Columbus is one of those cities that has way more going on than you’d expect — vibrant neighborhoods, incredible food, quirky shops, and plenty of green spaces to escape into. A weekend here gives you enough time to sample the food scene, explore the neighborhoods, and see why locals love this city. Here’s how I’d spend two days in Columbus.

Day 1: Foodie Favorites + Short North + German Village

Breakfast at The Woodbury or The Lox

Start your weekend with a bang at The Woodbury, where breakfast is anything but boring. The candied bacon crepes are a showstopper — three crepes stuffed with sweet-and-salty candied bacon, topped with fresh fruit, vanilla buttercream, and a drizzle of jelly sauce. If you want something more savory, order the Chicken Hotcakes Tacos: fluffy pancakes with crispy fried chicken, chili aioli, strawberry salsa, and Milligan’s maple syrup.

If you’re in a hurry or prefer a grab-and-go vibe, swing by The Lox. Their bacon, egg, and cheese on an everything bagel is simple but perfect. If you’re a salmon lover, the lox bagel is piled high with salmon, capers, and cream cheese.

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Stroll Through the Short North

Walk off breakfast by exploring the Short North Arts District, one of Columbus’s most colorful neighborhoods. This area is full of murals, boutiques, coffee shops, and art galleries. Spend a few hours strolling, snapping photos of the murals, and popping into shops.

Lunch at Wario’s + Arena District Walk

When lunch rolls around, make your way to Wario’s Beef & Pork, where the sandwiches are legendary (and huge). Order a Caesar salad, one sandwich to split (the steak sandwich or the Warrior’s Way are my picks), and a side of potatoes if you’re extra hungry.

Park behind Wario’s (around $1.35 an hour last time I was there), then take a walk through the Arena District — it’s lively, walkable, and full of great energy.

North Market Treats

Just a short walk from Wario’s, North Market is a must-stop. Grab a scoop of Jeni’s Ice Cream — the Brown Butter Almond Brittle and Wildberry Lavender are my go-to flavors — and get it in a butterscotch waffle cone. If you’re still hungry, try Mo Mo Ghar, a Tibetan and Nepalese food stall featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Order the Johl Mo Mo (steamed chicken dumplings with spicy tomato sauce) or the Choila Set (spiced chicken salad with rice, potatoes, and black-eyed peas).

Afternoon in German Village

Spend your afternoon in German Village, where the brick-lined streets and historic homes feel like stepping back in time. Pop into the boutiques, wander the cobblestone alleys, and make sure to stop at The Book Loft — 32 rooms of books, winding hallways, and hidden nooks that make you feel like you’re in a literary treasure hunt.

Dinner at Lindey’s

End your first day with dinner at Lindey’s, one of Columbus’s most iconic restaurants. The portions are just right for a three-course meal, and the menu changes seasonally. Make a reservation two to three weeks in advance if possible — by 5:30 or 6 pm, it’s tough to get a table without one. If you don’t have a reservation, try for open seating at the bar or patio. Don’t skip the bread and butter — it’s baked fresh in Grandview and perfectly salty.

Day 2: Coffee, Parks, and a Special Dinner

Breakfast at Fox in the Snow Café

Start your second day with coffee and one of the best pastries in Columbus at Fox in the Snow Café. Their cinnamon roll is huge and perfectly gooey, and the coffee is strong and smooth — ideal fuel for a day of exploring.

Outdoor Adventure or Farmers Market

If you’re visiting on a Saturday, stop by the Dublin Farmers Market or the Worthington Farmers Market — the Worthington one is bigger and full of local vendors and fresh produce.

If you prefer nature, spend your morning at one of Columbus’s many parks:

• Scioto Grove Metro Park – Climb the fire tower for panoramic views.

• Bicentennial Park – A downtown park right along the water, great for a picnic or a stroll.

• Griggs Reservoir Park – Peaceful and perfect if you just want to sit by the water.

• Antrim Park – A tranquil lake with a walking path.

• Highbanks Metro Park – Known for its scenic overlooks.

• Scioto Mile – A riverfront walkway with some of the best cityscape views, especially at sunset.

Lunch or Midday Bite

If you need a midday meal, head back to North Market to try something you missed yesterday or grab a casual lunch before heading out for more exploring.

Dinner at Watershed Kitchen & Bar

Save your second night for Watershed Kitchen & Bar, a moody, romantic spot attached to a working distillery. Schedule a distillery tour ahead of time if you want to see behind the scenes.

Portions here are generous, so I recommend splitting an appetizer, an entrée, and a dessert. My personal ratings:

• Crispy potatoes — 8/10

• Caesar salad — 8.5/10 (skip if you don’t like cabbage)

• Mushroom pasta — 9/10 (add short rib for extra flavor)

• Pork chops — 8/10

• Chocolate cream — 5/10

• Peach cobbler — 5/10 (a little too savory for my taste)

After Dinner: Scioto Mile Sunset

End your weekend with a stroll along the Scioto Mile. The city lights reflecting off the river make it the perfect way to wrap up your trip.

Final Thoughts

Columbus is a city that’s equal parts creative, delicious, and welcoming. In two days, you can explore its neighborhoods, eat incredible food, discover hidden shops, and enjoy some of the best urban green spaces in the Midwest. Whether you stick to the city center or branch out to nearby markets and parks, this is a weekend that balances adventure with relaxation — and leaves you planning your next visit.