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10 Things Broke 20-Somethings In Columbus Love

As anyone who’s already lived through their 20s will tell you, the time really flies.

Before you know it, you’ll be counting gray hairs and wondering where the time went. But sometimes it can be hard not to wish it away when you’re living life on a constant budget. Whether you’re still waiting on that post-graduate dream job or you’re just trying to save up, having fun without spending a bunch of money is a sentiment that most young people can relate to.

There are a lot of things about Columbus for 20-somethings to love, especially the relative affordability of our growing city. Who’s ready for some low-cost, high-fun times? Here are 10 things broke 20-somethings in Columbus love.

1. Happy Hour anywhere

Make every hour the happiest at your favorite bar or brewery. Fancy rooftop drinks? We’ve got it. Casual, divey spots? We’ve got those too.

2. Delicious pizza that’s cheap and flavorful


Getting your group of friends together over a pizza is a great way to hang out and not spend a lot of money. Everyone eats and no one leaves completely broke. Need some pizza suggestions? We’ve got you covered.

3. Food trucks. All day. Every day.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert. No matter which meal you’re craving, there’s an affordable food truck waiting for you.

4. Drinking wine from a wine glass because we feel fancy


Wine down Wednesday? More like Wine down every day. Going out for a glass of wine is the best way to get a gentle buzz all while keeping your bill low. Just don’t get too carried away.

5. Places like Clothes Mentor where you can get cute work clothes for cheap


No one wants to pay full price for clothes. Looking professional doesn’t have to be expensive though. In addition to thrift stores, Columbus also has tons of specialty consignment shops where you can get all your lewks for less, including the aforementioned Clothes Mentor.

6. Target


This one isn’t exactly unique to Columbus, but it deserves a mention. The younger generations may be gravitating towards more local options and fewer chains, but for now, Target still reigns supreme.

7. Pretending we can afford our addiction to expensive coffee


Columbus has too many good coffee shops to accept the reality that we can’t afford them. This is why no one has cable anymore. Looking for coffee shop suggestions? You don’t have to ask me twice.

8. Playing games while enjoying a cocktail


If you’re already going out for a drink anyway, you may as well add a little free fun to the mix. At places like Pins Mechanical and 16-Bit, there are plenty of games that won’t cost you any extra. If board games are more your speed, Columbus has some places you need to visit.

9. Dressing up to go “window shopping” at Gallery Hop


Walking around during Short North Gallery Hop won’t cost you anything at all and you’ll get to see some amazing art along the way.

10. Cheering on the Buckeyes on game day


All you need is the ability to spell out Ohio. And maybe a few bucks for a beer or two. I will admit, this activity becomes decidedly less fun if the Buckeyes don’t win. In fact, here are so many cheap ways to have fun on game day.

Honestly, when you’re young and on a budget, it’s not always easy to feel like you’re living your best life.

But Columbus is a city brimming with opportunity. There is a general community of supportive, like-minded young professionals who want to lift each other up and that is a thing of beauty. Keep doing what you’re doing, fam.