London Travel Guide

Plan your trip to London with our comprehensive guide. Discover the best things to do and places to visit in London. Find where to stay, what to eat, how to get around, and more!


Introduction to London

London is a city located in Greater Columbus, in Ohio, in the Midwest region of the United States. Known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage, London offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors. From its museums and historical sites to its breathtaking natural landscapes and outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city. In this comprehensive travel guide to London, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this amazing destination.

List of Places to Visit in London

Whether you are an art lover, history buff, or nature enthusiast, London has a lot to offer. Here is a list of the top places to visit in London:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

London has a rich history and culture, and its museums and historical sites are a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the city’s past. Some of the top cultural attractions in London include:

  • Ohio Statehouse
  • National Museum of the United States Air Force
  • Ohio History Center
  • Wexner Center for the Arts
  • Columbus Museum of Art

Natural Attractions of London: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For those who love the outdoors, London has a lot to offer. From its scenic parks to its beautiful hiking and biking trails, there are endless opportunities for outdoor adventures in and around the city. Here are some of the top natural attractions in London:

  • Buck Creek State Park
  • Prairie Oaks Metro Park
  • Madison Lake State Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of London

There are plenty of hiking and biking routes in and around London. If you’re looking for a scenic workout or just a peaceful walk in nature, here are some of the best routes to try:

  • Little Miami Scenic Trail
  • Olentangy Greenway Trail
  • Buck Creek State Park Trail

Best Things to Do in London: Activities and Tours

No matter what your interests are, there is no shortage of fun activities and tours to enjoy in London. Here are some of the best things to do in London:

  • take a guided walking tour of the city’s historical sites and landmarks
  • visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
  • catch a show at the Ohio Theatre
  • take a hot air balloon ride over the city

Week-Long Itinerary for London

If you have a week to spend in London, here is a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time:

Day 1 Arrive in London, check into your hotel, and take a walking tour of the city’s historic landmarks.
Day 2 Visit the Ohio Statehouse and take a tour of the Ohio Theatre.
Day 3 Spend the day exploring the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
Day 4 Take a hot air balloon ride over the city for a unique perspective.
Day 5 Explore the natural beauty of Buck Creek State Park.
Day 6 Visit the National Museum of the United States Air Force.
Day 7 Spend the day shopping and trying the local cuisine in downtown London.

Food and Drink Scene of London

London’s food and drink scene is vibrant and eclectic, with something to suit every taste and budget. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buckeyes (chocolate and peanut butter balls)
  • Fried chicken with biscuits
  • Sweet corn
  • Apple butter
  • Buckeye candy

Local Beverages

  • Madtree Brewing Company craft beer
  • Weyerbacher Brewing Company craft beer
  • Jack Daniel’s whiskey

Where to Stay in London: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you are on a budget or looking for a luxury experience, there are plenty of accommodation options in London. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to consider:

  • Hilton Columbus at Easton
  • Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Columbus East
  • Hyatt Place Columbus/Dublin
  • Drury Inn & Suites Columbus Grove City
  • The Blackwell Inn

What to Buy in London: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for a souvenir to remember your trip to London, here are some of the best local products to bring home:

  • Buckeyes candies
  • Local craft beers and whiskey
  • Apple butter

Local Culture and Customs of London

London is a friendly and welcoming city, and visitors are encouraged to embrace the local culture and customs. Some things to keep in mind during your visit include:

  • Tipping: It is customary to tip 15-20% in restaurants and bars.
  • Dress code: Dress is usually casual, but more formal attire may be required for certain events.
  • Parking: It can be difficult to find parking in downtown London, so it is recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services.

Best Time to Visit London

The best time to visit London is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of London

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your trip to London:

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and craft beers.
  • Do take a guided walking tour of the city’s historic landmarks.
  • Do be respectful of the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or engage in any behavior that could be considered disrespectful.
  • Don’t ignore safety guidelines and warnings.
  • Don’t forget to tip appropriately in restaurants and bars.

Safety and Health

Travelers to London should take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety and health. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Safety in London

  • Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid any potentially dangerous areas.
  • Use common sense and take precautions to prevent theft and pickpocketing.
  • Stay informed about local weather alerts and warnings.

Health in London

  • Be sure to bring any necessary medications and consult with a healthcare provider before your trip.
  • Use insect repellent to protect against tick and mosquito-borne illnesses.
  • Drink plenty of water and exercise caution when eating food from street vendors.

Getting to London: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to London is easy, as there are several transportation options available. Here are some options to consider:

  • John Glenn Columbus International Airport: located just 25 miles from downtown London, the airport offers connections to major cities in the US and abroad.
  • Greyhound bus service: there are several bus stations in and around London, with connections to other cities in Ohio and beyond.
  • Car rental: renting a car is a good option for those who want to explore the area outside of London.

How to Get Around in London

Getting around London is fairly easy, thanks to its efficient public transportation system. Here are some options to consider:

  • COTA (Central Ohio Transit Authority): this public bus system is affordable and offers routes throughout the city.
  • Uber and Lyft: these ride-sharing services are widely available in London and provide a convenient and affordable way to get around.
  • Biking and walking: London has many bike paths and walking trails, making it easy to explore the city on foot or by bike.

Where to Go Next from London: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

London is located within driving distance of many other great destinations in Ohio and beyond. Here are some nearby attractions and excursions to consider:

  • Cedar Point Amusement Park: located in Sandusky, Ohio, just three hours from London, Cedar Point is one of the largest and most popular amusement parks in the US.
  • Hocking Hills State Park: this scenic park is just a 90-minute drive from London and offers hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
  • Cincinnati: about two hours from London, Cincinnati is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions, including the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden and the Newport Aquarium.

Conclusion

London is a wonderful destination for those looking to experience the rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture of the Midwest. From its art museums and historical sites to its outdoor adventures and local cuisine, there is something for everyone in this charming city. We hope that this comprehensive travel guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan your trip and make the most of your time in London.

Downtown London (Ohio) Downtown London (Ohio) Madison County Courthouse Madison County Courthouse