Holiday lights are shining bright in Downtown Columbus this December, bringing a little holiday cheer to the end of a tough year. While things are looking different, you can take in these sites now through January 3. Just remember, if you're out exploring to wear a mask and keep your distance. When you visit, snap a photo and share it with us on social media using #downtowncolumbus for a chance to be featured.
Columbus Commons
Enjoy the 10th year of festive lights at Columbus Commons every day through Sunday, January 3, from 5:00 pm until 10:00 pm. Come see more than 400,000 LED lights dazzle in the park, thanks to the American Electric Power Foundation. With six acres of space, there's plenty of room to spread out and keep your distance from other visitors. Please note that the safety of our visitors and staff is our top priority and therefore, no concessions or restrooms will be available, and the carousel will be closed.
Scioto Mile
Next stop on our virtual Downtown Columbus holiday lights tour, the Scioto Mile. From Leveque Tower to Milestone 229, the downtown riverfront is decked out for the holiday season. Just a five-minute walk from Columbus Commons, make sure both these stops are on your itinerary. The best part? There's tons of easy parking between the two.
State Auto's Christmas Corner
Life-size displays depicting the reason for the season are front-and-center in State Auto's Christmas Corner. While there won't be any performances this year, you can still walk through scenes of the first Christmas, lit up in the heart of the city. Located right outside State Auto's Broad Street headquarters, this is a holiday tradition the whole family can enjoy. Metered parking is available on Broad Street.
Parking
Ready to head Downtown, but not sure where to park when you arrive? Below are a couple suggested locations. Fun fact: Parking at either of the Columbus Commons garages makes programming like holiday lights possible.
- Columbus Commons Main Garage (55 E. Rich St.) Parking is easy at the Columbus Commons Main Garage. Located at 55 East Rich Street, garage entrances can be found on Main and Rich Streets between High and Third Streets. View rates.
- Columbus Commons Underground Garage (191 S Third) The Underground Garage is located at 191 South Third Street, with an entrance off of Third Street, between State and Rich Streets. View rates.
Restaurants
In case you need a bite to eat before, during or after your downtown Holiday Lights excursion, here are a few spots that may pique your interest. You can find a complete listing of Downtown Columbus restaurants here.
- Burgerim - $
- Condado - $
- Dirty Frank’s - $
- The Goat - $$
- Hadley’s - $$
- Nosh on High - $$
- Mikey’s Late Night Slice - $
- Milestone 229 - $$
- Pecan Penny's - $$
- The Walrus - $$