DRURY INN & SUITES COLUMBUS POLARIS, Flint

The hotel sits off the highway, which makes it a good base for travellers driving through or heading to nearby destinations. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is 14 km away, Six Flags Wyandot Lake is 15 km, and John Glenn Columbus International Airport is 22 km. Polaris Fashion Place mall is a 5-minute drive, and there is a Panera in the same parking lot with an IKEA across the street. The immediate area is packed with restaurants including Swensons Drive-In, Kitchen Social, and Condado Tacos. For Ohio State University events, the stadium is about 20 minutes by car. Note that while the highway access is convenient, rooms on the freeway side can experience significant road noise. The area generally feels safe, but vehicle break-ins have occurred occasionally, so parking in well-lit spots is advisable.

The hotel offers a range of room types: double rooms with one king or two queen beds, quadruple rooms with two double beds, and suites with a separate living area and a fold-out sofa bed. Suites with a door between the bedroom and living area are a good option for families wanting privacy. The rooms are described as clean and comfortable, though some suites have living rooms without windows, which can feel enclosed. The private bathrooms are well-equipped with a bath or walk-in shower, hairdryer, and free toiletries. Road-facing rooms can be noisy due to highway proximity, so light sleepers should request a room away from that side. The overall feel is modern and well-maintained, with most guests finding the beds comfortable and the space sufficient.

Breakfast typically includes hot items such as scrambled eggs, sausage, make-your-own waffles, cereal, yogurt, fruit, and an omelette station. The evening Kickback runs from 5:30 to 7:00 PM and features a rotating menu of dishes like tacos, hot dogs, chili, pulled pork, and salad. Both offerings are self-serve buffets with plenty of seating, though the dining area can become very crowded, especially on weekends when sports teams are present. Coffee, soda, and popcorn are available throughout the day for free. For those who prefer to eat out, the hotel is steps from a Panera and a short walk from several casual restaurants.

The pool and hot tub area is a major draw but can become overcrowded, especially on weekends when families and youth sports teams are staying. The hot tub is often used by children, and reports indicate it can feel more like a second pool than a relaxing spa. Noise levels in the pool area are frequently high. The fitness centre is open 24 hours and is well-maintained with clean towels. While the facilities are clean and well-stocked, those looking for a quiet, relaxing soak should aim for off-peak times, such as late weekday evenings.

The hotel provides a business centre for free, as well as meeting rooms for an additional charge. Laundry and dry cleaning services are available at a fee. The hotel is wheelchair accessible, with features including a lower bathroom sink, raised toilet, grab rails, Braille and tactile signs. Elevators serve all floors, though one is frequently out of service, which can be an inconvenience. The front desk staff are generally described as friendly and helpful, but busy periods can mean slower check-in. Parking is free and private, but the lot has no security patrols, and vehicle break-ins have been reported, so leaving valuables in the car is strongly discouraged.