Gay Street District

The pulse of Columbus.

Local retail shop interior within the Gay Street District.
Artisans &
Modern coffee shop counter and espresso bar at Black Kahawa
Black Kahawa

Columbus' Cultural Crossroads

What is the Gay Street District in Downtown Columbus?

The Gay Street District is a vibrant urban destination located between the Columbus Museum of Art (to the east) and City Hall (to the west). It features a dense mix of independently owned bars, galleries, restaurants, retail shops, and cafes. As a centerpiece of Downtown, it stands out as a premier inclusive hub.
Local creativity and unique commerce thrive here in a walkable environment.

Things to Do in the Gay Street District

Whether you live, work or play on Gay Street, there are all kinds of ways to enjoy your time in the District, home to local, one-of-a-kind destinations and restaurants putting creativity at our city’s center and showcasing what our local talent – artists, restauranteurs, entrepreneurs – bring to this city.

Gay Street Art Galleries

A burgeoning arts district, Gay Street is home to a number of galleries, including Brandt Gallery, Lindsay Gallery, Chaos Contemporary Craft, No Place Gallery, Sarah Gormley Gallery, and  Hammond Harkins Galleries.

Grab a DORA drink, a bite to eat, and explore the district’s galleries as a DIY gallery hop!

Art enthusiasts exploring a gallery.
Chaos Contemporary Craft
Open-concept gym interior.
Quality Wellness Performance & Coaching

Retail and Wellness

Whether you’re into sustainable fashion, handmade soaps and fragrances, artisan goods or meeting your fitness goals, unique retail and wellness offerings include Columbus-born Zeroz wallets, Restalgic Atelier, Evolverie Clothing, Quality Wellness Permormance & Coaching, and Parlor Suites tattoo parlor.

Local bites and brews

Visit Columbus’ oldest restaurant at the historic Ringside Cafe. Grab an Asian-inspired bowl at Tiger & Lily. Indulge in Argentenian comfort food at Barroluco. Grab a slice of ‘za at family-owned-since-1992 Aracri Pizzeria. Grab something to go or work-from-anywhere at Brioso Coffee and Black Kahawa right at the intersection of Gay & High. Indulge in high end eats at Chouette, Hank’s Low County Seafood & Raw Bar, and Speck. 

Hand-crafted cocktail and fresh focaccia at Speck Italian Eatery.
Speck Italian Eatery

Gay Street Events

Plan your trip Downtown with events happening on or near Gay Street!

Downtown

Stephanie Rond Pink Waves Opening Reception

Chaos Contemporary Craft is pleased to announce their upcoming exhibition with integral Columbus artist Stephanie…

Parking

Parking is not in short supply around the Gay St District. Find many options to park and go within a short walk of shops, galleries, restaurants, and more. 

Customers browsing women’s apparel at Evolverie Clothing boutique.
Evolverie Clothing
Restalgic Atelier in the Gay Street District.
Restalgic Atelier
Hand-crafted cocktail and fresh focaccia at Speck Italian Eatery.
Speck Italian Eatery

Explore the Gay Street District

Experience

Dining

SORSO (Due Amici)

Gay Street District

Dining

Due Amici

Gay Street District

Shopping

Diamond Exchange

Gay Street District

Shopping

Clarkson Eyecare

Gay Street District

Arts & Culture

Chaos Contemporary Craft

Gay Street District

Dining

Soul 2 Go

Gay Street District

Dining

Capri

Gay Street District

Dining

GENJIGO

Gay Street District

Dining

Little Cat Boba

Gay Street District

Arts & Culture

Yao Cheng Design

Gay Street District

Dining

Elia Athenian Grill

Gay Street District

Shopping

B. Loved Bridal Boutique

Gay Street District

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Gay Street District

The Gay Street District is located in Downtown Columbus at the intersection of Gay and High Streets.

The Gay Street District is known for local restaurants, art galleries, boutiques, cafes, historic buildings, and community events.

Yes, it is a pedestrian-friendly district with easy access to dining, shopping, and cultural attractions.

Yes, the Gay Street District often hosts art gallery events, performances, and seasonal community events.