Experience the Best of Downtown Columbus, Indiana
We like to think of Downtown as everyone’s neighborhood. You’re going to love it here! Choose below for guides to downtown dining, downtown shopping, downtown art and architecture, as well as all the other things to do in downtown Columbus.
Downtown Columbus brings some of the city’s best architecture, local dining, shopping, public art, and attractions together in one walkable district. Start along Washington Street, and within just a few blocks away, discover internationally recognized architecture, join an architecture tour, explore public art, or settle in for one of downtown’s locally loved restaurants.
Architecture, Landmarks, & Washington Street
Washington Street is one of the best places to get your bearings downtown. Historic storefronts, public spaces, shops, and restaurants line the street, while some of Columbus’ best-known architectural landmarks are just steps away. At Fifth Street, Washington intersects with the Avenue of the Architects, a walkable corridor featuring an unusually concentrated collection of significant architecture and public art.
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Start with the landmarks that help tell Columbus’ design story. These stops bring together nationally recognized architecture, public spaces, and some of the most distinctive sights in the heart of downtown.
Shops, Boutiques, & Downtown Finds
Downtown shopping is less about discovering something you did not expect. Browse local boutiques, independent shops, books, gifts, home décor, and specialty finds as you make your way along Washington Street and the surrounding blocks. Because everything is close together, shopping can easily become part of a larger downtown afternoon instead of a trip all its own.
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Make time for a few local favorites as you browse downtown. These shops are great places to find gifts, books, clothing, and one-of-a-kind finds you may not come across anywhere else.
Restaurants, Cafés, & Fine Dining
Explore cafés, casual restaurants, international flavors, pizza and pub fare, date-night spots, breweries, and sweet treats throughout downtown. With the Downtown DORA, you can also grab a drink from a participating business and enjoy it while exploring the district. With so many stops close together, downtown makes it easy to park once and spend an afternoon or evening on foot.
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Make time for a few local favorites as you browse downtown. These shops are great places to find gifts, books, clothing, and one-of-a-kind finds you may not come across anywhere else.
Public Art & Unexpected Detail
Some of downtown’s best discoveries are tucked between the major landmarks. Look for public art, neon installations, colorful alleyways, and designed pedestrian spaces as you explore. Friendship Way, for example, connects Washington Street with a landscaped pedestrian passage and a neon sculpture by Cork Marcheschi.
Don't Miss
Make time for a few local favorites as you browse downtown. These shops are great places to find gifts, books, clothing, and one-of-a-kind finds you may not come across anywhere else.
Attractions, Experiences & Family Fun
Family attractions, hands-on experiences, cultural stops, and gathering spaces make it easy to add something interactive to your day.
