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Expat Exchange - Discovering the Best of Columbus 2024
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Discovering the Best of Columbus

By Betsy Burlingame

Summary: Living it Up in Columbus: Your Insider's Guide to Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Discover the Best Recreational Activities, Connect with Friendly Locals, and Experience the Charm of the City.

Welcome to Columbus! If you're planning to move to Columbus, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Columbus has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Columbus.

Columbus is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions for tourists and locals alike. The city is home to a variety of museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions, as well as a thriving restaurant and nightlife scene. For those looking for outdoor activities, there are plenty of parks and recreational areas to explore.

The Columbus Museum of Art is a great place to start for those looking to explore the city’s cultural offerings. The museum features a wide range of art from around the world, as well as special exhibitions and events. The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is another popular attraction, offering a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a butterfly house and a children’s garden. The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) is a great place for families, with interactive exhibits and a planetarium.

When it comes to dining and nightlife, Columbus has something for everyone. The city is home to a variety of restaurants, from upscale eateries to casual cafes. The North Market is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a variety of food stalls and vendors. For a more upscale experience, the Basi Italia is a great choice, serving Italian-inspired dishes in a cozy atmosphere. The Wolf’s Ridge Brewing is a popular spot for craft beer lovers, with a variety of beers on tap and a full menu of pub food. For a night out, the Short North Arts District is a great place to start, with a variety of bars and clubs to choose from.

Columbus also offers plenty of recreational activities for visitors and locals alike. The Scioto Mile is a great place to start, with a variety of trails and parks along the riverfront. The Olentangy Trail is another popular spot for outdoor activities, with over 20 miles of trails for biking, running, and walking. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a great place for families, with a variety of animals and exhibits. The Columbus Clippers, the city’s minor league baseball team, is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening, with games throughout the summer.

Insider Tips from Expats in Columbus: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"Franklin County Metro Parks, meetup.com, volunteer and arts sections of Columbus Sunday Dispatch," said one expat living in Columbus.

"Expats living in Columbus can join a variety of clubs and activities to meet people and explore the city. Popular clubs and activities include outdoor recreation groups, language exchange groups, and cultural clubs. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art shows. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats in the area," wrote a member in Columbus.

"The culture is very fragmented. Most neighbors prefer little or no contact with other neighbors. Very few families are staying together. Sports is more and more limited to people of better incomes. Many people to theatres alone," commented an expat living in Columbus.

"Columbus is a great place for expats and digital nomads to live. The city has a vibrant and diverse culture, with plenty of activities and attractions to explore. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other cities in the US, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money. The city also has a strong job market, with many opportunities for digital nomads to find work. The city is also well-connected, with easy access to airports and other transportation hubs. Overall, Columbus is a great place for expats and digital nomads to live and work," said an expat in Columbus.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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