Ohio State University’s campus is located next to the capital of Ohio, Columbus. This vibrant city and campus provide football fans with countless bars and restaurants to cheer on the Buckeyes each game day in the Fall.
These spots are a must-visit for students, parents and visitors. They all have unique characteristics that differentiate them from one another. Whether you stay for the game or go before or after, you are sure to have a great time.
Read Next: 5 Best Coffee Shops in Columbus Near the Ohio State University
We’ve compiled a list of what we consider to be the best Ohio State tailgate spots for the next time you’re looking for a place to cheer on the Buckeyes!
Best Ohio State Tailgate Spots: Restaurants, Bars and More
1. Varsity Club Restaurant and Bar
Photo courtesy of Varsity Club Restaurant and Bar
Photo courtesy of Varsity Club Restaurant and BarAddress: 278 W Lane Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
Distance from Rambler: 2-minute walk
Varsity Club Restaurant and Bar is an iconic spot that has been a Columbus staple for decades. This is a very popular choice among alumni because of the nostalgic feel. It is only appropriate to grab a bucket of beer at the tailgate with your friends and parents to prepare for the game!
2. The O on Lane
- Photo courtesy of The O on Lane
Photo courtesy of The O on LaneAddress: 352 W Lane Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
Distance from Rambler: 5-minute walk
THE O ON LANE is a family owned and operated restaurant just two blocks away from Rambler. Every home game they have live music to kick off game day. Stop by for a bite and beverage on your way to the Shoe!
3. The Library Bar
- Photo courtesy of The Library Bar & Patio
Photo courtesy of The Library Bar & PatioAddress: 2169 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201
Distance from Rambler: 8-minute walk
The Library Bar is the only library you should be at on a Saturday in Columbus. Tucked on North Campus, this bar has been around since Woody was our football coach. Try their infamous Jello Shots and Library Light Beer!
4. Cazuelas Mexican Cantina
Address: 2321 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202
Distance from Rambler: 12-minute walk
Cazuelas Mexican Cantina offers incredible authentic Mexican cuisine, a must-visit for visitors and locals. Their jumbo margaritas are a great choice to fuel your excitement while cheering on the Buckeyes. Plus, they have a spacious patio to fit lots of fans.
5. Barrio Tacos
Address: 1870 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201
Distance from Rambler: 15-minute walk
Barrio Tacos is a trendy Mexican restaurant located in the center of High Street. They have an impressive array of high-quality ingredients, allowing customers to create just about any taco they desire. This is a hot spot for Greek Life because many of their houses are located nearby.
Read Next: Where Do OSU Students Live: Alternatives to Greek Housing
6. Midway On High
- Photo courtesy of Midway on High
Photo courtesy of Midway on HighAddress: 1728 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201
Distance from Rambler: 4-minute drive
Midway On High is a popular spot in Columbus, known for its vibrant atmosphere and their unique specialty drink, “Midway Milk.” Whether you prefer to sit indoors or outdoors, the bar offers a lively and enjoyable experience. Located across the street from The Ohio State Union, it’s a convenient location for those looking to start their Saturday with a tailgate.
7. The Big Bar and Grill
- Photo courtesy of Big Bar Columbus
Photo courtesy of Big Bar ColumbusAddress: 1716 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201
Distance from Rambler: 4-minute drive
The Big Bar and Grill has some of the best game day deals Columbus has ever seen. This place is perfect for moving and grooving, whether it be on their rooftop bar or inside the venue. Don’t miss Big Bar on the next OSU game day.
8. Ethyl & Tank
Address: 19 E 13th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
Distance from Rambler: 5-minute drive
Ethyl & Tank is the best choice in Columbus for breakfast food and bottomless mimosas. They are known for fast and friendly customer service, so you can start your game day off right. Go with a group of friends, their diverse menu offers options for everyone!
9. Leos on the Alley
- Photo courtesy of Leos on the Alley
Photo courtesy of Leos on the AlleyAddress: 25 Chittenden Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
Distance from Rambler: 5-minute drive
Leos on the Alley is on the corner of Chittenden Avenue, near the heart of South Campus. Popular with upperclassmen, this bar is a chill hangout where you may find yourself in an intense card game. This tailgate spot has many televisions, making it a great spot to watch the game.
10. Forno Kitchen + Bar
- Photo courtesy of Forno Kitchen and Bar
Address: 721 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Distance from Rambler: 9-minute drive
Forno Kitchen + Bar stands out as the ultimate choice for an Italian restaurant to bring guests and family for a classier tailgate. Their selection of cocktails and woodfire pizzas is mouthwatering. Situated in the heart of the Short North, this spot is highly sought after, so be sure to make your reservation well in advance.
We hope that this list gets you excited for Ohio State tailgates and game days! Each restaurant and bar offers a unique tailgate experience, making it hard not to visit all of them before you graduate.
Whether you’re an OSU student or a parent or visitor in town for the football game, be sure to take some time to explore all that Columbus has to offer! Check out our article on the 10 Best Things to Do in Columbus Near OSU for inspiration.
Please contact our leasing office if you have any questions about Rambler or off-campus housing in Columbus – we are happy to help!
