Historic Boats & Water Park Fun in Columbus, Ohio
Tips on renting in Columbus
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Columbus is one of the most underrated family cities in the Midwest, and a vacation rental gives you the space to enjoy it properly. You get a fully equipped kitchen, free parking on premises, and a washer and dryer that make multi-day stays genuinely comfortable. Neighborhoods like Short North, German Village, and the Scioto Mile area put you close to parks, trails, and restaurants without the compressed feel of a downtown hotel.
The Columbus Zoo, the Scioto Mile, and a full day outdoors
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium houses more than 10,000 animals across 800 species and earns its reputation as one of the best zoos in the country. Pair it with a morning walk along the Scioto Mile, where Bicentennial Park’s interactive fountain is a reliable hit with younger kids. It’s an easy, low-stress combination that covers a lot of ground without requiring a car between stops.
The Olentangy Trail, Franklin Park, and slower afternoons
The Scioto Greenway connects to the 13.6-mile Olentangy Trail, which is flat, well-maintained, and genuinely pleasant for biking or walking. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is worth a dedicated visit, with themed gardens, glass art installations, and a Children’s Garden featuring animal topiaries and hands-on exhibits.
What to look for in a Columbus rental
Central heating matters for fall and winter visits when temperatures drop quickly. If you’re visiting during the Circleville Pumpkin Show in October, book at least eight weeks out as accommodations fill fast across the region.
Quick tips before you book
- Parking: Free parking on premises saves money near the Short North and Downtown
- Heating: Confirm central heat for any fall or winter stay
- Pets: Policies vary. Check fees and size limits before booking
- Peak timing: October events bring higher prices and limited availability. Book early
Browse all Columbus vacation rentals on Lake.com, or explore more Ohio getaways including Cleveland and Cincinnati on Lake.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Columbus has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit the Andrew Jackson Higgins National Memorial in Columbus, Nebraska, arrive anytime between 8 AM and 10 PM, as the site is open daily. This memorial, featuring a full-size steel replica of a Higgins Boat and life-size bronze statues, is set in a serene and well-kept park, making it an ideal stop for history enthusiasts and families alike. The site is free, ADA compliant, and offers ample parking, including spaces for buses and motorcoaches, ensuring a convenient and immersive experience.
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To launch your boat on the Loup River Water Trail near Columbus, Nebraska, start by traveling south of Monroe on 370th Avenue and cross the Loup River Bridge. Take the turn to the east about 1/8th of a mile past the bridge and follow the road to the designated launch site, where signs provide an overview of the water trail. This launch point sets you up for a scenic 6 to 8 hour float down to Columbus, offering stunning views of tree-covered banks, abundant wildlife, and diverse plant species.
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For water skiing enthusiasts near Columbus, Nebraska, Lake North is a prime destination. This circular lake, well-suited for skiing and tubing, operates with counterclockwise boating traffic and offers camping facilities with free electrical hook-ups. Another option is Whitetail Lake, a serene spot nestled between the Platte and Loup Rivers, perfect for boating, skiing, and other water activities amidst a natural wilderness setting.
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The hiking trails in Columbus, Nebraska, are indeed accessible for people with disabilities, offering a range of scenic and well-maintained paths. The 2.4-mile Sunset Trail, which loops around Lake Esther, and the 1.5-mile trail at Lake North Park, are both 8 to 10 feet wide and made of concrete, ensuring a smooth journey for wheelchairs. These trails are open to the public at no charge, making them ideal for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers of all abilities.
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To hike and enjoy scenic views along the Loup River in Columbus, Nebraska, head to Pawnee Park, where the Pawnee Park Trail offers a winding path perfect for walking, jogging, biking, or rollerblading. This trail, part of the Columbus Area Recreational Trails system, is 1.5 miles long and free to use, providing a beautiful route through the park along the river. For additional scenic hiking, consider the Two Lakes Trail, a 2.4-mile concrete pathway that runs along the north side of Lake North and Lake Babcock, offering stunning views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
