Columbus Ohio

OAAPN’s 30th Annual Statewide Conference will be held in Columbus, Ohio on October, 21-23, 2021, at the Hyatt Regency and Columbus Convention Center. We are thrilled to be back this year with an in-person event for the Statewide Conference, once again located in the heart of downtown Columbus and just steps away from food, entertainment, and shopping.

While the Statewide Conference will have plenty of opportunities for learning, networking, and fun, our host city of Columbus also has plenty to explore and enjoy while you are in town.

Columbus, Ohio is an easy, walkable convention destination with hip galleries, shops, dining, nightlife, sports, and hotels just steps from the convention center in the Short North Arts District and the Arena District. Other downtown districts, including German Village, the Brewery District, and the Theatre District are within 10 blocks. 

How to Get Around

Taxis and Uber drivers are easily accessible or for those looking for a little exercise, the CoGo Bike Program is a great way to get around downtown. The CoGo Network spans 300+ bicycles and 30 stations located throughout downtown Columbus, including a station right in front of the convention center. The bikes are available for use 24 hours/day, 365 days/year with unlimited 30-minute rides with a 24-hour pass that costs $8. 

Where to Eat 

Rapidly gaining a reputation as an up-and-coming culinary destination, Columbus is home to a thriving restaurant scene. Dining options here are known for their creativity, diversity, and one-of-a-kind experiences, from classic diner fare to fine dining and offbeat, ethnic, and funky cafes.  Check out this Map of Downtown Restaurants and Bars for a list of restaurants close to the Convention Center, or visit Experience Columbus for a look at the restaurant scene throughout the city. 

We should note that we definitely recommend The North Market, which is a must for foodies. It is the perfect spot to take your team for lunch, giving everyone tons of options to choose from. You’ll find an eclectic mix of more than 30 independently owned small businesses offering a wide variety of foods, drinks, and gifts. Truly a one-stop-shop not to be missed.

We also recommend a visit to the Short North Arts District. Hip and colorful, the Short North is decorated with murals and bustling with local shops, bars, and restaurants, this is the perfect place for a morning bite and a great cup of coffee.

Delivery, Please! 

Feel like staying in to eat? Whether you are looking for a pub-like experience or a more elevated lounge atmosphere, the Hyatt has multiple dining options on-site so you can keep things simple. Of course, delivery is always an option with literally hundreds of restaurants at your fingertips through a variety of services, including GrubHub, UberEats, DoorDash, and ClusterTruck.

This is just a sampling of what Columbus has to offer, and we hope that you will take the time to explore the city while you are attending the OAAPN Statewide Conference. Check out everything you need to know about the Statewide Conference and register today!