If you love your current hometown's nightlife and worry about giving it up for your new life in Columbus, Ohio, you have nothing to fear. Ohio's capital is brimming with any type of spirited evening out with friends and colleagues that you can imagine. Cbus residents love and place as much importance on their free-time as much as their work time, which translates into a sea of wonderful and one-of-a-kind watering holes ready to serve you and yours, so take a look at the 16 best bars in Columbus in 2016 to see what delights await you:
Take a trip to the heart of the bustling Short North District of Columbus to visit Wine On High. The wine bar welcomes guests during the neighborhood’s monthly Gallery Hop, which takes place the first weekend of each month, but wine connoisseurs — those with years of experience and those just starting their adventures — are welcome daily to explore a selection that includes more than 300 labels. For special parties, contact the bar’s staff to find out about ordering food plates from the neighboring Hubbard Grille.
789 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 294-8466
Yelp: 4.5 out of 50 reviews
Nestled in the neighborhood that lies between the Short North and the University District on North High Street, you will find the city's best beer bar at North High Brewery. Featuring an eclectic and frequently changing selection, true craft beer enthusiasts will relish the vintage décor, relaxed atmosphere and creative blends.
1288 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 407-5278
Yelp: 4.5 out of 103 reviews
If you’re in the mood for foosball or free pool in a place where people soon learn your name, Woody’s Sports Club is the spot for you. Featuring six televisions and cheap beer, Woody’s is the ideal sports bar to spend Saturday and Sunday among new friends.
2933 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 267-1666
Yelp: 5 out of 5 reviews
4. Best Whiskey Bar.
Whiskey aficionados will enjoy a trek or two to Barrel Spirits On High in Italian Village to quench your thirst for your favorite fermented grain mash blend. Enjoy good company, subtle sports screens and plenty of variety, whether you want your whiskey straight up or in a cocktail.
1120 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 564-9058
Yelp: 3.5 out of 15
At the end of the work day, plan a trip to Woodland’s Tavern with your co-workers. Located in Grandview Heights, this after-work destination is convenient. Stay indoors or head outside to the cozy patio that features an enclosure and a fire pit for colder temperatures. Enjoy $2 draft Mondays and $3 craft Fridays, as well as plenty of appetizers.
1200 W. 3rd Avenue, Columbus, OH 43212
(614) 299-4987
Yelp: 4 out of 111
Perched at the north tip of the Ohio State University at the corner of Lane Avenue and North High Street, you will find The Library bar. Brimming with dive bar charm from days of yore, this place is the real deal. Outlasting classic spots like Stache’s and Larry’s, it’s good to have a good old spot that features cheap beer, dim lighting and a cast of familiar characters each day.
2169 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 299-3245
Yelp: 3.5 out of 31
You can take a little vacation to Denmark without digging out your passport. This cocktail spot features a creative menu, filled with classics and new concoctions for you to enjoy during your excursion.
463 N. High Street, 2nd Floor, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 914-6700
Yelp: 4 out of 58 reviews
Even though Dick’s Den is a greatly beloved dive bar institution in Columbus, its live music is truly top-notch. Another spot just a few blocks north of the Ohio State University that has remained standing while other music venues, such as Stache’s, has fallen prey to the wrecking ball, Dick’s Den delivers everything from local, regional and national jazz, blues, bluegrass and rock outfits to accompany you while talking films and philosophy with friends.
2417 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 268-9573
Yelp: 4.5 out of 45
Prepare to feel charmed when you visit German Village’s Lindey’s patio. Between the brick streets that lead to this bar and restaurant and the ingenious landscaping and design of the patio, you will feel transported to a special wonderland. The breathtaking dining menu, sophisticated wine list and adventurous cocktail selection are pretty special too.
169 E. Beck Street, Columbus, OH 43206
(614) 228-4343
Yelp: 4 out of 331
With 36 years of business in its wake, The Refectory is here to stay, and Columbus residents want it that way, whether having visited or not. This Northwest Columbus French wine bar features a world-class wine list, a stunning full bar and a menu full of exotic delights. While expensive, local residents fortunate to have visited all tout its impeccable selection, service and their overall unforgettable experience.
1092 Bethel Road, Columbus, OH 43220
(614) 451-9774
Yelp: 4.5 out of 196
When want to go to a bar where you will find all the neighborhood’s local flavor, from 90 year-olds to the college set to Sunday sports fans, Johnnie’s Glenn Avenue Grill is the perfect venue. Actually an old house built in the early 20th century, near Marble Cliff in Grandview, this hole-in-the-wall watering hole is alive with an old-school community bar spirit. If you don’t instantly feel the “come one, come all” spirit, you might actually have mistaken someone’s home for the bar. They’ll most likely direct to the right place quickly so you can enjoy a cheap beer and stellar bourbon.
1491 Glenn Avenue, Columbus, OH 43212
(614) 488-0151
Yelp: 4 out of 38
While an amazing beer bar and a divine dive bar, Bob’s Bar is also a terrific day drinking spot. Nearly an institution since opening, this neighborhood spot, nestled between Beechwold and Worthington, offers no-judgment imbibing from 2:00pm to 2:30am daily.
4961 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43214
(614) 888-9073
Yelp: 4 out of 83
If you want to keep your first date light and fun, yet awash with romantic potential, a visit to Brothers Drake Meadery & Bar in the Short North for cocktails or mead is in tall order.
26 E. 5th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 388-8765
Yelp: 4.5 out of 152
Sometimes after a long bike ride or training run, you need a juice fix. Well, a trek to Hilliard’s Pulp Juice and Smoothie Bar will do a body good. Refuel and refresh with a fruity blend, whether as a smoothie or a shake, or try a tasty wrap.
3664 Fishinger Blvd., Hilliard, OH 43026
(614) 655-7857
Yelp: 4 out of 10
In Columbus, LGBT and Exile actually go hand-in-hand. Italian Village’s Exile is a warm and welcoming night spot for Columbus’ large and vibrant LGBT community.
893 N. 4th Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 299-0969
Yelp: 4 out of 15
The Arena District’s new Dahlia Bar & Lounge is set to open February 5, 2016 in the building previously occupied by Garage Bar and Adobe Gilas at 147 Vine Street. Between its prime location near the Nationwide Arena and its focus on offering a family friendly and other events that work in conjunction with nearby events and activities, as well as offering a full menu of food and drinks, Dahlia has a lot of promise.Dahlia Bar & Lounge
147 Vine Street, Columbus, OH
(614) 224-3002
Yelp: 3.5 out of 22
