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Olentangy Motor Inn

2.0 star property
Hotel near Ohio State University in Columbus

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Olentangy Motor Inn

Exterior
Coffee service
Exterior
Premium bedding, individually furnished, free WiFi, bed sheets
Premium bedding, individually furnished, free WiFi, bed sheets

Popular amenities

  • 24/7 front desk
  • Air conditioning
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
1445 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH, 43212
  • Ohio Stadium
    ‪19 min walk‬
  • Ohio State University
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Greater Columbus Convention Center
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)
    ‪14 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Double Beds

Premium bedding, individually furnished, free WiFi, bed sheets

Standard Room, 2 Double Beds

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(75 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible

Premium bedding, individually furnished, free WiFi, bed sheets

Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible

7.4 out of 10
Good
(12 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Standard Room, 2 Double Beds

Premium bedding, individually furnished, free WiFi, bed sheets

Standard Room, 2 Double Beds

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(17 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for Room, 2 Double Beds, Accessible

Room, 2 Double Beds, Accessible | Premium bedding, individually furnished, free WiFi, bed sheets

Room, 2 Double Beds, Accessible

8.2 out of 10
Very good
(10 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for Standard Room, 1 King Bed

Premium bedding, individually furnished, free WiFi, bed sheets

Standard Room, 1 King Bed

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(44 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

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About the neighborhood

Columbus

Grandview Heights stay.Your stay at this Grandview Heights hotel places you within 2 miles (3 km) of Ohio State University and Ohio Stadium. Olentangy Bike Path and Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center are also within 2 miles (3 km).

What's nearby

  • Ohio Stadium - 19 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • Schottenstein Center - 2 min drive - 1.3 miles
  • Nationwide Arena - 3 min drive - 2.0 miles
  • Ohio State University - 3 min drive - 1.1 miles
  • Greater Columbus Convention Center - 3 min drive - 2.2 miles

Getting around

  • John Glenn Columbus Intl. Airport (CMH) - 13 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Starbucks - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Chick-fil-A - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Natalie’s - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬10 min walk

About this property

Olentangy Motor Inn

Hotel near Ohio State University in Columbus
There's a coffee shop/cafe on site. Free breakfast is available daily. Free self parking is available. A complete renovation of Olentangy Motor Inn was completed in September 2023.

This Columbus hotel is smoke free.

  • 1 building
  • 55 guestrooms or units
  • 2 levels
  • Built in 1986
  • To-go breakfast (free)
  • Front desk (24 hours)
  • No smoking on site
  • Coffee shop
Olentangy Motor Inn offers 55 air-conditioned accommodations, which are accessible via exterior corridors and feature coffee/tea makers and hair dryers. Each accommodation is individually furnished. Beds feature premium bedding. Televisions come with premium cable channels. Bathrooms include showers.

Guests can surf the web using the complimentary wireless Internet access (speed: 25+ Mbps). Business-friendly amenities include phones along with free local calls (restrictions may apply). Housekeeping is provided on request.

Languages

English

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Aug 3 - Aug 4
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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 25+ Mbps

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site
  • RV/bus/truck parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available
  • Onsite parking includes off-street options

Food and drink

  • Free on-the-go breakfast available daily 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM
  • A coffee shop/cafe

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 4 accessible parking spaces
  • Assistive listening devices
  • Smooth flooring in public areas
  • Smooth flooring in room
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • 55-inch TV with premium cable channels

Bedroom

  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker

More

  • Access via exterior corridors
  • Air conditioning
  • Connecting rooms available
  • Free local calls
  • Heating
  • Individual furnishings
  • Mobile key entry
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Guests will receive an email within 7 days before arrival with check-in instructions; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 72 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
Prior to arrival, you must complete online registration via a secure link
You will be asked to provide the property with a copy of your government-issued photo ID after booking
A virtual front desk provides assistance to guests
This property enforces quiet hours from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • Pets: USD 10 per pet, per night (maximum USD 100 per stay)
  • Only dogs and cats are allowed
  • Maximum 1 (weight limit: 30 lbs per pet)
  • Pets cannot be left unattended
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Kids stay free! Children 12 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
  • Cribs (infant beds) are not available.

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • Pet fee: USD 10 per pet, per night (maximum USD 100 per stay)
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Noise-free guestrooms cannot be guaranteed
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A credit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Cash is not accepted. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. Noise-free guestrooms cannot be guaranteed. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector in each accommodation. Guests can access their rooms with a mobile device.

We should mention

  • Children 12 years old and younger stay free in the same room as the parent or guardian when using existing bedding.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed to be in guestrooms.
  • Connecting/adjoining rooms are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property at the number on your booking confirmation.
  • To make arrangements to bring your pet, contact the property directly at the number on your booking confirmation (please see the Fees section for related charges).

Property is also known as

Varsity Inn South Hotel
Varsity Inn South Hotel Columbus
Varsity South Columbus
Varsity Inn Columbus
Varsity Inn
Varsity Columbus
The Varsity Inn
Olentangy Motor Inn Hotel
Olentangy Motor Inn Columbus
Olentangy Motor Inn Hotel Columbus

Frequently asked questions

How close is Olentangy Motor Inn to the airport?

Olentangy Motor Inn is 8.9 mi (13-min drive) away from the John Glenn Columbus Intl. Airport (CMH) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at Olentangy Motor Inn?

As of Jul 22, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Olentangy Motor Inn on Jul 24, 2025 start from $120.0, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Does Olentangy Motor Inn have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at Olentangy Motor Inn.

Does Olentangy Motor Inn offer free breakfast?

Olentangy Motor Inn offers free on-the-go breakfast every day from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM.

Is there a casino at Olentangy Motor Inn?

No, there is no casino at this hotel, but Hollywood Casino (11-min drive) and Scioto Downs (15-min drive) are nearby.

What time is check-in at Olentangy Motor Inn?

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime.

Is there free parking at Olentangy Motor Inn?

This hotel offers free self parking.

Does Olentangy Motor Inn have a pool?

Olentangy Motor Inn does not have a pool.

Does Olentangy Motor Inn have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this hotel.

How close is Olentangy Motor Inn to downtown Columbus?

Olentangy Motor Inn is 2.4 mi away from Columbus.

Olentangy Motor Inn Reviews

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 722 out of 1060 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 221 out of 1060 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 69 out of 1060 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 22 out of 1060 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 26 out of 1060 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

8.6/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.8/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Bobby

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chris

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Janei

Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Terry

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alberta

Traveled with group
Escorted to room by staff as it was late at night Staff assisted with luggage transport Nice breakfast sandwich
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

bowen

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert, Batavia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jeff

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

Sherine

Traveled with family
Liked: Property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Ok for a quick overnight stop .

The motor inn was ok. The room was renovated and bed was comfortable. Breakfast was good - a sandwich and coffee from the coffee shop . The floors were not clean though and the night reception was ok but not friendly . Maybe it was late and she was tired but she didn’t smile once . Although I booked 2 rooms under one reservation with two names she wouldn’t have me check in for both . I was impressed that it had a good review rating so I booked it . But it’s overpriced in my opinion
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
10/10 We will definitely be staying here again!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service

No frills, clean accommodations

No frills, clean accommodations in a good location. Accessible to OSU, downtown along with sports and entertainment venues.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Randall

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice place
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Margaret

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Renovated Budget Gem Close to OSU

I stayed here all the time when it was the Varsity Inn, because it's so close to OSU campus (walkable) and restaurants, shops, and even a movie theatre. But it really started going downhill after a bit. Thankfully, new owners purchased it, gave it a much-needed facelift, AND added a legit coffee shop to the lobby (so now your stay comes with a free cup of coffee and a breakfast sandwich). The rooms are small but clean and stylish, and all include a mini-fridge, microwave, and a large screen TV. The beds & linens are comfy, and front desk staff are friendly (and will also make you a latte' :) ). And at budget prices, you really can't do better.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Larry

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice staff. Close to everything.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brennen

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Katherine

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
nice and quiet
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nicole

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amber

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Georgia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

6/10 Okay

amani

Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
The rooms seem to have been updated recently and were ok . But that’s about it. This is a typical motel. People were smoking on the opened hallway to the rooms. There is no front desk. We took our room keys from a lady in a back kitchen. The pillows were so bad and we woke up with severe neck pain. I would never stay at this place again. Should have paid the extra money and stayed at the neighboring regular decent hotels
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ricardo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great location. Perfect for a short stay near OSU!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jessica L

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great spot for equine affair

Super nice and convenient location! Near shops and close enough to the fairgrounds I didn’t feel the need to use the highway.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gwen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Love coffee and trains!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

mihelle

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Close to everything, room was nice and clean. Staff was wonderful.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025