Food & Activities
Iron Bank Coffee Co.
Pop in for a coffee, pastry, egg sandwich, and more. I’ve been going to this downtown spot since high school, and now Hugh and I go every time we’re in town.
Historic District
Walk down tree-lined brick roads and fountained medians to see the city's most historic homes (the oldest built in 1828). Look out for the home of Dr. John Pemberton, the founder of Coca-Cola. Walking tours by Vicinity Tours are available (check the link above).
Hotel Indigo Rooftop Bar
Sip a cocktail and savor some of the best views of the Chattahoochee.
Chattahoochee Riverwalk
Lace up or rent a bike for this 15-mile riverfront trail. There are several entry points downtown.
Whitewater Express
Raft down the world’s largest urban whitewater course! You'll float in the shadows of old textile mills and bask in local history before navigating the rapids. My first-ever job was booking trips for this outfitter the summer they opened.
Stock Market Dueling Kitchens
Our all-time favorite Sunday brunch spot. The vibe takes us back to NYC.
Saltcellar
One of the very first places I took Hugh in Columbus. Great seafood in a nicer atmosphere downtown.
The Bo Bartlett Center
Bo Bartlett is a world renown artist from (and still living in) Columbus. Free to the public, this gallery shows some of his most famous works as well as traveling exhibitions.
The Columbus Museum
An award-winning institution blending American art and local history. The surrounding gardens were designed by the Olmsted Brothers.
Dinglewood Pharmacy
This old-school pharmacy and soda fountain is home of the famous "scrambled dog." Grab a seat at the counter and ask about the legendary Lieutenant behind the dish.
Upstairs at the Loft
Longtime downtown haunt with a restaurant downstairs and bar with live music upstairs.
Jarfly
Great game day spot with large patio. Wash down some tacos with a beer (or tiki drink). This spot's in Midtown and a 7-minute drive from the downtown hotels.
Banks Food Hall
Just off the riverwalk, this food hall offers a range of casual bites plus a coffee bar.
Country's BBQ On Broad
Our go-to spot for bbq, buttermilk chicken fingers, and hand-cut fries. This downtown location is in an old Greyhound Bus Station (and just a minute from the Indigo and AC hotels).
Mabella's Italian Steakhouse
One of the most beloved restaurants in town. Great for a nice dinner out downtown.
The Animal Farm
A newish spot opened by local culinary talent (and Hudson Terrell and James Beard semi-finalist). Sandwich-forward lunches and more intricate plates for dinner.
Trevioli Italian Kitchen at the Rapids
Just across a lawn from the Hotel Indigo. Super convenient, extensive cocktail list, great pizzas!