Finding parking for major concerts and events in downtown Columbus can be a hassle. With Morgan Wallen performing at Nationwide Arena on October 15, 2023, over 18,000 fans will flood the area looking for parking. Planning ahead and knowing where to look for parking spots close by can save you time and frustration. This guide will outline the best parking options for Morgan Wallen’s Columbus concert and provide tips for finding affordable and convenient parking.
Parking at Nationwide Arena
Nationwide Arena only offers event parking passes for select concerts and events. Unfortunately, parking passes are not available for Morgan Wallen’s concert on October 15th. That means you’ll need to find parking at nearby garages, lots, and meters instead. Here are some things to know about parking directly at Nationwide Arena:
- There are approximately 2,000 parking spaces available in garages operated by Nationwide Arena
- Parking costs $20-$40 for major concerts and events when passes are available
- Passes often sell out quickly for big concerts
- On-site parking garages are located just steps from arena entrances for convenient access
Even though on-site parking is not an option for Morgan Wallen’s show, garages near the arena still fill up fast. Be prepared to arrive early to get a spot before the lots reach capacity.
Downtown Parking Garages
Downtown Columbus has over 20 parking garages and lots within a 1-mile radius of Nationwide Arena. These downtown parking facilities offer the most convenient concert parking options near the venue. Prices range from $5-$30 depending on proximity to the arena. Here are some of the best downtown parking garages for Morgan Wallen’s concert:
Arena District Parking
- Arena Crossing Garage – $10-20
- McConnell Garage – $10-20
- Front Street Garage – $10-20
These facilities are directly in the Arena District just 2-3 blocks from the arena entrance. The close location makes for an easy walk to and from the show. Prices are also more affordable than garages directly attached to Nationwide Arena.
Short North Parking Garage – $5-15
The Short North garage is located north of the Arena District, about a half mile walk to Nationwide Arena. This large garage rarely reaches capacity and has affordable hourly and nightly rates. The 0.4 mile walk south along High Street takes you straight to the arena.
Goodale Parking Garage – $15-25
Next to the Greater Columbus Convention Center, Goodale Parking Garage is south of the arena. It’s about a 15 minute walk to Nationwide Arena. Prices are a little higher but it’s one of the closest off-site parking options.
Arriving early is still recommended at downtown parking garages near Nationwide Arena. While they don’t sell out as fast as on-site parking, the most convenient garages fill up in the hours leading up to major concerts as parking demands surge.
Metered Street Parking
If you don’t mind hunting for a spot, metered street parking can be found on downtown streets near Nationwide Arena. Prices vary by zone but are typically $1-2 per hour with a 2-4 hour limit. Here are some tips for scoring street parking for the Morgan Wallen concert:
- Arrive 2+ hours before showtime when more metered spots are open
- Check both sides of the street – some zones have meters on just one side
- Bring quarters and credit cards – most meters accept both forms of payment
- Check signs carefully for parking limits – some zones have shorter time limits
- Look on side streets one or two blocks off main roads like High St and Nationwide Blvd
If you have time and patience, street parking can save you money compared to garage parking. Just be sure to budget enough time to find an open spot.
Rideshare Drop-Off/Pickup Zones
Another option is getting dropped off and picked up at Nationwide Arena. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have designated zones at the arena for quick passenger loading. Here are some benefits of using rideshare services:
- No need to park – get dropped right at arena entrance
- Avoid traffic jams leaving the concert
- Door-to-door service back home
- Split costs by riding with friends
Pickup zones can get very congested after concerts end. Have your rideshare driver pick you up a few blocks away from the arena to avoid long pickup waits. Popular alternative pickup spots include:
- Corner of Front St & Vine St
- Nationwide Blvd & High St
- Chestnut St & N 4th St
Off-Site Parking Lots
Private parking lots farther from Nationwide Arena offer cheaper rates, usually $10 or less. While not as convenient as garages downtown, they can be a good budget option. Some lots run shuttle buses to the arena for easier access. Here are a few lots to consider:
Parking Lot A – $10
This large lot is 1 mile west of the arena. Parking Lot A has easy highway access from I-670 and runs shuttles to Nationwide Arena before and after events.
American Electric Power Lots – $5-10
Several AEP surface lots about 1 mile west of the arena open for major concerts and events. Shuttles are not offered at these self-park lots.
OHIOHealth Lots – $5-10
OHIOHealth operates lots about 1 mile north of Nationwide Arena near I-71 exits. Shuttle buses take fans to and from the arena.
Allow extra time to take shuttles from remote lots – they can run behind schedule after concerts. Also, returning shuttles often have long lines to board.
Where to Avoid Parking
Some areas near Nationwide Arena should be avoided when parking for concerts. Restrictions and traffic congestion can quickly turn these into bad parking choices:
- Residential streets – Parking in neighborhood streets north of the arena near the Short North is restricted to residents only with permit parking.
- Downtown traffic corridors – Roads like High Street, Nationwide Blvd, and Front Street will be very congested before and after shows. Finding parking right along these crowded routes can be difficult.
- 4th Street – No stopping or standing is allowed on 4th street on the east side of the arena to keep traffic moving.
- Neil Avenue – Neil Ave also has restrictions near the arena exits to avoid congestion.
Be mindful of posted parking signs and traffic patterns downtown to avoid getting ticketed or towed.
Transportation Options to Avoid Parking Hassles
If you want to skip parking entirely, Columbus offers great public transportation and ride services to get you to Nationwide Arena without a car. Here are some parking-free ways to get to Morgan Wallen’s concert:
COTA Bus
Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) buses provide service to and from Nationwide Arena for major events. Route 2 makes a stop directly in front of the arena entrance. Other nearby lines include Route 1 along High Street and Route 10 along Broad Street. Fares are $2 per ride, $4.50 for a day pass, or $62 for a monthly pass. Plan your trip in advance on COTA’s website.
COTA CBUS Circulator
A free Downtown Circulator bus provided by COTA loops through downtown Columbus, including a stop at Nationwide Arena. This service runs every 10-15 minutes and connects Short North, Arena District, Brewery District, and other neighborhoods. No fare or pass needed to ride.
Lyft/Uber
Rideshare apps Lyft and Uber operate throughout Columbus. Scheduled rides in advance for events like concerts to lock in pricing and driver availability. Rides typically cost $15-30 each way depending on demand.
Bird/Lime Scooters
Electric scooter rentals like Bird and Lime are available in downtown Columbus. Rent through the apps and ride to Nationwide Arena. Scooters cost $1 to start then $0.39 per minute of use. Scooter parking areas are designated around the arena.
Walk or Bike
If you’ll be staying downtown, walking or biking can be viable options. The arena is within 1 mile of many downtown hotels and attractions. Lock up bikes at racks provided around the arena.
Top Picks for Morgan Wallen Parking
Finding convenient parking for arena concerts is all about planning ahead. Now that you know where options for parking near Nationwide Arena for Morgan Wallen’s show, here are our top recommendations:
Best Balance of Convenience and Price
- Arena Crossing Garage – $15
- Front Street Garage – $15
Both garages offer reasonably priced parking just a few blocks walk to arena entrances.
Cheapest Close Parking
- Short North Garage – $10
- On-street Meters – $5-10 for 2-4 hours
The Short North garage and metered street parking give you arena proximity without the price tag.
Best Dropoff/Pickup Spot
Chestnut St & N 4th St – Avoid post-concert crowds and get quick rideshare pickup a block north of the arena.
With thousands headed downtown for the big show, give yourself plenty of extra time and have backup parking options planned out. Familiarize yourself with arena vicinity maps and parking zone signs ahead of time. Arrive early to beat other concert goers to prime spots. With the right planning, you can find affordable parking close to all the action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the closest parking to Nationwide Arena?
The parking garages directly attached to Nationwide Arena are the closest options when available for purchase. When arena parking is not for sale, the next best options are the Arena District garages like Arena Crossing, McConnell Lot, and Front Street Garage located just 2-4 blocks from arena entrances.
How early should you arrive for parking?
Ideally plan to arrive 1-2 hours before concert start time for the best parking selection. For big sold out shows, popular garages and lots within 4-5 blocks of the arena can reach capacity 3+ hours before showtime as parking demand surges.
Can you park overnight at Nationwide Arena?
Overnight parking is prohibited in Nationwide Arena garages and will result in vehicles being towed. Nearby garages and lots also restrict overnight parking. Plan to remove your vehicle within 1-2 hours after concerts end.
Are there handicap parking options?
Yes, handicap parking spaces are available in each Nationwide Arena garage, as well as on the street and in nearby parking garages/lots. Have proper handicap parking placards, tags, or plates displayed.
Can you park for free?
Parking directly around Nationwide Arena will not be free for major concerts and events. The closest option for free parking are on residential streets across the Olentangy River north of the arena. However, many spaces there are permit-only for residents.
Are parking prices mentioned above for Morgan Wallen concert only?
No, the parking rates listed are the regular prices at these facilities. Event parking demand can sometimes drive up prices, especially closer to showtime. Prices may also change over time, so be sure to check current rates if attending a future concert.
Conclusion
Finding convenient parking for big concerts at Nationwide Arena comes down to advance planning. Now that you know where you can park for Morgan Wallen’s Columbus show, you can map out parking ahead of time and arrive early to secure a spot. With thousands of fans converging downtown, be flexible with parking options further from the arena to save money and avoid headaches. Wherever you park, build in extra time to walk or take shuttles to the arena entrance. With the right preparation, you can enjoy stress-free parking and a great show!