The state of Ohio is somewhat underrated within the fabric of the United States – often ignored (as far as tourism goes) in favor of the coastal states and warmer climates. However, the state has much to offer both locals and tourists alike, with the city of Columbus in particular being a great place for people of all ages to visit. As well as having many sights to see, and experiences to be had, the Columbus craft spirits scene is also great for fans of local distilleries.

But what exactly are the best distilleries in Columbus, Ohio, and what makes them so special?

About The City

As the capital (and most populated) city in Ohio, Columbus has long since been an important and pivotal city within the fabric of the state – with a storied history, and much to offer both tourists and locals alike.

Named for the Spanish explorer Christopher Columbus, the city is the largest place in the world that is named for the historical figure – cementing his place within the history of the country, despite the explorer having no connection to the state of Ohio, or the city itself.

Local Distilleries

As mentioned above, Columbus also has some of the best distilleries in the state of Ohio – if not the country itself – with each of them putting their own spin on the classics, and creating popular products that have become part of the fabric of Columbus itself.

So, without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the best craft distilleries in the city of Columbus, Ohio!

1. Echo Spirits Distilling Co.

First up we have the Echo Spirits Distilling Co. – a professional craft distillery located right in the heart of Columbus, Ohio.

Producing a fine range of whiskey, rum, vodka, and all manner of other spirits, Echo Spirits Distilling Co. might be one of the (relative) new kids on the block, but they have already garnered a legion of loyal customers who love them for their great products and great community attitude.

Address: 985 W 6th Ave, Columbus, OH 43212

2. Endeavor Brewing & Spirits

Next up we have Endeavor Brewing & Spirits – a great local distillery and brewery that prides itself on creating great, locally sourced products.

With a range of IPAs, whiskey, rum, and gin, they are one of the most established craft distilleries in the region, and one that has people coming back again and again for the ambience, the great company, and the even greater spirits!

Address: 909 W 5th Ave, Columbus, OH 43212, USA

3. 451 Spirits

Next we have 451 Spirits – a company located right in the heart of the city, which produces some of the best whiskey, rum, and gins. With tours, a tasting room, and a dedicated and passionate team of staff, this might be a smaller operation than most people are used to, but their dedication and heart makes them seem like the biggest around.

Address: 590 Oakland Park Ave Ste D, Columbus, OH 43214-4142

4. High Bank Distillery

Next up we have the High Bank Distillery – a distillery that not only offers some of the best spirits in the region, but which also has a range of craft ales, and a food menu that has won the hearts of guests, and numerous awards within the city.

Part distillery, part ambient, fun hang out spot, this place is laden with ambience and charm – giving you the perfect place to kick back and enjoy some of the best spirits in the state.

Address: 1051 Goodale Blvd, Columbus, OH 43212, USA

5. Middle West Spirits

Last but not least, we have Middle West Spirits – a company whose dedication to their native region is only rivaled by their dedication to producing high quality spirits.

With a wide range of whiskey, rum, and gin – as well as other products – Middle West are one of the most established in the region, and also has one of the best tours to come and learn more about the process.

Address: 1230 Courtland Ave, Columbus, OH 43201-2829

Accessibility

With regards to transport links within the city, Columbus has a great network of buses and trains, a varied selection of taxis and lift services (such as Uber and Lyft), as well as a major airport.

As well as this, the city also has measures in place to make all of their sites and attractions accessible – meaning that wheelchair users, and those with mobility issues and disabilities, have all the help they need to enjoy the sites and sounds of Columbus without added stress and complication.

Things To See/Monuments

As well as having some of the best distilleries in the country, Columbus, Ohio, also has some of the most varied and interesting historical sites in the entire Midwest – not to mention numerous areas of cultural interest.

German Village

A historic and important neighborhood within the framework of Columbus, German Village is a great example of the history and architecture that came to the Midwest with German immigration – showcasing some of the best living examples of ‘old world’ architecture, as well as some of the oldest buildings in the city.

Address: 588 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215

Franklin Park Conservatory

Columbus also has a wealth of green space where people can enjoy nature, with one major location being the conservatory within Franklin Park.

Here people can enjoy some of the finest gardens in the state, exotic plant collections, seasonal art features, as well as a variety of educational programmes that people of all ages can interact with and enjoy.

Address: 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203

Kelton House Museum & Garden

This Greek revival/Italianate mansion located right in the heart of downtown Columbus is a great place for people to check out some historic architecture, vintage furniture, and get a greater sense of what historic Columbus might have actually looked like for the city’s wealthy elite.

Address: 586 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215

Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum

Fans of vintage cars will love the Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum – showcasing some of the most beautiful and iconic cars from the history of the American automobile industry, and allowing visitors to see and experience some of these magnificent machines up close and personal.

They really don’t make them like this anymore!

Address: 476 E Kossuth St, Columbus, OH 43206

Ohio Railway Museum

Last but not least, we have the Ohio Railway Museum – a museum that, as its name suggests, pays fitting tribute to the industrial history of the railroad within the state.

Address: 990 Proprietors Rd, Worthington, OH 43085

The Culture Of Columbus

As you might have gathered from the above article, the city of Columbus very much has its own distinct personality – one that extends itself to all aspects of daily life. As such, there are numerous spots around the city where people can enjoy great entertainment, great food, and great alcohol.

Entertainment

Within Columbus there are numerous things people can do to stay entertained – be it during the day or of an evening. This includes venues, theaters, and much more – each showcasing some of the best and brightest performers in the region.

Comedy fans should check out the Columbus Funny Bone or the Attic Comedy Club for some great laughs. Likewise, theater fans should visit the Lincoln Theater, Palace Theater, and the Southern Theater for some of the best shows and entertainment around.

Food

Columbus also has some of the best restaurants in the country – both those that celebrate Germanic/European cuisine that is close to the hearts of Wisconsinites, and cuisine from all around the world.

For great German cuisine, why not check out Schmidt’s Sausage Haus, or Pies and Pints for some of the best – you guessed it – pizza pies and beer in the city.

Nightlife

Bars, pubs, and nightclubs galore, Columbus really has it all – offering a little bit to suit everyone’s palette, and offering a great selection of places to spend time with friends and family.

Final Thoughts

It is certainly true that, within the fabric of the United States, that Columbus is an underrated city, and one that doesn’t get the attention it deserves. However, as this article highlights, Columbus is a city with much to offer both tourists and locals alike – not least of which being the wealth of craft spirit distilleries that are located within the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Now that we know a little more about Columbus, Ohio, and what the city has to offer in terms of sightseeing and distilleries, it is now time to answer some frequently asked questions that you might be interested in.

Is Columbus Expensive?

Columbus, Ohio, is actually not considered an expensive city, with most aspects of living cost being well below the national average.

Is Columbus Safe?

Columbus, Ohio, is also known to be quite a safe city, with some of the lowest crime rates in the region.