If you’ve attended AnthrOhio over the past few years, you’ve probably noticed that we’ve been growing. We welcomed 1,950 registered attendees in 2024, shattering all previous records and more than doubling the figure from our first year at the Crowne Plaza Columbus North.
With other furry conventions worldwide seeing similar levels of growth and our own space constraints rapidly approaching, the decision was made to explore alternative venues for our convention.
While we have nothing but gratitude for the Crowne Plaza, both for their hospitality over the five conventions we held there as well as their cooperation as we navigated the challenges of the COVID pandemic, the time has come for us to move on.
It is with that in mind we are excited to announce that AnthrOhio 2025 will take place at the Hilton Columbus Downtown from April 18-20, 2025!
Located adjacent to the Greater Columbus Convention Center in the heart of the city’s Short North Arts District, the Hilton Columbus Downtown holds the distinction of being the largest hotel in the state of Ohio. It features two towers connected by a short skybridge across High Street; AnthrOhio will primarily utilize the western Tower 401 for our convention this year, but we will have full access to both towers throughout the weekend.
Bringing AnthrOhio to the center of Columbus will create many new opportunities, for which the Hilton will serve as the centerpiece and launching point. In addition to a larger Dealers’ Den and modern main event space, we will also have more versatility in our panel rooms, with increases in potential square footage compared to previous venues. These larger gathering spaces will also allow for the possibility of events we lacked space to stage at previous locations.
Upgrading to a much newer, fancier hotel in a very in-demand part of Columbus does not come without costs. As a result, there will be an increase in both registration prices and nightly hotel rates compared to previous years. However, we will be getting what we pay for in the form of updated hotel rooms, modern equipment in convention spaces, more reliable air conditioning, and most importantly, room to grow as we look forward to 2026 and beyond.
Additional details will be released in the coming weeks and months as our staff begins preparations for next year; follow us on social media for the most up to date information.
We cannot wait for you to join us downtown at AnthrOhio 2025!
New Venue FAQs
Why is AnthrOhio 2025 on a Different Weekend Than Usual?
Hotel and convention venues are often booked months if not years in advance; the number of available weekends was severely limited by the time we reached that point in the process. We may have more flexibility on dates in future years.
Is the Area Around the Hotel Safe?
The Hilton is located in the Short North Arts District, a popular tourist destination that is also home to our monthly Furwalks. Fursuiters have frequented the streets around the hotel for many years with minimal issue.
As with any major downtown area, it is advisable to avoid storing valuables in your car and to be aware of your surroundings at night.
How Much is This Going to Cost?
There is limited suite availability at additional cost. We are still working to determine registration costs; we will share that information once it is available.
Where Can I Get Food?
The Hilton offers multiple dining options, including:
- 2 restaurants
- A grab-and-go market
- A rooftop bar
The hotel is also only one block away from the historic North Market and within easy walking distance of dozens of restaurants and bars in the Short North and Arena District.
What’s the Parking Situation?
Moving downtown means paid parking; the hotel offers both valet and self-service options. There are also multiple additional garages within a short walk. We will no longer be at risk of running out of parking spaces!
Please note: Trailer and bus parking are not permitted in valet or self-parking areas and should instead be directed to the East Surface Lot on the corner of Nationwide Boulevard and 4th St.
Where Will We Be Able to Fursuit?
We have full permission to fursuit in any public space within the Hilton during the convention; this includes the restaurants and rooftop bar. Please note that you must be 21 or older to enter the bar.
Do I Have to Get a Room at the Hilton to Attend the Con?
Nope! Many local furs simply commute to the con from their homes around town. While the Hilton is the only hotel we can recommend and offer at reduced nightly rates for con attendees, there are other lodging options available around the city as well.
