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North Market, United States of America - Things to Do in North Market

North Market

North Market, United States of America - Complete Travel Guide

North Market in Columbus, Ohio, stands as one of the Midwest's premier public markets and a beloved culinary destination that has been serving the community since 1876. Located in the busy Short North Arts District, this historic market building houses over 30 local vendors offering everything from artisanal foods and fresh produce to unique crafts and specialty items. The market serves as both a gathering place for locals and a must-visit attraction for tourists seeking authentic Columbus flavors and culture. Beyond its role as a traditional market, North Market has evolved into a food hall experience where visitors can sample diverse cuisines, purchase locally-made products, and experience the entrepreneurial spirit of Columbus. The market's commitment to supporting local businesses and farmers has made it a cornerstone of the city's food scene, while its location in the trendy Short North district puts visitors at the heart of Columbus's arts, dining, and nightlife scene.

Top North Market

the Historic Market Hall

Wander through the beautifully restored 1876 market building and discover over 30 local vendors selling everything from fresh produce and meats to artisanal chocolates and international cuisines. The market's diverse offerings include specialty food items, handcrafted goods, and unique Columbus-made products that make perfect souvenirs.

Booking Tip: Entry to the market is free, but bring cash as some smaller vendors may not accept cards. Visit during weekday mornings for the best selection of fresh items and fewer crowds. Weekend afternoons offer the liveliest atmosphere.

Sample Local Food Vendors

Taste your way through Columbus by sampling offerings from the market's diverse food vendors, including everything from authentic German bratwurst and fresh sushi to locally-roasted coffee and artisanal ice cream. Many vendors offer samples, making it easy to try new flavors and discover local favorites.

Booking Tip: Most food items range from $5-15, making it affordable to try multiple vendors. Come hungry and plan to make a meal of various samples and small plates. Saturday mornings often feature special tastings and new vendor showcases.

Shop for Local Products and Crafts

Browse unique Columbus-made products including locally-produced honey, artisanal soaps, handcrafted jewelry, and specialty food items that showcase the region's agricultural heritage. The market emphasizes supporting local entrepreneurs and offers products you won't find in typical tourist shops.

Booking Tip: Prices vary widely from $5 trinkets to $50+ artisanal items. Many vendors offer discounts for multiple purchases. Ask vendors about the stories behind their products - most are passionate about sharing their craft and local knowledge.

Short North Arts District

Explore the surrounding Short North Arts District with its numerous galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants within walking distance of the market. The area features monthly Gallery Hop events and street art installations that make it one of Columbus's most busy neighborhoods.

Booking Tip: The first Saturday of each month features Gallery Hop from 4-10pm with extended hours for shops and special events. Street parking can be challenging during events, so consider using nearby parking garages ($5-10) or ride-sharing services.

Attend Special Events and Classes

Participate in cooking classes, wine tastings, and seasonal events regularly hosted at North Market throughout the year. These events often feature local chefs, seasonal ingredients, and hands-on experiences that provide deeper insight into Columbus's culinary culture.

Booking Tip: Classes typically cost $30-75 and fill up quickly, so book in advance through the North Market website. Seasonal events like holiday markets and summer outdoor concerts are usually free but arrive early for the best experience.

Getting There

North Market is located in downtown Columbus, Ohio, easily accessible by car via I-70, I-71, or Route 315 with several parking options nearby including street parking and paid lots. John Glenn Columbus International Airport is about 15 minutes away by car or rideshare. The market is also accessible via COTA bus routes, with several lines stopping within a few blocks. For those arriving by train, the closest Amtrak station is in Cleveland (2 hours north), though Greyhound and Megabus serve Columbus directly with stops downtown.

Getting Around

The Short North Arts District where North Market is located is very walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops within a few blocks of each other. COTA provides public bus transportation throughout Columbus with day passes available for $4.50. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available and affordable for getting around the city. The area also features bike-friendly streets and bike rental options through CoGo Bike Share stations located throughout downtown Columbus.

Where to Stay

Short North Arts District
Downtown Columbus
German Village
Arena District
Victorian Village
Brewery District

Food & Dining

North Market itself offers incredible dining diversity with over a dozen food vendors serving everything from authentic international cuisines to modern American fare, making it possible to eat exceptionally well without leaving the building. The surrounding Short North district features numerous acclaimed restaurants ranging from casual cafes to upscale dining establishments, with particular strengths in farm-to-table cuisine and craft cocktails. Columbus's food scene extends throughout the city with notable concentrations in German Village for traditional fare, the Brewery District for casual dining, and downtown for fine dining options.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Columbus

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

The Thurman Cafe

4.6 /5
(6666 reviews) 2

Cap City Fine Diner and Bar

4.6 /5
(4112 reviews) 2

Lindey's

4.6 /5
(2737 reviews) 3

Forno Kitchen + Bar

4.5 /5
(2458 reviews) 2

The Old Mohawk

4.5 /5
(2153 reviews) 2

The Guild House

4.5 /5
(1923 reviews) 3

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

North Market is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring through fall (April-October) when the weather is pleasant for walking around the Short North district and outdoor events are frequent. Saturday mornings offer the liveliest market atmosphere with the most vendors present and often special events or tastings. Winter visits can be equally rewarding with holiday-themed events and seasonal specialties, plus the indoor market provides a warm respite from Ohio's cold weather.

Insider Tips

Visit on Saturday mornings between 9-11am for the best vendor selection and to experience the market like a local, when many Columbus residents do their weekly shopping.
Download the North Market app for vendor information, special offers, and event notifications - many vendors offer exclusive discounts through the app.
Combine your market visit with the monthly Gallery Hop (first Saturday evening) to experience the Short North's arts scene and extended shopping hours in one trip.

Activities in North Market