Olentangy Motor Inn

1445 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH 43212, New California, United States

2-star hotel

Guest rating: 3.8 / 5

Overview

Olentangy Motor Inn is a 2-star budget motel located at 1445 Olentangy River Rd in the New California area of Columbus, Ohio. With a public rating of 3.8 from 119 reviews, it functions as a no-frills, value-oriented lodging option rather than a full-service hotel. Its setting along the Olentangy River corridor places it within a few miles of downtown Columbus and The Ohio State University area.

Dining

The motel is attached to a Crimson Cup café, which guests frequently note as a standout feature, offering complimentary coffee and breakfast sourced from the on-site coffee shop. This arrangement gives the property a distinct, locally flavored dining perk uncommon among similarly priced motels.

Rooms

Rooms are described by guests as clean with comfortable beds, and non-smoking rooms are offered, though some travelers have reported lingering smoke odor and minor maintenance issues such as musty air conditioning or a burnt-out light bulb. There is no documented information on room amenities such as Wi-Fi, television, or in-room extras.

Location & Surroundings

The motel sits within easy reach of numerous Columbus attractions, including the Wexner Center for the Arts (1.9 km) and Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum (1.9 km) nearby, plus Goodale Park (2.3 km) and North Market Downtown (2.7 km) a short distance away. Farther afield, guests can reach COSI, the Ohio Statehouse, Columbus Museum of Art, and the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, all within roughly 3-4 km, making it a workable base for sightseeing without an on-site shuttle.

Amenities

Specific hotel amenities are not documented, though guest feedback confirms there are no laundry or fitness facilities on site. The attached café and complimentary breakfast appear to be the property's primary documented amenity offering.

Best for

This motel suits budget-conscious travelers and those visiting Ohio State University or downtown Columbus attractions who prioritize a clean, comfortable, low-cost place to sleep over extensive amenities. It's a good fit for short stays centered on sightseeing at nearby museums, parks, and cultural sites, since several attractions like the Wexner Center and Billy Ireland Cartoon Library are within easy walking or short driving distance.

Travel tips

A car is recommended, as many attractions such as COSI, the Ohio Statehouse, and Franklin Park Conservatory are 3-7 km away and best reached by driving rather than walking. Take advantage of the attached Crimson Cup café for breakfast and coffee before heading out for the day. Since there are no laundry or fitness facilities on site, plan accordingly if a multi-day stay requires either.

What guests say

Guests consistently praise the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff as a standout feature of their stay. Cleanliness and comfortable beds are also frequently mentioned positives, along with the unique complimentary breakfast and coffee provided through the attached Crimson Cup café. On the negative side, some guests have reported lingering cigarette odor in designated non-smoking rooms and minor maintenance issues such as musty-smelling air conditioning or burnt-out light bulbs. Reviewers also note the absence of laundry and fitness facilities as a limitation for longer stays.

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