Hockey, Hiking, and Hotels: Columbus Getaway
Hockey, Hiking, and Hotels
Columbus Getaway
By Giles Kennedy
Family and Travel Columnist
My wife's birthday was this past week. We have not attended a Columbus Blue Jackets game since February 2020.
The weekend of January 7th and 8th changed that.
On top of witnessing the victory of the top ranked Carolina Hurricanes in a shootout; we dined in casual luxury and stayed in a surprisingly posh lodging choice.
We finished the weekend with exploring Columbus' newest Metro Park, Quarry Trails.
As in my past articles; myself and staff of Columbus Wired wish you to explore our region.
Let us start with getting to the historic win with the Blue Jackets game.
https://www.nhl.com/bluejackets
Simply go to the Blue Jackets website, follow the prompts for gaining your digital tickets and head to the Arena.
The Arena District and nearby areas offer many lodging and dining options.
https://www.arenadistrict.com/
https://downtowncolumbus.com/
Sonesta Downtown Columbus (previously a IHG/Crowne Plaza property), across from the Columbus Convention Center; was our base camp for the weekend.
https://www.sonesta.com/sonesta-hotels-resorts/oh/columbus/sonesta-columbus-downtown
There are many properties in the area. We felt this hotel was centrally located and close proximity to Nationwide Arena. It was literally a two block stroll to front gates.
The staff was extremely friendly, the room was luxurious. An onsite dining experience; Vine and Forge, was a great choice as well. We had dinner after the Blue Jackets victory.
Even with the onsite dining, you are in close walking distance to the Arena District, the North Market and the Short North.
Columbus; with its growing convention and special event attractions, many from around the nation and the world have visited.
The region has for many years have an awesome selection with Columbus and Franklin County's MetroParks system.
After having breakfast at Vine and Forge; we traveled to nearby Marble Cliff. We explored the newest gem in the MetroParks system.
Quarry Trails Metro Park
2600 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43228
https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/quarry-trails/
Wedged between Grandview Heights, Upper Arlington and Columbus; this urban outdoor getaway was a longtime marble and stone quarry.
A waterfall, paved and natural trails, a mountain bike trail and course and a small kids area await those who visit.
There is still urban development nearby; however developers have been mindful of their natural neighbors.
Again, this was an excellent weekend for me and my wife. These suggestions are a great idea year around. Whether a hockey game, concert or a special event.
Life is an adventure, get out and live it!
