter most for event attendees?
Location, parking solutions, early check-in options, and late checkout flexibility prove most valuable for event attendees. Choose hotels offering these features to maximize convenience around your event schedule.