The unique districts of Columbus make a trip to Ohio’s capital an enjoyable experience. Columbus is brimming with attractions, entertainment sites, and hotels that fit any budget. It has a vibrant entertainment scene centered on the Short North and High Street areas. You can visit Easton Town Center in the east or Polaris Fashion Place in the north for the ultimate shopping experience. Another fantastic neighborhood is German Village, one of the city’s oldest areas filled with lovely brick houses and shops. If you’re visiting soon, explore these unique hotels in Columbus, Ohio.
Unique attractions to visit
- A major part of history concerns the livelihood of hunting and trapping, and those who wish to learn more should see the massive collection in Galloway's Trap History Museum.
- Faithfully recreating the iconic George Seurat painting "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte," the Topiary Park in Columbus makes for a relaxing and eye-catching greenspace in the city.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 22, 2025.
Your options at a glance
| Property | Unique Feature | Price |
|---|---|---|
| The Westin Great Southern Columbus | Built in 1897 and registered as the oldest surviving hotel in Columbus | from USD 210 |
| Hotel LeVeque, Autograph Collection | Historic art deco tower built in 1927 with features intact | from USD 374 |
| Graduate by Hilton Columbus | Themed hotel centered on memorabilia and history of Ohio State University | from USD 197 |
| Moxy Columbus Short North | Quirky interior aesthetics, and an alcohol bar that's also the lobby's reception desk | from USD 280 |
| Residence Inn Columbus Downtown | Preserved 1927 bank building with intact cathedral ceiling in the lobby | from USD 387 |
| Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph | Boasts two collections of artworks on display, totaling over 500 pieces | from USD 445 |
| The Junto | Lifestyle-focused hotel inspired by Benjamin Franklin's "club for mutual improvement" | from USD 219 |
Why you should stay in a unique accommodation
Cultural immersion: Some accommodations are designed to provide a deep dive into local culture, offering authentic experiences like traditional meals, cultural performances, and local tours.
Connection to nature: Many unique accommodations provide a more secluded and peaceful environment than large hotels, perfect for relaxation. Options such as treehouses, cabins, and glamping sites bring you closer to nature, letting you fully appreciate the beauty of the outdoors.
Thematic experiences: From pirate-themed ships to medieval castles, unique accommodations can transport you to a different time or place, providing a fun and memorable experience.
Instagram-worthy moments: Many unique accommodations offer picturesque backdrops, perfect for capturing unforgettable photos.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a unique cultural experience, staying somewhere distinctive enhances your travel story and makes your trip stand out.
How we choose the best unique accommodations
When selecting the best unique accommodations, we consider various factors to ensure that each recommendation aligns with the preferences and expectations of discerning travelers. Our criteria include:
Regional uniqueness: We prioritize accommodations that are rare or uncommon, offering something distinct that sets them apart from the typical hotel experience.
Architecture and design: We look for properties with unique structures, themed rooms, custom-made decor, artistic elements, or integration of local cultural influences that differentiate the property from typical buildings in the region.
Special experiences: We evaluate the unique experiences offered by the property, including bespoke services, exclusive dining options, as well as extraordinary amenities like underwater spas or private art galleries.
Exclusive location: We seek accommodations situated in unusual or extraordinary settings, such as remote, scenic, or culturally significant areas, providing guests with immersive cultural experiences and extraordinary views.
Overall value: We also evaluate each property’s accessibility, guest experiences, service quality, comfort, and overall quality relative to its price.
By considering these factors, we aim to recommend accommodations that offer an unforgettable stay.
1. The Westin Great Southern Columbus (from USD 210)
What makes it unique?
- Historic treasure: Built back in 1897 and is known as the oldest surviving hotel in Columbus, as well as recorded in the National Register of Historic Places
- Close to culture: The hotel is just 13 minutes away by bus from the German Village, and 12 minutes by foot from the Brewery District
- Old and new: Aesthetics are a blend of vintage touches such as the light fixtures, and modern comforts such as the lobby lounge chairs
Potential trade-offs
- Parking is available on-site but costs 40 USD a night
- Check-in is late at 4pm, which we see as inconvenient for some travelers
Insta-worthy corners
- The hotel's long-standing edifice is a great background for newlywed couple shots
- Take a casual selfie showing off the hotel's gorgeous lobby
The Westin Great Southern Columbus
2.22 km (1.4 mi) from Goodale Park
2. Hotel LeVeque, Autograph Collection (from USD 329)
What makes it unique?
- Heritage restored: The 1927 art deco property has been restored and preserved, turning the tower into a 149-key luxury hotel
- Prime location: Situated next to City Hall, with the Center of Science and Industry and the National Veterans Memorial and Museum just 8 minutes away on foot
- Posh comforts: Amenities include a marble bathroom, TV with premium and satellite channels, and select rooms include a special constellation projection machine which we know is really cool to have
Potential trade-off
- On-site valet parking charges 45 USD per day
Insta-worthy corners
- Dream beneath the stars by activating your room's special star machine
- Take group shots at the hotel lobby with your fur babies as the property is pet-friendly
Hotel LeVeque, Autograph Collection
1.47 km (1.0 mi) from Goodale Park
3. Graduate by Hilton Columbus (from USD 198)
What makes it unique?
- Interesting theme: Live (or relive) your days in the hotel as a student of Ohio State University, walking halls and rooms filled with Buckeye memorabilia
- Fantastic location: 20-minute bus ride from Ohio State University and 14-minute bus ride from downtown Columbus
- Immersive amenities: The on-site Homage Bar is decorated with memorabilia of Ohio U's historic moments along with a menu of old-school favorites
Potential trade-offs
- Only paid parking is available which costs 37 USD a day
- No swimming pool on-site
Insta-worthy corners
- Take a selfie while surrounded by cool memorabilia
- Show off pictures of classic fare from Homage Bar for your foodie friends
Graduate by Hilton Columbus This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
401 meters (0.3 ft) from Goodale Park
4. Moxy Columbus Short North (from USD 175)
Great dining options nearby, complimentary continental breakfast, and a nice bar/lounge atmosphere.
Reasonable rates for a trendy, modern hotel in a prime location.
Excellent location in the energetic Columbus Short North area, within walking distance of attractions.
Boutique setting with cozy rooms, free beverage on arrival, and a good community feel.
What makes it unique?
- Quirky and trendy: We just love how the hotel lobby is also a hip bar where guests can hang out, and the reception desk offers guests their room key along with a free cocktail
- Awesome amenities: Select guestrooms include a balcony or terrace, and for active guests, there's also a well-equipped gym
- Within arm's reach: Situated in quirky and trendy Short North Arts District with other locations easy to get to such as downtown Columbus (13-minute bus ride) and Ohio State University (4 minutes by car)
Potential trade-offs
- Limited on-site options for dining and activities
- Parking is paid and will cost 25 USD a day
Insta-worthy corners
- Shoot a selfie on the terrace, showing off just how artsy and cool the Short North district is
- Capture candid moments at the lobby bar
Moxy Columbus Short North
508 meters (0.4 ft) from Goodale Park
5. Residence Inn Columbus Downtown (from USD 178)
What makes it unique?
- Centenarian property: First established in 1927 as the Buckeye Bank Building and currently serves as a residence hotel
- Old-school designs: The hotel has painstakingly preserved some of the bank's features, such as the 44-foot (13.41 meter) cathedral ceiling and the heavy vault door
- Themed restaurant: The on-site restaurant Buckeye Bourbon House takes inspiration from cowboy saloons
Potential trade-offs
- No gym or swimming pool
- Parking charge of 38 USD per day
Insta-worthy corner
- Take a picture alongside some of the historic items, such as the heavy vault door
Residence Inn Columbus Downtown
1.37 km (0.9 mi) from Goodale Park
6. Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph (from USD 317)
Fantastic dining experiences with unique menus, quick service, and good breakfast options.
Pricing is a bit high, but as expected for the upscale facility and convenient location.
Conveniently located in the heart of High St. with upscale facilities and easy access to nearby attractions.
Beautiful property with comfortable rooms, fitness area, and complimentary coffee token.
What makes it unique?
- Art appreciation: Artworks are found everywhere throughout the lobby and halls of the hotel, as well as in the guestrooms
- Vaunted collection: Key art pieces are privately owned by celebrity art collectors Ron and Ann Pizzuti, but works from the Joseph Editions, Ohio Portfolio are made by local artists and available for purchase
- Among artists: Property is situated in the Short North Arts District, known for its art galleries and fashion boutiques
Potential trade-offs
- Wi-Fi costs 9.99 USD per 24 hours, while parking is charged 50 USD per day
- The property does not have a swimming pool
Insta-worthy corners
- Strut your stuff and join the seasonal fashion parties held at the hotel
- We really want you to shoot a selfie alongside the art pieces that speak to you on a personal level
Le Méridien Columbus, The Joseph This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
341 meters (0.3 ft) from Goodale Park
7. The Junto (from USD 380)
What makes it unique?
- Improving one's self: Inspired by Benjamin Franklin's Junto Club which consisted of tradesmen and artisans who discussed morals, politics or natural philosophy with the goal of individual and societal improvement
- Splendid stays: Large variety of room configurations ranging from artist's studios to deluxe terrace suites
- Fancy dining: Nice selection of on-site dining options, including a lounge bar, a swanky Western tavern, a rooftop bar with views, and a charming deli
Potential trade-offs
- On-site valet parking will set you back 45 USD a day
- Guests have noted the lobby can be noisy at times due to crowds and music
Insta-worthy corner
- Capture fun moments with friends at the Brass Eye rooftop bar
The Junto Hotel
1.77 km (1.1 mi) from Goodale Park
Enjoy a trip to Columbus
The city of Columbus attracts numerous travelers from all over the world each year. Visitors are drawn here because of its distinctive culture and fascinating past. The city’s accommodations are just as memorable, so book any of these unique hotels and look forward to your holiday in the Discovery City.
History
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