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

By: Alexander Backus
Updated: June 24, 2023

When you travel as an 18-year-old, you need to make sure you'll be able to find a hotel room for your stay. This guide will give you the information you need as an 18-year-old before looking for a hotel in Columbus.

Hotels in Columbus with 18+ Check-in

Check out these hotels if you’re looking for a Columbus hotel with an 18+ check-in:

1. Drury Inn & Suites Columbus Polaris

Located 12 miles from the Ohio Historical Center, Drury Inn & Suites Columbus Polaris is two blocks away from the convention center.

Free WiFi is available for guests, and all rooms are equipped with an LCD TV, microwave, and refrigerator. An iron and ironing board are also available.

The hotel offers a hot tub, indoor pool, and 24-hr fitness center. Breakfast is served daily, and the three-star hotels offer guests a chance to relax in the hot tub.

  • Pet-friendly
  • Bar
  • Swimming pool
  • Close to attractions

2. Drury Inn & Suites Columbus Convention Center

Drury Inn & Suites Columbus Convention Center is a short walk away from the convention center.

All rooms are equipped with A microwave, refrigerator, flat-screen TV, and sofa bed.

Free popcorn and sodas are served daily in the lobby. Guests can also enjoy several nearby restaurants.

The Ohio State University is 10 minutes, and Goodale Park is a 10-minute walk from the hotel.

  • Swimming pool
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Onsite parking

3. The Urban 

Experience modern urban living at its finest in this stylish hotel. Its contemporary design, upscale amenities, and vibrant atmosphere offer a unique and memorable stay in a prime location.

  • Rooftop bar 
  • On-site restaurant serving contemporary cuisine
  • Fitness center and wellness facilities
  • Stylish event spaces 

4. Graduate Columbus

The Italian Village is a nine-minute walk away from the Graduate Columbus.

The four-star hotel offers luggage storage space, free WiFi, a fitness center, and express check-in and check-out.

All rooms are equipped with air conditioning and a flat-screen TV. Guest rooms also boast a sitting area and desk.

The BalletMet and Ohio Theater are less than two miles away from the property.

  • Restaurant
  • Fitness Center
  • Pet-friendly
  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Onsite parking

5. Motel 6- Columbus, OH- West 

Discover comfort and affordability at this convenient motel. Offering clean and comfortable rooms, friendly service, and easy access to local attractions, it's an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers.

  • Pet-friendly accommodations
  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Free Wi-Fi access
  • Ample parking space

6. Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Columbus - Ohio State University OSU

The Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Columbus - Ohio State University is right next to the university and includes amenities such as:

  • Pet-friendly
  • Free WiFi throughout the hotel
  • Free Parking
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Outdoor fireplace and picnic area
  • In-room coffee machine
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke-free property with a designated smoking area
  • Disability accessible rooms

7. Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Columbus Downtown - Convention Center

Located right near the Columbus Convention Center and around four miles from Ohio State University, this Red Roof Inn PLUS+ hotel features:

  • City view
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Free WiFi in all areas of the hotel
  • In-room coffee machine, microwave, and refrigerator
  • Pet-friendly
  • Private parking for a fee
  • Wake-up service
  • Room service
  • Fitness center
  • Smoke-free except for a designated smoking area

8. Hilton Columbus Downtown

Located in the heart of downtown Colombus, the Hilton Columbus Downtown is only 11 minutes from the airport and 2 miles away from Ohio State University. This hotel features:

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Pool
  • Free WiFi
  • Parking available for a fee
  • Fitness center
  • Bicycle rentals
  • Restaurant, bar, and coffee shop on-site
  • Laundry and dry-cleaning services
  • On-site convenience store
  • Room service
  • Vending machines
  • Disability accessible

9. Days Inn by Wyndham Columbus East Airport 

Enjoy a pleasant stay at this welcoming hotel. With comfortable accommodations, complimentary breakfast, and a location near the airport and popular destinations, it's perfect for leisure and business travelers.

  • Business center 
  • 24-hour front desk assistance
  • On-site vending machines for snacks and beverages
  • Guest laundry facilities

10. Motel 6 - Columbus, OH OSU

The Motel 6- Columbus, OH is one mile from Ohio State University and just eight miles away from downtown Columbus. This hotel features:

  • A pet-friendly policy
  • Free WiFi
  • Bathtubs
  • 24-hour front desk
  • In-room coffee maker
  • Fitness Center
  • Smoking and non-smoking rooms
  • Vending machines
  • Wheelchair accessibility

11. Mint House Columbus - Capitol Square

Mint House Columbus - Capitol Square is 650 feet from City Center and 1,300 feet from Ohio Theater.

All rooms include equipped kitchens.

  • Free WiFi
  • Close to the Brewery District
  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Facilities accommodate disabled guests

12. Red Roof Inn Columbus- Ohio State Fairgrounds 

Stay in style and comfort at this well-appointed hotel. Featuring modern rooms, friendly staff, and a prime location near the Ohio State Fairgrounds, it offers convenience and value for your Columbus stay.

  • Complimentary coffee and tea in the lobby
  • Outdoor picnic area
  • On-site convenience store
  • Easy access to major highways 

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

You must be at least 18 to rent a room in most hotels in Columbus, Ohio. Always check the hotel’s policy before booking a room, however. Hotels can set their policies and often have a minimum check-in age of 21.

Alternatives to Hotels for 18-Year-Olds

If you can’t find a standard hotel that works for you, luckily, there are a couple of other options. 

Airbnb

Airbnb is an excellent alternative if none of these hotels work for you. They are also great if you are looking for a room in a specific part of Columbus. 

Airbnb hosts get to set their age requirement policies, and you should always check those policies, but most hosts allow guests 18+ to check-in.

Experience the real Columbus, OH, and stay somewhere with a little character and personal flair!

Hostels

Youth hostels are another excellent option for finding a place to stay as an 18-year-old. Hostels often cater to younger people and are usually in downtown areas and near popular attractions. 

The upside is that hostels are cheaper than hotels and you will likely meet other people from all over the world! Some hostels even schedule group activities and group meals in their kitchen.

The downside is that hostel rooms are usually dorm-style, with shared bathrooms. If you are staying in a hostel, there is typically a locker or locked drawer to keep your items during your stay. 

Some hostels do have private rooms available for a higher rate. You’ll have a little more privacy and usually still spend a little less than you would for a standard hotel room. 

FAQs

If you have any more questions about checking into hotels at the age of 18 in Columbus, these frequently asked questions might help. 

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

You will need to present your I.D. to check in to any hotel. Check with the hotel if you have any questions about acceptable forms of identification. 

Will I need a credit card to check in as an 18-year-old?

Most hotels require you to present a credit card at check-in even if you have already paid for the room online. They want to ensure payment for any charges you incur, from room service to damage.

Is it legal for an 18-year-old to check in to a hotel in Columbus?

It is legal for an 18-year-old to check in to a hotel, depending on the hotel’s policy. 

Why do some hotels in Columbus have an age requirement of 21?

Some hotels have a higher age requirement because of insurance rates or legal liability issues of underage drinking or irresponsible behavior usually associated with younger guests. 

Find under 21 hotels in other cities in Ohio: