Columbus Car Rental Deals Drive the Heart of Ohio Your Way

Welcome to Columbus the Heart of Ohio where vibrant neighborhoods, Ohio State spirit, and Midwestern charm await you. Getting around this sprawling capital city is easiest on your own four wheels. Renting a car in Columbus with AirportVanRental means you’re choosing a trusted OTA that puts you in the driver’s seat of your trip. No relying on limited bus routes or expensive rideshares; instead, enjoy the convenience, savings, and flexibility of having your own vehicle. We combine unbeatable deals from all the top rental brands with a fast, secure booking experience. Whether you’re here for a Buckeyes game, a business conference, or a family visit to the Columbus Zoo, we’ve got you covered from pick-up to drop-off. Buckle up and discover Columbus on your schedule with AirportVanRental as your go-to travel partner, you’ll explore more and spend less.

• No Pre-Payment Needed: Reserve your car now and pay at pick-up. Most bookings require no upfront payment, giving you flexibility if your plans change.
• Free Cancellation: Enjoy free cancellation on most reservations up to 48 hours before pickup. Lock in a great rate early without worry if your schedule shifts, you won’t be stuck with fees.
• Instant Confirmation: Our booking process takes just a few clicks. Once you’ve found the perfect vehicle, confirm your reservation and you’re all set. You’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details, so you can travel with peace of mind.
• Transparent Pricing: The rate you see includes all mandatory taxes and fees, itemized clearly. No hidden surcharges or last-minute surprises we hate those too. (Ohio rentals include state sales tax ~7.5%, but we show it upfront. And unlike some sites, we break down any airport fees so you know exactly what you’re paying.)
• All Major Brands, One Search: We partner with every top rental supplier in Columbus. Instead of checking multiple websites, compare all deals in one go ensuring you snag the cheapest price available. If there’s a lower rate out there for the same car and terms, we’ll match it. Saving you money is our mission.
• 24/7 Customer Support: This isn’t just a booking site, it’s a full-service experience. Our friendly support team is on call to assist with any questions or hiccups during your rental. Not sure about Ohio’s toll roads or need to extend your rental? Give us a call we’re here to help with local insight and prompt solutions.

In short, a rental car in Columbus puts the city (and the whole Buckeye State) at your fingertips. With AirportVanRental, you’ll enjoy a seamless rental experience from start to finish so you can focus on the road ahead.

Why Rent a Car in Columbus?

Columbus is a sprawling city and while it boasts a lively downtown and walkable districts like the Short North, many of its best attractions are spread out. Public transportation (COTA buses) can get you to some areas, but routes are limited and there’s no citywide rail system. Renting a car is simply the most convenient way to explore everything Columbus has to offer. Here’s why having your own wheels is a smart choice:

• Freedom to Explore: With a car, you can seamlessly hop between neighborhoods brunch in German Village, an afternoon at Easton Town Center, then catch sunset at Scioto Mile downtown. No waiting on bus schedules or pricey rideshares; you’re on your own timetable.
• Reach Attractions Beyond Downtown: Some of Columbus’s gems lie outside the city core. The famous Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (in Powell, north of the city), Franklin Park Conservatory, or the roller coasters of Zoombezi Bay waterpark all are far easier to reach with a car. Likewise, if you’re visiting Ohio State University or attending an event at the Schottenstein Center, driving will save you time (and sore feet).
• Time-Saver for Business Travelers: Heading to a meeting at one of the business parks in Dublin or Westerville? A rental car gets you there directly, without multiple transfers. In Columbus, a 20-minute drive might replace an hour or more on buses. Your time is valuable a car ensures you make the most of it.
• Flexible for Day Trips: Columbus sits in the heart of Ohio, ideal for short road trips. With a car, you can venture out to Hocking Hills for a hike, cruise to Cedar Point amusement park up north, or visit family in Cincinnati all on your own schedule. You’re not confined to city limits; the whole region opens up to you.
• Comfort and Convenience: Especially in winter or during summer heat, a car is a refuge. Ohio winters bring cold temperatures and occasional snow with a rental car, you’ll have a warm ride waiting instead of standing at a chilly bus stop. In summer, enjoy the A/C and toss your picnic gear or shopping finds in the trunk with ease. Traveling with kids? Having your own vehicle makes it simpler to cart strollers, snacks, and souvenirs without hassle.
• Safe & Personal Space: In the era of convenience and hygiene, many travelers prefer the controlled environment of a personal vehicle. You can drive with just your companions, control the music (O-H-I-O playlist, anyone?), and not worry about crowded public transit. It’s your own bubble on wheels as clean and comfortable as you choose.

Of course, if you’re only sticking strictly to downtown Columbus for a day or two, you might manage without a car. But for flexibility, comfort, and maximizing your visit, a rental car is invaluable. (And plenty of locals rent cars here too whether for weekend getaways to Lake Erie or when extra wheels are needed for visiting relatives.) In Columbus, driving is the key to unlocking both the city’s highlights and Ohio’s hidden gems.

Our Columbus Car Rental Benefits

When you book your Columbus ride through AirportVanRental, you’re not just getting a car you’re getting a commitment to quality, value, and service. We specialize in vehicle rentals and partner with all major brands across Ohio to deliver an easy, affordable experience. Here’s what sets us apart for your Columbus car rental:

• Best Rates in Columbus Guaranteed: Columbus can be budget-friendly, and we ensure your rental car is too. Our system scans multiple suppliers in the area (from big names at the airport to local branches) to find you the lowest price. Because we aggregate deals, you’ll often see special offers here that you won’t find on single-brand sites. Found a better rate for the same booking? Let us know we’ll match it. We’re that confident in our pricing power, committed to saving you money.
• Many Convenient Pick-Up Locations: Need a car at the airport? How about near downtown or on the north side? We’ve got you covered. Options include John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) for travelers flying in, as well as various neighborhood locations (like Dublin, Westerville, or near OSU campus). Choose the pick-up spot that fits your itinerary grab a car right after you land, or spend a couple days downtown car-free and then pick up a rental for the rest of your trip. This flexibility means you never have to go out of your way to start driving.
• Wide Vehicle Selection: Thanks to our partnerships, you’ll find just the right car for your needs. From economy cars perfect for zipping around the city (easy to park, superb gas mileage) to spacious SUVs and minivans for family adventures, we’ve got them all. Planning a group tailgate at an Ohio State football game? Check out our 7-12 passenger vans keep everyone together (we’re called AirportVanRental for a reason!). Prefer something stylish? We even have luxury sedans and sporty models for a comfortable cruise. Whatever your plans, our fleet selection in Columbus likely has a match.
• No Hidden Fees Total Transparency: Say goodbye to surprise charges. The price we quote is the price you pay, period. Ohio rentals will include standard taxes and any mandatory fees, and we lay those out clearly during booking. You might see extras like an airport access fee if renting at CMH or a state rental surcharge but with us, they’re disclosed upfront. You’ll know the full true cost before you confirm. We believe in honest pricing, so you can budget with confidence and avoid any gotchas at the rental counter.
• Flexible Booking & Payment: Plans change we get it. That’s why most of our Columbus rentals do NOT require prepayment. Reserve now to lock in a great deal, and pay at the counter when you pick up the car. If you need to cancel or modify your reservation, it’s usually free as long as you do so a day or two in advance (check your booking terms). We also don’t tack on our own fees for young drivers or extra drivers any such charges come from the rental provider and we’ll show them clearly. Basically, we set you up with all the info and flexibility, so you stay in control of your booking.
• Local Expertise & Support: Consider us your travel partner. Beyond the booking process, we provide local driving tips (see our Columbus driving section below) and up-to-date info to make your trip smooth. Got a question on the road? Our customer support knows Columbus. Perhaps you’re wondering, “Is there game-day traffic I should avoid?” or “Where’s a good midway stop driving to Cleveland?” ask us! If any issue arises during your rental, we’ll assist or liaise with the rental company on your behalf. With AirportVanRental, you’re never alone we’re here 24/7 to ensure your Columbus adventure goes off without a hitch.

By choosing AirportVanRental for your Columbus car rental, you’re opting for value, choice, and peace of mind. We handle the details, you enjoy the drive.

Top Car Rental Deals in Columbus

Here are some top-value Columbus rental options available now:

• Economy Car from $12/day.Example: Nissan Versa, Kia Rio or similar (4-door). Ideal for solo travelers or couples staying mostly in the city. These small cars are easy to park on Columbus’s streets (plenty of parking downtown compared to bigger cities) and sip fuel great for a budget-conscious trip or a drive out to nearby attractions without breaking the bank. Why so cheap? High supply and off-peak demand can drive prices down, and we pass those savings on to you.
• Midsize Sedan from $15/day.Example: Toyota Corolla or Hyundai Elantra. A bit more room for luggage and passengers while still very affordable. A comfortable choice if you’re a small family or just want a smoother ride on the highway. At around $15 a day, you get a lot of value perfect for visiting the Columbus Museum of Art, then maybe taking a day trip to the scenic Hocking Hills. Enjoy features like great MPG and modern safety tech, which come standard in most models.
• Standard SUV from $28/day.Example: Ford Escape or Nissan Rogue (5-passenger). A versatile option if you want higher ground clearance and more cargo space. SUVs are popular year-round in summer for road trips to Lake Erie or Kings Island, in winter for a bit of extra stability on snowy roads. From under $30/day, you get room for the family (and all their stuff). Many include all-wheel drive, which can be reassuring if you’re visiting Ohio in the colder months.
• Minivan from $40/day.Example: Chrysler Pacifica or Dodge Grand Caravan (7-8 passenger). Got a whole crew? Minivans are the way to go for groups or families. Pile in up to 7 or 8 people and still have space for luggage, strollers, sports gear you name it. At ~$40 a day (that’s like $6 per person for a group of 7!), it’s an excellent value. Columbus is a hub for conventions, sports tournaments, and college visits a minivan keeps everyone together and often costs less than renting two smaller cars. Pro tip: these tend to book out during summer and OSU football season, so reserve early if you need one.
• Luxury & Premium from $70/day.Example: BMW 3-Series, Cadillac or similar. Yes, you can treat yourself in Columbus without a hefty price tag. For around $70/day and up, you might snag a premium ride. Picture cruising down High Street in a sleek sedan or pulling up to a business dinner in style. These upscale vehicles offer a smooth ride on Ohio’s interstates and a touch of luxury for your trip. (Insider tip: Weekend rates for luxury cars can sometimes be lower since business travelers usually rent them on weekdays so you might find a premium car surprisingly cheap for a fun weekend escape.)

Pricing Note: The “from” rates above are example starting prices we’ve seen for short rentals in off-peak times. Actual prices will vary with dates and demand. Columbus tends to have higher rental rates during summer (June–August) when tourism and wedding season peaks, and during big events like Ohio State University football home games (Sept–Nov) or the Ohio State Fair (late July) demand goes up, so prices can too. Conversely, you might find even lower prices in winter (January–February) when fewer visitors are around (aside from holiday periods). Always search for your exact dates to get the most accurate quote our system applies any special discounts available. And remember, booking early usually secures a better rate (plus more vehicle choices). With our free cancellation policy, you can lock in a great deal in advance and have the flexibility to change if needed. Bottom line: we’ve got you covered year-round with competitive pricing and complete transparency.

Driving in Columbus: Tips for Visitors

Driving in Columbus is generally a smooth experience, especially if you’re used to navigating other big cities. The streets are modern and well-maintained, traffic is moderate, and Ohio drivers are relatively courteous. That said, every city has its quirks here’s what to expect and some tips for driving in Columbus and central Ohio:

City Layout & Navigation: Unlike older East Coast cities, Columbus has a more straightforward street grid in many areas. Downtown’s streets run in a sensible grid pattern for the most part, with Broad Street and High Street as major axes (they intersect at the city’s center near the Statehouse). You’ll find lots of one-way streets downtown, but they’re clearly marked; just keep an eye on signage before turning. A GPS or smartphone navigation app will be very handy for turn-by-turn directions it can also alert you to any construction detours (Columbus, like many cities, has frequent summer road work). Outside downtown, the city and suburbs sprawl out with numerous districts (Short North, German Village, Polaris, etc.), but highways and main roads connect them well. Key routes to know: High St (runs north-south through the heart of the city), Broad St (east-west downtown), Olentangy River Rd and SR-315 (north-south corridors on the west side of downtown, useful for getting to OSU), and Morse Rd / SR-161 (east-west artery on north side). If you miss a turn, don’t stress Columbus’s grid and outerbelt make it fairly forgiving to loop around.

Highways & Major Roads: Columbus is served by two main interstates that cross downtown: I-70 (east-west) and I-71 (north-south). They intersect near downtown in a section locals call “the Split” here I-70 and I-71 run concurrently for a stretch, and it used to be notorious for tight lanes and merges, but recent improvements have eased it a bit. Still, be prepared for some lane shifting if you’re navigating through downtown on the freeways. If you’re going around the city, you’ll likely use I-270, the large beltway looping Columbus. It’s a 55-mile loop that encircles the metro area great for bypassing downtown or reaching outer suburbs like Dublin, Westerville, or Grove City. Other useful routes: I-670 connects the airport and downtown (very convenient, roughly a 10-minute drive straight in); US-23 and US-33 are major routes heading out of town (US-23 north to Delaware and beyond, US-33 northwest toward Marysville or southeast toward Hocking Hills). Speed limits on interstates around Columbus are generally 65 mph (and up to 70 mph outside the city), while urban arterial roads are posted around 35-45 mph.

Traffic & Rush Hour: Compared to metropolises like Chicago or Atlanta, Columbus traffic is quite manageable. Rush hour here is typical for a mid-sized city: morning inbound traffic builds between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, and evening outbound from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM. I-670 from the airport into downtown can get busy in the morning (particularly westbound), and I-70/I-71 around downtown sees slowdowns at peak times. The I-270 beltway can have congestion on the north side (around Westerville/Polaris) and northwest (Dublin) during rush hour as commuters flow in and out. Fridays can see heavier outbound traffic in the evening, especially in summer when folks head out for weekend trips. If you have flexibility, avoiding the peak rush hour by even half an hour can make a difference. Also, be aware of Ohio State University event times for example, on home football game Saturdays (~noon or 3:30 PM games), the highways and streets around campus (northwest of downtown) get very congested before and after the game. Plan accordingly (or use that time to explore another part of town until traffic eases).

Parking in Columbus: One pleasant surprise parking in Columbus is plentiful and relatively cheap compared to larger cities. Downtown has numerous parking garages and surface lots. Expect to pay around $10-15 per day in a garage downtown (and evenings/weekends often have flat rates like $5). Meters on city streets are often $1/hour or even less in some areas, with free parking in many areas after 10 PM and on Sundays (check the meter signage). The Short North arts district, just north of downtown, has meter and garage parking as well it gets busy on weekends, but you can usually find a spot within a few blocks of your destination. If you’re visiting German Village, note that much of it is residential permit parking; look for public lots or street parking just outside the permit zones (or consider a parking app to pay meters via phone). Around Ohio State’s campus, street parking can be tighter (and often permit-restricted) the campus has visitor garages if you’re touring. Always read signs, as some downtown spots become tow-away lanes during rush hour. Overall though, Columbus drivers don’t spend too long hunting for parking. Tip: the ParkColumbus app can be handy to pay for metered parking via your smartphone, extending time remotely if you stay longer at that restaurant or museum.

Driving Culture: Ohio drivers, including those in Columbus, tend to be a mix of Midwestern polite and city practical. You’ll see generally good lane discipline on highways, and many will wave “thanks” if you let them merge. Don’t be surprised if cars sometimes exceed the speed limit on the freeways 5-10 mph over is not uncommon on I-270 or I-71 when traffic is light (stay with the flow of traffic, and move right if you prefer going the speed limit). Turn signal use is decent, but as always, keep an eye out for that occasional last-minute lane changer. Horn honking is relatively rare; it’s used if necessary, but not incessantly. Four-way stop etiquette is usually followed (first come, first go and Ohio drivers often wave you on if there’s confusion). Overall, if you drive defensively and courteously, you’ll find Columbus easy to get around.

Weather & Seasonal Driving: Columbus experiences four distinct seasons, which can affect driving conditions. In winter (Dec–Feb), expect cold weather and occasional snow/ice. The city and state crews are pretty quick to salt and plow main roads when snow hits. Typically, after a snowfall, highways and primary arteries are cleared within hours, but neighborhood streets can stay snowy longer. If you’re renting in winter, your car will almost certainly have all-season tires (nearly all U.S. rental cars do dedicated snow tires are rare except in mountain regions). All-season tires are designed for moderate winter conditions and usually suffice for Columbus’s winter. Still, if a major snowstorm hits, it’s wise to drive slower, leave extra following distance, and give yourself extra travel time. Your rental will likely come with an ice scraper/brush; use it to clear all windows of snow before driving (it’s Ohio law to have a clear windshield). Also be cautious of black ice on bridges or shaded roads when temperatures dip it’s an invisible glaze that can make braking tricky. In spring, rain is common April showers so keep headlights on in rain (state law) and watch for slick roads after downpours. Spring tornado season is mild in Columbus, but if severe weather happens (rare for visitors’ short stays), local media and alerts will guide you. Summer (Jun–Aug) brings warm temperatures (80s°F on average) and the occasional thunderstorm. Heavy rain can cause temporary street flooding in low spots if you encounter standing water, it’s best not to plow through too fast. On the bright side, summer driving is pleasant with long daylight hours great for an evening drive to watch the fireflies outside the city. Autumn (Sep–Nov) is a fantastic time to drive around Ohio fall foliage peaks in October, and the weather is generally mild. Do watch out for deer, especially at dusk outside the city fall is breeding season and deer crossings on rural roads become more frequent. Hitting a deer can ruin anyone’s trip (and car), so stay alert particularly near wooded areas.

Tolls and Ohio Driving Notes: The Columbus area itself has no toll roads you can drive around central Ohio freely. However, if you plan side trips out of Columbus, be aware of the Ohio Turnpike (I-80/I-90) in northern Ohio. For example, driving to Cleveland or Toledo via I-80/90 will incur tolls on the Turnpike. If you drive to Chicago or toward Pennsylvania, portions of your route might be tolled as well. The Turnpike uses a ticket system or E-ZPass; many rental cars come with the option of a toll transponder (for a small fee) that will let you use E-ZPass lanes. If you don’t get a transponder, no biggie you can take a ticket and pay cash or card when you exit the toll road, or in some cases they’ll bill the license plate. Just keep track of receipts if you pay. Around Columbus, the only quasi-toll you might encounter is if you use the optional express lanes on SR-315 (during rush hour they have an express lane that used to require a pass, but currently Ohio doesn’t toll those they’re open to all drivers). Also note: Ohio recently enacted stricter laws against handheld phone use while driving it’s effectively banned to text or dial while moving. Use hands-free if you need to call (our suggestion: connect your phone to the car’s Bluetooth or use a mounted phone holder for navigation). Finally, if you’re fueling up, Ohio gas stations mostly offer unleaded gasoline (87 octane) as regular. Gas prices in Ohio are often a bit lower than the national average; you’ll find plenty of stations around (expect prices around $3–$4/gallon, fluctuating with market conditions).

By and large, driving in Columbus is stress-free. Ample parking, reasonable traffic, and a logical road network make it welcoming for visitors. With these tips in mind, you’ll navigate like a local in no time. Buckle up, enjoy the journey, and welcome to Columbus we’re glad you’re here!

Road Trip Ideas from Columbus, OH

Columbus’s central location makes it a perfect jumping-off point to explore the rest of Ohio and surrounding states. With your rental car, you can embark on some memorable road trips from nature escapes to city adventures all within a few hours’ drive. Here are three exciting road trip ideas that start (and end) in Columbus:

• Hocking Hills Nature EscapeRoute: Columbus ➔ Hocking Hills State Park (via US-33 through Logan, OH) ➔ optionally on to Athens, OH ➔ back to Columbus. ~140 miles round-trip.
  Highlights: Head southeast on US-33 for about 50 miles (roughly an hour) to reach the stunning Hocking Hills State Park, one of Ohio’s natural crown jewels. Lush forests, sandstone gorges, and waterfalls await. Park at Old Man’s Cave and hike the picturesque gorge trail to see waterfalls and recess caves. Another must-see is Ash Cave, a massive rock amphitheater it’s an easy, wheelchair-accessible trail to a waterfall that cascades over a recess cave (great for all ages). If you’re visiting in fall, the foliage here is breathtaking vibrant reds and golds framing cliffs and valleys. In summer, consider a zip-lining adventure or a horseback ride through the hills. After soaking in nature, you can drive 30 minutes further to Athens, Ohio, a charming college town home to Ohio University. Stroll Court Street, grab some lunch (Athens has a surprising foodie scene and craft breweries), then head back to Columbus via US-33 west. The drive through southeastern Ohio is scenic, with rolling hills and quaint towns.
  Pro Tip: Hocking Hills is popular on fall weekends and summer holidays. To beat the crowds, try a weekday or arrive early in the morning for the trails you’ll have the forests mostly to yourself and cooler temperatures for hiking. Also, fill up on gas before you venture too far off the highway; gas stations in the Hocking Hills area can be sparse. If you’re visiting in winter, check road conditions the park’s roads are curvy, and while they’re maintained, a heavy snow could make travel tricky (wait for roads to be cleared if a snowstorm just passed).
• Cedar Point & Lake Erie AdventureRoute: Columbus ➔ Sandusky, OH ➔ Cleveland, OH ➔ back to Columbus (via I-71). ~320 miles round-trip.
  Highlights: Thrill seekers and lake lovers, this one’s for you. Drive north from Columbus about 2 hours on US-23/I-75 and OH-4 to Sandusky, Ohio, home of Cedar Point, the legendary amusement park on Lake Erie. Known as “America’s Roller Coast,” Cedar Point boasts 17 roller coasters some of the tallest and fastest in the world. Spend the morning defying gravity on coasters like Steel Vengeance and Millennium Force (or enjoy the kid-friendly areas if traveling with little ones). Not into rides? Sandusky also has the Lake Erie islands nearby you could take a ferry to Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island for a more laid-back fun (wine tasting, caves, and island charm). After your fill of Sandusky, drive about an hour east along the lakeshore to Cleveland. In Cleveland, hit the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on the waterfront an iconic museum celebrating music legends. Stroll around downtown or the West Side Market for a bite. If time permits, swing by Cuyahoga Valley National Park just south of Cleveland (a slight detour but worth it for a dose of nature waterfalls and the scenic Ohio & Erie Canal towpath trail). Then head back to Columbus via I-71 south (~2 hours). It’s a packed trip but you’ll have experienced adrenaline, culture, and nature all in one go.
  Pro Tip: Cedar Point is extremely popular in summer to maximize fun, arrive when the park opens (queues for major coasters are shortest first thing in the morning). Alternatively, consider visiting on a weekday if possible; weekends see big crowds. Also, keep an eye on the weather if it’s a thunderstorm day, rides may temporarily close. For Lake Erie activities, summers are best; if you’re doing this route in late fall, note that Cedar Point closes for the season by early November and island ferries run limited schedules in off-season. In Cleveland, downtown parking near the Rock Hall is around $10 in nearby lots easier than trying to street park around the busy museum. Finally, the drive back to Columbus on I-71 is straightforward but if you’re returning on a Sunday evening from Cedar Point (southbound), you may hit traffic; a lot of Columbus folks head back from northern Ohio attractions then. Consider grabbing dinner in Cleveland and driving back a bit later to enjoy a smoother ride home.
• Three-City Ohio Loop (Dayton & Cincinnati)Route: Columbus ➔ Dayton, OH ➔ Cincinnati, OH ➔ back to Columbus (I-71/I-75 loop). ~250 miles round-trip.
  Highlights: Experience a trio of Ohio’s major cities in one trip, each with its own flavor. Start by driving west on I-70 for about 1 hour to Dayton, Ohio. Dayton is the “Birthplace of Aviation” don’t miss the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force at Wright-Patterson AFB (free admission). It’s the world’s largest military aviation museum, with hangars full of historic aircraft, from the Wright brothers to stealth bombers a must-see for history or aviation buffs. Grab lunch in Dayton’s Oregon District (trendy eateries and coffee shops) before heading south on I-75 for about an hour to Cincinnati. Cincinnati, perched on the Ohio River, will greet you with its picturesque skyline. Take a walk at The Banks area along the riverfront perhaps tour the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame if you’re a baseball fan, or just enjoy the view of the historic Roebling Suspension Bridge. Fountain Square in downtown Cincy is a nice stop for photos and maybe some Graeter’s ice cream (a local favorite). If time allows, drive up to Mount Adams or Devou Park (in Covington, KY across the river) for panoramic views of the city. From Cincinnati, head northeast on I-71 back to Columbus (about 1 hour 40 minutes). On the way back, you’ll pass Kings Island (a huge amusement park north of Cincinnati) if you didn’t get enough thrills at Cedar Point, Kings Island has its own great coasters and a water park (open spring through fall). You’ll also pass through Wilmington area known for farmland and skydiving, fun fact.
  Pro Tip: This is a full day, so start early. If you want to cut it shorter, you could choose either Dayton or Cincinnati as your main destination. For Cincinnati: try the local specialties Skyline Chili (Cincy-style chili on spaghetti) or Montgomery Inn BBQ if you have time for a meal. Be mindful of traffic in Cincinnati around rush hour (I-75 through downtown Cincy can back up around 4-6 PM). If you’re returning late, consider that downtown Columbus has HOV lane restrictions lifted after rush hour, making it easier to come in after 7 PM. Also, keep some small change for parking: in Cincinnati, many street meters downtown are free on Sundays or after 9 PM, but otherwise you might use a garage (~$5-10 for a few hours). It’s a lot of Ohio to cover in one loop, but you’ll come away with a great sense of the state’s diversity from Dayton’s aviation history to Cincinnati’s urban charm and Columbus’s vibrant mix.

Quick-Reference Info Box Columbus, OH Car Rental

• Fuel: Regular unleaded (87 octane) is standard at Columbus gas stations. Average gas price around central Ohio is roughly $3 per gallon (varies). Most rentals come with a full tank refuel to the same level before returning to avoid high per-gallon charges.
• Pick-Up Locations: Major pick-up hubs include John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) for airport arrivals, and various city locations such as downtown Columbus (near the Convention Center) and neighborhood branches (Dublin, Polaris, etc.). Choose what’s convenient AirportVanRental shows multiple options.
• Distance & Drive Times: Columbus is about 6 miles east of CMH Airport (10–15 minutes by car via I-670). Driving to Cleveland is ~140 miles (2–2.5 hours north via I-71), Cincinnati ~110 miles (1.5–2 hours south via I-71), and Pittsburgh ~185 miles (3 hours east via I-70/I-79).
• Highways: Key interstates: I-70 (east-west) and I-71 (north-south) intersect in downtown Columbus. I-270 forms an outer beltway around the city. I-670 connects downtown to the airport. Other notable routes: US-33 (NW toward Marysville or SE toward Athens), SR-315 (useful north-south freeway on west side of downtown/OSU).
• Speed Limits: 70 mph on rural interstates in Ohio (and on parts of I-71/I-70 outside metro area). Urban interstates through Columbus are typically 55–65 mph. Non-highway main roads around town are usually 35–45 mph; residential streets 25 mph. Ohio strictly enforces school zone speed (20 mph during school times) watch for flashing signs near schools.
• Tolls:No local tolls in Columbus or central Ohio. The Ohio Turnpike (I-80/I-90) in northern Ohio is tolled relevant if driving toward Cleveland/Toledo/Chicago. If you use it, you can pay with cash/card or opt for the rental’s toll pass. No toll passes needed for Columbus proper.
• Parking: Downtown Columbus parking is relatively plentiful. Meter rates range ~$0.50 to $1.50/hour depending on location (enforced 8 AM–10 PM most days). City garages charge about $10–$15 for daily max. Neighborhoods like Short North and Arena District have garages and meters (use the ParkColumbus app for convenience). Event parking near Nationwide Arena or Ohio Stadium (for games) can be $20+. For free parking: meters are free on Sundays and after a certain time at night (check signs), and many suburban sites (shopping centers, parks) have free lots.
• Average Rental Rates: Economy rentals start around $12–$20/day in off-peak times (as seen on our site). The city’s average daily rate for a midsize car hovers $30–$50/day, but booking in advance and using AirportVanRental often secures lower. Rates spike during major events (OSU football weekends, summer festivals) sometimes double the off-peak so book early for those periods.
• Driving Conditions: Columbus roads are generally flat and in good condition. Winter snow is cleared promptly on highways and main streets, but always exercise caution during and right after snowfall (carry the ice scraper provided with your rental). Summer driving is easy just be mindful of construction zones; Ohio’s orange barrels come out in warm months. Move over or slow down for any roadside emergency or police stop (it’s the law).
• Navigation: Columbus is fairly GPS-friendly. Cell signal is strong throughout the metro, and most rentals have Android Auto/Apple CarPlay so you can plug in your phone for navigation on the car’s screen. Also, local radio (610 AM for traffic news, for example) can provide traffic incident updates during rush hour.
• Special Regulations: Right turn on red is allowed in Ohio (after a complete stop) unless signed otherwise. Columbus has some red-light and speed cameras in school zones and certain areas just drive prudently and you’ll be fine. If you get a parking ticket, you can pay online or in person; ignoring it could lead to a rental company charge later, so it’s best to settle it during your stay.
• Fun Fact: Columbus is one of the largest U.S. cities without a fixed-rail transit system hence, cars rule the road here. Don’t be shy about driving; locals are used to traffic and the city is designed for motorists. Enjoy the wide roads and Midwestern hospitality on the highways!