If you’re hungry for bold flavors and vibrant culture, the Columbus Short North Food Tour is your ticket to taste the best of the city.
Known for its eclectic energy, creative food scene, and buzzing High Street corridor, the Short North Arts District is where Columbus goes to dine, drink, and discover.
This tour takes you on a flavorful stroll through one of the city’s most celebrated neighborhoods, with tastings that reflect the area’s art-forward attitude and diverse culinary roots.
Whether you’re new to Columbus or a local looking to fall in love with the Short North all over again, this food tour is a delicious way to experience the stories, people, and plates that shape the city’s identity.
Come hungry and leave inspired.
What is a Food Tour?
A food tour is a guided walking experience where guests explore a neighborhood by stopping at a series of curated eateries and tasting the local flavor.
Along the way, participants get more than just good food—they hear the stories behind the dishes, the chefs, and the city itself.
What’s Included:
- A guided walking tour through Columbus’ Short North
- Multiple food stops featuring generous tastings
- Local storytelling, architecture highlights, and cultural context
- Recommendations for additional places to eat and drink
Types of Food Tours:
- Walking food tours through arts districts
- Evening progressive dinners
- Market or brunch-themed tours
- Tours with drink pairings or chef-guided segments
What Makes This Food Tour Special?
The Short North isn’t just a neighborhood—it’s a cultural movement.
This tour taps into that energy by showcasing a lineup of dishes and destinations that define what Columbus tastes like today.
Local Dishes & Iconic Eats
🌶️ Pierogis reimagined with gourmet flair
🌶️ Crispy Korean fried chicken or inventive tacos
🌶️ Seasonal dishes sourced from Ohio farms
🌶️ Locally roasted coffee or unique tea infusions
🌶️ Craft desserts from small-batch bakeries
Neighborhoods Explored
- Short North Arts District – The creative soul of Columbus, where galleries, murals, and food collide
- Historic High Street – Home to architectural gems and trendy storefronts
Unique Highlights
⭐️ Visit beloved local institutions and rising-star kitchens
⭐️ Enjoy behind-the-scenes stories and chef insights
⭐️ See iconic public art and hidden mural alleys
⭐️ Taste the diversity of Columbus’ evolving food culture
👉 Columbus Short North Food Tour on Tripadvisor
How Much Do Food Tours Cost?
Food tours offer an excellent return on flavor.
With generous portions and engaging stories, you’ll walk away full—both physically and culturally.
Typical cost: $65–$85 per person
What’s Included:
- Multiple tastings (enough for lunch or dinner)
- Guided storytelling and cultural exploration
- Recommendations and access to insider spots
Optional Upgrades:
- Drink pairings (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
- Private or custom group experiences
- Holiday or themed stops depending on the season
🔗 Check current pricing on Tripadvisor
How Long is the Tour?
🕒 Typical Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours
🕒 Walking Distance: 1 to 1.5 miles, all on flat sidewalks
The tour includes seated tastings and plenty of chances to pause, making it enjoyable for a wide range of fitness levels.
Do You Need to Book in Advance?
Yes—Short North tours are popular and space is limited.
Booking early ensures your spot and allows the host to prepare for any dietary requests.
Most tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility.
What Should You Bring?
Come ready to walk, eat, and explore.
A little preparation helps you enjoy every bite and step.
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing (umbrella, hat, jacket)
- An empty stomach
- Your phone or camera for photo ops and foodie shots
How to Choose the Best Food Tour
✅ Guides who are passionate and knowledgeable about the city
✅ A good mix of local staples and surprising bites
✅ Small group sizes for a more personal feel
✅ Tastings that support local farms and small businesses
✅ Great reviews from past guests
Local Tips & Hidden Gems
One of the best parts of this tour is discovering the little things you’d never find on your own.
But there’s always more to explore after the last bite.
- Return to The Pearl for cocktails and oysters
- Snap a selfie in Freak Street Alley, filled with changing mural art
- Sip rooftop drinks at Lincoln Social with skyline views
- Pick up a handmade goodie at North Market Downtown
- Explore boutiques and galleries like ROY G BIV Gallery and Flower Child Vintage
What to Expect on a Food Tour
- Thoughtfully chosen dishes that represent the city
- A walk through historic and modern parts of town
- Fun, interactive guides who love sharing stories
- An easygoing pace with plenty of food
- New places and flavors to love long after the tour ends
How to Prepare for a Food Tour
- Don’t eat beforehand—seriously, come hungry
- Dress for walking and whatever the forecast says
- Let the guide know about any allergies early
- Arrive a bit early for check-in
- Be open to new tastes and experiences
Frequently Asked Questions About the Columbus Short North Food Tour
✅ Is this tour suitable for kids?
Yes, but older children who enjoy trying new foods will have the most fun.
✅ Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Most tours offer vegetarian, gluten-free, or allergy-friendly options with advance notice.
✅ Are drinks included?
Not always, but optional drink pairings are often available.
✅ Is the tour accessible?
Yes, routes are flat and wheelchair-friendly. Confirm with the host for specifics.
✅ What happens in bad weather?
Tours run rain or shine, so dress accordingly.
✅ Where’s the meeting point?
Typically in the heart of the Short North. You’ll get details after booking.
✅ Can I request a private tour?
Yes—great for corporate events, birthdays, and small group outings.
👉 Book the Columbus Short North Food Tour on Tripadvisor