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Olentangy Motor Inn

2.0 star property
Suburban hotel with free breakfast and a 24-hour front desk

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Olentangy Motor Inn

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

Reviews

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
1445 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH, 43212
  • Place, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Place, Ohio Stadium
    ‪19 min walk‬
  • Place, Ohio State University
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)
    ‪13 min drive‬

Room options

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)
  • 285 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Standard Room, 1 King Bed

Premium bedding, individually furnished, free WiFi, bed sheets

Standard Room, 1 King Bed

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(64 reviews)
  • 214 sq ft
  • 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

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(23 reviews)
  • 285 sq ft
  • 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

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(17 reviews)
  • 285 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

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
(92 reviews)
  • 285 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

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About the neighborhood

Columbus

Located in Grandview Heights within a mile (2 km) of Ohio Stadium, Olentangy Motor Inn is within 2 miles (3 km) of other popular sights such as Ohio State University. This 55-room hotel welcomes guests with free breakfast and conveniences like free in-room WiFi and free self parking.

What's nearby

  • Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center - 12 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • James Cancer Hospital - 14 min walk - 0.8 miles
  • Ohio Stadium - 19 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • Schottenstein Center - 2 min drive - 1.5 miles
  • Ohio State University - 3 min drive - 1.1 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Starbucks - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Chick-fil-A - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Natalie’s - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪GetGo - ‬11 min walk

About this property

Olentangy Motor Inn

Suburban hotel with free breakfast and a 24-hour front desk
You can take advantage of free parking if you drive. Front-desk staff are standing by 24/7 to assist with any requests.
Guests can expect free WiFi and 55-inch TVs with cable channels. Beds sport premium bedding and bathrooms offer hair dryers. Coffee makers and free local calls are also standard. Housekeeping is available on request.

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Exterior
The Blackwell Inn and Pfahl Conference Center
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
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  • Air conditioning
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, 1,339 reviews
$169 nightly
The price is $199
Jan 28 - Jan 29
Total with taxes and fees
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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

Restaurants on site

  • Crimson Cup

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (on request)

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

More

  • 1 building
  • 2 floors
  • Built in 1986
  • Renovated entire property - September 2023
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Traditional architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

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

Entertainment

  • 55-inch TV with premium cable channels

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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 10 per pet, per night (maximum USD 100 per stay)
  • Dogs and cats only
  • 1 total (30 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
  • Pets may not be left unsupervised
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, guests can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children 12 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

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

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

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

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
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM—-anytime
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. Driving? This property offers free self parking, along with RV, bus, and truck parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A credit card for incidental charges and a government-issued photo ID may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector.
  • Guests can access their rooms with a mobile device.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • Connecting or adjoining rooms can be requested, but all rooms are subject to availability. Contact the property using the phone number on your booking confirmation.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.
  • Noise-free rooms can't be guaranteed.

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

Are free cancellation options available at Olentangy Motor Inn?

Olentangy Motor Inn offers free cancellation on some room rates. For more details, take a look at the cancellation policy on our site.

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

As of Jan 22, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Olentangy Motor Inn on Jan 26, 2026 start from $110.0, 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.

What is there to do near Olentangy Motor Inn?

This hotel is situated in Grandview Heights, close to Ohio Stadium, Schottenstein Center, and Nationwide Arena. You'll also find COSI and Ohio Expo Center and State Fair within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at Olentangy Motor Inn?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the hotel. Accessible parking and RV/bus/truck parking are also available for guests.

Does Olentangy Motor Inn include a casino at the property?

No, Olentangy Motor Inn doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Olentangy Motor Inn?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Olentangy Motor Inn?

Couples staying at this hotel will appreciate amenities like premium bedding as well as a café and free breakfast.

Does Olentangy Motor Inn have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this hotel.

Does Olentangy Motor Inn have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, Olentangy Motor Inn serves free on-the-go breakfast at Crimson Cup each morning.

Does Olentangy Motor Inn allow pets to stay for free?

Although they can't stay for free, cats and dogs are welcome at Olentangy Motor Inn for a fee of USD 10 per pet, per night.

Does Olentangy Motor Inn have connecting rooms?

Yes, this hotel has connecting guestrooms you can book for your group event or vacation.

How far is the airport from Olentangy Motor Inn?

The closest major airport to Olentangy Motor Inn is John Glenn Columbus Intl. Airport (CMH), which is 8.9 mi away (13 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Olentangy Motor Inn?

No, at Olentangy Motor Inn, there aren't any guestrooms that list a balcony.

Olentangy Motor Inn Reviews

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 901 out of 1363 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 307 out of 1363 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 95 out of 1363 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 27 out of 1363 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 33 out of 1363 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

8.4/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

paul

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
The stay was excellent! The rooms were recently renovated so they were very comfortable. The bed was super comfortable as well!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

6/10 Okay

Robet

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
The room was clean and comfortable nothing special but the shower head a very small lip on it and water leaked out onto the floor design not so good mom
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Nate

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Ashley

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Older hotel, but they have done a great job updating it! Location is great, very close to so much! Staff was friendly. They have a cute coffee shop in the lobby and you get a complimentary breakfast sandwich & coffee from there for your breakfast. My only complaints are it could be cleaner, not that it was horrible, and the trashcans need to be larger, you can barely fit anything in them.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paula

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Nice, clean and a great location. Only four minutes away from OSU hospital which is where I needed to go.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Susan

Room
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Very clean room. Excellent service.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Eli

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Disliked: Staff & service
Good for a no frills motor inn. Not a lot of service to speak of, front desk is run by kids who are doubling as coffee shop employees. Breakfast sandwiches were tasty. Cleaner and more comfortable than your average motor inn. Location was walkable to campus and Short North area which is nice.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

2/10 Terrible

Stefanie

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
I didn’t stay here! I accidentally booked a reservation and called IMMEDIATELY to request it be canceled (I’m talking within 60 SECONDS!) and this hotel REFUSED to cancel. This hotel has zero compassion or understanding. Sad thing is that I HAVE stayed here before and had no issues. I will make sure anyone I know never sets foot there again!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brian

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Our stay went really well! Although we did not spend a lot of time at the hotel, it was very clean and appears to have been remodeled not too long ago. For an older hotel, I think they did a great job on the remodel. The room looked 100% redone, and not just a partial like yo might see elsewhere. Breakfast was hot and free even though they had a small coffee shop business there too. I would stay there again for sure.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Alex

Liked: Property conditions & facilities
We had a great stay overall! This is a charming, budget-friendly spot with everything you need if you’re not planning to spend a ton of time in your room. The space has been updated, the location is super convenient for getting into downtown Columbus, and the breakfast is a pleasant surprise — especially the coffee, which was genuinely excellent. We also appreciated the complimentary sandwich and coffee voucher. However, cleanliness was a concern. The floors were extremely dirty — after walking across the room once, the bottoms of our feet were black, and the shower mat picked up a lot of dirt as well. The linens were also on the thin, scratchy side. I’d recommend bringing a pair of flip-flops or slippers for the room and maybe an extra blanket for comfort. With just a little more attention to cleaning and comfort, this would be a fantastic stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shannon

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Gabriel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Trisha

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

10/10 Excellent

Robin

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

jay

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Niceeeeeeee place
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michelle

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great place to stay.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Catherine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Easy check in with helpful staff
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Julie

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Clean room and convenient. Right near railroad tracks don’t did get a bit loud. Breakfast was a free small coffee and breakfast sandwich that they didn’t offer up when I checked out. They also didn’t provide the wifi password until I searched down a staff member to hide it to me. I thought the information would have been in the room. Room was fine for what I needed but felt the description was a bit exaggerated.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

James

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Amenities
Room was ok. Huge TV was great. Staff was very friendly, especially Seth.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen, Lecanto

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

10/10 Excellent

Dorothy

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Yes safe with easy parking.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Benjamin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nice hotel for a good price
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Miranda

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

10/10 Excellent

Lori

Traveled with pets, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Easy parking, very quiet and friendly staff
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

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