WELCOME TO Central Ohio

Columbus, to be exact.

Not Cleveland. Not Cincinnati. Columbus! Right in the heart of the Buckeye State—which, as you might have guessed, is exactly why it’s called Central Ohio.

One of the Midwest’s best-kept secrets, Columbus is vibrant location, one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., with a little bit of everything. From bustling festivals, concerts and sporting events to beautiful parks, incredible food, thriving arts and entertainment, and FOUR distinct seasons, there’s always something happening here.

Big-city energy without all the big-city headaches, Columbus offers the perfect blend of excitement, opportunity and Midwestern charm.

In the heart of this wonderful city is our beautiful Church of Scientology of Central Ohio, which is growing and expanding right along with the city.

Church of Scientology of Central Ohio, Columbus
CHURCH OF SCIENTOLOGY OF CENTRAL OHIO
Reception at the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio
RECEPTION
Public information displays at the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio
PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTER
Course room at the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio
ACADEMY
Auditing room at the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio
AUDITING ROOM
Café at the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio
CAFE
Field activities area at the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio
FIELD ACTIVITIES
Chapel at the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio
CHAPEL
L. Ron Hubbard’s office at the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio
L. RON HUBBARD'S OFFICE
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It's all happening here.

This page covers the city, the org, how to get here, and what we have to offer - whether you’re coming for a weekend, a week, a month, or looking for an org and city to call home.

Welcome to Central Ohio. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what you find.

The City

Big-city energy. Small-town traffic.

Downtown Columbus skyline above the Scioto River, with a riverside park and path
DOWNTOWN COLUMBUS AND THE SCIOTO RIVERFRONT

Columbus, Ohio

A big city that’s easy to live in.

A large city that's still easy to get around. Columbus has pro sports, a strong food scene, a growing tech corridor and a cost of living most coastal cities can't compete with.

14th

Largest U.S. city

2.2M

Metro population

~22min

Average commute

½

Of the U.S. a day's drive away

From Columbus's “Yes, Columbus” tourism campaign

Columbus, compared.

Columbus keeps showing up on national “best of” lists next to cities like New York, Austin and Nashville. These short videos from Experience Columbus put it side by side with them.

Austin. Atlanta. Columbus.

A top-10 ranked best big city in the United States? yes, Columbus.

More at Yes, Columbus

Things we love about our city.

BIG-TIME SPORTS

In Columbus, sports aren't just something we watch—they're something we rally around. Whether it's cheering on the Buckeyes at the Horseshoe, rooting for the Blue Jackets on the ice, or celebrating with the Crew on the soccer field, game days bring the whole city together. The energy is contagious, the fans are fiercely loyal, and team spirit runs deep.

And college football? Around here, it's practically a religion. On game-day Saturdays, don't be surprised if the entire city is dressed in scarlet and gray. Win or lose, there's nothing quite like being part of the home team.

Brutus and fans at Ohio Stadium on game day
Ohio Stadium—the Horseshoe—holds more than 100,000 fans for one of college football’s most electric game-day experiences.
Ohio Against the World flag at a Buckeyes game
“Ohio Against the World!” captures the loyalty, passion and hometown pride of Buckeye Nation.
Columbus Crew supporters and soccer field
Three-time MLS Cup champions, the Crew bring world-class soccer and an incredible fan atmosphere to Columbus.
Hockey game inside Nationwide Arena
Fast-paced hockey, passionate fans and the famous cannon blast at Nationwide Arena.
Nationwide Arena lit up for the Blue Jackets
When the Jackets hit the ice, the whole city gets behind them.
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A FOODIE'S PARADISE

Come hungry—Columbus has a lot to offer! With a thriving food scene as diverse as the city itself, you can take your taste buds around the world without ever leaving town.

Explore the bustling North Market or Budd Dairy Food Hall, enjoy local favorites like Lindey's, Schmidt's and The Guild House, or grab a coffee and a pastry at Stauf's or Fox in the Snow.

And don't forget dessert! Columbus is home to the nationally famous Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, along with plenty of love for Ohio's own Graeter's. From hidden neighborhood gems to award-winning restaurants and flavors from nearly every corner of the globe, there's always something new—and delicious—to discover.

Merchants inside North Market
A Columbus institution since 1876, North Market brings local merchants, international flavors and artisan foods together under one roof.
Dining area inside Budd Dairy Food Hall
Budd Dairy Food Hall brings local kitchens, creative cocktails and lively gathering spaces to a historic dairy building.
Lindey’s outdoor courtyard dining
A German Village favorite since 1981, Lindey’s pairs elegant dining with a charming courtyard patio.
Schmidt’s restaurant in German Village
A German Village tradition with roots dating to 1886, Schmidt’s is famous for Bahama Mama sausages, German specialties and cream puffs.
Dining room at The Guild House
Artful interiors and inventive, locally inspired cuisine make The Guild House a memorable Short North destination.
Coffee counter inside Stauf’s
Locally roasted since 1988, Stauf’s serves fresh coffee and cozy neighborhood atmosphere.
Bakery counter at Fox in the Snow
Born in Columbus, Fox in the Snow is loved for scratch-made pastries, coffee and breakfast sandwiches.
Jeni’s storefront and ice cream cones
Founded here in 2002, Jeni’s is known for imaginative flavors, premium ingredients and seriously good ice cream.
Graeter’s storefront and ice cream cone
Ohio-born Graeter’s is famous for French Pot ice cream and enormous chocolate chips.
Restaurants under the illuminated Short North arches
The Short North brings restaurants, patios, cocktail bars and late-night favorites together in one walkable neighborhood.
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BIG FUN FOR LITTLE ONES (AND EVERYONE ELSE!)

Looking for a great place to raise a family? Columbus has you covered! From hands-on discoveries at COSI science center (the #1 Science Museum in the US!) to wild adventures at the Columbus Zoo, splashing around at Zoombezi Bay, or building memories at LEGOLAND Discovery Center, there's no shortage of ways to keep the kids entertained.

And the fun doesn't stop indoors! With 20 Metro Parks, countless neighborhood parks and playgrounds, and the magical Children's Garden at Franklin Park Conservatory, outdoor adventures are always close to home.

Add in family-friendly festivals, welcoming neighborhoods, and plenty of room to grow, and you've got a city where childhood memories are made every day. Whether you're planning a weekend adventure or putting down roots for the long haul, Columbus is a place where families can truly thrive.

Families outside COSI
Inspiring curiosity since 1964, COSI offers hundreds of hands-on experiences and has been voted the #1 Science Museum in the U.S.
Collage of interactive exhibits at COSI
Explore space, oceans, physics and technology through COSI’s interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center at Easton
LEGOLAND Discovery Center at Easton features rides, building zones, a 4D cinema and miniature Columbus landmarks.
Collage of the Children’s Garden at Franklin Park Conservatory
Franklin Park Conservatory’s two-acre Children’s Garden invites water play, climbing and imaginative nature exploration.
Collage of animals and habitats at Columbus Zoo
Discover animals from around the world in the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s expansive habitats and interactive experiences.
Collage of waterslides and pools at Zoombezi Bay
Next to the Columbus Zoo, Zoombezi Bay offers waterslides, a wave pool, lazy rivers and family water attractions.
Collage of playgrounds and neighborhood parks
Neighborhood parks and playgrounds make outdoor adventures part of everyday life in Columbus.
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NEVER A DULL MOMENT

Think there's not much to do in the Midwest? Columbus would beg to differ! From bustling arts and book festivals to outdoor concerts, farmers markets, food truck festivals, and the legendary Ohio State Fair, there's always something happening in Central Ohio. Celebrate Independence Day at Red, White & BOOM!, join the crowds at the famous Circleville Pumpkin Show, or enjoy dazzling holiday lights and seasonal celebrations.

Explore cultural gems like the Franklin Park Conservatory and Topiary Park, catch a major music festival, or escape to the breathtaking waterfalls, caves, and hiking trails of nearby Hocking Hills.

With art, music, food, nature, and festivities filling the calendar year-round, the biggest challenge isn't finding something to do—it's deciding what to do first!

Columbus Arts Festival along the downtown riverfront
The Columbus Arts Festival fills the downtown riverfront with hundreds of artists, live performances and creative experiences.
Books and visitors at the Columbus Book Festival
Columbus Metropolitan Library’s Book Festival brings authors, bookstores, literary discussions and family activities downtown.
Country music concert at Ohio Stadium
Buckeye Country Superfest brings some of country music’s biggest names to Ohio Stadium.
Concert on the lawn at Columbus Commons
Columbus Commons hosts more than 200 events each year, including concerts, movies and fitness classes—nearly all free.
Fresh produce and stands at a farmers market
Central Ohio farmers markets bring fresh produce, baked goods, flowers and handmade finds to neighborhood gathering places.
Food trucks and festival visitors
The Columbus Food Truck Festival pairs dozens of mobile kitchens with live entertainment and local vendors.
Palm House and gardens at Franklin Park Conservatory
Franklin Park Conservatory combines botanical gardens, exotic plants, glass artwork, seasonal exhibitions and year-round events.
Entrance to Columbus Museum of Art
Founded in 1878, the Columbus Museum of Art features American and European art, contemporary exhibitions and creative experiences.
Wexner Center for the Arts at Ohio State
Ohio State’s Wexner Center for the Arts presents contemporary art, independent film and experimental performances.
Illuminated lantern displays at Columbus Zoo
The Columbus Zoo’s seasonal lantern festival glows with illuminated sculptures inspired by animals and nature.
Crowds and pumpkin displays at Circleville Pumpkin Show
Giant pumpkins, parades, rides and pumpkin donuts make the Circleville Pumpkin Show a fall favorite.
Rides and fairgrounds at the Ohio State Fair
An Ohio tradition since 1850, the State Fair brings concerts, rides, agricultural exhibits and classic fair food.
Cliffside walkway and former quarry at Quarry Trails
Quarry Trails Metro Park offers rock formations, waterfalls, scenic trails and elevated walkways around a former limestone quarry.
Sandstone cliffs and walking path in Hocking Hills
About an hour southeast of Columbus, Hocking Hills offers towering cliffs, deep gorges, waterfalls and sandstone formations.
Waterfall and forest in Hocking Hills
Explore Hocking Hills’ hiking trails, caves, waterfalls, cabins and outdoor adventures.
Fireworks over the downtown Columbus riverfront
Red, White & BOOM! fills downtown Columbus with fireworks, live entertainment and Independence Day festivities.
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MORE HOME FOR YOUR MONEY

Big-city living doesn't have to come with a big-city price tag! With a cost of living around 7% below the national average, Columbus offers an impressive mix of affordability, character, and choice.

From the historic brick streets of German Village and the vibrant energy of downtown to the modern apartments of Bridge Park and the tree-lined neighborhoods of Worthington, Bexley, and Westerville, every corner of Central Ohio has its own personality.

Whether you're looking for a luxury condo, a charming townhome, or a spacious family house, there's something for just about every lifestyle and budget. More options, more personality, and more bang for your buck—that's Columbus living.

User-supplied Columbus cost-of-living graphic
Comparatively affordable housing and everyday costs leave more room to enjoy Columbus.
Modern apartment with views of downtown Columbus
Downtown living offers modern apartments, skyline views and walkable access to dining, entertainment, parks and employers.
Bridge Park and the Dublin Link pedestrian bridge
Dublin’s Bridge Park combines residences, dining and shopping, linked to Historic Dublin by the Dublin Link pedestrian bridge.
Brick homes and flowering trees in German Village
German Village pairs brick streets and preserved 19th-century homes with independent shops and neighborhood dining.
Aerial view of housing in Grandview Heights
Grandview Heights combines modern apartments, established residential streets and local restaurants close to downtown.
Townhomes with the Columbus skyline in the distance
From modern apartments to traditional houses, Columbus offers homes and neighborhoods for different lifestyles.
Tree-lined residential neighborhoods in Central Ohio
Central Ohio suburbs offer tree-lined streets, spacious homes, parks and family-friendly communities within reach of downtown.
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BIG IDEAS. BIG OPPORTUNITIES.

Columbus isn't just growing—it's making moves! With major companies investing billions, a thriving startup scene, and exciting developments in technology, healthcare, finance, and advanced manufacturing, Central Ohio is quickly becoming a place where big ideas turn into big opportunities.

In 2025 alone, the region added more than 20,000 jobs, while new economic development projects announced another $5 billion in investment. And with The Ohio State University continually bringing fresh talent, research, and innovation into the mix, the next generation of entrepreneurs and industry leaders is already taking shape.

Whether you're building a career, launching a business, or looking for your next big opportunity, Columbus is a city that's growing—and there's plenty of room to grow with it.

User-supplied Central Ohio jobs and investment graphic
Central Ohio added more than 20,000 jobs in 2025, alongside $5 billion in announced economic development investment.
Office towers in downtown Columbus
Finance, insurance, healthcare and technology employers anchor downtown Columbus’s diverse regional economy.
Ohio State Energy Advancement and Innovation Center
Ohio State’s Energy Advancement and Innovation Center supports research, startups and collaboration on next-generation energy technologies.
Shared workspaces and desks in a coworking space
Collaborative workspaces and professional networks help Columbus entrepreneurs, freelancers and emerging businesses turn ideas into ventures.
Honda Marysville Auto Plant exterior
Honda’s Marysville Auto Plant showcases Central Ohio’s advanced manufacturing industry.
Ohio State Wexner Medical Center buildings
Ohio State’s Wexner Medical Center connects patient care, medical education and research with healthcare careers.
Nationwide Children’s Abigail Wexner Research Institute
Nationwide Children’s Abigail Wexner Research Institute advances discoveries in pediatric medicine and innovative treatments.
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TRAFFIC THAT DOESN'T SUCK

Big-city perks without the big-city gridlock? Yes, please! In Columbus, getting around is refreshingly easy, with an average commute of just over 21 minutes and a network of highways and neighborhood roads that keeps much of Central Ohio within easy reach. Go from downtown to historic German Village, the Short North, or a neighboring suburb without making an entire afternoon of it.

Heading out of town? John Glenn Columbus International Airport is just eight miles from downtown.

And when you'd rather leave the car behind, COTA buses, scenic bike paths, and miles of walking and cycling trails offer other ways to explore.

Sure, we have rush hour—but compared with the stop-and-go marathon of some major cities, Columbus gives you more time enjoying your destination and less time getting there.

Aerial view of the I-71 flyover and downtown highway interchange
Opened in December 2025, the new I-71 southbound flyover helps reduce congestion and improve downtown traffic flow.
Traffic light trails with the Columbus skyline at night
An average one-way commute of about 21.5 minutes keeps travel relatively manageable for a growing metropolitan area.
John Glenn Columbus International Airport terminal and tower
John Glenn Columbus International Airport is just eight miles from downtown.
Cyclists and walkers on the Scioto Trail at sunset
The Scioto Trail links parks and neighborhoods with scenic riverside paths for walking, running and cycling.
COTA bus in downtown Columbus
COTA bus routes connect Columbus-area neighborhoods, workplaces, shopping districts and major destinations.
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YES, WE ACTUALLY HAVE ALL FOUR SEASONS.

Some places have endless summer. Others have winters that seem to last forever. In Columbus, you get the whole package! Spring brings blooming flowers and fresh green parks, summer means sunshine, outdoor concerts, and festivals, fall puts on a spectacular show of colorful leaves, and winter brings cozy evenings, holiday lights, and the occasional picture-perfect snowfall.

We get our share of Midwest weather, of course, but without coastal hurricanes or the heavy lake-effect snow that buries parts of the Great Lakes region.

And the best part? Every season comes with its own lineup of things to do—from farmers markets and summer festivals to pumpkin shows, ice skating, and holiday celebrations. Four real seasons, plenty of variety, and something new to look forward to all year long.

Flowering trees and green riverfront parks in spring
Spring highs rise from 51°F in March to 74°F in May—time for gardens, farmers markets and getting outdoors.
Summer gathering beside the Scioto River
Summer highs of 82–85°F set the scene for kayaking, outdoor concerts, festivals and patio evenings.
Autumn leaves along the Columbus riverfront
October highs around 66°F pair with colorful leaves, Buckeyes football, apple picking and the Circleville Pumpkin Show.
Snow-covered paths and skyline in winter
Winter brings holiday lights, ice skating, festive markets and the occasional snowfall, with average highs of 37–42°F.
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Plan Your Trip

Closer than you think.

Hover, tap or focus a dot to see the drive time.

Approximate driving times. Routes, stops and traffic may affect your journey.

~46%

of the U.S. population lives within a one-day drive of Columbus.

  1. By car

    Drive

    Much of the Midwest is a few hours away, and a lot of the East Coast and South is an easy one-day drive. Free parking when you get here.

  2. By air

    Fly into CMH

    John Glenn Columbus International is about 15 minutes away, with nonstop flights to major hubs.

  3. Let us help

    We'll plan it with you

    Dates, where to stay, getting around. Tell us what you need.

    Request help

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Write to us.

Tell us where you're coming from and when. We'll get back to you with options, travel tips and anything else you ask about.

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