Looking for Columbus Newcomer Help

[Patti Engle]

My son just graduated and is moving to Columbus to work. We're making a trip this week to check out apartments and areas. He'd love to live downtown since he'll be working downtown. However, it looks a bit over his price range. If anyone could give us any pointers about good areas versus bad....easy commuting areas versus difficult commuting areas....it would be a big help. I have to take my doodle with us so if anyone knows good place for short term boarding...I'm looking for that too. In addition, are there any must go to restaurants...we love local restaurants versus the chains. Thanks in advance for any tips or info.

[Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom]

Patti -- I'm going to assume you are talking Columbus (Ohio) since you are in Michigan.  You might try posting this in the Ohio group as well.  Also send a message to Kemp from the Doodle Country Store, as they are in the Columbus area.  I'm in Ohio but a couple hours from Columbus so can't be of much help.  Sorry.

[Kemp Rader]

I live about 20 miles outside of Columbus so I don't get to the city very often but for boarding I use a place called "The Pet Palace" in Columbus. They have boarded all of my doodles with no problems and the good thing is that you can request a room for your dog that has an online cam so you can view your dog online while you're away. Their website is www.petpalaceresort.com   You have to reserve in advance and have the current vaccination record. They have 3 locations....I've only used the one near the airport.

The best areas that I know of around Columbus is Polaris on the north side,  the Easton Mall on the east side, New Albany on the NE side, Clintonville on the west side and Dublin on the NW side. Lots of bike trails around the city (that's what I do most). A favorite restaurant is Ted's Montana Grill downtown across the street from the Nationwide Hockey Arena.

There are nice apartments right across the street from the Easton Mall mentioned above - It's called "The Easton Commons" at 4011 Easton Way. That's where we stayed while we looked for a house to buy. It was very nice and very convenient being able to walk across to the mall and everything we needed was right there. Enjoy your stay in Columbus! Best wishes, Kemp Rader

[Patti Engle]

Thanks VERY much! That's a lot of good info. I did see the pet palace online and was considering it. At the last minute...a neighbor stopped by and offered to keep her for me. One less thing this trip to worry about...but I'll probably board her there on the next trip. Thank you!

[Julie, Eloise & Beasley]

Hi Patti - I'm in Cincinnati, but my sister lives in Columbus so I visit regularly, and I also go to my firm's office there occasionally.  I will second all the areas Kemp mentioned - those are all great.  My sister lives in Polaris, and there are lots of nice apartment complexes there (many of them newer).  She's actually interested in moving to Grandview Heights, so I would add that to the list of areas.  It's fairly central - close to downtown, not far from OSU and Short North.  She's mentioned Clintonville as an option, too.  (She's a young professional - she likes Polaris, I think she just wants a change of scenery.) 

Shopping is great at both Easton and Polaris, in case you are a shopping person.  :)  I do like Easton better, but both are nice.  Dublin also has a quaint downtown - it's really nice area.  I always think of The Thurman Cafe when I think of local Columbus restaurants; cute place in German Village (known for GIANT burgers, but have all kinds of food).

Good luck, and congrats to your son!

[Patti Engle]

Thanks for the suggestions. We looked at Short North, Arena District & Granville. and walked through North Market. We just got back from BJ's restaurant outside of Polaris Mall. Coincidentally...we're staying in Polaris tonight. I'm hoping to try Thurman Cafe if we can fit it into our schedule as we look at more downtown properties tomorrow.