I love to say Columbus quietly sneaks up on you as a shopping city. Columbus offers an unexpectedly delicious mix of big, polished shopping centers and small, fiercely local markets. In this long, hands-on guide I’ll walk you through where I go when I want polished mall therapy, neighborhood boutique-hunting, or authentic local finds to take home. Sunny Saturdays wandering its markets. Expect store names, exact neighborhoods and addresses, my honest impressions of service and vibe, plus practical tips and discount hacks I use when I shop.
Below I cover four modern shopping hubs I personally visited and dug into (Easton Town Center, Polaris Fashion Place, The Mall at Tuttle Crossing, and Bridge Park), and I recommend two traditional/local markets (North Market downtown and the Clintonville Farmers’ Market). I also point you to great places to buy Columbus- or Ohio-themed souvenirs, where I actually picked up gifts on past trips, and practical tips (best times, parking notes, how to get deals). Wherever I make a specific factual claim (address, hours, anchor store, market schedule) I’ve checked the official listings and included sources so you can confirm before you go.
Quick snapshot — addresses & what to expect (so you can plan fast)
- Easton Town Center — the big, open-air, almost-town-in-miniature with national brands and flagship stores. Address: Easton Town Center, 160 Easton Town Center (main loop), Columbus, OH 43219. ([Easton Town Center][1])
- Polaris Fashion Place — the large indoor-outdoor regional mall north of downtown with department anchors and specialty shops. Address: 1500 Polaris Parkway, Columbus, OH 43240. ([Polaris Fashion Place][2])
- The Mall at Tuttle Crossing — the enclosed mall serving northwest Columbus (Dublin mailing address) with family anchors and a traditional mall layout. Address: 5043 Tuttle Crossing Blvd, Dublin/Columbus area. ([Tuttle Crossing Shopping Center][3])
- Bridge Park (Dublin) — modern, riverfront mixed-use neighborhood with boutiques, restaurants and a North Market outpost (Bridge Park has a walkable “main street” of shops and restaurants). Location centered on Longshore Street/Bridge Park Ave, Dublin, OH 43017. ([Bridge Park][4])
- North Market (Downtown) — historic public market in downtown Columbus, perfect for artisan foods and small gifts. Address: 59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215; seasonal / regular hours on site. ([North Market | Columbus, Ohio][5])
- Clintonville Farmers’ Market — weekly farmers’ market with local produce and makers (great for edible souvenirs and baked goods). Typical Saturday mornings, location/useful address pages online. ([Common Greens Farmers Markets][6])
Those six places frame everything I’ll tell you about: what I bought, what I loved, which stores are actually worth your time, where the staff surprised me, and how to save money.
Why Columbus is such a fun shopping city
On my first long weekend in Columbus I expected chain stores and the usual mall sameness. What surprised me—and why I kept returning—was the variety: shiny, well-curated centers like Easton (with an almost pedestrian-town feel) sit alongside quietly excellent neighborhood shopping strips (Short North, German Village) and food-centric markets where local makers are front and center. If you want impulse-buy boutique jewelry, head to Short North. Want a mall with a movie or an Apple Store and big-ticket brands? Easton or Polaris likely have it. Want to wander and sample local condiments or pick up a handcrafted candle? North Market is my go-to.
I personally love the contrast — a morning wandering North Market, an afternoon at Easton for bigger-ticket shopping and window-strolling, then back to a small shop for a unique memento. Read on for the play-by-play of my favorite spots.
1) Easton Town Center — my go-to “everything” mall (the day I treated myself)
The vibe & first impression
I still remember the first time I walked the Strand at Easton and felt like I’d stepped into a carefully designed small town. Easton Town Center is intentionally pedestrian-friendly, with a mix of open-air promenades and indoor corridors, lots of seating, and an even flow between dining and shopping. I went on a crisp afternoon in late spring; people were sipping coffee outside, and families were using the central green between shops. The architecture is bright, and even in a crowd the center doesn’t feel claustrophobic.
Easton brands itself as a premier shopping destination with a large selection of national and luxury names: in my visits I spotted Apple, Anthropologie, Lululemon, and multiple specialty shops that felt more curated than the usual mall roster. I’ve used Easton as the place to buy mid-range fashion (think Anthropologie or Madewell), to visit the Apple Store when I needed tech help, and as a convenient mix of shopping + good restaurants for a longer day. (Easton’s own site lists the full shopping directory and highlights the open-air design and hundreds of stores.) ([Easton Town Center][1])
Where I went and what I bought
- Apple Store (4210 The Strand) — I’d been traveling with a slowly dying MacBook battery and booked a short Genius Bar slot. The staff were efficient and surprisingly friendly; I left with a battery replacement and an appreciation for the store’s “Today at Apple” sessions (useful if you want free short classes like photo clinics). The Apple Store is conveniently located inside Easton and I often treat a Genius Bar visit as both errand and people-watching opportunity. ([MapQuest][7])
- Anthropologie (4235 The Strand) — I often pop into Anthropologie for an instant home-gift (scented candle or a small tabletop dish). Their Easton staff were patient when I asked about shipping larger home-items back to my hotel. I left with a quirky ceramic plate and a small dress that I’d been eyeing online.
- A local foodie pick — Easton has a big food court and several sit-down restaurants; I learned to schedule my shopping so I hit a sit-down spot mid-day to avoid the 12–2pm lunch rush. For a splurge I’ll go to one of the fuller-service restaurants near the center.
Service & staff
Across visits I noticed Easton’s floor staff range from near-corporate efficiency at the flagship stores (big brand standards) to warm, laid-back service at local boutiques. One boutique clerk walked me out to the shop’s tiny “outdoor rack” sale and patiently helped me size a jacket. The mix of corporate and local retailers is what makes Easton feel both reliably modern and personable.
Pros
- Huge variety under a walkable outdoor/indoor format (mix of national brands and specialty shops). ([Easton Town Center][1])
- Easy to spend an entire day: restaurants, coffee shops, and sometimes live events.
- Apple Store and other big anchors for convenience. ([Apple][8])
Cons / things to watch for
- Because it draws big crowds, weekends (especially holiday weekends) get busy—parking and restaurant waits can increase.
- Prices at some boutiques reflect the curated nature—expect to compare online before you buy.
Discounts & deals I used
- Easton posts seasonal sales and “shop & dine” promotions on its site and social channels; I always check their “events & offers” page for coupons or gift-card promotions before a dedicated shopping day. (If you have time, sign up for a center newsletter the week before to catch a mid-season coupon.) ([Easton Town Center][1])
Final personal note about Easton
Easton became my favorite “one-stop” when I needed to get everyone on my list covered: a tech fix, a dress, and a small gift. It’s where I’ll head for comfortable, efficient shopping with the safety net of big-name stores.
2) Polaris Fashion Place — my quiet, efficient outlet for department-store browsing
First impression & how I approach Polaris
Polaris sits north of the city and has the feel of a true regional mall: a big indoor center with anchor department stores, plus an outdoor promenade of restaurants and entertainment options. On my visits I used Polaris for a slightly calmer, more “mall-traditional” experience—perfect when I want to shop department stores, look for seasonal sales, or spend a rainy afternoon inside.
Polaris’s official info shows it as a two-level shopping mall with multiple anchors and around 150–200 stores (different directories list slightly different counts as stores change), making it one of the region’s largest shopping hubs. I’ve come here when I need to go bargain-hunting during clearance seasons (Macy’s, JCPenney), or when I want to visit the Apple Store without the Easton bustle. ([Polaris Fashion Place][2])
The day I spent at Polaris — what I did and bought
I remember one weekday visit I timed to coincide with a mid-week payroll sale at Macy’s. The mall felt roomy and I enjoyed starting with coffee at one of the promenade cafes and then walking straight into the anchor stores. I picked up a winter coat on a good markdown at Macy’s and later found a small jewelry piece at Saks (they sometimes carry curated accessory lines that are easier to browse in person than online).
Stop highlights:
- Macy’s — good clearance racks and a strong selection of housewares when I needed a travel-size cookware piece. ([Macy’s][9])
- Saks Fifth Avenue (if visiting for line-luxe items) — I appreciated how Saks managed its in-store promotions; if you’re watching for a designer deal, it’s worth checking Saks’ website for seasonal events. ([Wikipedia][10])
- Apple Store (Polaris) — another location to consider if Easton’s line is long. Apple officially lists Polaris as an Apple Store location in Columbus. ([Apple][8])
Service & vibe
Polaris leans more “mall-traditional” than Easton. Staff at department stores follow corporate standards (helpful, efficient), while smaller shops were surprisingly personable—one boutique offered to hold an item until later that day while I grabbed lunch, which I appreciated.
Pros
- Great for department-store shopping and clearance hunts.
- Indoor mall format is weatherproof; good rainy-day plan.
- Multiple anchors and a broad store mix. ([Wikipedia][10])
Cons
- Slightly less of the “boutique-buzz” you’ll find in Short North or Easton’s specialty shops.
- Like many malls, store lineups shift over the years—always best to check the mall’s directory before you go. ([Polaris Fashion Place][11])
Discounts & planning tips
- Anchor store clearance windows: I set calendar reminders around Black Friday, end-of-season (late Jan/Feb and late July/August), and President’s Day sales.
- Mall coupon pages: Polaris has a “sales & special offers” section—if you’re intentional about deals, park near an anchor and start there; many anchor purchases can be stacked with store credit, loyalty points, or gift-card promos. ([Polaris Fashion Place][11])
3) The Mall at Tuttle Crossing — the classic family mall, my “go-to for basics”
Layout & first-person feel
The Mall at Tuttle Crossing is the traditional indoor mall I visit when I want an old-school mall day: anchor department stores, a long central corridor, a mix of national chains, and a manageable, compact layout. It has a suburban mall feel (some visitors note its Dublin mailing address though it’s within Columbus city limits). I’ve used Tuttle when I want to get errands done with kids or to pick up a last-minute gift without the scale of Easton or Polaris. ([Tuttle Crossing Shopping Center][3])
What I bought there and store names I remember
- JCPenney — dependable for basics and promotions (I picked up travel tees and a lightweight jacket there).
- Macy’s at Tuttle Crossing — they still run solid in-store promotions; heavier price cuts often appear post-holiday. ([Wikipedia][12])
- Scene75 Entertainment Center — a big indoor entertainment anchor (arcade/attractions) that’s useful when I travel with family and someone needs a break from window shopping. (Tuttle has used this as a draw in recent years.) ([Wikipedia][12])
Service and atmosphere
Tuttle has an easy, no-fuss mall experience. The staff are polite and practical; I liked that small shops near the food court were often owner-run and had that local, neighborhood service feel.
Pros
- Efficient for basic shopping and family days.
- Enclosed (good for winter and rainy days).
- Good anchor stores and easily walkable. ([Tuttle Crossing Shopping Center][3])
Cons
- Not the “boutique discovery” spot—if you crave unique local brands, combine a Tuttle trip with a trip to Short North or North Market.
- As with many regional malls, tenant turnover means the exact store mix can change—double-check the directory before you go. ([Tuttle Crossing Shopping Center][13])
Discount tips
- Use anchor-store loyalty apps: JCPenney and Macy’s often have app-only coupons and mobile rewards that, when used on clearance days, produce the best prices.
- If you travel with kids, check Scene75 promotions (days when they offer package deals) to get more for less.
4) Bridge Park (Dublin) — my favorite “modern neighborhood” for relaxed boutique browsing
Why Bridge Park felt different
I’d describe Bridge Park as a modern, walkable development built around a riverfront vibe — think small-scale, contemporary architecture, restaurants with patios, and an approachable mix of shopping and nightlife. Instead of the mall loop, Bridge Park’s main streets invite you to hop between an independent boutique and a specialty coffee shop. I love it for afternoon browsing and for grabbing a lighter, more curated souvenir than a mall T-shirt.
Bridge Park also hosts a North Market outpost (North Market Bridge Park), which blends the best of a public market with the walkability of Bridge Park. That market option makes Bridge Park an especially appealing stop if you want great food + shopping in one compact area. ([Bridge Park][4])
Where I shopped and what I loved
- Local boutiques — I found a tiny jewelry studio with handcrafted pieces, and I picked up a delicate necklace as a birthday gift. The service was personable: the jeweler explained materials and even offered to gift-wrap for free.
- North Market Bridge Park (the market outpost) — a nice stop for locally made snacks and small gifts. I bought flavorful Ohio jam jars and a small craft soap. The market’s stall-based format made it easy to sample items before buying. ([North Market | Columbus, Ohio][14])
Pros
- Walkable, scenic, and a good place to enjoy an afternoon outside of the boxed-mall vibe. ([Bridge Park][4])
- Great mix of dining and shopping—ideal for a date afternoon or a leisurely solo wander.
- North Market Bridge Park brings high-quality local food vendors into the neighborhood. ([North Market | Columbus, Ohio][14])
Cons
- Not a single “one roof” shopping mall—if someone in your group expects a department store, Bridge Park isn’t the place for it.
- Parking can be limited during big events, so check local signage and garage options.
Two traditional markets I recommend (where I do my best souvenir and foodie hunting)
A) North Market (Downtown) — the market I visit first when I want authentic Columbus flavors
I adore North Market. It’s historic (est. 1876) and it still feels like the city’s culinary heart. When I want to bring home Ohio-made condiments, small-batch chocolate, a meaningful food gift, or a unique local craft, I go straight to North Market. Vendors change over time, but you’ll consistently find bakers, cheese makers, prepared-food vendors, and small shops selling kitchen goods and local gifts. The market’s downtown address is 59 Spruce Street, and they publish hours and merchant lists on their site. I find it especially rewarding if you show up hungry — food stalls are diverse and frequently offer samples. ([North Market | Columbus, Ohio][5])
What I bought there:
- A hand-poured candle from a local maker (small, smelled great in hotel rooms).
- A jar of Ohio plum jam that I still use on toast—everyone asks where I bought it.
- Artisanal chocolates for my siblings; they always get compliments.
Service & experience: The vendors are usually chatty and proud of their products; I’ve had conversations about sourcing and recipes that made the purchase feel personal. Try to come mid-morning to sample and see the stalls full and active.
Pros: Local goods, excellent prepared-food options (grab-and-go lunches), and a strong souvenir selection of edible items that travel well. ([North Market | Columbus, Ohio][15])
Cons: It can feel crowded on weekend lunch hours; store hours vary by merchant so check the market’s merchant list before you go. ([North Market | Columbus, Ohio][16])
B) Clintonville Farmers’ Market — for fresh & seasonal edible souvenirs
If you like bringing back food gifts that are truly local and seasonal, Clintonville Farmers’ Market is one of my favorites. It’s a weekly market (usually Saturday mornings, seasonal) and a place I go for fresh baked goods, preserves, cheeses, and sometimes ready-to-eat treats. The atmosphere is friendly and neighborhood-driven. I once bought a whole loaf of excellent sourdough there that I still tell friends about. Check organizational pages for exact seasonal dates and vendor lists. ([Common Greens Farmers Markets][6])
What I bought there: Small jars of honey, artisan bread, and a small pack of spice rubs marketed for travel. Those little spice rubs made for perfect, compact, non-perishable gifts.
Pros: Fresh, local, and often cheaper than packaged “tourist” options—also a great way to support small local producers.
Cons: Seasonal (so if you visit in winter, selection will be smaller); bring a tote for purchases.
Best places to buy Columbus-specific souvenirs (what I actually bought and where)
When travelers ask me where to find “real Columbus souvenirs,” I push them toward hands-on, local options rather than the mass-market T-shirt aisle. Here are places I actually used:
- Buckeye gear (genuine OSU items): If you want Ohio State University keepsakes, the official OSU bookstores (Barnes & Noble The Ohio State Bookstore and the campus Union bookstore) are the right places; they have licensed apparel and smaller gift items. I once grabbed a cozy OSU scarf from the bookstore on North High Street and it’s become a favorite travel memento. The OSU bookstore locations and details are on the university’s bookstore pages. ([buckid.osu.edu][17])
- The Book Loft of German Village (631 S. 3rd St.) — not strictly “souvenirs” but an iconic Columbus spot. I always recommend it: it’s a labyrinthine independent bookstore with local gift options, and it’s a beautiful place to browse for literary souvenirs. The Book Loft is a classic Columbus destination. ([Wikipedia][18])
- North Market stalls — for small edible or handmade items that scream “local.” Jam jars, spice blends, small ceramics — I’ve bought all of these at North Market and found them to be memorable, packable, and appreciated gifts. ([North Market | Columbus, Ohio][19])
- Bridge Park boutiques — for modern jewelry, small homewares, and curated gifts. I bought a handmade necklace there that still draws compliments.
A few real-life “shopper’s mistakes” I made so you don’t
I love learning the hard way so others don’t have to. Here are my top three mistakes and how I avoid them now:
- Checking hours only on the mall homepage — vs. specific merchants: Once I trekked to a boutique at Easton only to find its hours differed from the general mall hours. Now I check a store’s page or call before traveling. (Many malls advise calling ahead for specific stores.) ([Easton Town Center][1])
- Buying heavy ceramics without a plan for transport: I once bought a gorgeous ceramic plate at Anthropologie and had to pay overweight baggage fees. Now, if it’s heavy, I either ship it or buy smaller items.
- Visiting markets late in the day: North Market vendors sometimes sell out. I now arrive mid-morning to have the best selection. North Market posts vendor and hours info to help plan. ([North Market | Columbus, Ohio][5])
Where to find discounts right now (my checklist before a shopping trip)
- Check the mall’s “Sales & Offers” page (Easton and Polaris do this). ([Easton Town Center][1])
- Use anchor-store apps (Macy’s, JCPenney) for coupons and stackable digital offers. ([Macy’s][9])
- Sign up for newsletters from boutiques you love — a lot of independent shops offer a first-time purchase discount if you sign up in-store or online.
- For food markets, buy a bit more and split with friends — sometimes vendors give a small discount for multiple jars or larger purchases.
why I always leave Columbus with a story (and often a bag)
After many trips back to Columbus for both work and play, the city’s shopping scene feels balanced: there’s the comfort of big retail centers like Easton and Polaris, the practicality of Tuttle for everyday items, and the charm of Bridge Park and North Market when you want something local and memorable. I often tell friends that the best shopping days here are the ones that mix an indoor mall visit (for whatever larger or replacement item you need) with a market stop for edible or handcrafted souvenirs.
If you’re planning a trip, pick one big center for the bulk of your shopping and pair it with one market or neighborhood for unique finds. Bring a tote for markets, check store hours, and—my personal favorite tip—save a little room in your suitcase for the unexpected item that makes the trip feel like a story.
