Downtown parking guide in Columbus, Ohio

Prepare for your next downtown event with parking lots, meters, and quick tips and tricks for parking.

Let us help take away the stress of parking downtown. | Photo by CBUStoday

Let us help take away the stress of parking downtown. | Photo by CBUStoday

Table of Contents

Finding a parking spot in CBUS can be stressful, so we’re here to share a thing or two about navigating the parking scene.

Downtown parking quick facts

  • There are 18,000 parking spots in downtown Columbus.
  • You have the option to prepay for parking online ahead of an event to secure your spot and simplify the process.

Downtown street parking

  • The ParkColumbus mobile app is available to use for street parking (both downtown and in the Short North) + you can add time to your meter right from your phone.
  • Metered spots can also be paid with coins or credit card, but most have a two-hour limit.
  • Metered spots are free on Sundays from 8 a.m.-10 p.m. + all city-recognized holidays.

Downtown parking garages

Arena District Parking Map | Photo via Arena District Downtown Columbus

Arena District Parking Map | Photo via Arena District Downtown Columbus

Dos and don’ts

  • Do pay attention to signs in private lots — most require a permit and violators will be towed.
  • Do pay attention to street signs indicating street sweeping — all cars parked during street sweeping hours will be towed.
  • Don’t lose your parking ticket given to you after parking in a garage.
  • Don’t park within 15 ft of a fire hydrant.