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Olentangy Motor Inn

2.0 star property
Suburban hotel with free parking, near Ohio State University

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Photo gallery for Olentangy Motor Inn

Premium bedding, individually furnished, free WiFi, bed sheets
Coffee service
Exterior
Exterior
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
(13 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 parking, near Ohio State University
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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The price is $81
Mar 9 - Mar 10
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.

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.

Is parking available on site 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 amenities will couples enjoy at Olentangy Motor Inn?

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

Are there hot tubs at Olentangy Motor Inn?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

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 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).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Olentangy Motor Inn?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Olentangy Motor Inn.

Olentangy Motor Inn Reviews

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 906 out of 1371 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 310 out of 1371 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 95 out of 1371 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 27 out of 1371 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 33 out of 1371 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

Alvaro

Business traveler, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Looked like a cheap hotel from the side, the front was prettier, the attendant was kind and welcoming. The room looked recently renovated and clean but there was a little funny smell to it like storage. Breakfast area is tiny so it is best to pick up sandwiches and coffee. There was coffee etc in the room we did not use. We arrived at midnight. Although the parking looked packed it was pretty quiet in our room. We were happy with our stay and would definitely come back
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paul

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Breakfast was fresh and a safe property
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Deborah

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean room, close to Nationwide arena. We were in town for a concert. Was nervous since it looks like a red roof from the outside but I was wrong! Very clean, well kept, love the coffee shop, the free breakfast sandwich was fire and the staff was so sweet and helpful! Bob evens and a late night Wendy’s right next door. Quiet area. Will be back!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Jill

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness
Good clean room at a good price. Coffee shop was great!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mackenzie

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Scott

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Very nice staff. Clean room
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jaime

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
This was the 2nd time I've stayed at the olentangy motor inn and it did not disappoint. Very clean, staff is super friendly and so great at multitasking. They have a lot going on and they do it with a smile. I will always stay here awhen im in townticustomers at the drive thru, wait
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Therese

Business traveler, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Clean, quiet and comfortable
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nichole

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The room was great. I was in town for outpatient surgery, and needed an accessible room. I was able to relax after surgery.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stanley

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Simple, Clean, friendly staff. Look forward to staying again.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
We loved our stay. The staff was incredibly hospitable. The room was updated and clean. The breakfast was delicious. As vegetarians we were thrilled that they offered a plant based sausage patty. We would recommend this hotel!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great location, clean and comfortable
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jade

Business traveler, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I will be returning to this hotel. The room was beautiful and clean, the best was really comfortable. The coffee was outstanding.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Anne

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Friendly staff, clean and modern room, great location and easy check in!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Thomas

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
The staff was great considering Hotel.com reservation didnt show on their computer. She was concerned we would be double chrged. The room was clean though dated. We were near RR traack and heard trains but they didnt bother us.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

McKinzey

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

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Rooms were clean and the coffee was great
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Patricia

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Free coffee & great breakie sandwich
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean room . Convenient
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Penny

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tami

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location to campus. Enjoyed the free breakfast sandwich and coffee. Comfortable beds and room. Friendly staff. Would stay again
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

James

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location for game.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Colleen

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was amazingly clean and front desk staff were VERY friendly and although check-in time showed 4 pm. we arrived at 2:15 and no problem to check-in early. Breakfast sandwich was excellent. Would definitely stay there again.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mary

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean room. Breakfast sandwich was great
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

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