Hotels in Ohio That Allow 18-Year-Olds to Check-In

By: Alexander Backus
Updated: March 23, 2024

If you are under 21, finding a hotel that will allow you to check in can be tricky, and you don’t want to scramble at the last minute.

This guide will give you all the information you need to find the right hotel. Below are the hotels in Ohio that allow 18-year-olds to check-in.

Hotels in Ohio with 18+ Check-In

1. Columbus

3 Star Hotels:

2. Cleveland

3 Star Hotels:

How Old Do You Have to Be To Rent A Hotel Room in Ohio?

You have to be at least 18 years old to rent a hotel room in Ohio. While it’s technically legal to check into a hotel while 18, hotels set their own policies, and most have a minimum check-in age of 21. 

So book from the above list of 18+ hotels, all of which welcome guests under 21.

FAQs

Will I need an I.D. to check in as an 18-year-old?

You will need an I.D. to check into a hotel. If you don't have a state-issued I.D. card or driver's license, contact the hotel to see if they'll accept other forms of identification. They want to make sure you are who you say you are and that you are, in fact, 18.

Will I need a credit card to check in?

Hotels will request a credit card upon check-in, even if you've already paid for the room online.

Most hotels will accept debit cards if you don't have a credit card. They just want to make sure you're going to pay for any damages or room services. 

Can you get a hotel at 18 in Ohio? Is it legal?

Legally, yes, an 18-year-old can get a hotel room unless the hotel's policy specifies otherwise.

Remember, hotels can set their own minimum check-in age, so they don't have to rent a room to an 18-year-old, even if it is legal for them to do so. 

Why do most hotels in Ohio have an age requirement of 21?

There are a limited number of hotels for 18-year-olds, and hotels are aware that while 18-year-olds are no longer minors, the legal drinking age is 21. 

Underage drinking puts the property at risk of damage, and it also puts them at risk of legal problems. Because of these increased risks, their insurance policies can be larger if they allow 18-year-olds to check in. 

Alternatives to Hotels for 18-Year-Olds

Here are a few hotel alternatives if you can't find a nearby hotel that meets your needs.

Airbnb

Like hotels, Airbnb hosts do get to set their own age requirements. Most of the hosts will allow 18-year-olds to check-in. Double-check a host's policy so you're not left out in the cold. 

Airbnbs will give you a more personal experience but can be as expensive or more expensive than a hotel. 

Hostels

Youth hostels exist primarily to cater to younger guests who cannot check into standard hotels or who are looking for cheaper alternatives.

Because hostels are meant for youth travelers, they are usually located downtown or somewhere of particular interest. You will save money at a hostel, but they aren't going to be as private or comfortable as a hotel room.