Columbus/University Area

University Area also known as the University District is the area around the Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. It also includes the OSU Hospital and The James Cancer Research Hospital.

By car

 * SR 23 (High St) runs N/S directly in front of campus, beginning at Lane Ave going S. and King Ave going N. on High.
 * SR 315 is west of the campus. Exit at W 12 St. takes you to the east side of campus and University Hospital.
 * I-71 Exit on 5th Ave. Go west, takes you directly to High and campus.

By foot
Columbus downtown is a relaxed one hour walk away.

By car
Driving in and around the University area, is not difficult, but you should use caution because of the number of students sometimes rushing to class or distracted by student responsibilities.

Parking
Once on the University grounds, parking is severely limited and being towed for improper parking, even for short periods is very common. Some areas require parking stickers and tow trucks cruise the area looking for offenders. Many spots just off the campus (High St.) are metered spots with a 1-hour limit. Perhaps the best deal for parking near campus is the South Campus Gateway Garage (corner of N. High Street & E. 11th Avenue) which charges $1 for the first 3 hours, and $1 per hour after that. There are also some spots in the area east of campus which don't require a residential permit nor are metered, however these spots are limited and they are also subject to seasonal street-sweeping restrictions.

Parking during Ohio State football games is a completely separate situation and you can except to pay a flat rate for parking in a garage or lot.

By bus
The COTA bus service, while not by any standard one of the greatest in the nation, can take you to most important places in the city, which should be about 5 blocks away from any conceivable location you need to go to. This service costs $2.00 for an express bus and $1.50 for a normal bus. Transfers are free; ask for one from the bus driver when you pay your fare.

By foot
Walking around the OSU area is more than common, many walkways exist (try to avoid alleys after dark), and the locals are very patient with those crossing streets. All in all, walking in the OSU area should be considered safe.