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Olentangy Motor Inn

2.0 star property

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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

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

7.6 out of 10
Good
(17 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
(67 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
(24 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
(99 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

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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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 Mar 12, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Olentangy Motor Inn on Mar 15, 2026 start from $130, including 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 within a short 15-minute walk of Olentangy Bike Path. You'll also find Ohio Stadium and Schottenstein Center within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at Olentangy Motor Inn?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the hotel. Wheelchair-accessible van 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 amenities will couples enjoy at Olentangy Motor Inn?

Couples staying at this hotel will appreciate amenities like premium bedding as well as a coffee shop/cafe and a free daily breakfast.

Are there hot tubs at Olentangy Motor Inn?

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.

Are there connecting rooms at Olentangy Motor Inn?

Yes, this hotel has connecting rooms 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, you won't find guestrooms with balconies at Olentangy Motor Inn.

Olentangy Motor Inn Reviews

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 927 out of 1405 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 317 out of 1405 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 98 out of 1405 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 30 out of 1405 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 33 out of 1405 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

8/10 Good

Kia

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The room was nice for a quick stay. There is a train that comes by every now and then.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Charles

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The great: affordable in a busy area. Generally safe and well lit. Rooms were fresh and looked great. Showers amazing. Free Breakfast sandwiches in the morning AMAZING! The not so great: mattresses were super firm and in unit thermostat served to fluctuate all night. Then around 5 am there was a rumbling and shaking ( it was a train somewhere nearby, didn’t even notice tracks) but it was very loud.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kara

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The location of the hotel is fantastic. Close to shopping and restaurants and DT Columbus. The room was clean and the beds were comfortable. Loved the breakfast sandwiches.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Melissa

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Staff was friendly, the space was clean and quiet
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

CHARLES

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Room was clean and spacious. Breakfast sandwich was excellent. I have been staying in Columbus once a week for the past 3 months for visits at the James. This place has been the only place I have stayed that the place was worth the money I paid.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Scott

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Deborah

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Frankie

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The check in with the staff was flawless. My son and I were spending the weekend at Galaxycon in Columbus, OH. We were traveling from out of town and really did not want to have to wait to check in at the normal time of 4pm. So we called and we were able to explain our situation and our itinerary for the day. Without hesitation we were able to get checked in early. The room was pristine. Very clean, smelled good and over all a great room 2 doors down from the office. We felt wanted and safe. I would certainly stay here again and I encourage others to do so as well.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Sarah

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
We enjoyed our stay - clean, friendly staff, easy parking and great breakfast sandwich and coffee too. Took off one star because our room was at the very back next to the train tracks and the train noise woke me up a couple of times. But we would stay here again for sure!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Older Updated motel. Clean. Staff was wonderful!!!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Vince

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

10/10 Excellent

Karen

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Free breakfast and coffee! Room was clean!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Susan

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Excellent handicapped room. Great room for the price. It was clean.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jenevieve, Arlington

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very clean, well appointed, cute and friendly staff.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Harry

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Good place to stay for a Buckeyes game
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Rod

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness
The hotel is clean and up to date but is kinda noisy
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Deborah

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Yes and yes!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrew, Maumee

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean updated rooms, Staff was excellent and parking was easy. There is a train in the back nearby that was a little noisy but did not come through often. Parking was good. Breakfast sandwiches were good but would of been nice to have more options. Overall, it was a great stay especially for a Motor Inn.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joshua

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Clean room. friendly staff, great location close to campus, and a fabulous breakfast.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

John

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The motor inn was close to the Convention Center, OSU campus and the heart of Columbus. It was clean, easily located, inexpensive, had all the amenities of more expensive motels, free parking outside my unit, safe and secure. I would stay there again.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Paula

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Shalen

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness
Rooms were clean
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christina, New Albany

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Yes, it's a motel, yes it's clean, yes it's safe. I've stayed here a few times now when I've had to come in and out of town for various reasons. Rooms are quiet. Bathroom is clean. TV works. Front desk is kind of cute. How it doubles as a coffee shop? And I don't really have anything bad to say about it. Very close to downtown free parking right outside your door.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Tiffany

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Clean room. Comfy bed.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

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