Columbus, Ohio, has long been lauded for its unwavering spirit, rich history, and thriving arts scene. Now, there’s a new player in town, redefining the way visitors can experience the “Arch City.”
Situated within the historic Franklinton Arts District, The Junto occupies a prime spot in the brand-new locale known as The Peninsula. This up-and-coming expanse is being hailed as “Columbus’ next great neighborhood,” and The Junto is right at its epicenter.
Upon walking across the tiled entryway laid with the hotel’s name, guests immediately find themselves in The Trade Room, a compelling take on the standard hotel lobby. Drawing inspiration from Benjamin Franklin’s Junto Club –– a diverse group of individuals interested in self-improvement and meaningful conversation from which the property name is derived –– this gathering space bestows both locals and travelers alike with communal work environs by day and a buzzy watering hole by night. It is here where “Trade Room Talks” talk place: an inimitable evening for visitors to engage with local influential cultural voices.
Distinct accommodations provide guests with inviting quarters to rest and recharge. Ranging from standard accommodations to downtown lofts to bunk rooms, and even an expansive apartment, the 198 rooms and suites truly present a stay for every traveler. Bright hallways give way to tranquil, blue-hued lodgings adorned with touches of mid-century and industrial design elements.
An array of on-site gastronomic concepts are sure to please. Start the morning at Maudine’s, the coffee shop named for Ohio State’s 1926 homecoming queen–er, cow–serving quick bites, espresso, and dairy-free lattes within cattle-themed digs.
Named for its location a “little west” from Downtown, Little West Tavern is the lobby tavern serving wood hearth-fired select cuts and a range of classic pours. Take an elevator up to Brass Eye, the grand rooftop bar boasting sweeping city skyline views. Unpretentious and energetic, drinkers’ choices are served from their imbibing bible, The Drinker’s Dictionary.
Late-night cravings can be satisfied at The Little West Poutine Window. The Junto Owner, Jim Merkel, was keen on the addition of this walk-up spot to bring the taste of Canadian poutine to Columbus’ dining scene.
Whether seeking adventure, history, or simply looking for a memorable visit to Columbus, The Junto is the ideal place to “come together.” Allow this hotel to be the gateway to explore all that Columbus has to offer.
Top Takeaways
Location: Columbus, Ohio
Star-Rating: Four-Star
The Vibe: General Manager Jason Delcamp says it best: “If you like a fire pit and a cold beer, we’ve got you covered.”
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: Adventure seekers will delight in accessing the Gear Garage, which provides complimentary access to a variety of equipment ranging from bikes and kayaks to scooters, skateboards, GoPros, picnic kits, adventure backpacks, Polaroid cameras, and even a record player.
Food + Drink: The Junto has three unique food and beverage spaces. Little West Tavern is a wood-hearth neighborhood tavern. Brass Eye is the hotel’s elevated yet unpretentious rooftop bar. Named for the OSU 1926 homecoming queen, Maudine the Cow, Maudine’s is the eccentric lobby coffee shop and café.
Any Neighborhood Recs? Situated within the brand-new area known as The Peninsula––coined “Columbus’ next great neighborhood”––The Junto is strategically positioned between Downtown and the Franklinton Arts District. Days can be spent popping in and out of galleries, breweries, and beer gardens, where travelers may even stumble upon food trucks such as Ray Ray’s Hog Pit.
Amenities: Poutine window; Outdoor fireplaces; Picnic area; Sun terraces and garden; Pets allowed; 5 on-site restaurants; Fitness center; Gear Garage
What’s Nearby: Center of Science and History (COSI); Franklinton Art Walk; Dodge Park; Land-Grant Brewing Company and Beer Garden; Dorrian Green; Genoa Park
Rooms: This new-build property hosts 198 guest rooms.
Pricing: Rates begin at $197/night.
Closest Airport: John Glenn Columbus International Airport
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