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Columbus, Ohio, is a vibrant city with a thriving arts scene, delicious food, exciting sports, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're visiting for a Buckeyes game, exploring the Short North Arts District, or on a business trip, finding affordable accommodation doesn't mean sacrificing comfort or convenience.
This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the best options for cheap hotels in Columbus, ensuring your stay is both enjoyable and budget-friendly.
Opting for a budget-friendly hotel allows you to:
Save Money for Experiences: Spend more on exploring attractions, dining out, and enjoying everything Columbus has to offer.
Extend Your Stay: Get more nights for your dollar, allowing for a longer and more relaxed trip.
Discover Hidden Gems: Sometimes, smaller, more affordable hotels offer unique charm and a local feel that larger chains might miss.
Travel More Frequently: Make Columbus a regular destination without breaking the bank.
Columbus boasts a variety of affordable hotels across different areas, each offering its own advantages. Here are some highly-rated and popular choices for budget travellers:
These hotels are conveniently located for travellers flying into John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) and often offer competitive rates.
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Columbus East Airport: Consistently praised for its good value and amenities, including free breakfast and Wi-Fi. It's a solid choice for a comfortable stay near the airport.
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Columbus Airport Area: Another reliable option, often offering free breakfast and Wi-Fi. Many guests appreciate its recent renovations.
Red Roof Inn Columbus West - Hilliard / Red Roof Inn & Suites Columbus - West Broad: Red Roof Inn properties are generally known for their budget-friendly rates and often offer pet-friendly accommodations and free Wi-Fi. Some locations may include a pool.
This area provides easy access to various parts of the city while often offering more affordable rates than downtown.
Motel 6-Columbus, OH - West: A very economical choice, ideal for those on a tight budget. Expect basic amenities but a clean room.
Rodeway Inn: Another budget-friendly option in the west Columbus area.
Super 8 by Wyndham Columbus West: Offers free breakfast and Wi-Fi, along with free parking. Some locations also have a pool.
Best Western Suites / Best Western Hilliard Inn & Suites: While slightly higher in price, these can offer good value with amenities like a complimentary breakfast.
The Polaris area is known for its shopping and dining, and some hotels here offer good value, especially for those who want to be close to these amenities.
Norwood Inn & Suites Columbus: Located in Worthington, this hotel can be a very affordable option, though reviews are mixed.
Days Inn by Wyndham Columbus Fairgrounds: A budget-friendly option that's particularly convenient if you're attending events at the Ohio State Fairgrounds.
Red Roof PLUS+ Columbus - Worthington: Offers free Wi-Fi and is often noted for being pet-friendly.
HomeTowne Studios by Red Roof Columbus: Another economical choice from the Red Roof brand.
While downtown hotels can be pricier, there are still some options that offer good value, especially if you prioritise being in the heart of the action.
Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Columbus Downtown-Convention Centre: A solid budget option if you want to be close to the Columbus Convention Centre. It's often praised for its location.
The Plaza Hotel Columbus at Capital Square can offer a good balance of price and downtown location.
Inn Towne Motel: One of the most economical choices directly downtown, offering basic accommodations.
Holiday Inn Express Columbus Dwtn-Capitol Square by IHG: While not the absolute cheapest, it often provides good value for its location and includes breakfast.
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Book in Advance: Generally, the earlier you book, the better the rates, especially during peak seasons or major events.
Be Flexible with Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, you can often find lower prices by adjusting your stay by a day or two. Weekends tend to be more expensive.
Consider Mid-Week Stays: Hotel rates are often lower on weekdays (Sunday through Thursday nights).
Look for Deals and Discounts:
Last-Minute Deals: Websites like HotelTonight and KAYAK can sometimes offer significant discounts for last-minute bookings.
Membership Discounts: Check if your AAA, AARP, or other memberships offer hotel discounts.
Loyalty Programs: If you frequently stay with a particular hotel chain, sign up for their loyalty program to earn points and exclusive discounts.
Compare Prices Across Platforms: Use meta-search engines like Kayak, Expedia, Agoda, Booking.com, and Orbitz to compare prices from various booking sites.
Consider Location vs. Price: Hotels further from downtown or major attractions often have lower rates. Factor in transportation costs and time if you choose a more distant option.
Read Reviews: Always check recent guest reviews to get an idea of the hotel's cleanliness, comfort, and overall experience, even for budget hotels. Look for consistent positive feedback.
Check for Included Amenities: Free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free parking can significantly reduce your overall travel costs. Many cheap hotels in Columbus offer these.
Look for Pet-Friendly Options: If you're travelling with a furry friend, be sure to filter for pet-friendly hotels. Many budget chains like Red Roof Inn and La Quinta Inn are pet-friendly.
While "cheap" doesn't mean "bad," it's important to set realistic expectations:
Basic Amenities: You might not find luxurious spas or gourmet restaurants on-site. Expect clean, functional rooms, often with standard amenities like a TV, private bathroom, and Wi-Fi.
Limited Services: Services like room service or extensive concierge support might be minimal or non-existent.
Older Decor: Some budget hotels might have slightly dated decor, but this doesn't necessarily impact cleanliness or comfort.
Location Variability: While some cheap hotels are centrally located, others might be in more suburban areas, requiring a car or public transportation.
Utilise Public Transportation: Columbus has a decent bus system (COTA) that can help you get around without the need for expensive taxis or ride-shares, especially from hotels near bus routes.
Explore Free Attractions: Columbus offers many free or low-cost attractions, such as parks, public art installations, and free walking tours.
Pack Snacks and Drinks: Buying snacks and drinks at local grocery stores can save you money compared to hotel vending machines or convenience stores.
Take Advantage of Free Breakfast: If your hotel offers complimentary breakfast, make sure to utilise it to save on dining costs.
By following these tips and utilising the resources available, you can easily find cheap hotels in Columbus, Ohio, that provide a comfortable and convenient base for your adventures in this exciting city. Happy travels!
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