<p>A few questions: How reliable is the Columbus bus system? Also, what kind of stores, museums, etc. are within walking distance of the campus? Where’s a good place to do grocery/other shopping? (I think someone mentioned a nearby Target. Is there a Wal-Mart around?)</p>
<p>Thanks.</p>
<p>Columbus' bus system is OK overall. As far as getting to places that students want to go it's pretty good. The museums, symphony, opera and ballet are all downtown, so it's a straight, quick shot downtown on the bus system.</p>
<p>"Walking distance" is a somewhat relative term. Living in Chicago, I routinely walk distances that few in Columbus would think of traveling without their car. The Short North bars, restaurants, art galleries, as well as the North Market to me are within walking distance of campus--i.e. within 2 miles. Whether that's walking distance to you is a matter of personal preference. If not, they're a quick bus ride down High Street.</p>
<p>There are no Wal-Marts near campus. There are a couple of mainstream grocery stores within walking distance. The North Market, which is an outstanding urban, public market is either walking distance or a quick straight bus ride from campus. There's also a Whole Foods opening up in the Short North soon, and one already open in Upper Arlington.</p>
<p>Yeah...the COlbus Bus system is pretty good but the on-campus bus service I've heard is really good. It's a big campus and there is a lot around, especially since they have been building up around it. Just across the street from far West campus (the medical center) is a Strip Mall which contains a target, Barnes and Noble, Old Navy, a couple of resturants, and a very large movie theater. Pretty much all that you need. Pretty much on campus is are some very new buildsing which are called the "Campus Gateway." There is a movie theater and some great resturants there. At the southern end of the Gateway there used to be a Sunflower Market, but they went out of business so I don't know what is going in there now...
Also, as sh60614 mentioned, the North Market is closer to downtown and is a wonderful place to shop!!! The food and selection there is great! Finally, there are numerous great resturants within walking distance of Campus so you'll really never get bored.</p>
<p>High Street is a doable walk for nearly everyone living on campus, and it is packed with low-end shops and eateries including some chain restaurants. There is also a Target, Old Navy, more higher-end restaurants, and a movie theater in a shopping center just off campus. Buses are frequent, and although I don't know the specifics, people seem to use them often enough.</p>