Instantly recognizable by its lighted arches over High Street, the Short North Arts District is a creative neighborhood filled with art galleries, local boutiques, and trendy hip restaurants and bars. And while it has been impacted by the pandemic just like every other area of the world, it remains a vibrant community full of local businesses that want – and need! – your support.
The Short North is home to 350 businesses, of which 91% are locally-owned and 71% are hyper-small. 100% of them need your support during this tough time. So here is a guide to a few of our favorites, and how you can continue to enjoy all that the Short North has to offer. (But be sure to check out all of the amazing businesses in the Short North!)
Shops
Many local shops in the Short North are offering online stores that allow you to pick up your purchases or have items delivered directly to your doorstep.
Represent #TeamHOMAGE with one of their ridiculously comfortable t-shirts or sweatshirts, or even their branded face mask for #MasksOnOhio. Shop online for your favorite scented products, soy candles to aromatic mists to body scrubs and more from The Candle Lab – you are likely spending a lot of time at home, it might as well smell good!
The Short North has lots of options to keep you on-trend and looking fab. Vamp (conveniently located in 985 High at The Castle) offers both in-store shopping and online ordering with same-day pickup. The focus on Jolie Occasions is “pretty,” for when you need a touch of feminine flair for either your wardrobe or home decor.
Wine on High is ensuring that its Short North neighbors can stock up on their favorite vino either by shopping in-store or ordering online for delivery or pickup. If you are just looking for a stellar cup of coffee to get you started in the morning, One Line Coffee has you covered. If you order by midnight on Sunday, they will roast your coffee on Monday and ship it on Tuesday – now that’s freshly roasted coffee! Want to try something new for the holidays? Check out their Cold Toddy Home Brew package … that ships for free!
Experiences
Committed to their Safe Studio Standards, CorePower Yoga ensures that you can safely practice yoga when probably you need it the most! If you are looking to boost your heart rate a bit more, OrangeTheory Fitness offers both in-studio classes as well as OrangeTheory at Home.
Need a little pampering after that workout? PENZONE Salons + Spas has you covered. The new holistic salon and spa offers designated times for high-risk clients, as well as online shopping for self-care products.
For those looking to exercise their brain more than their body, or need a fun activity for the family, Pinot’s Palette offers in-person, virtual, or self-directed paint experiences. An easy – and fun! – way to safely connect and create memories with family and friends throughout the holidays.
Dining
There are too many restaurants and bars to mention in the Short North, most of which are locally-owned and operated and in need of your support. Paulie Gee’s is offering carryout daily, from 4 to 9 PM, and what is a visit to the Short North without paying homage to Arch City Tavern, where you can get a taste of Columbus and a glimpse into its history at the same time.
Nida’s Thai on High offers guests the opportunity to experience the liveliness and excitement of their exhibition kitchen that uses only the freshest and finest ingredients. Don’t forget dessert at Short North Piece of Cake, where they “open to make your sweet dreams come true during these challenging times.”
Of course, it’s always good to have a White Castle nearby for those late-night cravings! And when in Columbus, a visit to a local brewery is nearly a requirement, with so many amazing options to choose from. Zaftig Brewing Company offers delicious beer and food in their brewpub, or also through carryout ordering and delivery via their partnership with Uber Eats. Next to Zaftig in the Beeker, DiCarlo’s serves up Steubenville-style pizza, with its crispy crust and a layer of provolone added after the pie comes out of the oven – pick up or delivery so your next Yum! can be at your doorstep in just minutes.
Be sure to spread the word about your favorite small businesses in the Short North by using #BeTheArtAndSoul to share your favorite memories in the Short North Arts District! And if you are looking for a new place to call home, check out Borror Properties apartments. We are proud to call the Short North and the surrounding neighborhoods home, so schedule your private tour today.