If you’re looking for something fun to do—especially on the weekend—make a trip to the North Market in downtown Columbus. Here you’ll find more than 35 local vendors selling and preparing authentic cuisines from a wide range of cultures and heritages.
Prior to January 2023, the North Market operated its own surface parking lot, offering low-cost parking for patrons. However, that lot was permanently closed to make way for the Merchant Building, a new 32-story tower that will feature apartments, a hotel, retail and office space, and a new parking garage. The project also includes a significant expansion of the market itself.
During the construction phase, because the new garage is not yet open, patrons of the North Market can park in the garage across the street on Vine Street. If you bring your ticket inside, vendors will happily validate your parking.
From the moment you walk through the front doors, all five of your senses come alive. You’ll see the vibrant collection of merchants cooking and preparing their specialties. You’ll smell the enticing aromas of freshly made dishes drifting through the air. You’ll feel the textures of well-crafted displays of produce, flowers, and artisanal goods. You’ll hear the lively buzz of shoppers and vendors. And finally, when you decide to sample a dish, you’ll taste the bold, flavorful foods that make the market so memorable.
The Columbus North Market is located at 59 Spruce Street in the heart of downtown Columbus. Its origins date back to 1876. Over its 149-year history, the market has weathered many transitions and seen countless merchants come and go.
The market was originally established by city ordinance as part of Columbus’s growth. By the 1890s, as the city’s wealth and status grew, leaders sought a grander shopping experience. Architect Daniel Hudson Burnham was commissioned to design a space that would rival the great market halls of Europe.
During the early 20th century—and especially after World War II—the rise of the automobile led to a decline in the North Market area. As trolley traffic dwindled, many shops in the central arcade closed. This decline continued into the 1970s, even after the site was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
In 1988, the North Market Development Authority was formed to restore the market’s vitality. Today, the North Market thrives with around 35 vendors. Roughly one-third specialize in ready-to-eat foods, another third in specialty goods, and the rest in fresh produce, flowers, meat, fish, cookware, and gifts.
From June through October, the market also hosts a weekly farmers market just outside the building.
One of the highlights of visiting is the chance to discover one-of-a-kind food items, often made from secret family recipes passed down for generations. Visitors can explore the stalls, assemble a meal from their favorite finds, and then head upstairs to the seating area. From there, you can enjoy your meal while overlooking the bustling first floor—or look out the glass windows at the downtown Columbus skyline. If you discover something you truly love, you can always buy extra to take home. The North Market website even offers recipes so you can recreate some of those authentic flavors in your own kitchen.
Another attraction is the North Market Happy Hour. From Monday through Thursday, vendors offer specials and discounts. Hours run from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM (except downtown on Mondays, when it’s from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM). Current specials can always be found on the official website: northmarket.org.
In addition to the daily happy hour, the North Market also hosts several special events, including the annual Shop Local Showcase. During this two-day September event, the market features pop-up vendors and live music.
On the third Thursday of each month, happy hour comes alive with live music performances, giving attendees a chance to enjoy great specials while soaking in the good vibes.
Of course, the main draw of the North Market is the in-person sensory experience—but if you can’t make it downtown, many vendors also offer online ordering and delivery through Mercato Green.
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