[2023 GUIDE] The Best Places for Shopping in Columbus

Shopping in Columbus offers a unique shopping experience thanks to its strategic location. Within a day’s drive of more than half the U.S. population, it is the ideal spot for major fashion brands to set up their national headquarters. Express, Abercrombie & Fitch, Eloquii, Designer Brands (DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse), Victoria’s Secret & Co., Bath & Body Works, Inc., and more are among those that call Columbus home. 

Once designers have honed their skills at one of the major fashion brands, they often open their storefronts in one of Columbus’ unique neighborhoods. There, shoppers can find the latest styles, vintage gems, and other unique items in carefully curated boutiques, jewelers, floral shops, toy stores, and modern general stores.

Columbus has it all when it comes to fashion and shopping. From big-name brands to boutique experiences, the city has something for everyone.

The Best Places for Shopping in Columbus

1. Easton

Visit Easton, the premier shopping and entertainment destination, only 15 minutes east of downtown Columbus. Experience a two-story state-of-the-arcade, a world-class comedy club, a sizzling burlesque club, a virtual reality adventure, or a movie. Pamper yourself with a massage, a facial, a blowout, a mani-pedi, or a float. Choose from four hotels within walking distance of 250+ retailers and restaurants.

Easton is home to over 200 stores, including national and local favorites like Nordstrom, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Apple, Aritzia, LL Bean, Dick’s Sporting Goods, American Girl, Crate & Barrel, Tiffany & Co., Abercrombie & Fitch, Express, Victoria’s Secret, Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant, Brio Tuscan Grille, The Cheesecake Factory and many more. Chain Store Age magazine named Easton the #1 Retail Experience in America for three years, and USA Today called it the “Rodeo Drive of the Midwest.”

Easton offers something for everyone and an enjoyable shopping experience. Walk around and enjoy the multiple outdoor fountains, art installations, and more. Grab a decadent coffee and stroll for hours. To plan your trip, visit EastonTownCenter.com and learn more about this amazing destination!

2. Polaris Fashion Place

Polaris Fashion Place is a premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destination just off I-71, north of downtown Columbus. It is convenient to both urban and suburban areas in Central Ohio. With over 150 retailers, including anchors like Sak’s Fifth Avenue, Macy’s, and Von Maur, as well as specialty retailers such as Madewell, Swarovski, lululemon, J. Crew, and The Art of Shaving, this indoor mall with an outdoor lifestyle center is sure to have something for everyone!

After a day of shopping, visitors can choose from first-class restaurants such as Benihana, Cameron Mitchell’s Molly Woo’s, Cantina Loreto, and BRIO Tuscan Grille. Salons are also available throughout the mall. For a night out with friends, Dave & Buster’s, The Pub, and The Brass Tap are all great places to meet up and have a good time. 

Polaris Fashion Place is also fun for the entire family! There is a soft sculpture play area and a number of kids’ stores, including The Disney Store, Pottery Barn Kids, and Barnes & Noble, that host events regularly.

3. Tanger Outlets Columbus

Shop outlets, shop Tanger!  Experience incredible savings and head-turning style at over 70 brand-name and designer stores.  Shop confidently, knowing you’ll always find the best price at Tanger Outlets. 

4. Upper Arlington Farmers Market

Head to the Get Fresh Upper Arlington Farmers Market for a mid-week treat! You will find plenty of fresh produce, pre-packaged food, and plants there. The market takes place rain or shine and is piloting a new “Neighbor Foods” program. On the first market of the month, patrons have the opportunity to “buy another” for a neighbor in need. All contributions will be distributed at the First Community Church Heart to Heart Food Pantry the following day.

5. Bexley Farmers Market

The Bexley Farmers Market is entering its 12th season, becoming a Thursday tradition for local shoppers. The market has received strong support from the community, making it a popular destination. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, as well as live music and a variety of food options. 

The market also offers a wide selection of fresh produce, artisan jams, baked goods, and other items straight from the farm. It is the perfect place to bring family or friends and stock up on delicious local goods.

6. Pearl Market 

Pearl Market was originally established in the 1990s by local farmers to provide transit users and downtown workers easy access to fresh, affordable produce. In the early 2000s, the market expanded to include local artisans. This has transformed the historic Pearl Alley into an almost festive atmosphere. Residents and visitors alike can browse through a selection of healthy, farm-fresh foods and innovative foods.

7. Hilliard Farm Market

The local farmer’s market is a vibrant and bustling place. Vendors provide various goods and products weekly, from cakes and sauces to flowers and honey. Root beer floats, fish, and cheese are also commonly found. 

At the Farm Market Info tent, customers can use their EBT card to purchase tokens, which can be exchanged for approved products. Customers can refer to the list of eligible vendors and products to determine which items are eligible for SNAP benefits.

8. Short North Arts District

The Short North Arts District is the perfect destination for anyone looking to discover something unique. This neighborhood boasts a wide array of small businesses, with locally-run and operated storefronts offering something for everyone. The Short North Arts District has everything from new and upcoming styles to vintage items, beautiful jewelry, fresh flowers, one-of-a-kind toys, fashion and furniture, antiques, and art. 

Once you’ve finished shopping, the district offers plenty of other activities to explore. Enjoy dining, nightlife, and all the other great things the district has to offer.

9. German Village

Columbus’ German Village neighborhood is a unique area filled with historic homes and structures built in the 1800s, green space, and German and American restaurants. One of the most popular shopping spots is the Book Loft, a 32-room storefront that has been around for decades. It is filled with books of all kinds. Additionally, the neighborhood is home to Helen Winnemore’s, an American-style craft store.

For those looking to learn more about the area’s history, tours of German Village are offered. Alternatively, the adjacent brewery district offers local beers for visitors to try.

10. Pursuit

Pursuit offers high-quality suits for ambitious individuals looking to look their best. The selection includes modern and formal styles for both men and women. What sets Pursuit apart from other suit retailers is the personalized shopping experience they provide. Customers can expect to be treated like they are befriending the clerk who assisted them.