20 BEST Hotels on Olentangy River Road Columbus Ohio

Tired of looking for the best hotels on Olentangy River Road Columbus Ohio? No worries, this article is bound to have the perfect hotel for you. The sleepy, windy Olentangy River Road of Colombus, Ohio, invites you to come to stay awhile.

The road moves from urban to the idyllic countryside and is a great choice for a place to stay in Colombus. Whether you’ve come to Colombus to take part in the campus’ action or are coming to enjoy the rich culture that Colombus has developed, this Midwestern city is a gem.

The Olentangy River runs north-south and deep into the heart of Colombus, putting you in the center of all Colombus has to offer. Finding the best hotel to stay on the Olentangy River Road will ensure a peaceful and fun visit to Colombus.

Read on to discover the best hotels on Olentangy River Road in Columbus Ohio to get ready for your adventure!

See Also: Restaurants Columbus Ohio

1) Hampton Inn & Suites Columbus/University Area

A great pick if you’re headed to see a Buckeye’s game, Hampton Inn & Suites is located on Olentangy River Road, just one mile from the Ohio State campus. With a free shuttle within a three-mile radius, it’s easy to get around Columbus when you stay at Hampton Inn & Suites.

A daily breakfast makes each morning effortless, and free parking and a business center all add the list of amenities at Hampton Inn & Suites. You get a pool, fitness center, and free wifi are great perks for families coming to Colombus.

2) Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Columbus University Area 

Another great pick is that Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites has all your needs covered if you need to be close to campus. Free parking making travel a breeze, as well as a hot breakfast, onsite pool and fitness center, and business center.

Having a variety of restaurants available within walking distance makes evenings out leisurely. Spacious rooms with the option for family rooms means everyone will feel comfortable at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites.

3) Staybridge Suites University Area OSU

Staybridge Suites University Area OSU is a brand new hotel within the midst of the university’s excitement. Riverside Hospital, Battelle, and James Cancer Research Institute are all less than half a mile away if you’re coming to Columbus for medical or work reasons.

Each room comes with a kitchenette allowing you to do your own cooking. A pool and breakfast are other highlights of Staybridge Suites University Area, an extended stay hotel.

4) Varsity Inn 

Affordable yet recently renovated, Varsity Inn is perfect for those who want to be close to the University of Ohio. Seated on the south edge of the campus, whether you’ve come to tour the school or are here to visit current students, Varsity Inn is the perfect pick.

Hotel amenities include pet-friendly rooms, flat-screen TVs, in-room coffee makers, and speedy wifi. All rooms are 100% smoke-free, and Varsity Inn has a 24-hour check-in, ready to greet you whenever you arrive.

5) Motel 6 Colombus OSU 

This is a steal if you’re coming into Colombus on a budget, Motel 6 doesn’t lack any amenities. Guests enjoy drive-up motel-style rooms that are clean and well-cared for. Free-parking, pet-friendly rooms, a seasonal, outdoor pool, and wifi throughout the hotel ensure you’ve got all the bases covered. Note, not all of Motel 6 is smoke-free; smoke-free and smoking-allowed rooms are both available.

6) SpringHill Suites Columbus OSU

An all-suite hotel located less than a mile to OSU, SpringHill Suites provides spacious, comfortable accommodations. Each suite comes with a separate living area, microwave, and minifridge.

Enjoy the complimentary breakfast, or take a dip in the pool. Stay fit and centered at the fitness center, or tend to business with the 24-hour business center. Another bonus at SpringHill Suites is the outdoor patio, complete with a fireplace for cozy evenings.

7) Marriott Columbus University Area

Marriott Colombus University Area is a new, luxury hotel. Guestrooms are deluxe, with signature bedding and a plethora of amenities. Great for large groups, for work or fun purposes, Marriott Columbus University Area is highly rated for location, cleanliness, and service. Families will appreciate kid-friendly activities, a swimming pool, free parking, and bicycle rental through the hotel.

8) Fairfield Inn & Suites Columbus OSU

Fairfield Inn & Suites Colombus OSU is an ideal choice for families, as well as those traveling on business. Only one mile from OSU, Fairfield Inn provides complimentary daily breakfast, a pool and fitness center, and free wifi.

The fresh, cheerful aesthetic makes you feel right at home at Fairfield Inn & Suites, and proximity to all that Columbus has to offer makes it an easy pick. Reboot after a long day with a drink at the lounge. Additionally, be sure to take advantage of the free shuttle service within a five-mile radius.

9) The Timbrook Guesthouse

If you’re searching for unique travel accommodations, search no further than The Timbrook Guesthouse. This beautiful estate truly puts you in vacation mode, with a bed and breakfast style of housing. Book one of the six suites, and relax with the “aloha” spirit that The Timbrook Guesthouse embodies.

On the four-acre of land, unwind in the gardens, or spend an evening in the outdoor jacuzzi. With a heated elliptical pool, majestic gazebo, and multiple common spaces are all other nooks to tuck oneself into. Linger over a gourmet breakfast, or grab an ever-available cookie from the main dining area.

10) Big Red’s Lodges

Big Red’s Lodge is an oasis tucked away in the urban expanse of Colombus. Set on 25-acres of land, Big Red’s Lodges has eight different lodges that all come with a living room, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom.

To accommodate patients at OhioHealth McConnell Heart Health Center, Big Red’s Lodges is a welcome respite. Recharge with a healthy breakfast at the Center Cafe, or take it all in on the front porch chairs.

11) Hilton Garden Inn Columbus-University Area

Hilton Garden Inn Colombus just two miles from the University Area and their free shuttle will happily get you where you need to go (in a five-mile radius). Modern, large rooms allow you to feel at home at Hilton Garden Inn.

The Garden Grill, Hilton Garden’s onsite restaurant, is available for breakfast and dinner, as well as in-room dining. Free parking, a business center with meeting rooms, swimming pool, and fitness center all round out the deal.

12) Residence Inn Columbus University Area

Residence Inn Colombus University Area is a 2020 Travelers’ Choice Hotel, just minutes from OSU and downtown Colombus. Free parking, free breakfast, and kids stay free all make you feel like you’re winning when you stay at Residence Inn. A large workout area with an outdoor basketball court and activities for kids keep everyone healthy and happy. An additional BBQ/outdoor area provides extra space to lounge in.

13) Aloft Hotel Colombus University District 

Aloft Hotel Colombus University District has a modern design, near downtown Colombus and Grandview Heights. They pride themselves on being the next level in hospitality, with platform beds, Bliss® Spa bath amenities, and fast & free WiFi.

Add to all of this the onsite restaurant, Re:fuel, and a bar, W XYZ bar, and you have an incredible hotel to stay a couple of days in. Complimentary onsite parking includes two electric car charging stations. Pets are welcome at Aloft Hotel at an additional fee of $50.

*The following listings are not directly on Olentangy River Road but are within proximity.

14) Hyatt Place Columbus/OSU

Within proximity to OSU, Greater Columbus Convention Center, Arena District, Berliner Park, and downtown Colombus, Hyatt Place is as convenient as it gets. A digital check-in provides a safe entry, free breakfast, an onsite restaurant, and internet access make you feel at home. Bring along your furry friend, as Hyatt Place Colombus is pet-friendly. Business guests also love ample meeting space for work functions.

15) Red Roof PLUS+ Columbus-The Ohio State University

Red Roof PLUS+ is an economy hotel that doesn’t skimp on providing a great stay. All of Red Roof is non-smoking, and rooms include blackout curtains and Serta mattresses for a good night’s rest.

Close to Ohio State University (1.5 mi) and Mapfre Stadium (2.0 mi), Red Roof provides free parking for all guests. Kids stay free, and pets are welcome at this budget hotel that aims to please.

16) Fairfield Inn & Suites Columbus Dublin

Fairfield Inn & Suites Colombus Dublin is an excellent choice, still within Colombus, but near historic Dublin. Just off 270, Fairfield Inn & Suites is a friendly, inviting atmosphere with brightly colored rooms.

Multiple restaurants are within a mile or less, spanning a variety of cuisines. A great choice for families, Fairfield Inn & Suites makes sure kids stay free and happy with a complimentary breakfast, activities, and swimming pool.

If you’re flying into Colombus, enjoy free airport transportation through Fairfield Inn & Suites.

17) Nationwide Hotel and Conference Center

Nationwide Hotel and Conference Center is located just north of Colombus city limits in Lewis Center. An award-winning hotel, Nationwide, is known for its retreat-like atmosphere, set on 15-acres of green space. Each room is entitled to a free parking space, as well as complimentary breakfast, wifi, and pillow-top mattresses.

The pool has recently reopened, so water babies have reason to delight! Dine on five-star meals at the Ohio Dining Room, Nationwide’s signature restaurant.

18) Homewood Suites by Hilton OSU Columbus 

Homewood Suites by Hilton OSU Colombus is an upscale, extended-stay hotel near the campus of OSU. A free shuttle to local attractions makes getting to and for effortless. With a beautiful heated indoor pool and exercise room make your stay feel a bit like a visit to the spa.

Golfers love the proximity to local golf courses, and everyone can appreciate the free hot breakfast. Add to all of this a complimentary social hour and it seals the deal.

19) Blackwell Inn Colombus 

Blackwell Inn Colombus, an upper-midscale hotel that is 100% smoke-free. Uniquely decorated, Ohio-themed rooms make you feel as if you truly are immersed in your Colombus experience. With a friendly staff, Blackwell Inn is actually owned by OSU and is housed on the grounds of the Fisher College of Business.

Whether you’re coming for a weekend getaway or are planning a wedding through Blackwell Inn, all your needs are covered. Just a 0.3 mile walk to OSU stadium, football fans will especially love Blackwell Inn.

20) Baymont Suites Colombus 

Baymont Suites Colombus is conveniently located off I-71, about five miles north of Columbus State University. Although the distance is slightly farther than other hotels to downtown Colombus and OSU, the price and amenities make up for the drive.

Free continental breakfast, free parking, and free wifi are all music to a traveler’s ears. Travelers coming through the Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) will appreciate Baymont’s proximity to the airport, including a free airport shuttle.

Conclusion

Whether you’re coming to Colombus for a big game, work, or to soak up the culture of Colombus, there is a perfect hotel fit for each individual. Columbus is a friendly Midwest city that knows how to take care of its guests. This list of the best hotels on Olentangy River Road in Colombus Ohio gives you ample choices to choose from to get your adventure to Columbus started!