Passing through The Ohio State University Airport – Don Scott Field? A layover in Columbus is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 100 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Columbus, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Columbus is roughly 100 minutes from OSU via Taxi/Rideshare. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Columbus:
Start with The Ohio State University Campus. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Columbus. Then, if time allows, make your way to Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside OSU, you can spend time at Lane Aviation FBO Lounge or try OSU Airport Plane Spotting. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Getting to Columbus from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from The Ohio State University Airport – Don Scott Field into town:
- Taxi/Rideshare: About 100 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 120 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Columbus: Adriatico’s New York Style Pizza and North Market Downtown. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for The Flight Deck Grill or Lane Aviation FBO Refreshments. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Columbus layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Columbus, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at OSU for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Columbus or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Luggage Storage at OSU
Luggage storage options at OSU can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Columbus for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at OSU include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in United States also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Columbus genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.