Columbus Bar Crawls
Experience Short North's legendary nightlife with Ohio State game day crawls and Buckeye tailgate parties
Book Your Columbus CrawlDiscover Columbus's Best Bar Crawls
Columbus bar crawls offer an unforgettable journey through one of America's most dynamic college cities. Home to The Ohio State University, Columbus features diverse nightlife districts from the trendy Short North to the energetic Campus area, where craft breweries, sports bars, and student hangouts create an electric atmosphere. Our Columbus bar crawls showcase the best of Buckeye nightlife, from legendary game day institutions to innovative cocktail bars, all within easy reach of Ohio Stadium.
Whether you're celebrating an Ohio State football victory, joining a Buckeye tailgate party, or exploring Columbus's vibrant student nightlife scene, our guided bar crawls provide the ultimate experience. Columbus bar crawls connect you with fellow Buckeyes and visitors while discovering the bars that make this college city legendary. From rivalry week celebrations to championship parties, Columbus bar crawls deliver authentic Ohio State nightlife experiences.
Join thousands of students, alumni, and visitors who've made Columbus bar crawls their go-to nightlife adventure. Our expert guides know every corner of Short North and Campus, ensuring you experience the best bars, exclusive drink specials, and the unbeatable energy that makes Columbus nightlife unforgettable. Columbus bar crawls are perfect for bachelor parties, birthday celebrations, reunion weekends, or any occasion that calls for an epic night out in Buckeye country.
Columbus Nightlife Districts
Short North
Columbus's trendiest nightlife district, Short North features upscale bars, craft cocktail lounges, and innovative restaurants with vibrant bar scenes. This arts district attracts a diverse crowd and offers a more sophisticated Columbus bar crawl experience beyond traditional college bars.
Popular bars: Brothers Bar & Grill, The Guild House, Bodega, Standard Hall, Seventh Son Brewing
Campus Area
The heart of Ohio State nightlife, the Campus area features legendary student bars, sports bars packed on game days, and late-night hangouts. This is where Buckeyes gather for authentic college bar experiences and unforgettable Columbus bar crawl adventures.
Popular bars: Out-R-Inn, Ethyl & Tank, The O Patio & Pub, Ugly Tuna Saloona, Eddie George's Grille 27
Arena District
Home to sports venues and entertainment complexes, the Arena District offers sports bars, breweries, and nightclubs. This area is perfect for Columbus bar crawls that combine game day energy with downtown nightlife sophistication.
Popular bars: R Bar, Barley's Brewing Company, McFadden's, Park Street Tavern, Gordon Biersch
German Village
This historic neighborhood features charming pubs, beer gardens, and local favorites with a European flair. German Village offers a unique Columbus bar crawl experience with cobblestone streets and authentic neighborhood bars.
Popular bars: The Old Mohawk, Lindey's, Schmidt's Sausage Haus, Valter's at the Maennerchor, Pistacia Vera
Must-Visit Columbus Bars
Out-R-Inn
Legendary Ohio State bar and campus institution famous for Buckeye game day crowds
Brothers Bar & Grill
Popular college bar chain with multiple floors, dance areas, and energetic nightlife
The Guild House
Upscale Short North bar with craft cocktails and sophisticated atmosphere
Ethyl & Tank
Rooftop bar with stunning views and perfect game day celebrations
Seventh Son Brewing
Award-winning craft brewery with innovative beers and welcoming taproom
Ugly Tuna Saloona
Multi-level campus bar with tropical theme and late-night energy
Standard Hall
Modern food hall with multiple bars and diverse drink options
R Bar
Arena District sports bar with massive TVs and game day atmosphere
Upcoming Columbus Bar Crawls
Ohio State Game Day Crawl
Every Home Game Saturday
Celebrate Buckeye victories with a campus bar crawl featuring game day specials, scarlet and gray drinks, and post-game celebrations at the best OSU bars.
Short North Saturday
Every Saturday Night
Explore Short North's trendy bar scene with exclusive drink deals, skip-the-line access, and the best Columbus nightlife energy in the arts district.
Buckeye Tailgate Party
Football Season Weekends
Pre-game bar crawl combining tailgate vibes with campus bars, featuring Ohio State-themed drinks, live music, and Buckeye spirit.
Rivalry Week Bash
Michigan Game Weekend
Special rivalry week crawl celebrating Buckeye pride with themed drinks, scarlet and gray everything, and the most energetic campus atmosphere of the year.
Graduation Celebration Crawl
May, August & December
Toast to your Ohio State degree with a graduation bar crawl hitting campus favorites, featuring champagne toasts, photo ops, and memories to last a lifetime.
Thursday Night Tradition
Every Thursday
Classic college night out on campus with student specials, multiple bars, and the energy that makes Columbus nightlife legendary.
Private Columbus Bar Crawls
Planning a bachelor party, birthday celebration, reunion weekend, or Greek life event? Our private Columbus bar crawls offer customized experiences tailored to your group. Choose your bars, set your schedule, and enjoy VIP treatment at Columbus's best nightlife spots.
Plan Your Private CrawlColumbus Bar Crawl Tips
Best Times to Crawl
- Game day Saturdays for maximum Buckeye energy
- Thursday-Saturday nights for best bar crowds
- Avoid finals weeks when bars are quieter
- Rivalry week for the most intense atmosphere
What to Bring
- Valid ID (strictly enforced at all bars)
- Cash for tips and some cash-only bars
- Comfortable shoes for walking between districts
- Scarlet and gray attire for game day crawls
Getting Around
- Campus area is completely walkable
- Use Uber/Lyft between different districts
- COTA buses serve major nightlife areas
- Park at campus lots before crawling
Insider Tips
- Start early on game days to beat crowds
- Out-R-Inn gets packed - arrive before 9 PM
- Many bars offer student discounts with BuckID
- Download bar apps for exclusive deals
Columbus Bar Crawl FAQs
What's included in a Columbus bar crawl?
Columbus bar crawls include entry to 4-6 bars across campus or Short North, exclusive drink specials at each venue, a professional guide who knows the best spots, skip-the-line access at participating bars, and a wristband for identification. Some crawls include welcome shots, themed drinks, or food specials.
How long do Columbus bar crawls last?
Most Columbus bar crawls run 3-4 hours, typically starting between 7-9 PM and ending around midnight. Game day crawls may start earlier to coincide with post-game celebrations. You're welcome to stay at the final bar as long as you'd like after the official crawl ends.
What's the best Columbus bar crawl for Ohio State students?
The Thursday Night Tradition crawl is perfect for students, featuring the most popular campus bars, affordable drink specials, and the best weeknight energy. Game day crawls are also hugely popular with students celebrating Buckeye victories.
Can I do a Columbus bar crawl on game day?
Absolutely! Our Ohio State Game Day Crawl is specifically designed for home football game Saturdays, featuring post-game celebrations, scarlet and gray-themed drinks, and the electric atmosphere that makes campus legendary after Buckeye victories.
Are Columbus bar crawls good for visitors?
Yes! Columbus bar crawls are perfect for visitors wanting to experience authentic Ohio State nightlife. Our guides provide local insights, introduce you to fellow crawlers, and ensure you see the best of campus and Short North without the guesswork.
What should I wear to a Columbus bar crawl?
Wear comfortable shoes for walking between bars and casual bar attire. On game days, scarlet and gray are encouraged! Most bars have casual dress codes, but avoid athletic wear, flip-flops, or overly revealing clothing. Check specific bar policies if unsure.
Ready to Experience Columbus Nightlife?
Join the best bar crawls in Short North and Campus and discover why Columbus is one of America's top college city nightlife destinations
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