Downtown parking guide in Columbus, Ohio

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

• The following garages are available — Arena Crossing Garage (J), Chestnut Garage (D), Front Street Garage (C), McConnell Garage (A), Neil Avenue Garage (K), Marconi Garage (I)
• Rates vary per garage, but if you park in the Marconi Garage and dine at nada, Boston’s, Ted’s Montana Grill, or Sunny Street Cafe, they will validate your ticket with $3 parking for the first two hours.

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.