Columbus is a vibrant sports city! With sporting events centered in the Arena District, the area is an exciting destination for fans and athletes alike. 

There is always something going on in Downtown Columbus and the surrounding event districts, and getting from the hotel to the arena to restaurants has never been easier.
 

Understanding Columbus’s Event Districts 

Columbus’s major event districts are the Arena District, Downtown and the Short North Arts District.

All of Columbus’s professional sporting events take place in the Arena District, including the Columbus Clippers, the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Columbus Fury and the Columbus Crew.

These three entertainment districts are within walking distance of each other and whether you’re heading back to the hotel or out for dinner, there are plenty of transportation options that will get you around easily without a car.
 

Getting Around Without a Car 

COTA is Columbus’s public transit system. With bus services throughout the city of Columbus, getting around without a car is easy.

You can use your smart device or a tap-enabled card to ride Columbus’s public transportation between destinations. The COTA Transit app allows for digital fare payment and real-time tracking. Just type in your destination and it will provide the route you need to take.

All COTA buses are also equipped with front-mounted bike racks to make car-free travel around Columbus even easier. A free bike valet service is provided at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, home of the Columbus Crew, and service begins 4 hours prior to kick off on match days.
 

Parking Alternatives 

There are plenty of parking garages throughout Downtown, the Short North and the Arena District. Street parking is also available and is easily paid for by using the ParkColumbus App. Download the app before traveling to save time and to locate in advance the best parking options.

Parking garages in the Arena District offer pre-paid parking, saving the stress of finding a space for your upcoming sporting event. The website offers event‑specific parking information, complete with a simple map that makes comparing prices quick.
 

Rideshare Tips for Event Weekends 

Using Uber or Lyft can eliminate the need for driving and parking during peak traffic times in the district. Compare pricing and times on both apps to save money and time, also consider sharing a ride with a friend and/or shifting your timing by 10-20 minutes to avoid surge pricing.
 

Tips for Reducing Event‑Weekend Congestion 

Along with reserving parking ahead of time, plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early for your event. Giving yourself a little extra time to get around can make your visit go much more smoothly. Once you park, think of walking between destinations such as restaurants and sports venues in order to avoid traffic congestion.

If you’re using a rideshare service, look into walking a block or two away from the stadium or arena for pick up, this way you could avoid congestion (and possibly reduce fares).
 

Plan Like a Local: Using Columbus Resources 

The Arena District Game Day Guide is your go-to resource for planning your perfect game day experience. 

Use these maps to orient yourself to Columbus’s entertainment districts and to find convenient parking, hotels, and restaurants where you can grab a celebratory bite to eat after the game.