If you’re in Columbus for the Arnold Sports Festival, you’re probably running on caffeine and vibes — whether it’s to survive the expo crowds, recover from leg day, or just make it through a weekend of nonstop flexing. But if you’re looking for a real coffee fix (and not another neon-colored pre-workout drink), you’re in luck. Columbus has killer, and I mean KILLER, coffee spots within walking distance of the Greater Columbus Convention Center and a short drive from the Ohio Expo Center.
We’ve ranked them based on how long it’ll take you to walk from the Convention Center, so whether you need a quick espresso shot between events or a chill café to reset, here’s where to go.
Five Minutes or Less (Basically Next Door)
Stauf’s Coffee Roasters (North Market)
59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215
Best for: A quick, no-fuss caffeine fix inside the iconic North Market. Grab a latte, cold brew, or espresso and maybe a snack from one of the market’s many vendors.
Park Service Coffee
19 W Russell St, Columbus, OH 43215
Best for: A hidden gem with a sleek, minimalist vibe and strong espresso. Perfect if you want to dodge the expo madness and sip in peace.
Winan’s Chocolates & Coffee
611 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Best for: Coffee and chocolate pairings. Because what’s better than a solid cup of coffee? A solid cup of coffee with gourmet chocolates.
Ten Minutes or Less (A Short Stroll Away)
One Line Coffee – Short North
745 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Best for: Serious coffee drinkers. They focus on ethically sourced, high-quality coffee, and their pour-overs are top-tier.
The Lox Bagel Shop
772 N High St #106, Columbus, OH 43215
Best for: Bagels and coffee. You came for the caffeine, but you’ll stay for the delicious chewy bagels and bagel sammies. It might be cliche but, no surprises, the Lox Bagel is incredible.
Native Cold Pressed
771 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Best for: Unique lattes and fresh juices. If you need something refreshing between protein shakes, this is a great stop.
Roaming Goat Coffee
849 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Best for: A quiet, cozy spot with some of the best single-origin espresso in the city.
Fifteen Minutes or Less (Cardio is Good, Remember?)
Mission Coffee Co.
11 Price Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
Best for: A local favorite with strong coffee and a chill, industrial atmosphere. Great spot if you want a focused, no-nonsense caffeine fix.
Freedom a la Cart Café + Bakery + Catering
123 E Spring St, Columbus, OH 43215
Best for: Great coffee with a mission. Every cup supports survivors of human trafficking, and the pastries are outstanding.
Twenty Minutes or Less (Slightly Longer Walk, Totally Worth It)
The Roosevelt Coffeehouse
300 E Long St, Columbus, OH 43215
Best for: A socially conscious coffee shop with a sleek interior and fantastic cold brew. One of my favorite lattes in town.
Brioso Roastery & Coffee Bar
329 E Long St, Columbus, OH 43215
Best for: Strong espresso and unique seasonal drinks.
Bottoms Up Coffee
350 Mt Vernon Ave, Columbus, OH 43215
Best for: A cozy atmosphere, great lattes, and a mission to support local families in need.
One Line Coffee at Capitol Square
41 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Best for: A solid downtown option if you’re staying near or heading toward the Statehouse.
Parable Cafe
149 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Best for: Coffee that feels like an experience. They focus on hospitality, great vibes, and expertly crafted drinks. One of our favorite coffee shop atmospheres in the city.
Cafe De Nook
175 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215
Best for: A quiet downtown café with great espresso and a welcoming feel.
Within a Ten-Minute Drive (If You’re Coming from the Ohio Expo Center)
Bada Bean Bada Booze
231 E 1st Ave, Columbus, OH 43215
Best for: Coffee with a kick. They serve boozy coffee drinks, but they also have solid non-alcoholic options.
Fox in the Snow Cafe
1031 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43201
Best for: Gorgeous pastries and well-crafted coffee. One of Columbus’s most beloved cafés, the cappuccinos are outstanding, and perhaps the best egg sandwich you will ever have. Seriously.
Did we miss one? Did one of these places close? Send us a note!