Nationwide Arena anchors the Arena District in downtown Columbus, a purpose-built entertainment area packed with bars and restaurants. Home to the Columbus Blue Jackets, it's walkable, easy, and one of the more convenient arena setups around.
Getting There
Fly into Columbus (CMH), about 15 minutes from downtown. You'll drive or rideshare in.
The arena is downtown and walkable from downtown hotels and the Short North; most fans walk or rideshare.
Where to Stay
Downtown Columbus or the Short North puts you within walking distance of the arena and the city's dining and nightlife — the ideal base.
Staying central means you can walk to the game and to the bars and restaurants all around it.
Parking & When to Arrive
There are garages and lots in the Arena District, and prepaid is smart, but downtown is walkable if you're staying central.
Roof & Climate
Yes, indoor arena, fully enclosed and climate controlled year-round.
Nationwide Arena is a fully enclosed, climate-controlled indoor arena. Arenas run cool, especially NHL buildings where the ice holds the bowl temperature down. Bring a layer even in summer.
Where Visiting Fans Sit
It's a comfortable arena with excellent sightlines and no obstructed views.
Lower-bowl seats are pricier while the upper deck is good value. Blue Jackets crowds are relaxed and easy for visiting fans.
Food & What to Bring
Expect Midwestern staples and local craft beer alongside the arena standards.
Check the bag policy, as arena clear-bag or small-bag rules usually apply. It's indoors, so weather isn't a factor inside.
Comparing parks? We checked bag policies at all 30 MLB ballparks.
The Pregame Scene
The Arena District, right around the arena, is the pregame — bars and restaurants within a walk.
The nearby Short North adds more dining and nightlife a short walk or rideshare away.
Insider Tips
Stay downtown and walk — the Arena District puts the pregame at your doorstep. Explore the Short North too.
Enjoy a relaxed crowd and a walkable setup. An easy, convenient away arena.
Build your Nationwide Arena trip
Choose each piece: flights into CMH, a hotel in downtown Columbus near the Arena District, Blue Jackets tickets, and a rental car only if you want it (downtown is walkable). Save it to My trips to keep your dates. Nothing books until you're ready.