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Short North Arts District, United States of America - Things to Do in Short North Arts District

Short North Arts District

Short North Arts District, United States of America - Complete Travel Guide

The Short North Arts District is Columbus, Ohio's premier cultural and entertainment destination, stretching along High Street from the downtown area to the Ohio State University campus. This busy neighborhood has transformed from a gritty urban area into one of the Midwest's most celebrated arts districts, featuring dozens of galleries, boutique shops, trendy restaurants, and nightlife venues housed in beautifully restored Victorian-era buildings and modern developments. Known for its monthly Gallery Hop events and year-round festivals, the Short North pulses with creative energy and offers visitors an authentic taste of Columbus's artistic soul. The district's walkable streets are lined with public art installations, murals, and sculptures, while its diverse dining scene ranges from farm-to-table restaurants to international cuisines, making it a perfect destination for art lovers, foodies, and anyone seeking urban culture in the heart of Ohio.

Top Short North Arts District

Gallery Hop First Saturday

Join thousands of visitors on the first Saturday evening of each month for the nation's largest monthly arts festival. Over 50 galleries, shops, and venues stay open late with special exhibitions, live music, street performers, and artist demonstrations creating a festive atmosphere throughout the district.

Booking Tip: This free event runs year-round from 4-10 PM, with peak crowds between 6-8 PM. Arrive early for easier parking and gallery viewing, or come later for the nightlife scene. No advance booking needed, just show up and explore.

Art Gallery Walking Tour

Explore the district's renowned art galleries featuring contemporary works by local, regional, and national artists. Notable stops include Sherrie Gallerie, Hammond Harkins Galleries, and the Cultural Arts Center, each offering unique perspectives on modern and traditional art forms.

Booking Tip: Most galleries are free to browse Tuesday-Saturday, with extended hours during Gallery Hop. Allow 2-3 hours for a complete tour. Some galleries offer private viewings by appointment for serious collectors.

Short North Food Scene Experience

Discover the district's acclaimed culinary landscape featuring everything from upscale dining at The Pearl to casual favorites like Northstar Café. The area is known for its diverse international cuisines, craft cocktails, and innovative chefs who emphasize local ingredients and creative presentations.

Booking Tip: Make dinner reservations 1-2 weeks ahead for popular restaurants, especially on weekends and Gallery Hop nights. Happy hour specials typically run 4-6 PM. Food tours are available through local operators for $50-80 per person.

Shopping and Boutique Browsing

Browse unique boutiques, vintage shops, and specialty stores offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to vintage clothing and home décor. The district is famous for its eclectic mix of independent retailers that you won't find anywhere else in Columbus.

Booking Tip: Most shops are open Tuesday-Sunday with extended hours on weekends. Sales typically occur during seasonal changes and after Gallery Hop events. Parking is easier on weekday afternoons for leisurely shopping.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Experience the Short North's busy after-dark scene with rooftop bars, live music venues, and late-night eateries. Popular spots include rooftop lounges with city views, intimate jazz clubs, and dance venues that keep the energy going well into the night.

Booking Tip: Cover charges range from free to $15 depending on the venue and entertainment. Weekends get busy, so arrive early or make reservations for dinner and drinks. Last call is typically 2 AM on weekends.

Getting There

The Short North Arts District is easily accessible from anywhere in Columbus, located just north of downtown along High Street. If flying in, John Glenn Columbus International Airport is about 15 minutes away by car or rideshare. From other Ohio cities, the district is accessible via I-71 (from Cleveland or Cincinnati) or I-70 (from Dayton). Amtrak does not serve Columbus directly, but Greyhound and Megabus provide intercity bus service to downtown Columbus, from where the Short North is a short ride or walk north on High Street.

Getting Around

The Short North is highly walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and galleries within a few blocks of each other along High Street and connecting side streets. COTA bus system provides public transportation throughout Columbus, with several routes running through the district. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available, and the area has bike-share stations for those who prefer cycling. Street parking is available but can be limited during events, so consider using nearby parking garages or arriving by alternative transportation during Gallery Hop and busy weekends.

Where to Stay

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

Food & Dining

The Short North has one of Ohio's most diverse and acclaimed dining scenes, with options ranging from James Beard Award-nominated restaurants to casual neighborhood favorites. The district is known for its farm-to-table establishments, innovative cocktail programs, and international cuisines including Italian, Asian fusion, Mexican, and contemporary American fare. Popular dining experiences include rooftop restaurants with city views, intimate wine bars, artisanal coffee shops, and late-night eateries. Many restaurants source ingredients from local Ohio farms and feature seasonal menus that change regularly, making each visit a unique culinary adventure.

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

The Short North is enjoyable year-round, but the best time to visit is late spring through early fall (May-October) when the weather is perfect for walking and outdoor dining. Summer brings numerous street festivals and outdoor art events, while the monthly Gallery Hop is particularly busy during warmer months. Fall offers beautiful weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for gallery browsing and dining. Winter can be cold but creates a cozy atmosphere in the district's many restaurants and bars, plus indoor venues remain active with art exhibitions and cultural events.

Insider Tips

Visit during Gallery Hop for the full experience, but explore on quieter weekdays to have more intimate conversations with gallery owners and artists
Park in the Arena District or downtown and take the free CBUS circulator or walk north to avoid parking hassles during busy times
Many restaurants offer pre-theater menus and happy hour specials between 4-6 PM, perfect for budget-conscious visitors wanting to experience upscale dining

Activities in Short North Arts District